Question 1

Why should I hire an Independent Educational Consultant?

Accepted Answer

Your child’s college education is one of the most significant investments your family will make. Just as you might hire a real estate broker, lawyer, or accountant for their expertise, an Independent Educational Consultant (IEC) provides specialized guidance in an increasingly complex and competitive admissions process.

With application policies, academic programs, and financial considerations evolving more than ever, IECs stay on top of these changes to help families make well-informed decisions. By regularly visiting colleges and meeting with school representatives, they remain up to date on new offerings, campus culture, and student life.

Most importantly, they ease the stress of applying to college by breaking the process down into manageable steps, providing individualized support along the way, and helping preserve family harmony as a steady and objective guide throughout.

Question 2

How are you different from my high school counselor?

Accepted Answer

Your high school counselor plays an essential role in the college planning process, responsible for submitting key application materials and managing other components and deadlines. Unfortunately, they can be spread thin and may not have much time to devote to each student. The current student-to-counselor ratio in U.S. public schools is 408 to 1, and each student receives an average of 38 minutes of college counseling during their 4 years of high school.

I work one-on-one year-round with a limited number of clients, providing a highly personalized, tailored approach to ensure each school on your college list is a strong academic, social, and financial fit.

Question 3

What type of students do you work with?

Accepted Answer

I work with students across a wide range of academic profiles, interests, and backgrounds. Whether your student is seeking support for a learning difference, researching honors programs, or considering colleges abroad, everyone's educational journey and application strategy is unique.

Question 4

When is the best time to begin working with a consultant?

Accepted Answer

The best time to begin working with a consultant is in the 10th or 11th grade. Tenth grade is ideal for building a strong academic and extracurricular foundation, while 11th is when college planning becomes more focused. I work with students at all stages, whether they’re just starting to think about college or are already deep into the application process.

Question 5

Where are you located? How do you work with students and families?

Accepted Answer

I’m based in New York City and work with clients all over the country. Most of my meetings are held virtually via Zoom with occasional in-person meetings.

Question 6

What are the benefits of hiring a consultant who is a member of IECA?

Accepted Answer

Hiring a member of IECA ensures that you will work with a professional who has proven credentials and access to a network of experienced colleagues worldwide. Educational Consultants who are members of IECA are fully vetted and demonstrate the highest standards in education, training, ethics, and experience.

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