Where Do Independent Educational Consultants Fit?
Monday, February 18th, 2008
Few will argue with the assessment that the college planning process is much more complex than it was 25 years ago. Among the myriad reasons for this is the obsession with “having the best” that is manifest in the approach of many families to college planning. In fact, many parents are now spending absurd amounts–often the equivalent of one year’s college tuition–in the belief that the investment will get their kids into college.
Chief among these investments is the engagement of independent educational consultants in the college planning process. These are the folks who offer fee-based assistance to families outside of the high school environment. Such assistance can come in the form of private tutoring, test preparation, reflective self-assessment, college list development, essay editing, dedicated “advocacy” in the admission process, and planning support for students with special needs. It’s a long list and there are some incredibly gifted people who provide high-quality services.
While the advantages offered by some independent educational consultants are undeniable, a lot of families invest in private counseling that is already in abundant supply to them at their schools. Why? The only conclusion I can draw is that, quite often, parents let their imaginations run wild in the college planning process. They imagine, for example, that there are only a handful of acceptable destinations for their kids and, given the odds against their kids getting into these schools, they imagine their only chance is to bring in “specialists” who can give them the competitive edge. “Besides,” these parents rationalize, “everyone else in the neighborhood has a private counselor–why not us!”
This was brought home to me in a conversation with a college counselor recently about the growing tendency of families in his school to engage independent educational consultants in their college planning endeavors. While my friend shrugged off this seeming duplication of effort with resignation, I found it astonishing that anyone would see the need to seek help outside of his school. After all, college planning and placement is his job–and he’s very, very good at it! (And so are many of his school-based counterparts!)
However, if you are in an academic environment that does not routinely offer this type of college planning support, then you might consider working with a consultant–but do so for the right reasons. Ask yourself why you want or–more importantly--need the help. Is the college counseling available through your student’s school truly deficient? Does your student have specific needs that need to be addressed? Or do you simply want the peace of mind of having access to an expert who can interpret the process for you as you move forward?
Many consultants are experts about specific areas such as learning differences or family relocations or financial planning. Make sure you know what you need. If you need college planning support, I strongly recommend that the student be regarded as the lead client. To the parents, that means “pay the bill and then stand back.” I see far too many situations in which the parents are engaged with the consultant as though the student isn’t even present!
Get referrals and ask for references. If you are considering a consultant who lives near you, make sure your student meets with that person before “signing on.” Ask to see evidence that s/he is well educated (former admission officer, college advisor, Certified Educational Planner, etc.) about the college admission process and has been actively engaged in professional development activity over the last 2-3 years. Look for honesty, sincerity (don’t buy what you don’t need!), accessibility and compatibility with your student. This exercise won’t work if your student isn’t buying into the concept or the person delivering it. This is even more important if you are contemplating a long distance relationship with a consultant.
Consider cost and the projected time commitment. You shouldn’t have to pay more than 20% of the cost (you can often get what you need for less) of one year at the colleges your student is considering for qualified assistance. And working with a consultant should not detract from your student’s ability to do the things that are important to her/him.
Finally, be wary of individuals who make guarantees. Consultants do not get kids into college! They should not manage the process nor should they write essays or complete applications for them. Students must take ownership of the process and the required tasks.
On the other hand, good consultants can help young people find the most appropriate colleges and they can provide assistance in gaining perspective on how a student might best present him/herself in the admission process. Make sure the consultation is student-centered and you won’t go wrong!
