Here is an overview of why you might want to hire an IEC, and a good article from Forbes.

Below are some of the reasons for working with an IEC:

Personalized Guidance: In the US, many schools average with a student to counselor ratio of 400:1, with just 38 minutes of dedicated time to meetings about college. In many other countries, the concept of university guidance is still developing. Unlike school counselors, who might have hundreds of students to assist, an IEC can offer one-on-one attention tailored to the student’s unique strengths, interests, and goals. As a former school counselor, I decided to move to IEC so I can best serve the students and families I work with by dedicating my time and attention solely to them.

Expertise and Experience: I visit 20 – 30 colleges each year, and completed over 300 visits to date. As I have personally visited institutions across the U.S., Canada, U.K., Europe and Asia, I am able to recommend the most appropriate options for students to evaluate. This personalized approach is one that is superior to relying on online algorithms (such as you will find on College Board Big Future among many others) that develop a college list based on generics like campus location and test scores, and national rankings that don’t take into consideration personal factors and unique circumstances and preferences that directly impact a student’s college experience. I attend conferences where I connect with the admission representatives and stay on top of trends in higher education and admission. I understand what colleges and universities are looking for and how decisions are made, and can provide tips and strategies to enhance chances for admission. 

Stress Reduction: The college application process can be overwhelming for both students and parents. Sometimes, conversations around this topic can be a major source or stress and conflict for families. This is normal, and I see it often. I can help calm things down, reduce college-conversation conflict, and preserve family life by acting as a mediator and project manager. I can help manage deadlines, organize application materials, and provide a structured timeline, reducing the stress and anxiety associated with the process.

Essay Assistance: Crafting a compelling personal statement and supplemental essays is crucial. An IEC can help brainstorm topics, provide feedback on drafts, and ensure that the essays reflect the student’s voice and effectively convey your story.

Support for Unique Circumstances: Students with special circumstances, such as learning disabilities, athletic recruitment, or a non-traditional educational background, or those who are looking to transfer from college can benefit from the specialized knowledge of an IEC to address their specific needs.

With so many independent advisors practicing worldwide, it’s good to know that not all counselors have the same level of experience or qualifications. Since 2012, I have been committed to facilitating a personalized match between a student and their future university. A combination of specific training, experience in the field, and cultural knowledge from living in different countries and working with international, transient families allows me to recommend colleges best suited to the strengths and interests of the student.

I uphold all standards set forth by NACAC’s Statement of Good Practices as well as IECA’s Principles of Good Practice.

I hold professional memberships with the National Association of College Admission Counseling (NACAC), and International Association of College Admission Counseling (IACAC). I have frequently presented at conferences, mentored members, and I am currently actively serving on the Communications Committee for IACAC.

I am a member of Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA), an organization of experienced educational consultants that requires that all members have at least three years of relevant experience, visited at least 50 college campuses, worked with at least 50 clients, obtained a Master’s degree in a related field or earn a certificate, and sign a yearly ethics contract.

According to Dr. William Fitzsimmons, Dean of Admissions at Harvard University, “IECA is the Harvard of the counseling profession.”

Ideally, we should start meeting while you are in Grade 9 or Grade 10.  That helps you better understand what you need to do early on and gives you a framework for understanding the college admission process. I really believe that early involvement increases knowledge and decreases stress for families. 

Grade 11 is when the college search begins in earnest, so this is a good time to start the process. Some students wait until Grade 12 to seek help with their applications, but this is a very late start and creates more work for you. I strongly recommend starting to work with me prior to the senior year.

I know how busy you can be, so my meeting schedule is designed to be flexible and accommodating. I plan to have at least one family meeting and two student meetings in 10th grade. In 11th grade, we start regular monthly meetings in November. As you progress to 12th grade, we’ll meet bi-weekly with you during the summer before senior year until your applications are completed in the fall. I continue to support students throughout the fall and into the spring with interview coaching, updating colleges, talking through admissions offers and making the final decision.

I do not guarantee admittance to a particular college or university, nor do I accept compensation from colleges or third parties. By working with me, you will work with a college and university admissions expert who has achieved the profession’s most rigorous educational standards and adheres to a strict code of ethics. Guarantees would be a violation of this gold standard.

Yes!  In fact, I have worked with many students who present learning issues and challenges. I can help you identify colleges and universities that will meet your needs.

Yes. Each client family receives a service fee agreement outlining services and fees to review before signing.

A parent or guardian must fill out the candidate’s financial aid forms. The student is responsible for completing the application, including essays. I will assist with the essay review before submission, but the IECA code of ethics prohibit their members from rewriting the student’s work.