For this coffee chat, we talked with Empowerly counselor Connie to learn more about what drew her to education and working with students. Connie has a BA and MA in History from Providence College and is currently located in the great tiny state of Rhode Island. Her extensive experience in the college admissions office at Brown University makes Connie an ace mentor.
We also admire Connie’s commitment to connecting with students and families and reminding them of what’s most important during this pivotal time in their lives.
Let’s get started.
This interview is Installment 6 in our Coffee with a Counselor series. To read more profiles like this, check out other posts right here on our blog and subscribe to our newsletter!
About Connie
Before joining Empowerly, Connie worked in Brown University’s Office of College Admission for 14 years, handling all facets of the admission process—as well as serving as the liaison to the Medical School and Brown’s eight-year PLME, the Program in Liberal Medical Education.
She has extensive experience as an Admission Officer and Assistant Director of Admission at Brown.
How did you find yourself working with students at Empowerly?
“After reading thousands and thousands of applications in my role as Assistant Director of Admission at Brown University, I decided that I wanted to work much more closely with students and families, and started exploring the private college counseling route,” Connie shared. “Building relationships and empowering students was a primary factor in my decision to join Empowerly – our unique, data-driven approach, mission, and core values were very attractive to me.”
Unique perspective: the best of both competitive worlds
What experiences make Connie such a great counselor?
“I have in-depth knowledge of the college application process and understand the qualities that make an applicant stand out from the rest of the very talented students in any given applicant pool. I’m also a parent and just went through the application process with my oldest son, so I understand and sympathize with students and families going through this sometimes stressful and anxiety-provoking experience!” Connie said.
How would you describe your approach to counseling?
“I’m very proactive and deadline-driven, organized, and prefer to be ahead of the curve, so to speak. I respect individual student personalities, try to understand what drives them, and hope to motivate students to own the process and take charge of their future.”
What do you learn from your students?
“Friendships and fun are so important – I really respect students who know how to set boundaries and take some time for themselves to just have a good time. Though they know the importance of hard work and doing well, the people in their lives matter most.”
What’s your best advice for high school students today?
Connie says: “You’re gonna be great! Even if you don’t get into your ‘dream’ school, you will go to a fantastic school and have an amazing experience – this is such an exciting time in your life – embrace it!”
What is a piece of life advice you’ve received that has really stuck with you?
“Listen with the intent to understand. So many times, we’re only hearing what people are saying, formulating our responses in our heads, and not truly listening. Listen with the intent to understand.”
Final Thoughts:
These words of wisdom are only the tip of the iceberg. We’re glad to say Connie is part of our incredible team. The phenomenal counselor community at Empowerly understands the importance of each unique student’s college admissions journey. All you have to do is ask – and we are here to help.
Book a free consultation below to receive a customized recommendation for your college application plan.
