For many students, college admissions can feel like a never-ending race. From working through busy schedules full of band practices and sports teams to trying to maintain a high GPA and everything in between, it can become difficult to find the right balance to compete at the caliber needed to get into your top choice universities. Additionally, securing the guidance of a skilled university admissions counselor can be a daunting process. Every student and counselor is different, so finding a counselor that fits your student’s personality and needs is important.
Fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share 15 pro tips to help you find the perfect university admissions counselor in 2024. From leveraging digital resources to networking effectively, these tips will empower you to make informed decisions and maximize your chances of admission to your dream university. Interested in learning more? Then read on!
1. Start Early:
If there is one thing in the college admissions process that we can’t stress enough, it’s to start early! If you’re considering hiring a University Admissions Counselor for your student, it’s important to begin the search sooner rather than later to have the best chances of finding an admissions counselor that fits your student’s specific goals and needs. The college admissions process has many moving parts, so finding a counselor to match the pacing of the admissions process will help you gain the competitive angle your student needs for top universities.
Additionally, it’s important to remember that time management is key when working with a university admissions counselor. Between busy school days, back-to-back practices, internships, events, and everything in between, it can become quite difficult to manage all the responsibilities needed to create a competitive profile as a student. For this reason, it’s crucial to utilize finding an admissions counselor as a way to keep track and improve time management skills, so keep that in mind when having initial conversations!
Video: Student story: Overcoming time management obstacles to college
2. Define Your University Goals:
Having goals when approaching the admissions counselor search is another top tip we recommend keeping in mind. Since preparations will likely cover months or even years, depending on when your student begins their college preparation journey, having actionable goals to follow and guide the efforts will allow your student to receive the best guidance and results.
Think of the college admissions process as a house remodel - there are dozens of steps to cover, but the time you have to do so can be relatively limited. It can be difficult to avoid becoming overwhelmed without a goal, but having smaller and reachable goals will make the project much more manageable. When it comes to college admissions, there can be what feels like an infinite amount of tasks piling up each day, but if you tackle it one smaller goal at a time, the plan to achievable action will be much more within your student’s reach.
3. Seek University Admission Counselor Recommendations:
Our third top tip for finding the best-fit university admissions counselor for your student is to seek recommendations from others in your network! In 2023, according to Forbes, 1,244,476 first-year students applied to 841 colleges participating in the Common App alone (that’s a lot of students!). Likely within your network, many students have received support from a college admissions professional. Knowing this, reach out to friends, colleagues, and others in your own life for recommendations on reputable university admissions counselors.
It's important to find counselors within your network to help alleviate the stress of finding the right one for your student. Ensuring that a counselor can support your student's goals and timeline is crucial for college admissions success. It's also important to find an admissions counselor who has helped students gain admission to schools your student is interested in attending. This can give your family more confidence in the process and help reduce your stress.
4. Research Credentials:
Along with having a good recommendation, knowing the credentials the university admissions counselors maintain before you choose to work with them is helpful. See if they are members of reputable organizations such as the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) or the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC). These organizations have a long history of representing professionals in enrollment management, higher education admission, and counseling, all dedicated to supporting students on their journey to higher education.
Accreditation from respected institutions such as IECA and NACAC indicates that university admissions coaches adhere to a strict code of ethics in their work and counseling style, prioritizing the student's success while maintaining integrity and professionalism. Additionally, membership in organizations like NACAC ensures that coaches receive timely updates on the college admissions landscape, keeping students and families informed of any important changes. As college admissions continue to become increasingly competitive, having a support system with insider knowledge can help alleviate much of the stress and challenge students and their families face as they try to charter the college admissions process alone.
5. Evaluate Specializations:
We at Empowerly believe every student is unique and should have a university admissions counselor to help them bring that unique perspective into their application! Counselors themselves are the same—each has an interest or specialization that has guided their teaching methods and guidance for their students. Finding cohesion between the student’s and the counselor’s interests and specialties is important, as that will help promote a more comfortable and productive environment throughout the college admissions process. Be sure to examine whether your student’s interests fit the counselor’s specialty and whether the counselor has the knowledge needed to create a competitive edge for your student’s unique talents or interests.
Consider whether your student requires specialized assistance, such as guidance for international students, athletes, or applicants to specific academic programs. These are all crucial factors in determining the work needed to help your student become competitive within the admissions landscape. Pay close attention to ensure that these factors are considered, highlighted, or accounted for in the process. With this knowledge, select a counselor with expertise in your area of focus for tailored support. Be sure to communicate with the admissions counselor about any specific areas of focus or extra time that will be needed to support your student as they begin to work together.
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6. Assess Communication Style:
When choosing an admissions counselor to help your student achieve their college goals, finding someone who excels in clear communication is important. Effective communication is crucial for ensuring the best possible outcome, as it helps clarify the complex admissions process and keeps the student informed about important deadlines and requirements. A counselor who communicates clearly and kindly can offer personalized feedback on application materials, boosting students' confidence while highlighting their strengths. Additionally, timely and open communication allows quick responses to questions and concerns, reducing anxiety and ensuring the student stays on track throughout the application process.
Additionally, it's important to recognize that students respond differently to various communication styles. Therefore, it's crucial to assess how well a student responds to initial conversations with the counselor before embarking on a long journey with them. Some students prefer a softer and gentler support system, while others prefer a stronger and more independent approach. During conversations, observe how your student reacts to the counselor's communication style and whether collaboration between your student and the counselor comes naturally. After the meeting, ask your student if they felt comfortable with the counselor and if your student felt supported during initial conversations.
7. Attend College Fairs:
You may not think of it initially, but your university admissions counselor search can be highly supported beyond the internet! Many college counselors have taken to the convention hall floors of college-related events, like college fairs, to meet prospective students, showcase their specialties, and answer any initial questions. Many college counselor networks, including industry leaders like us, attend college counseling fairs to meet students like yours to help give a good idea of whether they’re a good fit and what additional support they can offer.
As mentioned earlier, it is important for college admissions counselors to attend accredited college fairs, such as those hosted by the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) across the country, as these events require counselors to be backed by reputable organizations and adhere to strict ethical and academic standards. Participation in such fairs not only demonstrates a counselor’s commitment to professional development but also ensures they are up-to-date with the latest trends and requirements in college admissions. This affiliation with recognized organizations provides a reliable indicator of the counselor’s credibility and integrity, offering reassurance that they can be trusted to guide your student through the challenging admissions process effectively. By choosing a counselor who is involved in these accredited events, you can be more confident that your student will receive informed, ethical, and supportive guidance tailored to their academic aspirations.
8. Schedule Consultations:
You won’t know if a college admissions counselor fits your student’s needs if you don’t schedule any initial conversations! At Empowerly, we encourage families going through the admissions process to schedule a consultation with our team! This 30-minute free session will allow you and your student to understand better our mission, approach, accreditation, and how we best can support your student during their individualized college admissions journey. Additionally, you and your student can ask questions and be open about what you are expecting/should expect from the time you’ll be working with the counselor, any ancillary programs that can help boost extracurriculars and much more! Some of the questions you should try asking during your meetings include:
- How many years of experience do you have in college admissions counseling?
- What is your approach to college admissions counseling?
- How do you tailor your advice to meet individual student needs?
- How do you help students develop a balanced list of reach, match, and safety schools?
- Can you provide examples of past successes and how you measure success in your counseling?
9. Inquire About Services:
Let’s face it - college admissions is not just what GPA you need to maintain or what classes you need to take! There are a lot more elements that need to be crafted to stand out against competition in college admissions, and there are specialized services you can lean on to help your student do so. When seeking a college admissions counselor, inquire about additional services to help support your student. Many university admissions counselors gather support from networks like Empowerly, which have the programs and services to holistically provide support, including internship programs, test preparation, research, and more!
Why is this important?
Sometimes, counselors are only able to do so much themselves. Still, they might recognize additional areas of concentration your student needs to help their application and profile become highly competitive in the college admissions race. By being able to help students utilize the services available through the network they’re a part of, counselors can continue to help support students as best as possible with what they are themselves specialized in - college admissions counseling.
10. Consider Virtual Options:
Finding time for in-person meetings and appointments has become increasingly difficult in today's busy world. You might ask yourself, “How will we fit in sessions throughout the week? How do I get my child to their meetings on time with everything we both have going on physically each day?”
Thankfully, with the advancement of remote communication technologies, many university admissions counselors now offer virtual consulting services. For example, Empowerly is a fully end-to-end remote organization with a network of specialized and dedicated expert counselors, essay editors, research teams, and more. We are available to assist students throughout the college application process, regardless of their location worldwide. This provides access to a larger pool of counselors and resources, making it easier to find the best fit for your student and will greatly improve your student's chances of a successful and enjoyable college admissions experience.
11. Evaluate Cost and Value:
When comparing the costs of different college counseling services, evaluating the value offered compared to your student’s academic and career aspirations is crucial. While choosing the most affordable option might be tempting, it’s important to consider what you are getting for your money. Some services may charge lower fees but offer less personalized support or fewer resources, which can impact the effectiveness of the counseling. Look at what is included in the overall price, such as number of sessions, availability of resources, and the level of personalized attention. Additionally, consider whether the counselor has a successful track record of helping students gain admission to their top-choice colleges and whether they provide comprehensive support throughout the entire application process or only support at certain segments.
Prioritizing quality and expertise is essential when making your decision. A more experienced counselor with a deep understanding of the college admissions landscape can provide invaluable insights and guidance, potentially increasing your student’s chances of getting into their dream university. Look for counselors with strong credentials, positive testimonials, and a proven success rate. While these services might come at a higher cost, the investment can pay off in the long run by helping you secure admission to a school that aligns with your academic and career goals. Remember, the right counselor can guide you through the application process and help you develop skills and strategies that will benefit you throughout your educational journey and beyond!
12. Seek Cultural Competence:
If you are an international student or come from a diverse cultural background, seeking college counselors who demonstrate cultural competence and understanding is crucial. These counselors are equipped to navigate the unique challenges and opportunities that come with applying to colleges in a different cultural context and can provide tailored advice that takes into account your specific needs, such as language barriers, visa requirements, and the educational differences between your home country and the destination country.
Having a counselor who respects and values your cultural identity is important. This kind of support can make the college application process more meaningful. A culturally sensitive counselor is more likely to understand and address any cultural concerns or nuances you may have, creating a more comfortable and supportive environment for you. They can help you find colleges that align with your academic and career goals and offer a welcoming and inclusive community where you can thrive. Additionally, these counselors can connect you with resources and support networks tailored to international and culturally diverse students, ensuring you have a comprehensive support system as you transition to college life.
13. Consider Compatibility:
Compatibility is a crucial factor in college admissions counseling as it significantly influences the effectiveness of the counseling relationship. It's important to take the time to evaluate the compatibility of your personality and learning style with the counselor you are considering. Consider how you prefer to communicate, learn, and process information, and compare it with the counselor's approach. A counselor who aligns with your preferences is more likely to understand your needs and provide guidance that resonates with you. Look for someone who listens actively, communicates clearly, and demonstrates empathy and understanding. Building a strong rapport and mutual trust with your counselor is essential for creating a supportive environment where you feel comfortable openly discussing your goals, concerns, and aspirations.
Additionally, when choosing a counselor, prioritize finding someone with whom your student feels genuinely comfortable and supported. Trust your instincts and pay attention to how your student feels during their interactions with the counselor. A counselor who makes a student feel valued and understood is more likely to help your family navigate the college admissions process confidently. Remember that the goal is to establish a productive counseling relationship where your student can collaborate effectively to achieve their college admission goals. By selecting a counselor who fosters a positive and supportive environment, you can enhance your student’s overall counseling experience and increase their chances of success in gaining admission to desired colleges.
14. Trust Your Instincts:
When it comes to selecting a university admissions counselor, trusting your instincts is paramount. As you interact with different counselors, pay attention to how you feel during these interactions. Look for a counselor who instills confidence, evokes trust, and genuinely prioritizes your student’s academic aspirations. Trust is the foundation of any effective counseling relationship, so it's essential to choose someone with whom you feel a strong sense of trust and confidence. This trust empowers you and your student to be open and honest about goals, concerns, and challenges, facilitating a collaborative approach to achieving their academic objectives.
Furthermore, opt for a counselor who demonstrates a genuine commitment to helping your student and your family succeed. A dedicated counselor will go above and beyond to support your student throughout the college admissions process, offering personalized guidance, encouragement, and assistance when needed. They will take the time to understand your student’s unique strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations, tailoring their approach to best meet your student’s needs.
15. Stay Engaged:
Our final tip for finding a university admissions counselor that fits your student best is to ensure you and your student stay engaged throughout the process. Counselors can only do so much on their side, so your student needs to do their part to allow them to have the best chances at receiving results they’re happy with (and for the most bang for your buck!).
How can I do that?
To make the most of working with a university admissions counselor, it's important to maintain open communication and actively participate throughout the counseling process. Stay engaged in discussions by asking questions, sharing your thoughts, and expressing any concerns or uncertainties you may have. Active participation ensures that the admissions counselor understands your goals and preferences and fosters a collaborative environment where your family can work together to develop effective strategies for achieving your student’s academic aspirations. Additionally, provide feedback to your counselor on their guidance and recommendations, letting them know what is helpful and what could be improved. By actively participating in the counseling process and providing feedback, you can ensure that your student's support is tailored to their needs and preferences, ultimately increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome in the overall college admissions journey.
What’s next for finding your University Admissions Counselor?
Finding the right university admissions counselor is essential for achieving your student’s academic goals. With these 20 professional tips, you can confidently navigate the process and identify a counselor who offers expert guidance and support throughout the college admissions journey.
If you're seeking a head start in the college admissions coach search, Empowerly is here to help! Our personalized and expert approach to college admissions ensures support at every step. From customized counseling to internship assistance, our team has aided thousands of students on their unique journeys to universities of all calibers, including Ivy League institutions, University of California schools, liberal arts universities, and more! Schedule a consultation today to discover how Empowerly can help your student secure admission to their ideal university and empower them to thrive.
