A unique Approach

My mission is simple: to empower teens to OWN their authentic path.

I encourage students to look inward and self reflect on what truly inspires them. My proprietary approach helps identify personal interests, aptitudes and skills so students are able to move forward with intention and purpose.

 

about me

I combine marketing, branding and project management experience with more recent pursuits related to access to education and alternative opportunities for youth focussed on wellness and personal success. Attending large state universities (Texas State, San Francisco State and UC Berkeley) I see the benefits of .  With over 13 years as a parent educator in the San Francisco, Bay Area. My work experience in branding/identity consulting, project management, and marketing provides a different perspective in the independent educational counseling profession.

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A parent, daughter, wife, and engaged community member, I seek to open lines of communication on important issues which can profoundly affect families during this process -a process that encourages self-awareness and accountability.

I am guided by strong personal integrity and a desire to demystify the college application process.  I am an engaged member of the Western Association for College Admission Counseling (WACAC), the Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA), and the Regional Admission Counselors of California (RACC) and am committed to Principles of Good Practice as outlined by each of these organizations.

Annual Professional Development:

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University of California and California State University Counselor Conferences - Updates specific to 9 UC campuses, and 23 Cal State campuses, including new majors, programs and admissions requirements.

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RACC - Regional Admissions Counselors of California - Organization from 114 institutions outside California who specifically promote out-of-state education opportunities for Californians.

Understanding that this is an exciting, yet anxiety provoking time for both students and parents, my goal is to bring down the hype surrounding planning for college. With more than 3000 colleges in the US, plus international universities and alternative learning environments it is my belief that personal success is not defined by acceptance to a specific program or university.

Each student will - and should - have a unique educational path and I intend to meet the teenager where they are along that journey and design a plan that supports it. We’ll begin with the Vision + Discovery phase, including Intake questionnaires and additional assessments/ student exercises may follow as needed to help clarify aptitudes, personal goals and begin to embrace strengths with confidence.

With my direction, teenagers showcase the best version of themselves, as an applicant, but also as a kind, contributing teenager.  It takes quality time to shift the thinking about what students think they want to what they need and starting earlier is highly recommended. Meetings during 9th and 10th grade are few, yet insightful, as younger teens see benefit of connecting high school experiences -- academic and personal  -- with educational goals. I believe this helps lay the foundation for a more explorative path during high school.

I follow a comprehensive methodology that utilizes a combination of tools and reliable resources, allowing teenagers to navigate the process with an open mind while narrowing choices and managing timelines.  

All students learn to highlight strengths and effectively demonstrate why they deserve strong consideration for admission, merit aid or scholarships. From the beginning and throughout the entire process, the Student is considered my client, whereas their Parents/Guardians are my customers. For the student to OWN their authentic path, they must lead the way.

Getting Started

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 Phone Consultation (at no cost)

Please reach out to discuss your specific needs. I am happy to answer questions and design a program unique to your student’s goals.

The typical process begins with a phone conversation with a parent or parents, followed by an in-person Introductory Session with the student and parent(s). During this meeting, we’ll outline where I can be of most help. This Intro Session provides an opportunity for families to assess whether my approach is right for you. I’ll customize consulting packages/meetings based on student priorities, grade and level or maturity and initiative.

I encourage every family to have positive conversations about higher education expectations and possibilities with their student early. Eighth grade is NOT too soon to begin considering how to help align high school academics and out of the class experiences with what they may want to do after graduation.