We find the ideal time to start working with students is mid-late 10th grade, to early 11th grade. This gives us time to get to know the student, understand their interests and objectives, give guidance on course selection/extracurricular development, and identify their best fit college features. This gives families the ability to plan targeted college visits that align with the student's criteria, saving time and money.

Working with a college consultant partners you with an experienced professional who is trained to work exclusively with students and families through all phases of the college search and application process. A consultant provides individualized support helping students to identify colleges that match their unique needs and effectively execute the multiple applications tasks.

Families should seek to hire an educational consultant that has received the appropriate training through a Independent Education Consulting certificate program and is a member of a professional organization such as Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA) or the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA).

Both Kimberly Pucci and Ruth Ann Cote are professional members of the Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA) and have completed the University of California Irvine Education Consulting Certificate Program. They are committed to upholding the high ethical standards of the profession and engaging in ongoing professional development to keep abreast of the ever-evolving trends in college admissions.

We primarily work with students throughout the entire college search and selection process since each element of our Comprehensive Plan builds off the others. Occasionally we will work with students on individual parts of the process. Please feel free to inquire regarding your specific needs.

We work with students and families from start to finish, covering all key milestones in the college search and selection process:

• Guidance on high school courses and extracurricular involvement

• Identification of your Best Fit College Criteria

• Customized College Process Action Plan

• Individualized Support & Access to College Planning Software

• College List Recommendations: A balanced list of likely, target and reach schools

• Research & Visit Tips

• Test Prep Recommendations

• Financial Aid Resource Recommendations

• Interview Preparation & Resume Development

• Application Strategy: When to submit (EA, SEA, EDI, EDII, RD) and if test scores should be reported (if optional).

• Essay Coaching: Personal Statement and Supplemental Essays

• Final Decision Support: Weighing options, handling deferrals and waitlist offers