top of page

 

College Advising

​​

Having spent time on both sides of the desk, I draw from a deep range of experiences when working with students and families through the college research, application, and final decision process. As an admission professional at two selective colleges who reviewed applications from students across the globe, I know first-hand the range of academic backgrounds and skills and recognize the importance of finding the unique niche each student creates. 

​
With more than 15 years as a college counselor at two different high schools and then independently, I have an in-depth understanding of  the college process. This includes the steps needed to find a well-suited list of colleges to apply to as well as what to prepare when to ensure that students not only complete college applications in a timely manner but are also able to put themselves forward in thoughtful, unique, and meaningful ways allowing them to stand out in the college admission review process.

​

Below is an overview of what services I provide. Contact me for further information and to discuss creating a package tailored to your specific needs.

Canva - Woman in Black and White Stripe

 

THE COLLEGE PROCESS TAILORED FOR YOU

Services For High School Students and Parents

​

A full comprehensive package of services is available to students typically starting their junior year of high school. Services include:
 

  • Initial Family Meeting 

  • Average of 2 meetings/month in Junior Year; 3 meetings/month in Senior Year

  • Student Self-Assessment: Know Yourself and What to Look for in Colleges

  • College Research Assistance

  • College Visit Planning

  • Help with a feasible College Application List

  • Scholarship Research Assistance

  • Assistance with Essay Topic and Writing Tips

  • Essay and Application Review and Editing Suggestions

  • General Timeline and Organization Assistance

​

My work with students can be tailored to fit individual needs and timelines. Contact me to discuss your options.

Services For Schools & Groups


I have provided workshops and small-group work at schools, organizations and other settings. Some of the most-requested topics include:
 

  • College Essay Workshop

  • College Research Workshop

  • How to Make the Most Out of your College Visit

  • How to Prepare for an Admission Interview

​

Testimonials


"Melanie is the type of person who encourages transparency. She leads with gentle strength and kindness in both her manner and tone. Our son experienced guidance in a way that helped him find his voice. She could ask him things that got to the essence of his goals and dreams. It was a positive and motivating experience in his life and gave him confidence as he entered a competitive academic college setting." - Jen C., Parent 

 

"Melanie provided robust feedback that dramatically improved my writing. She meets you where you are at and knows how to analyze a situation and offer counsel for the best course of action going forward. Melanie has experience working in the college admissions environment, and she was able to give me specific advice that someone who doesn't have this experience could not." - Sam S., College Student

​

"As a family, we felt Melanie was very understanding and knowledgeable in a stressful time. She was able to provide the unique experience of individualized help for each school and application. She helped our student tailor top choices, but was also great for setting up other options and keeping our minds open to institutions that our student was a good fit for. We especially enjoyed that she was able to recommend opportunities (including a scholarship our student received!) that we were previously unaware of." - Family of Cedar Falls High School Graduate, 2018

​

bottom of page