About Onward
Advice about college admissions is almost everywhere you turn. Podcasts, social media posts, books, rankings, and businesses that practically guarantee Ivy League placements. As a parent who’s been through it, I know how easy it is to get overwhelmed and feel like you’re falling behind.
I started Onward College Consulting to cut through the noise and help families focus on the information that matters. My goal is to lower the stress and make sure students move forward with clarity, confidence, and excitement about what’s possible.
I also started Onward because I enjoy working with teenagers during this time in their lives. For many of them, the college search marks the beginning of an important period of self-discovery and growth. It’s an opportunity to better understand who they are, what matters most to them, and where they hope to go next. I’m here to support them each step of the way. Together, we find colleges that truly fit and craft applications that authentically tell their story.
Sometimes college isn't the best next step, and a gap year can be a great option. When a pause makes sense, I help students structure meaningful gap time.
Wherever the path leads after high school, the goal is to provide peace of mind to parents and ensure that students take the next step with confidence and intention.
The Process
One-on-one guidance helps students feel supported and understood during each step of the college search and application process. Clients can choose to focus on any or all of the following steps.
Self-Assessment
Instead of starting with college rankings or majors, I begin by understanding each student. Through conversations and self-assessment exercises, we explore their interests, strengths, values, and goals. Students gain important insights about themselves and develop a clearer sense of what they want – a foundation that guides the rest of the process.
Academics, Extracurriculars, Career Exploration
Students often benefit from guidance in exploring potential majors and careers as they shape their academic and extracurricular profile. I can help students make informed decisions about class selection and activities, meaningful summer experiences, and testing and tutoring as needed.
College List Development
With a foundation in place, I work with students and families to build a smart, balanced college list. Together, we identify schools that align with the student’s academic, personal, and financial preferences - places where they will be challenged, supported, and able to thrive.
Personal Statement &
Additional Essays
Essays offer opportunities for students to share their authentic voice, perspectives, and stories. I guide students through brainstorming exercises, outlining, and revisions as they develop personal statements and supplemental essays that represent them at their best.
Application Support
Each part of the application matters. From the interview and supplemental materials to the activities list and additional information section, I help students bring every piece together so it presents a clear, cohesive, and thoughtful picture of who they are.
Financial Aid Guidance
Financing college can be one of the most daunting parts of the process.
As needed, I help families understand college costs, navigate the financial aid process, evaluate award letters and compare offers, and determine when an appeal makes sense.
FAQs
1
When should I start?
I recommend starting with some initial conversations in 9th and 10th grades, but I understand that every family has their own timetable. I'll meet students wherever they are in high school and develop a plan tailored to their individual needs, pace, and goals.
2
How often do we meet?
The number of meetings varies by grade level and by student. In 9th and 10th grades, meeting twice a year can be helpful to discuss interests, class selection and extracurriculars, and also to begin thinking broadly about college. By 11th and 12th grades, meetings are more frequent based on what works best for each student.
3
What does it cost?
I want families to have the flexibility and affordable options they need. Onward offers packages for a flat fee, as well as an hourly option with a three-hour minimum to use where needed. Please see the Services page for more details, and contact me directly for current pricing.
Contact
I would love to hear where you are in the college process and answer any questions. Please feel free to reach out for a free 30-minute initial consultation. No sales pitch, no pressure - I promise!