Frequently Asked Questions
Send us a message if you can’t find an answer to your question, or would like to schedule a complimentary consultation.
FAQS - PARENTS
Q: When should we begin working with a college consultant?
In 9th or 10th grade to get the most from planning, but many families first contact a counselor when their student is a high school junior..
Q: Do you work with the whole family?
Parents play an important supporting role in the college search by providing their student help with identifying strengths, interests, and goals. The most effective college search focuses on the student, requiring the student to lead the process with his/her own goals and preferences. We provide specialized knowledge, utilizing parent input while keeping the focus on maximizing your student’s potential. Chamberlain College Consulting also develops a plan and timeline to keep your student on task without parents having to take this role. This method not only produces the best search process and outcomes but helps your student develop the independence and self-advocacy skills needed for college success.
Q: How is an independent consultant different from my student’s high school counselor?
Some high schools have counselors specially trained as college counselors, others do not. School counselors need to service many students and have some additional school responsibilities. Independent consultants who have received special training can give students more individualized attention and help develop a unique plan for each student.
Q: What is a right fit college?
A right fit college has attributes that match your student’s needs, interests and strengths. This is the kind of college where your student is more likely to thrive.
Q: Can’t we just research schools on the Internet ourselves?
We encourage you to explore and educate yourselves, but the Internet contains a vast amount of information, both accurate and misleading. Chamberlain College Consulting professionally manages and interprets this information for you. In addition, we combine public information with knowledge gained from personal experience.
Q: My student is so busy. How can you help?
We will work around your student’s schedule and create a plan that is streamlined, easy-to-understand, and convenient.
Q: We’ve heard the FAFSA is complicated. Should we fill it out?
Yes! Many are surprised to find that they qualify for aid. We can help simplify the process for you.
FAQS - STUDENTS
Q: Should I take the ACT or SAT?
Students tend to do better on one test or the other, but it’s difficult to know in advance. Students should take a practice test for both formats to determine which one works better for them. All colleges will accept either the ACT or the SAT.
Q: Can you help with my essays?
Yes! There are many aspects of college application essay writing that are unlike other forms of writing. We will help you focus on identifying your best attributes and telling schools what they really want to know. We will help you brainstorm, understand how to highlight your strengths, and review your essays.
Q: Don’t I have to submit a lot of applications to make sure I get admitted to a good school?
It’s not about submitting as many applications as you can. You find success by submitting quality applications and applying to the schools that are the right fit for you.
Q: Now that I’ve been admitted, how do I prepare myself for college?
We can help you understand what issues you are likely to face and help you prepare. We’ll even provide you with a packing list!
Q: I want to play sports in college. How can you help?
The college search for the student athlete is more complex and should begin earlier than for the typical student, often during 9th or 10th grade. Not only are there unique considerations depending on whether you are likely to be a Division I, II or III athlete, but you must prepare differently for each one. We help guide you through NCAA requirements, as well as talking with coaches. It is essential for the student athlete to have a knowledgeable advocate who can help you balance the best athletic opportunity with the best college match. We have experience with this process and can provide you with resources for compiling your sports resume and developing you as a prospect.
Q: I have excellent grades and test scores. How do I highlight my accomplishments?
We work with you to highlight your unique attributes through activities outside school, as well as school-related activities. Some examples might include conducting research, developing your own business, starting your own school organization, special internships or special classes and research with institutions. We also have experience helping you find your voice for compelling essays.
Q: I am a late bloomer. Can I still get into a good school?
Yes! There are many colleges that admit B students where you can receive an excellent education. In addition, many colleges review applications holistically, looking at other attributes students may have. We can help you find these schools.
Q: I have been diagnosed with ADHD. Should I disclose this to colleges and what services do they have that will help me?
In most situations, federal laws prohibit schools from discriminating against students with disabilities. Disclosing your disability may help determine what specific services are available to help you. Accommodations vary widely among colleges, and you need to know how they can best provide support for what you need.