FAQs

Why should I hire an independent educational consultant?

High schools have resources to help students get through the college application process and learn about individual colleges. However, these resources are effective only if your student is assertive and asks for help. Many high schools have limited resources on campus, from a small team of counselors to a high ratio of students per counselor. You know as a parent if your child needs individual guidance or if they will form a relationship with their counselor and get help from them. A private educational consultant can provide one-on-one attention, so each student can get expert advice and make an individual plan to increase success academically and emotionally. Educational consultants have dedicated resources locally and nationally, knowledge about all facets of the process, and time that many parents may not have.

See this article (written by a family) that details the help and support an Independent Educational Consultant provides.

There is no need for an independent educational consultant if we live in lamorinda with highly-ranked high schools in our area. Right?

Even with the high academic standards and career resources in our Acalanes school district (Acalanes, Campolindo, Las Lomas and Miramonte High Schools), there are usually only a few college or school counselors on hand to discuss and help our students through the college process. The Acalanes Union High School District is top notch nationally with its staff, college fairs and events and resource centers, but once again it depends on your student’s drive. With more than 300+ students in each class, it is often challenging to get enough attention at the school level if your student is passive. Ample resources are available at our schools, but time constraints, busy schedules or even lack of motivation by the student to reach out to counselors can get in the way. Not every student needs an independent educational consultant. It totally depends on the student’s assertiveness, organizational skills and family’s knowledge of the process. Each family needs to make the best decision for the student and their family.

ok, i’m considering signing up my student. WHY i should go with ECC?

Anna has the the business, educational and personal skills to work with students and families through the college process. She is devoted to customizing a plan for each student, knowing a unique pathway for each student is pivotal to the student’s happiness and success in college. As a fellow parent of 3, Anna understands the emotional impact families go through during high school and will try to lessen that anxiety through the process. She has relationships in our school district to get information about ever-changing classes, teachers and academic paths. Through her connections with IECA, Independent Educational Consultants Association, Anna has access and relationships with colleagues across the country who may have a pulse on out-of-state colleges and areas.

DoES ANNA cap the number of students SHE workS with?

Yes, she does. Each all-inclusive package will have a max caseload and that number will change per graduating class depending on the number of students booking other a la carte plans like the Essay Plan or College List Plan. That is the main reason to book early. The Comprehensive Plans lock the student in the program Freshman year through acceptance day.

what’s the process in booking ECC?

For all the plans listed on the website, the first step is to schedule a 30-minute complimentary Meet and Greet with Anna. This meeting is for the student, parents and Anna to get to know each other and discuss the student’s needs. Anna will give more detail on the services of interest including pricing and answer additional questions. At the close of the meeting, all parties can decide if they are a good match and discuss next steps.

With the workshops, there will be an online registration on a first come, first serve basis once the dates are released. If you are seeking an hourly consultation, just email or call Anna to schedule an appointment.

WHAT SHOULD WE EXPECT?

You should expect Anna’s commitment. Her hope is that we form a team for your child to make a plan for college. It is not an easy process. She wants your child to learn to be responsible, independent, inspired, fulfilled and excited about going to college. It will take a tremendous amount of hard work, time, dedication and drive, but it will be worth it.

IS THIS WORTH OUR FAMILY'S investment?

It is up to you to decide if this investment is worth it for your family. You know your child best and can decide if your child needs the one-on-one guidance. It is crucial for your child to want to work with Anna or the consultant/client relationship will not succeed. Investing in this process now will save you time, anxiety and money down the road.