Frequently Asked Questions

What makes you different from other college counseling firms?

Ms. Lal has served on the committee that interviews applicants to Harvard University. She is also an alumna of Harvard and was trained in college admissions by Ivy League admissions deans, so she knows what type of student Ivy League universities are looking for.

Why do I need a college consultant?

The process of college admissions has grown increasingly complex and competitive in recent years. Applications are at an all time high. Parents and students are nervous and do not know where to get help. Often, a college admissions committee will look at a student's application for only 15 minutes before making a decision. If the student doesn't stand out from the crowd in those 15 minutes, their chances of admission decline significantly. Most guidance counselors in high schools have hundreds of students to work with, so they do not have enough time to spend with individual students and help them stand out from the crowd. You can also save time and avoid unnecessary campus visits, testing fees, and applications by working with a college consultant. When considering the total cost of a 4-year college education (up to $200,000+) the cost of hiring a college consultant is justified as a good return on investment. A small investment now can deliver a long lasting return from a successful college career. When students work with us, they know they are getting expert guidance on the whole college application process.

Do you only work with students who want to go to Ivy League universities?

No. We work with students who are applying to any type of college—Ivy Leagues, small liberal arts colleges, private, and public. We also help students applying to programs in medicine, engineering, business, and more. There are many excellent colleges that are not “name brand” or Ivy League universities. The most important thing is that students have many choices at the end of the day and that they find a college that is a good match for them.

Can you make the college application process less stressful?

Yes! A massive amount of information on all aspects of the college process is available online, so it is difficult to figure out what is relevant. We clear out the information clutter, provide specific recommendations and prioritize things. We provide a checklist of 100+ items and guide students through the maze of their high school years. This saves time and money for students and parents.

Why do your students LOVE working with you?

We bring a holistic perspective on human development and help students see themselves as whole beings–body, mind, and soul. This vision of the human being helps students make decisions based on multiple perspectives and makes the college application process more enjoyable and meaningful. We put the student in the driver’s seat and act as mentors who guide students in making their first important life choice, applying to college. 

When should a student start working with you?

Each student is ready to start college planning at a different time. Most students start working with us in their junior or senior year of high school. Students who are serious about college admissions start working with us as early as 8th grade. The earlier we start working with students, the greater the chance that they will be able to gain admission to a top college. We have years of experience and an unparalleled range of support available to students who are willing to work hard and achieve their goals.

Do you have scholarships for students who cannot afford your services?

Yes! We strongly believe that educational opportunities need to be available to all students, and giving back to the community is an important part of our philosophy. Students who wish to apply for scholarships should contact us for further information.