In hindsight, was your college counselor worth it? If so, can you share who it was?

[Anonymous]

I thought we could do it on our own but I'm starting to feel overwhelmed hearing the number of high stats kids who are getting deferred or not admitted.

My son is being recruited at a few D3 schools for swimming. If you know of a counselor who understands the recruiting process too, that would be a bonus.

I feel totally lost and don't want to invest in someone who doesn't know their stuff - I can do that for free!

[Anonymous]

Is his club coach helping? The club should assist. Ask parents of older kids at your club who have committed perhaps, if he's a jr ask senior parents.

My kids are not at that level, but swim with kids that are and the owner and head coach are assisting them

[Anonymous]

try posting on swimming board here as well...

[Anonymous]

So far, no

[Anonymous]

Not worth the money

[Anonymous]

100% worth it. No question. Not comfortable posting name.

[Anonymous]

Worth it. I knew I did not want to get into battles with my kid about deadlines etc., and I needed to remove myself entirely from the process. Also helped kid get clear on how to put her best foot forward.

We used Abigail Hillman and Associates.

[Anonymous]

Richard Montauk $300/ hour.
We spent a few hours talking with him and he spent a few hours talking with our kids. 50% of it was golden. He understands the sports side though, which wasn't relevant to us, and could probably give you some valuable insights on that side of things.

[Anonymous]

Not worth it if you are smart and knowledgeable.

Get an essay editor - just one so voice doesn’t get confusing - for all essays.

[Anonymous]

Smells like a spam post.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Smells like a spam post.

OP here. I promise it’s genuine. I really thought we had it under control but a few twists along the way made me realize we could benefit from some good advice. That said, I know enough that a basic advisor who just gives general info is useless.

I’m looking for someone who really adds value. I thought as acceptances roll in parents might look back and feel like their advisor was really worth it.

[Anonymous]

Very happy to recommend https://simplify4you.com/counseling/ -- their specialty is homeschool families, but after they advised my younger kid on homeschool during the pandemic, we connected with them for my older kid (never-homeschooled) college process--very worthwhile!

[Anonymous]

Not worth it and wouldn’t recommend ours so I won’t repeat the firm.

[Anonymous]

I’m 50/50. If your kid isn’t motivated, no amount of coaching will help with the essay. However, the suggested college list a college coach can come up with can be useful/interesting.

[Anonymous]

Ask again on April 1st after all the decisions are out.