College Services
Advising consultations can be arranged on an hourly basis, or on a flat fee. I want my services to be affordable to all who need it, so call me so we can discuss your needs.
Karen provides advising from the beginning in high school to the college decision. Includes in-depth understanding of the student’s personality and career interests. She helps develop a targeted list of colleges, provides guidance on essays, letters of recommendation, and innovative ways to find the best college fit. Karen also provides financial guidance for families, including how to maximize scholarship aid.
Initial Interview and Overview
With student and parents. An overview of the entire college prep process. In-depth interview of student. Initial discussion of college choices, and preliminary assessment of financial needs. Help to determine the best path forward for the student.
Financial Advising for Parents
Financial Planning and guidance for all related subjects. Guidance on preparing the FAFSA form. (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) Insights on how to maximize scholarship success.
Develop List of Colleges
Research and explore to come up with a solid list of schools to consider. Teaches the student how to do college comparisons, which questions they should be asking.. Will result in a list of 8-12 colleges.
Make the College Visit Plan
Several institutions are selected in order to visit and experience in person. This travel needs to take place when colleges are in session. Lots of great logistical advice and money-saving tips.
Essay Coaching and Review
Lots of controversy swirls around adults ‘helping’ with the essay. Rest assured, Karen does not actually write the essay! However she will assist to find the perfect story from their experience, and how to highlight unique qualities. She guides the students progress, checks in on draft progress, and reviews the final result.
Seattle is Karen’s base of operations for all her advising work, whether in-person or online connecting to many students around the country.
Resumes and Letters of Recommendation
Guidance on how to create and shape the ideal resume. Special attention for those students with special talents such as music and art.
Making the College Decision
Making the final choice can be challenging. Students can benefit from calm, objective coaching to arrive at the best decision. Karen will help to compare the benefits of each university. May include further communication with the college, and other techniques.
Teenagers benefit from Karen’s wisdom in planning for college and beyond…
For musicians, performers and artists. . .
Not sure whether to major in music or arts?
Students and families often need help exploring the issues. Karen is experienced in helping the student to decide, and how to carry forward.
Music Majors
Your deadlines are earlier, and have a special track that needs lots of guidance. Find your ideal colleges, and learn crucial techniques on how to proceed with every facet of the complex process. Get advice on audition preparation and mock-audition help.
Non-Music Majors
Do you want to continue to play/sing in college? Learn how to use your talent to help you gain entry, and even sometimes receive scholarships.
For Graduate Students
Brainstorm choices of institutions of higher education. Get help with financial negotiating. Special reduced rates will be considered for students who are funding graduate school without financial help from parents.