KNUDSON COLLEGE CONSULTING SERVICES
Free Initial Consultation
We offer a free 30-minute consultation either in person, by phone, or via Zoom. This is an opportunity for parents and students to ask general questions about the services we offer, fees, background, references, etc. Assistance specific to the student will begin once a signed contract and deposit have been submitted and accepted.
Comprehensive College Consulting Program
Most students benefit from a comprehensive program that takes them all the way through the college selection and application process. We meet our students wherever they may be in the college planning process, fill in any gaps, and move forward through a defined program as shown below. The best time to start this program is in a student’s freshman year of high school, before sophomore classes have been chosen. This allows for more guidance in planning high school courses and activities. It also allows the student to create and build the portfolio of information necessary for college applications in an orderly and leisurely manner. However, college counseling is valuable beginning at any point, and is often begun during a student’s junior year as the magnitude of the college planning and application process becomes apparent.
First Steps
- Explore student’s college goals
- Review high school academic record and standardized test scores
- Discuss extracurricular interests and activities
- Answer questions about college planning and applications
Planning and Preparation
- Evaluate academic profile and suggest courses that support the student’s college goals
- Help student choose extracurricular activities and summer programs that develop interests and talents
- Recommend appropriate SAT/ACT tests, dates, strategies and test preparation
- Assist in developing student activity sheet/resume
- Guide in Letter of Recommendation requests
Standardized Testing Strategy
- Review which standardized tests student needs to take
- Discuss best options for test practice
- Optimize testing day practices
College Search and Selection
- Clarify educational goals, learning style, career interests, and personal preferences
- Develop a preliminary list of colleges tailored to the student’s needs and the family’s financial situation. List is updated as the student evaluates each school.
- Guide families in planning productive college visits
Scholarship and Financial Aid Review
- Identify colleges with merit scholarship opportunities
- Review financial aid application process
College Applications
- Develop college application plan and oversee student progress
- Assist student in brainstorming essay ideas and provide feedback on multiple drafts
- Prepare student for successful interviews
- Review completed applications
Final Steps
- Review college admission offers and financial aid packages and help with final college choice
- Prepare for the transition to college
Personalized Services
Customized assistance is available for students who are looking for help with one or more pieces of the application process but aren’t interested in the Comprehensive Program. Services are provided on an hourly basis.