Why do I need an admissions counselor?
Admission rates at top universities have reached record lows. Parents and students feel overwhelmed by the college admissions process. Quest College Advisors will work closely with you to brand you in a unique and personal way that will differentiate you and improve your chances for acceptance. Whether you are in the top one percent of your class or are a great student with a B average, we can support you in your college planning.
What is the best age/grade to begin counseling?
We work with students as early as 9th grade. Quest College Advisors is able to provide strategic and proactive counseling on topics that will allow you to better position yourself for success. By starting early, you will ensure all admissions requirements have been met and avoid any stress associated with missing deadlines.
Will I receive the same help from my high school guidance counselor?
Not necessarily. Although guidance counselors play a valuable role in helping students determine where they fit in the ecology of their particular school and in representing a student via letters of recommendation, even at elite college preparatory schools guidance counselors have a demanding case load and may not have the time to focus on the minute details of your application. A college admissions officer provides insight, highly individualized advice, and assistance that may not be available at your school.
Do you help students create a list of colleges for consideration?
Selecting a college is a deeply personal decision. We encourage all applicants to become as informed as possible about schools that interest them. The more active you are in the search process — thorough reading, visiting, and conversations with students and faculty at your prospective college or university — the better your sense of whether that particular school is a good fit for you. We will offer assistance with the college search process, setting realistic goals, and helping you determine your chances of being admitted.
What are schools looking for in an applicant?
A nationwide survey of IECA professionals identified these top 12 things that schools want. While written for college applicants, the same holds true for boarding school applicants too.
What academic history do schools look for?
Each school has its own academic standards, but generally schools look to see how challenging your courses are, the breadth of courses taken, how well you do, and is there an upward trajectory over time (2-3 years).
How important are standardized test scores?
High test scores do not guarantee admission into schools, but low scores can definitely hinder acceptance chances. Test taking is stressful. Studying, tutoring and taking practice exams can all help improve test scores. But test scores and academics are just one piece of the puzzle. Interviews, essays and extracurricular activities are also heavily weighted.
I don’t write well. Will you write my essays for me?
We do not write our students’ essays. However, we will support you through the process at every step of the way — we help you brainstorm topics and we review and critique your essays so you can improve them. Enabling self-reflection and awareness is a large part of how we can help you.
Is there any disadvantage to doing remote counseling?
There is no disadvantage to remote counseling. Virtual admissions counseling is equally as effective as in person and is more convenient, allowing you to receive counseling when and where you need it.
Are you able to guarantee admission at certain universities?
Quest College Advisors cannot guarantee admission at a certain college or university, however we are confident in our ability to deliver strong results for you provided that the student adheres to the guidelines set along the way.
How do you manage student confidentiality?
We will not identify our clients to anybody under any circumstance. All communications between Quest College Advisors and our clients are strictly confidential.
