We understand that hiring an Education Consultant is an investment for a family.  We are happy to have an Initial Conference, which is included in all of our packages.  We take the time to really get to know the student and parents within the 90 minutes session.  We review the Student Information Intake Form, the Parent Survey, review the college admissions process, explore student’s college goals, and discuss strategies to reduce the stress during the process.  The Initial Conference does not include the review of academic records, recommendation of colleges or any other services. The cost of the Initial Conference is $375 per student for 90 minutes.  

Absolutely!  Our focus is always on the best way to help the student.  These packages were created to assist the consultant with getting the information needed to best advise your student and family, and to ensure that the colleges and universities have what they need to show your student in the best light.  Kirsten would be able to assist you with the package that would best suit your needs after the Initial Conference. Not all families require the Comprehensive Package, sometimes the Basic package is enough to meet the family needs. The Initial Conference does not include the review of academic records, recommendation of colleges or any other services in the packages. The cost of the Initial Conference is $375 per student.

Please know that you are not alone in this situation!  According to the National Center of Education Statistics, 80% of college students change their major at least once, and on average, college students change their major at least three times over the course of their college career.  There is no guarantee that hiring an Education Consultant will help a student to complete the major that they declared as a freshman. However, one of the things that Kirsten is passionate about is helping students find their true purpose while they are in high school.  So to answer the question, yes, Kirsten does have a process to help student identify a major.

No it will not.  That is one of the biggest misconceptions about consultants.  Colleges have their own processes and population needs. Consultants help to present your student’s education and abilities in a way to ensure your child has an opportunity to be considered for admissions, but we cannot guarantee acceptance.  Kirsten will not bribe, nor will she harass colleges and universities to accept your child.

Absolutely!  That is our specialty.  Kirsten’s background is unique.  As a native of the Bahamas, she went to college in the United States on a student visa (F-1).  Kirsten also worked as a Director of Admission in both the K-12 and College/University level.  Not only does she understands the process and the adjustments that international students must go through, she also has been a leader in college admissions that made admission decisions.  Additionally, Kirsten has successfully set up international programs, and continues to consult with schools on improving their abilities to support international students.

Beacon Academic Institute is a virtual school started by Kirsten to help families all over world get the information they will need to apply to U.S. colleges and universities.  It allows clients that may not need a full consulting package, or those that may be on a tight budget, to get the information they need to get started.  Topics include: The Road to the Application Process, Creating a College List, Choosing a Major, The Application Process, Financing Your Education, and much more.  Visit www.beaconacademic.org to register for a webinar today!

Education Consultants are required to be familiar with a variety of colleges.  Often times we connect with colleges that are looking for a specific group of students (whether it be nationality, major, or interest).  In those cases, we do try to make the connection between the colleges and the students that we work with if it is a good fit.  

We wish it were that easy!  Scholarship awards are issued at the discretion of each college or university.  In most cases, students must meet certain criteria and apply for the scholarships offered by the school.   Kirsten does not guarantee that any student will receive a scholarship, that is always up to the school.  If finances are a major part of the decision making process, Kirsten can work with students on more cost-effective college options, however, it is always up to the student to apply for financial aid and scholarship opportunities.