How to Find a College Adviser Who Won't Get You Arrested
Introduction
More parents are turning to professional help to get their kids into college. While getting one may help you decide your child’s future, you need to make sure you aren’t getting scammed. Here's everything you need to know about finding a trustworthy college adviser.
Image Description: A college adviser helping a student with college applications.
What is a College Adviser?
College consultants or advisers are professionals whose job it is to understand the college process inside and out. They counsel high school and even middle school kids throughout the college process. “We provide the advantage of being someone who understands the process and all the options you have,” said Gail Grand, director of The College Advisor.
Image Description: A college adviser discussing college options with a student and their family.
Are They Worth It?
An adviser costs anywhere between $100 to $500 per hour, said Grand. Alternatively, you can often purchase a lump sum package that includes counseling from your child’s freshman year onwards. These typically cost between $3,000 and $7,000 total. There are typically payment plans available, said Grand.
While that sounds like a hefty price to pay, it’s small compared to the total cost of college. One-third of students transfer colleges at least once before graduating, which can lead to lost credits, extra semesters, and more money. “We help your child find a place where they can succeed and thrive,” said Mark Sklarow, CEO of the Independent Educational Consultants Association.
Image Description: Infographic showing the cost comparison of college adviser fees versus potential savings.
How to Find the Right College Adviser
First, do your research. Sklarow recommends finding an adviser with lots of diverse experience, especially someone who has been a counselor or educational consultant for some time. When meeting with potential counselors, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Ask them how they stay up to date with the latest college trends and how many colleges they visit per year.
Image Description: A checklist for finding the right college adviser.
Conduct a Background Check
Conduct a background check to see if they are a member of an educational consultants organization, which typically performs extensive background checks on anyone they admit. If a potential candidate raises your anxiety instead of relieving your worries, stay away.
Image Description: A background check form and a computer showing membership verification in an educational consultants organization.
Beware of Guarantees
Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind: “If anyone calls guaranteeing you free college admission or anything like that, hang up the phone,” said Grand. College admission is extremely hard to predict. Any college adviser promising admission is likely doing something shady to get your child in.
Image Description: A warning sign about false guarantees in college admissions.
Conclusion
Finding a trustworthy college adviser can make a significant difference in your child’s college admission process. By doing thorough research, asking the right questions, and conducting background checks, you can ensure you’re making a sound investment in your child’s future.
Image Description: A college adviser successfully helping a student with college preparations.
