Overview
We provide customized assistance with every aspect of the college planning process. We create a comprehensive plan of action to meet each students unique and specific needs. We assist with various aspects that include college list development, career assessments, scholarship assistance, college application review & more.
Our experienced college planning adviser helps students outline their college essays that represent who they are and what they've accomplished. We become the project managers and ensure that every deadline is met and that students have completed their best work.
College is one of the biggest investments of your lifetime. Therefore, making college affordable is a crucial step that we can help you maximize. Our service packages are customized to meet each families unique needs, which may include advising and assisting in completing the FAFSA, CSS Profile, Scholarship search & more.
Janice Higgins
Janice recently retired as a guidance counselor from West Morris Central High School after 33 years. She has a Master’s in counseling from Montclair State University. Over the years, Janice has been involved in college workshops, seminars and countless college visits. She has helped numerous students and families navigate the college search process with her extensive background and experience. She specializes in helping each individual find the best college option for them by evaluating and discussing their academic, extracurricular and personal strengths. Janice has tremendous experience as well as a passion for working with students as they embark on their journey through the college process.
Kelly Sponeybarger
Kelly graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University where she received both her Bachelors and Masters Degree in Business Administration. She is a former Assistant Director of Financial Aid at Fairleigh Dickinson University. Kelly has found a way to combine her extensive knowledge of financial aid guidelines with her desire to help families succeed at saving money for college. She has a long term proven track record in achieving financial benefits for her many satisfied clients. Kelly has over 15 years experience helping parents with FAFSA, CSS profile and state forms.
OUR COLLEGE CONCIERGE TEAM
COLLEGE PLANNING TIMELINE
PRIORITIZE YOUR ACADEMICS
Try to take rigorous courses that will showcase your ability level. Dedicate yourself to doing your best to establish a strong high school transcript.
GET TO KNOW YOUR GUIDANCE COUNSELOR
Your counselor will be an important part of your high school career, particularly in helping you make plans for the next 4 years and beyond.
START BUILDING YOUR RESUME/ACTIVITIES LIST
Make the time to engage in meaningful activities that exhibit your talents & allow you to explore your interests.
ATHLETIC SPORTS RECRUITMENT
Become familiar with NCAA requirements if you may want to play sports in college.
GET INVOLVED
Continue to explore and participate in extracurricular activities inside and/or outside of school, build your resume & keep track of your hours of involvement and memorable experiences.
HAVE THE "COLLEGE" TALK WITH YOUR PARENTS
Discuss where you want to go? What major? Start visiting colleges to get a sense of what your looking for in a school.
PLANNING AHEAD
Start thinking about career options and necessary education for these goals.
SUMMER ENRICHMENT
Consider taking a summer course or participating in a summer program in an area of interest.
REGISTER FOR PSAT
Take the PSAT in the fall. Students could be eligible for a National Merit Scholarship depending on test scores.
REGISTER FOR SAT/ACT
Focus on prepping for and taking your tests. It is recommended to take the either test 2-3 times during 11th & 12 grade to reach your target score. Students typically will take their first national test in late winter/early spring.
CRAFT YOUR COLLEGE LIST
Compile a list of your top choice schools that consists of safety, target, and reach schools. For each school, include application deadlines, test score/GPA requirements & other important details. Make a plan to visit colleges and attend Q&A sessions & take a campus tour.
AP EXAMS
For students taking the AP exam(s) in May, begin studying a few months in advance so you can do the best you can come test day.
CONSIDER RETAKING THE SAT/ACT
You can take another shot at either test to raise your score. Make sure to have all scores sent directly to colleges to which you are applying!
BE PERSISTENT!
Contact admissions representatives from each of your top choice colleges and arrange interviews, if possible.
SUBMIT APPLICATIONS
Submit completed applications and send in all additional documents including test scores, transcripts, & letters of recommendation. Be aware of all rolling, early decision, early action or regular admission deadlines.
LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
Reach out to teachers, coaches, and employers who would be happy to write you a glowing review.
DRAFT YOUR COLLEGE ESSAY(S)
Focus on drafting your application essays to showcase your unique strengths, interests & passions. It is recommended to begin your essays during the summer before senior year.
APPLY FOR FAFSA
Complete the online FAFSA application to see if you are eligible for federal financial aid.
AP EXAMS
For students taking the AP exam(s) in May, begin studying a few months in advance so you can do the best you can come test day.
KEEP UP THE HARD WORK
Try to avoid senioritis! Colleges have been known to revoke acceptance if there is a major downturn of grades.