PERSONALIZED CONSULTING

Two paths.
One trusted guide.

One-on-one guidance for college applications and gap year planning in Japan — built around your goals, your voice, and your timeline.

College Applications

I provide one-on-one guidance to students as they work on their college applications. My goal is to help students write clear and compelling applications that are said in their own voice and reflect their personal achievements, interests, and values. My services include advising on:

  • creating a structured plan and timeline to manage the completion of several applications on time;

  • writing any part of the college application (including the personal statement, supplemental essays, a resume, the activities list, and the additional information section);

  • writing any scholarship essay; and

  • writing letters of continued interest if you are deferred or waitlisted by one or more college admissions offices.

I recommend that students start to work on their college applications in June before the start of senior year.

Gap Year Plans

I am a strong proponent of students taking a gap year and think it can be beneficial if it is planned and intentional. Overall, the focus of a gap year is having a hands-on learning experience outside of the classroom for personal growth. Students can grow in their development of educational, personal, and professional skills.

There are so many locations that would be great for a gap year experience. I specialize in assisting students with learning about and applying to a gap year opportunity in Japan. I have lived in Japan a few times and most recently for three years ('16–'19) with my husband, daughter, and son. The culture, language, and people of Japan are truly amazing. My family and I loved our time there and feel passionate about it. Japan would be an amazing place for a young person to experience on their own. I know firsthand from having seen my daughter and my son immerse themselves at school, in after-school programs, and in the greater community when we lived there.

I recommend that high school seniors start thinking about a gap year at least six months in advance of their departure date (usually in the spring of senior year).

I usually work with students after college applications are completed, and my services include advising on:

  • choosing the location, type of program, and specific program;

  • applying to the specific program;

  • finding and applying to any applicable scholarships; and

  • writing a formal letter to the admissions officer of their accepted college requesting a deferral start date.

I usually work with students after college applications are completed — typically beginning in the spring of senior year.