father son talking at tableMany families approach college counseling with the misconception that an advisor’s role is to simply tell the student what to do to gain admission to a “better” college than they could if they were to apply on their own: Which extracurriculars will give them an edge? Which colleges should they target? What should they say in essays that will make the admission officer immediately take notice? And, ultimately, which school will give them the best path toward a prestigious career? 

I frequently hear concerns like, “Our daughter has decided she wants to go to Stanford. She has great grades and her extracurriculars are really strong. So just tell us what to put in the application and essays so that she can get in,” or “We’ve already picked out the top three favorite Ivies for our son. Can you just tell us which one he should ED to so we can get into at least one? It doesn’t matter which one.”

It’s Natural To Seek Definitive Answers 

Parents and students often worry that without an expert making these crucial decisions, they’ll make irreparable mistakes that could derail educational and career opportunities. After all, the college application process can feel overwhelming, with its complex forms, unpredictable admissions trends, and life-altering consequences. So it’s completely understandable to want someone to simply provide clear-cut directions and remove the burden of decision-making. 

This desire for certainty in an uncertain process is something I witness in nearly every family I work with, regardless of their background or circumstances. The stakes feel incredibly high, and the fear of making wrong choices can be paralyzing.

What College Counseling Is Not For

Before explaining my approach, it’s important to clarify what my college counseling services are not designed to do. Counterintuitively, my role is not simply to get students into colleges. Nor is it designed merely to help students gain admission to more selective universities. 

While acceptance letters are certainly part of our work together, viewing college counseling solely as a means to “get in somewhere” or to “trade up” to more prestigious institutions fundamentally misses the deeper purpose and value of this process.

A Different Approach: Empowerment Through Partnership

In my years as a college admission counselor, I’ve developed a philosophy that may differ from what some students expect: I make recommendations, but you make decisions. This distinction is fundamental to my practice.

I believe my role isn’t to dictate your college journey but to illuminate the path with expert insights while respecting that, ultimately, these life-changing decisions belong to you and your family. 

College applications aren’t simply paperwork to complete—they represent the beginning of a profound rite of passage. The very process of applying to college initiates the remarkable learning and growth that will continue throughout your entire college experience.

Navigating Choices Together

My approach is intentionally non-judgmental (most of the time). I understand that each student brings unique priorities, values, and circumstances to the table. What makes sense for one student and their family might be entirely wrong for another. Rather than imposing my preferences, I create a space where we can honestly evaluate options based on your specific situation.

Information is our ally, not something to fear or avoid. I’m committed to providing transparent, comprehensive information about colleges, admissions trends, and opportunities—even when that information might challenge preconceptions or present uncomfortable realities. I believe that informed decisions are always better than those made in the dark, regardless of how difficult those truths might be to face.

Perhaps most importantly, I view college counseling as a practice, not merely a business. While Mercer Educational Consulting is indeed a professional service, the work we do together transcends transaction. Like medicine or law, college counseling at its best is a practice built on expertise, ethics, and a genuine commitment to serving others. Each student I work with becomes part of an ongoing journey of guidance, discovery, and growth.

Beginning Your College Journey

The college application process marks the beginning of your transition to adulthood—a time when you’ll increasingly make important decisions for yourself with the support of trusted advisors. Working together, we’ll navigate this complex landscape by combining my expertise with your unique goals and values.

If this philosophy resonates with your family’s approach to the college journey, I invite you to reach out for a consultation. At Mercer Educational Consulting, your empowerment is a priority that guides my collaboration with you. Together, we can create a counseling relationship that honors your autonomy while providing the expert guidance needed to make informed, confident decisions about your/your student’s educational future.