The college application world today is increasingly competitive, and students typically examine a broad range of possible choices. Many families feel daunted by the prospect of navigating this complicated, challenging process.
The need for college guidance is thus at an all-time high. Most high schools have college guidance offices that are staffed by dedicated and competent counselors. School budget limitations, however, have increased student counseling loads, and the national average is now close to 500 students. In addition, some school counselors are familiar with only a relatively small number of colleges, generally in their home state.
Families thus often feel a need to supplement these services with an independent counselor who has time and experience that their school counselor may not possess. As an independent counselor, I am also available year-round, rather than only when school is in session, as well as during school vacations and on weekends.
Independent counselors’ professional backgrounds vary widely, of course, and my own experience includes working with students in the college admission process for more than 30 years. I have served as a social studies teacher and department chair in a public high school and worked in college admissions at four institutions in four different regions of the United States, serving as head of the admission office at three of them. I thus have a fully national perspective on the college choice process. My client base reflects this. I am currrently assisting families in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, Nevada, New York, Texas and England.
The college choice is typically the first major life decision students make, and the goal of the process is to attain the best possible fit in the school they ultimately attend. My goal is to assist students in applying personal and family values in making this decision, and for them to learn useful life lessons in the college choice process.
I support students in all aspects of the college process, including the following:
- Developing criteria for the college search
- Creating lists of colleges and universities to investigate
- Assistance in creating college visit itineraries
- Preparation for college visits and interviews
- Selecting high school courses
- Developing a strong extracurricular résumé
- Establishing a standardized testing schedule
- Application guidance and review
- Assisting with essay writing with unlimited review
- Guidance in selecting summer programs
While no one can guarantee admission to a specific college, I can help ensure that the process is less confusing, more effective, and even enjoyable. The college choice process can be an adventure that is both interesting and fun, and I enjoy sharing the journey with students and their parents.
Without you I would not have been as realistic and calm about the college process, which is normally filled with incredible stress. One of the most helpful things you have done for me is to help me think realistically of what would make the perfect school for me, avoiding choices being based on whim or brand name.
It has been such a comfort to have someone who understands what makes me special and who has been able to help present me as something to add to the school.
Isabella (U.K.)
Bill Shain is a gem of among college admissions advisors. His capacity to perceive the nature and style of an individual child, combined with a masterful knowledge of the college admissions process, makes him the perfect choice. Bill moved us through a taxing situation with keen insights, comforting advice, gentle guidance, professionalism and a fine sense of humor. He has great intuition and is able to ascertain the right "fit" for the child. Our daughter ended up at a school that is close to perfect for her, a place that we might have overlooked had Bill not suggested it. You can trust him completely. He has my A+ recommendation.
Carrie Barron (New York)
Bill Shain's knowledge, understanding, and accessibility, made the seemingly overwhelming process of college applications manageable and enjoyable. He provided much needed guidance, using a straightforward approach to college admissions that allowed me to find direction in an other wise insurmountable mass of information. I met deadlines with time to spare due to his dedication to each and every client. He never was more than a quick email away. I strongly believe any student would greatly benefit from his counseling.
Rudy (Nevada)
Bill Shain is absolutely terrific. He demystified the college application process and was key in constructing a sensible plan for our son.
I was calm throughout knowing that Bill was just an email away. His responses were always prompt and smart. He needs to be part of your team!”
Inez D'Arcangelo (New York)
