The Smartest Choice I Made for My Children’s Education

Why I, an Educational Consultant, Hired a Consultant

As an Educational Consultant (EC), I’m well-versed in guiding other families through the maze of educational choices, school selection, and academic strategies. But when it comes to my own children, it’s often hard to apply that same level of objectivity and detachment. Even the best guides sometimes need a little guidance themselves and so I hired another educational expert to work with my own children in the school admission process. Here’s why:

1.    Less Stress, Fewer Power Struggles

Consultants ease tension between parents and children by offering reassurance and realistic expectations. Handing over the reins to another professional allows me to step back and let someone else be the expert, give the feedback, and set timelines; all of which allow for greater buy-in from students and less time spent arguing during this overwhelming and stressful process.

2.    Time and Timeline Management

We are all busy. Hiring an EC takes the heavy lifting of researching, planning, and managing your child's academic progress, off your shoulders. They can simplify complex admission processes and reduce the need for endless online-searching and second guessing. Consultants help families stay focused on the current tasks, which makes the entire process more manageable.

3.    Personal Guidance & Objective Insight

ECs take time to get to know your child and identify schools that align with their academic needs, learning style, extracurricular interests, and your family values. A consultant offers an unbiased, objective perspective that focuses solely on the needs, strengths, and challenges of your child. A fresh perspective can uncover new ways to unlock your child’s full potential that you may not have considered. You will receive tailored test guidance and coaching to help both you and your student present more authentically and confidently to schools.

4.    In Depth Knowledge of Schools and Admission Trends

Experienced consultants are deeply familiar with a wide range of schools – their cultures, admission priorities, and expectations. Those affiliated professional associations, such as the Independence Educational Consultants Association (IECA), stay on top of current admission trends, new programs, and policy changes. This insight ensures your child receives the best possible guidance and preparation for their academic future.

5.    Access to Specialized Resources

Many ECs have connections to a network of specialists, tutors, therapists, and schools that may be an ideal fit for your child. Rather than spending hours researching or vetting different programs or professionals, your consultant can connect you to trusted, high-quality resources tailored to your child’s needs. This could include learning specialists, extracurricular offerings, test-prep tutors, college admissions experts, or private schools with specialized programs that you might not have considered otherwise.

6.    Maximized Admission Potential

Parents can rely on consultants to help craft thoughtful parent statements, review forms, and prepare for interviews – all leading to a stronger overall application that will stand out amidst the pile of applications schools receive. With expert guidance, students and parents often feel more confident throughout the process. Applying to schools that are a better fit typically yields a better outcome. Additionally, these experts regularly communicate with admission professionals and can advocate for your child when appropriate.

7.    Confidence In the Decision-Making Process

We all feel more assured when we speak to an expert to validate our thought process. As a consultant myself, I deeply value the input of my colleagues when making decisions for my own family. Consultants help cut through the noise from other parents, social media, or the rumor mill, and help you focus on what truly matters to your child.

8.    Continuing Support Beyond Admissions

Many consultants remain available for follow up questions about placement, transitions, or even future concerns that pop up. Should your family need help with a waitlist decision or making a choice between offers, an EC can talk you through all the variables to consider. The best consultants look beyond a single year and help you map out a broader educational journey for your child.

Questions to ask when hiring an EC:

• How long have you been an educational consultant?

• What is your background (admissions/teaching/counseling/student support)?

• What are your fees and what services do they include? Do you offer a flat-fee package or hourly services?

• What is your preferred method of communication and typical response time?

• How frequently do you meet with families?

• Do you offer interview preparation for students? For parents?

• How do you support students and parents in the essay writing process?

• Are you a member of any professional organizations?

• How do you stay on top of trends and school offerings?

  
  

Hiring an educational consultant is an investment in your child’s academic future (and a minimal expense compared to the total cost of a private education). EC’s provide structure, expertise, and peace of mind during an otherwise stressful and overwhelming process. Most importantly, they empower students to feel supported and confident every step of the way, giving your child the best chance to thrive academically and emotionally. It’s not just about getting in, it’s about getting it right.