The Advising Process

Summit Educational Advising helps students approach their college or graduate school decision making process thoughtfully, with space to explore their interests and identify where they will thrive.

While every student’s path is different, advising typically unfolds in the following stages.

  • Families typically begin with a brief introductory conversation.

    This initial call allows us to discuss the student’s goals, answer questions about advising, and determine whether working together would be helpful. It is also an opportunity for families to learn more about my advising approach and how the process works.

    If advising seems like a good fit, the next step is the Student Discovery Session.

  • The discovery session is a 90-minute conversation focused on understanding the student as a learner and thinker.

    During this session we explore:

    • academic interests and intellectual curiosity
    • learning styles and strengths
    • activities and experiences that are meaningful to the student
    • possible academic directions and majors
    • the types of colleges where the student may thrive

    Following the session, families receive a brief written summary outlining key insights and suggested next steps.

  • After the discovery session, we begin the process of exploring colleges that align with the student’s interests, goals, and learning preferences.

    This stage may include:

    • developing a thoughtful college list
    • researching academic programs
    • discussing differences between types of institutions
    • planning campus visits or virtual exploration

    The goal is to help students identify colleges where they will feel intellectually engaged and supported.

  • As application deadlines approach, advising shifts toward the application process itself.

    During this stage I help students:

    • develop application timelines
    • refine personal statements and supplemental essays

Schedule an Intro Conversation