Since 2001, I have been working in higher education, with some breaks in between to raise my three children. I work as a solo practitioner and actively participate in several professional organizations, including the Independent Educational Consultants Association, the New England Association for College Admission Counseling, the National College Attainment Network, and the Higher Education Consultants Association. At the 2023 annual HECA conference, I was honored to receive a Rising Star Award for members who have made significant contributions to the organization in their first five years of membership.
To stay updated with the latest developments in higher education, I prioritize my professional development and make it a point to visit several colleges a year, expanding my knowledge of institutions across the United States. I have furthered my expertise in college affordability by completing the IECA college affordability certificate. Additionally, I volunteer with the Scholar Match and Matchlighers programs, mentoring underserved youth through college admissions. My extensive experience, active involvement in professional organizations, continuous learning, and commitment to supporting students from diverse backgrounds make me a dedicated and well-rounded independent educational consultant.
I limit my client base to just 20 comprehensive clients per graduating class, ensuring that each individual receives the undivided attention and tailored guidance they deserve. While some students choose to begin their journey as early as freshman year, the majority embark on this collaborative process during their junior year.
Embracing a hands-on approach, I meet students exactly where they are in their college journey, valuing their unique needs, learning styles, and aspirations. By focusing on their wants and needs, I strive to find the perfect fit for each student, colleges that align with their social preferences, academic aspirations, and financial considerations.
As an advocate for student empowerment, I primarily engage directly with the student, emphasizing their active involvement through the college planning process. While I do educate parents on the intricacies of the college journey, my work predominantly takes place one-on-one with the student. To foster engagement and organization, I leverage college planning software and utilize collaborative platforms such as Google Docs. To ensure accessibility and convenience, I offer virtual appointments through Google Meet and Zoom.
I am committed to providing comprehensive and personalized counseling, ensuring that each student receives the attention and support they need to thrive in the college admissions process.
R. W.
EAS provided the guidance and support my daughter, husband and I needed during this important time in our child’s life. Alicen is extremely knowledgeable in all areas of the college application process. She worked with us in a way that met our family’s needs, which helped our daughter feel motivated and positive. We can’t thank Alicen enough for all that she did to support us and lead our daughter to success in receiving acceptance letters from her top college choices.
David W.
Alicen assisted our oldest daughter throughout her college discovery and application process and we could not have been happier. Alicen is very organized in terms of identifying and hitting deadlines and generally keeping our daughter (and us as parents) focused and engaged throughout this process. And just as importantly, she established trust and rapport with our daughter upfront, which resulted in a very productive partnership.
Greg I.
Alicen was a great mentor this year to my second high school graduate. She assisted my oldest daughter a couple of years ago and was extremely helpful. As a parent, utilizing Alicen eased a lot of stress throughout the entire college application process. Having two more daughters going to college in the next 4 to 7 years, I will look to Alicen for any assistance they need. I have referred others to Alicen and will continue to do so.