Does Sound Consulting guarantee admission to my top school, or a certain dollar amount for athletic scholarships?

Sound Consulting promises their absolute best effort on your behalf, not absolute results. Do not accept a guarantee of admissions from any consultant. There are no promises like this that can be definitely delivered.  The recent Varsity Blues scandal has also educated us as to not only the immoral aspect of such promises but also the legal ramifications. 

Before I contract with Sound Consulting, are all fees involved in our relationship outlined in writing including what services I will receive for those fees?

Yes!

Does Sound Consulting accept monetary compensation from a school, college or program in exchange for a placement or referral?

No!

How long have you been working in the school and college world?  

Since 1980. We have worked at colleges, boarding schools (senior high school and junior school), and day schools.

What key experiences have Sound Consulting principals had before becoming consultants?  

Headmaster, Director of Admission, Director of Development, College Administrator, NCAA Div. 1 Coach, School teacher, coach, dorm parent, and quite importantly parents to six children (combined) who have all attended independent schools, a variety of colleges, and graduate schools and as a family advocate.

How do you stay current with regional and national trends in the school and university scene?  

Sound Consulting professionals attend conferences, workshops, regional + national consultant group meetings, belong to professional associations and of course read/study online the latest information impacting our work.  Notably we also visit more than 25 schools and colleges around the country each year.

We notice that you are a member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association.  What is that and how does it impact your work on our behalf?  

Directly from the IECA website: “Hiring an educational consultant who is a member of IECA ensures that you will work with a professional who have proven expertise, is fully vetted, and demonstrates the highest standards in education, training, ethics, and experience.” 

Dr. William Fitzsimmons, Dean of Harvard University Admissions, has stated, “IECA is the Harvard of educational consulting”.  

Will you fill out my applications and do my essays for me? 

We will guide and assist you every step of the process, but we will not do your work for you. We have an experienced, expert essay specialist on our team to assist you will your applications and essays. This is a team effort—we are your coach, but you are the player in the game.

Do you have a network of contacts that you use to assist you, and therefore me, in the application process? 

Yes.  As you might imagine, after decades in the school and university world, we have countless contacts in this field.  We will use them to help us guide you to find the best match for you and your family.

Do you have specialized training? 

Yes. Sound Consulting has particular strengths in athletic recruiting, learning difference programs, boarding school placement, college transfers, and Ivy college advising.