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Services
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Using a structured method, I guide students through a proven process of deep self-reflection to find their most authentic stories. We move beyond simple brainstorming to identify the unique "why" behind their experiences, ensuring their voice resonates with admissions officers. This systematic approach transforms the overwhelming task of essay writing into a clear, manageable journey toward a standout personal statement.
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Finding the right major shouldn't be a guessing game; it should be a discovery based on who the student is and how they relate to the professional world. The Strong Interest Inventory™ is a leading career assessment tool designed to bridge the gap between a student's personal interests and the vast world of college majors and professional careers. By comparing your preferences in activities and subjects to those of satisfied professionals in various fields, students align their natural strengths with viable college majors and career paths. This process turns the "what do you want to be?" conversation from a source of stress into an exciting exploration of real-world possibilities.
Provide an overview of the college admissions process, including how applications are evaluated, requirements, policies, and timelines to meet deadlines for each college the student applies to.
Develop a 4-year academic plan that addresses course selection, academic rigor, and making the most of the opportunities afforded to the student.
Discuss and plan extracurricular involvements, such as activities in and out of school, volunteering, work, and summer programs. Identify and cultivate interests, strengths, and curiosities specific to the student.
Complete a college match values assessment through Corsava™ and discuss college preferences and “fit”.
Generate a list of recommended colleges based on the student’s academic profile and interests. Provide sufficient information for comparison with direction in researching colleges and programs.
Provide tools to manage deadlines and stay organized.
Plan and prepare for admissions testing, (ACT/SAT), if needed.
Create a “brag sheet” or resume and develop a plan to receive letters of recommendation.
Offer tips on how to make the most of college fairs and campus tours.
Provide support for developing and completing the application's activities list section.
Assist with supplemental essays, such as the ‘Why Us’ or ‘Why this Major’ prompts.
Review the student’s applications prior to submission.
Distribute information about financial aid and affordability.
Counsel the student in the development of college readiness skills to support the upcoming transition, such as study skills, time management, prioritizing, and the shift from rules to responsibilities.
Tailored services are available at an hourly rate for high school students grades 9-12, as well as transfer students. Services include:
Why Work With Me
Choosing the right college admissions path can feel like navigating a maze. In a process filled with rising competition, shifting policies, and complex applications, the question isn't just about getting in—it's about finding the place where your student will truly thrive. As an Independent Educational Consultant, I can transform this overwhelming experience into a clear, confident, and successful journey. Here are the benefits of working with DeVore College Consulting.
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No two students are the same — and neither should their college plan be. I take the time to truly understand each student’s academic profile, interests, values, and goals. From there, we create a customized admissions strategy designed to highlight who they are and where they will thrive. This individualized approach ensures your student isn’t just applying to colleges, but applying with purpose.
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College admissions is constantly evolving. From changing testing policies to shifting institutional priorities, it can be difficult for families to keep up. As an Independent Educational Consultant, I stay current on admissions trends, requirements, and best practices, so you don’t have to. My expertise helps families make informed decisions at every stage of the process.
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A successful application tells a clear and authentic story. I help students present their accomplishments, experiences, and aspirations in a way that is genuine and cohesive. From activity descriptions to essays and supplemental questions, I guide students in showcasing their strengths while maintaining their own voice — resulting in applications that stand out for the right reasons.
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Finding the “right” college is about more than rankings or name recognition. I help students identify schools and programs that align academically, socially, and personally. Together, we build a balanced college list that includes reach, target, and likely options — all chosen with intention and long-term success in mind.
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The college admissions process can feel overwhelming. I provide clear timelines, structured milestones, and ongoing accountability to keep students on track and families informed. With me handling the project management of your applications, I help lower the stress level at home. Students stay focused and motivated, and parents can play the role of cheerleader, not taskmaster.
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The greatest value I provide is confidence. Working with me ensures you approach the process with strategy and self-assurance. I help you define your goals and polish your applications so when you hit 'submit,' you do so with a deep sense of pride in how well your applications represent you.
Approach
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The college search starts with: Who am I? Why do I want to go to college? I use the Strong Interest Inventory as a tool for identifying interests and possible areas of study or careers. As a 17-year-old, it is a lot of pressure to figure out what you want to do with the rest of your life. I will guide you in exploring interests, seeing if there are patterns. I want you to go into college with a general direction and let the college experience narrow down your career path.
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The most heavily weighted part of your college application is your transcript. Together we will build a high school 4-year plan, taking into consideration your interests and potential major. We will review freshman college admissions requirements and recommendations, including standardized testing. During this phase we will carefully plan academic rigor, extracurricular activities, and summer opportunities.
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It is never too early to prepare for the upcoming admissions cycle. This is a critical phase in which you will be compiling all the elements of your application. This includes creating a “brag sheet” and activities list, requesting letters of recommendation, beginning your essays by reflecting on your experiences and values, discussing what is a good college “fit” for you, researching colleges to build a list, and creating an informed application strategy.
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Your application is not a form, it’s a story. You will complete applications that best represent you. We will approach this in a highly organized way to alleviate stress.
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You will be empowered to select a college, and most importantly, know why you are making that choice.
About Me
Hello, I’m Sarah…
I have a passion for coming alongside students and families as they navigate the 4-year college admissions process. It’s an exciting time, full of potential, hopes, and dreams. It’s also an uncertain and unpredictable time. There are so many options and choices. You will find a lot of information - and misinformation; even for well-informed students it can be overwhelming. Emotions may be high as everyone prepares for this upcoming adjustment in their family life cycle.
I approach college admissions in a systematic way, tailored to each student and family. Working through my 5 Phase process, I want to empower you to make the best choice, an informed decision that excites you because you know what your goals and values are, so you know exactly why you’re making that choice.
This process is so much more than where you go after high school, it’s a growing experience that can prepare you for the realities of college life. I want our partnership to help you grow in autonomy and coach you to have college readiness tools such as responsibility, time management, and self-advocacy.
I have a Master’s degree in Education with a school counseling credential, and I have been an educator over 20 years. I began my career in admissions at a private liberal arts college. As the Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions, I have a deep understanding of how the admissions process works. I have evaluated countless applications and made difficult admissions decisions. I have read applications for the UC system, evaluating essays and extracurricular activities. For over a decade I was a high school counselor, taking the lead on 4-year college and scholarship counseling. With a high caseload, I felt I did not have time to give individual attention to my students. I’m excited to use my background in a new way to help meet the needs and goals of my students and families. I look forward to connecting with you!
Testimonials
I believe Sarah helped polish my student’s application and improved her chances of admission.
My student maintained a structured schedule without stress, which helped her approach her college applications with greater thoughtfulness.
I loved that Sarah is so knowledgeable about the many different aspects of college applications and she tailored strategies specifically for my student.
Parent
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The resources Sarah provided to me and my family were so incredibly helpful and valuable. Sarah’s patient, and offers great encouragement. She’s very easy to communicate with - professional, insightful and approachable.
I appreciated how Sarah helped my student focus on schools that truly aligned with her non-negotiables. Having Sarah as our guide made everything feel much less daunting.
Parent
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After working with Sarah, my PIQs truly reflected my experiences and were expressed through a clear theme. My activity list became more direct and concise. My essays became more vulnerable, showing growth and really expressed who I am. I also learned more about what colleges are looking for and what I can expect from them. Overall, I feel confident and proud of the results and the essays created.
I liked how clear and helpful Sarah’s feedback was, especially on essays. The writing exercises were very useful, and the direct feedback made it easy to understand what I needed to improve. I also appreciated how she ensured my essays reflected my own voice and that she wasn’t trying to change my work.
Student
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Contact
Contact me via the form to book a free 30 minute consultation.