It's no secret that colleges and universities consider more than just grades during the admissions process. Factors like community service, extracurricular involvement, leadership, test scores, coursework, and more play integral roles. Many families wisely opt to engage education consultants to navigate this intricate journey, guiding students systematically toward their dream college admissions.
Guided Consulting, led by Dr. Deborah Hardy, is a trusted local educational consulting firm that specializes in providing a personalized approach tailoring academic, career, and college planning based on each student's unique interests. The firm was founded with the aim of streamlining the college counseling process and making it stress-free. Here’s a spotlight on Dr. Hardy’s team, who play an integral part in the process from start to finish.
Sandra Cefaloni-Henderson
Sandra has held various positions of leadership within the Division of Student Affairs, most recently serving as the Dean of Campus Life. She is a member of the Independent Educational Counseling Association (IECA) and the NYS Association of College Admissions Counselors. Sandra has been part of the Guided team for seven years, providing support to students and families on college process counseling, academic planning, and career coaching. She has been able to assist and scaffold student development in various ways as they begin their journey of self-exploration and growth.
Lindsay Omin
Lindsay began her career as an elementary and middle school teacher in Washington, DC, and Fairfax County, Virginia. 10 years into her career, Lindsay relocated to Westchester. During this transition, she continued to teach in the Bronx while pursuing a school counseling degree at Lehman College. Today, Lindsay is an educational consultant, supporting and guiding students and their parents through the college planning and application process. Lindsay firmly believes that each student’s path is unique and that every student has a special story to tell. She is a member of the Independent Educational Counseling Association (IECA).
What is your philosophy on college planning and the application process?
Sandra:
Starting the process early will allow students to engage in a thoughtful process with purpose and meaning. Additionally, it will give them a chance to cultivate their interests, diversify their resume and take time to identify their values and goals for college and the future.
Lindsay:
We explore your passions, goals, aspirations, and needs, which will lead each client to their right fit socially, academically, and financially.
What are your priorities when it comes to helping students?
Sandra:
My priority is to get to know each student I have the honor of working with. My approach to working through the process with them is tailored according to their needs and goals.
Lindsay:
Really listening to each client and helping them to find and express their true selves within their applications and essays.
Your best advice to students
Sandra:
Write things down as you tour various colleges, whether virtually or in person. It's important to have comparative feedback for each school, as this will help you when making decisions!
My other piece of advice is: Trust your gut instinct!
Lindsay:
Everyone is their own unique self and everyone has their own fit. Follow yours and not everyone else.
Your best advice to parents
Sandra:
Empower your student throughout the process!
Lindsay:
We are a team. Don't listen to the chatter about what everyone else is doing. Instead we will focus on your child’s needs and their best fit.
Guided Consulting, LLC
900 South Lake Blvd., Suite 8
Mahopac
845-628-0726
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