Frequently Asked Questions

This page answers common questions from both families and students.
If you don’t see your question here, you’re always welcome to reach out.

Who do you work with?

I work with middle and high school students navigating academic rigor and college planning, as well as with their families. This includes students in IB, honors, AP, independent, and project-based programs.

Do you only work with IB students?

No. While my background is deeply rooted in the IB, the skills I teach—critical thinking, writing, reflection, and planning—apply across academic pathways. Many non-IB families value an IB-informed approach because of its emphasis on depth, integrity, and student voice.

What makes your approach different?

My work is educational and relational rather than transactional. I prioritize:

• Fit over prestige
• Process over shortcuts
• Student voice over templates
• Well-being alongside rigor

When should families reach out?

There is no single “right” time. Some families begin early for thoughtful planning; others connect when decisions feel more immediate. We can talk through what kind of support makes sense now.

Do you guarantee college outcomes?

No. I don’t guarantee admissions results. I do provide ethical, thoughtful guidance that helps students present themselves authentically and make informed decisions.

Do you help with essays?

Yes—through coaching. I support brainstorming, structure, clarity, and revision guidance, while ensuring the work remains fully the student’s own.

How do you work with parents and students?

I work primarily with the student while maintaining open, respectful communication with families. My goal is to support student independence while keeping parents informed and reassured.

How do we begin?

Start by reaching out through the contact form or email. We’ll schedule an introductory conversation to explore fit and next steps.

Questions Families Often Ask

When should we start college planning?
There is no single timeline. Thoughtful planning can begin early, but meaningful guidance is possible at many stages.

How involved are parents?
Parents are valued partners. I aim for transparency and communication while supporting student agency.

Do you guarantee outcomes?
No. I focus on process, preparation, and fit—not guarantees.

Is your work ethical and authentic?
Yes. I do not write or edit student work in ways that compromise integrity or violate school or assessment policies.

Questions Students Often Ask

What is it like to work with you?
Our work is conversational, reflective, and collaborative. I help you clarify your thinking rather than telling you what to do.

Will you tell me where to apply?
We build your list together based on who you are and where you’re likely to thrive.

What if I don’t know what I want yet?
That’s normal. Exploration and reflection are part of the process.

Do you help with essays?
Yes—by helping you develop ideas, structure, and voice while keeping the work authentically yours.

A Note on Values

My approach is informed by principles that align closely with the IB learner profile, including:

• Reflective — encouraging students to think deeply about their experiences and growth

• Communicators — helping students express ideas clearly and authentically

• Principled — maintaining ethical boundaries and academic integrity

• Balanced — supporting rigor alongside well-being

• Open-minded — honoring diverse pathways, interests, and definitions of success

These values guide how I work with all students, whether or not they are enrolled in an IB program.