Comprehensive Guidance for College Admissions
Find Your Fit, Frame Your Future
It's not just about getting in—it's about find the right fit, the place where you will thrive. With my expertise and insider knowledge of the college admissions process, I'll help you craft a strategy to highlight your strengths and maximize your success. From identifying institutions that align with your goals and values to creating a standout application—and everything in between—I've got your back.
About Rebecca Mansell
My Professional Journey
Education has always been my passion. I graduated magna cum laude from Brown University with degrees in English literature and educational studies. From there, I enrolled at Bank Street College of Education where I completed a master’s in early adolescence education. Teaching is my first love—I spent over a decade in classrooms in New York City, working in a diverse range of settings, from a bilingual elementary school in East Harlem to a gifted and talented program on the Upper West Side.
Following the birth of my three daughters, I returned to the education world, this time not as a teacher, but as a guidance counselor, supporting families through the complicated maze of New York City high school admissions. During this time, I also ran mental health groups for high schoolers and online writing workshops for teens, volunteered as a court-appointed advocate for children in the foster care system, and served on my local school board, both as president and vice president.
My interest in college admissions grew as my own children entered high school. Deciding I needed a new challenge, I pivoted from high school admissions to college admissions, completing my certificate in college counseling through UCLA. I am a proud member of the Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA) and am guided by HECA’s core values of ethical counsel, integrity, respect, and confidentiality.
I have spent decades working with students and families to navigate academic hurdles and personal stresses, using good humor and a kind, yet direct approach to build relationships and trust. Recognizing each child and each family is unique, I customize my sessions with you to ensure you are supported through every stage of the college application process.
Where Guidance Meets Ambition: Navigating Your Path to Higher Education
The journey to college can be daunting, filled with uncertainties and anxieties. That’s why I'm here—to provide personalized, supportive guidance that empowers my students and their families to navigate this pivotal moment in their lives with confidence and clarity.
Strategic College Admissions Consulting
My Tailored Approach to College Admissions
My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding that each student is unique, with their own aspirations, strengths, and challenges. I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach; instead, I tailor my guidance to meet the individual needs and goals of each student. From crafting a compelling application to providing strategic advice on college selection, I am committed to helping students put their best foot forward while maintaining their sanity and enjoying the process.
My Values:
Empathy
Through my innate understanding of teens and families, I establish meaningful connections, provide personalized guidance, and create a supportive environment where my clients feel heard, valued, and empowered.
Authenticity
By encouraging my students to stay true to themselves, I empower them to stand out and make a genuine impact.
Excellence
Driven towards perpetual self improvement, I stay informed and in touch so I can provide my clients with high-quality guidance and support.
Resilience
I equip my students with the tools they need to manage disappointment, push through discomfort, and overcome setbacks as they pursue their goals.
Life-Long Learning
I stay updated on the everchanging landscape of college admissions, visiting different colleges each year, and continually expanding my knowledge to provide clients with relevant and innovative guidance.
My Mission
I’m Reframing the College Application Experience
I approach the college application process as an opportunity, not an obstacle. Every student has unique qualities and experiences they can highlight to maximize successful outcomes. I don’t believe in changing students to fit a mold; I help students discover and showcase their authentic voices.
I offer comprehensive support to address students’ academic goals and well-being throughout the application process. I prioritize emotional support and stress management, fostering an environment where students feel heard, understood, and validated.
Top Marks From Students and Parents
Let's discover your voice and celebrate your story
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.Why should I hire a college admissions consultant?
Think of hiring a college counselor as a small part of the larger investment you are planning to make in your child’s education. School counselors do a great job, but they do not have time to create a personalized plan for your child or to coach your child through every step of the process.
Q.Will hiring you help my kid get into a top school?
I cannot guarantee admission to any specific college—nobody can. What I can promise is that I will help your child put their best foot forward so the applications they submit are clear, cohesive represenations of who they are as people and what they will bring to their college communities.
Q.Will you tell my child the secret for getting into an Ivy League School?
There is no secret for gaining acceptance to a specific school. I will help your child reflect on who they are and what they are interested in, recommending ways to deepen those interests. Anything I suggest will be based on your child’s preferences and personal growth. Pursuing interests and then reflecting on those pursuits in the college application is the best way to develop as a person and, in turn, the best way to impress colleges.
Q.What should my child include in their college application to stand out?
The key to making an impression is creating a clear, cohesive application with a consistent theme. Through our sessions together, I will get to know your child and will help them showcase their strengths to maximize impact.
Q.How early should my child start preparing for the college application process?
It is never too early to plan for college. I will help your child assess their goals and map out a plan to achieve them. As early as middle school, we can discuss your child’s course selections, extracurricular activities, and summer plans, ensuring their choices will bolster their resumes AND enrich them as people.
