We’re often asked “when is the best time to begin working with you?” Although the answer to that question may change with each student and the schools they are considering, the summer time is an opportune time to get started!

We’ve put together some ‘top of mind’ benefits you’ll find if you and your student begin working with an educational consultant this summer, rather than waiting! We like to refer to this as the “gift of time” but what does that look like and mean?

Stress-free Planning

Working with an Educational Consultant this summer allows you to set goals and develop an overall game plan with your student that is as stress-free as possible. Consultants can help your student review their strengths and interests to help identify the academic and social settings that might be best for their growth, so your student can prioritize how and when they want to visit schools. Furthermore, any schools that are open to summer campus tours, allows you to take a peek at some schools that you may have a harder time getting to when school starts up in the fall.

Test Prep Previewing & Reviewing

Consultants can also review and suggest any steps your student should take for standardized entrance testing that independent schools may require. We always encourage our clients to take practice tests to get a good idea of what a SSAT or ISEE entrance test is all about and to understand what else they can do to better prepare for taking the actual tests that will count. Yes, there are many private schools that are now (and continuing to be) “test optional” although there are nuances across schools regarding being “test optional.” An Independent Educational Consultant will help you and your student preview and review what effective test prep could look like for your student’s admissions process and overall timeline. And summer is the best time to do this!

Remedial or Enrichment Support

If your student struggled with specific subjects or academic areas in the previous school year, an Educational Consultant can help you explore those areas and develop a plan to begin addressing them over the summer. Whether it's providing remedial tutoring or offering enrichment opportunities, getting the assistance of your educational consultant to help your student bridge any knowledge gaps and provide additional support to enhance your student's skills and confidence. Having stronger self advocacy skills and confidence entering the upcoming school year and admissions cycle will be paramount for your student!

Time for Personal Growth

The summer typically gives families and students more time and flexibility. This is a great time for students to work on improving any skills that can be critical to success in private school. In addition, the summer is a perfect time for students to engage in community service and volunteer work, in addition to holding down a summer job! Schools look for students who have a strong sense of self and exceptional character, and summer opportunities for junior high and high school students are vast when they know when they really look! Your Educational Consultant can help you identify these areas and provide suggestions on how to work on these areas this summer.

A Smooth Start to the School Year

Working with an Educational Consultant in the summer helps you and your family reduce any stress that accompanies the start of another school year. Independent Educational Consultants will provide you and your family clear guidance and support so that your student feels prepared when the upcoming admissions cycle commences in August!

For some students (and parents!) the independent school admissions process can feel overwhelming! A good Independent Educational Consultant can ease this feeling. They can familiarize parents and students alike with the process, the private school landscape, academic expectations, and even social dynamics that might be at play. By addressing any concerns or anxieties during the summer, students and parents feel more comfortable and confident as they start the new school year.

It is this personalized support, guidance, and preparation that will ensure a smooth start to the school year and setting the stage for a successful academic journey. Students and parents alike can make informed decisions, develop important skills, reduce stress, and enter the upcoming admissions cycle with a sense of calm and focus!