Meet Laurie
Why consulting? I became a college consultant because I love working with students, particularly during the process of college admissions. I love seeing applicants take pride in their work and get excited about the future. Over the course of my career, I have acquired a significant amount of experience, and as a college consultant I am able to use that knowledge to help my clients. Making the change to working outside of a school setting has given me the time to get to know each student and tailor my approach so that their college process truly feels like theirs.
Experience: Before becoming an independent consultant, I worked in education for almost 25 years. I spent ten years as an academic advisor at the college level, five years in college admissions as an admission counselor and application reader, and nine years as a college counselor in New England independent schools. I have been a college counselor for about 500 students who have attended a wide variety of institutions.
Professional Growth: Admission trends are always changing, so I stay as current as possible. Over the course of my career I have belonged to professional organizations including the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), the New England Association for College Admission Counseling (NEACAC), and the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA). I attend conferences, engage with presentations by colleges, participate in webinars, and read books and articles to continue my professional growth. To date, I have visited over 150 colleges of all types, sizes and locations, spanning from Hawaii to Ireland and many places in between.
Education: As a graduate of a liberal arts college (Bachelor’s degree in sociology from Bowdoin College), a private university (Master’s degree in sociology from the University of Notre Dame) and a public flagship university (Master’s degree in education from University of Maine, Orono), I have first-hand experience at multiple types of institutions. Over the years I have learned that every college and university has much to offer, and that no college or university is a good fit for everyone.
Personal: While I love being a college counselor, it’s important to me to have a full—and fulfilling—life outside of work. I’m a dedicated volunteer at the New England Aquarium. An omnivorous and voracious reader, I rack up over 100 books each year. I am based in southeastern Massachusetts, but my travel history is extensive: 24 MLB parks, 49 states, and 6 continents so far. Last but not least, I have an uncanny knack for reuniting lost dogs with their owners.