High school student in a graduation gown smiling and raising her graduation cap in a celebratory way.

Best-Fit Colleges > Big Name Schools

College Counseling For Successful Futures, Not Short-Term Prestige

Three high school students in separate scenes: one playing the violin in a recital, one playing soccer, and one sitting on stage looking thoughtful.

I work directly with students to help them discover their strengths, explore their interests, and create strong, authentic applications on time.

My goal is simple: create a smart, organized strategy that gives families peace of mind.

From comprehensive packages to focused essay coaching, my services are designed to make sure everyone knows the next step for success.

INQUIRE TODAY!

“We have twins with very different personalities, and she helped each of them find their own way.”

— M.W., mom of twins, class of 2025

Curated Options For Convenience & Confidence

Comprehensive Package

Strategize your high school years so that every class, extracurricular activity, standardized test, college tour, and application is intentional. With insider knowledge, I guide you through every step.

What’s Included:

  • Guidance on the college application process

  • Interest and personal styles inventory to explore various majors & careers 

  • Guidance on high school course selection

  • College list development and decision support

  • Application submission strategy and support

  • Guidance on standardized test-taking strategies

  • Common App essay support and review

  • Supplemental essay counseling

  • College tours and interviews preparation

  • Up to 40 hours of college counseling

Abbreviated College Counseling

Ace applying for college with help from a pro. For students and families who already have a strong sense of direction, or are already established in their high school career, this package is for those who only want guidance and support through college list development and the Common App personal essay.

What’s Included:

  • Guidance on the college application process

  • College list development support

  • Application submission strategy

  • Guidance on standardized test-taking strategies

  • Common App essay support and review

  • College tours and interviews preparation

  • Up to 25 hours

Common App Personal Essay Support

Show the admissions committees who you are outside of your transcript with in-depth Common App Personal Essay strategy, support, and review.

What’s Included:

  • Common App essay brainstorming

  • Topic selection support to ensure your essay stands out

  • Support from first draft to final submission

  • Up to 5 hours of essay support

Two high school students in separate scenes, one looking up thoughtfully and the other smiling while holding his skateboard.

The Finding U Process

  1. Inquire today to tell me more about your goals and ask college questions.

  2. I will reach out within 24 hours to schedule a call where we can decide what support makes the most sense for your family.

  3. We’ll begin by creating a structured timeline, then get to work on finding (and applying to) the perfect schools for you!

“At the end of the process, both of my kids had many choices and felt equipped to make informed decisions.

— L.R., mom of twins, class of 2023

Giving The College Support Everyone Craves

College is a personal choice…not a popularity contest.

As your college counselor, we won’t chase well-known names just to have an impressive résumé.

Because the truth is that none of that matters if you hate being there.

That’s why I tell every student: the best-fit college is the one that makes sense for you, not your parents, your teachers, or even your potential future boss.

This is your journey, and it should feel right for who you are today and who you’re hoping to become!

Julie Layden smiling and writing in her notebook.

Your Questions, Answered

  • The college process has changed since parents applied themselves. At Finding U College Counseling, we bring calm, clarity, and expertise to every step. We help your family stay organized, reduce stress, and make confident, informed decisions.

  • Families should look for someone with direct experience in college admissions, professional training in counseling or education, and membership in respected organizations such as IECA or HECA. These qualifications ensure your consultant follows ethical standards, stays current on admissions trends, and has the expertise to guide your student with accuracy and care.

  • Earlier is always better when talking about college admissions. Starting at the beginning of your sophomore year gives us more time for thoughtful planning, but I also work with seniors who need focused support.

    The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can create a clear, manageable plan to move forward.

  • That’s totally normal! More than half of college students change their major, and many start with no major at all.

    My job is to help explore your student’s interests, connect the dots, and lead them to apply to colleges that make sense for their future.

    This isn’t about having all the answers right now, we just need to start moving forward.

  • I keep parents in the loop with a summary email after each meeting that includes a detailed to-do list of next steps and deadlines.

    This is a balance that keeps everyone informed, respected, and moving in the same direction.

  • I meet with students both virtually and in person, depending on location. We will determine this on your inquiry call after you reach out.

High school student smiling in a classroom.

Confidence + Structure = Success

Let’s get your student the structure they need to succeed with confidence!

INQUIRE TODAY!