OUR APPROACH
We help students identify the college environment in which they will thrive, discover schools that embody that environment, and bring their strengths and personalities to life in applications and essays.
HOW?
We guide students and their families through a highly personalized process aimed at clearing away the confusion and allowing students to shine. Our process leads to reflection, self-discovery, and action. Students feel ownership in the process, feel good about where they are applying, and feel they have presented themselves in the best way possible.
We ask questions. We listen. We research. We discover. We guide. We strategize. We encourage. We calm.
ABOUT
Lauren Joyce, Founder
I bring a unique set of experiences to my work with students and their families. I spent over twenty years as a marketing executive, working for companies including Charles Schwab, AAA, Smith Barney, and Varian Medical Systems. I acted as a marketing strategist and researcher, copywriter and editor, project manager, client relationship manager, competitive analyst, and hiring manager.
I use these same skills every day helping students. Paired with my years of volunteering as a college consultant, and earning my certificate in education consulting, I am uniquely positioned to help students find their true voice and ideal path.
I draw on my research skills to stay on top of current trends in higher education, learn about individual colleges, and get to know my students well. I draw on my marketing skills to be sure each student is presenting himself/herself in the best possible way to colleges. I draw on my strategic planning skills to keep the big picture in mind when advising students about class selection, extracurricular activities, and college lists. I draw on my project management skills to create ways to manage deadlines and help my students stay on top of the process. And I draw on my ever-present sense of humor to relate to my students and make sure we all stay sane in this process!
CERTIFICATION
Independent Education Consultant
UC-Irvine
MEMBER
Independent Educational Consultants Association
Higher Education Consultants Association
Western Association for College Admissions Consulting
CURRENT AND PAST VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
College essay editor, San Rafael High School
College Consultant, pro bono
College and Career Readiness Task Force, San Rafael High School
District Leadership Team, San Rafael City Schools
Site Leadership Team, Davidson Middle School and Glenwood Elementary School
Class Parent & variety of volunteer duties, Marin Academy
Volunteer, Marin Rowing Association
Lauren was able to make great suggestions for colleges for my son because she took the time to get to know him so well in the process. We all loved working with her!
-Parent
Lauren helped me understand what colleges were looking for in college essays. Through each step of my revision process Lauren helped edit and give constructive yet positive feedback, while still keeping my stories my own.
-Senior
Lauren worked with both my son and daughter. She understands what college admissions officers are looking for and brings those factors forward. Look no further – Lauren is by far the best.
-Parent
My daughter booked a session with Lauren to help her with her common app essay and said that she was kind, supportive, and provided her the best feedback of anyone who has worked with her essay so far! She just asked to book a second session to work on her supplemental essays. I take that as HUGE kudos for a job well done.
-Parent