College Admissions Coaching
Shining the SPOTLIGHT on YOU in college admissions
Colleges need to see YOU.
Tell your story.
Step into the spotlight.
Stand out from the crowd.
My clients' successes go toe-to-toe with my high-cost competitors. With me, you get personal attention throughout the process. Let's work together to shine the spotlight on you!
The Ever-Changing College Admissions Landscape
Gretchen is very knowledgeable and she keeps it real. She was able to help me define my ideas in a way that kept my voice. When I got in, it really was all my work, but I couldn't have done it without her! -- Admitted to Brown
There are so many questions with the college process: Where do we even start? Shouldn't kids do this on their own? Should my kid take the SAT again? Is there an advantage to applying early? There are hundreds of colleges out there -- how do we find the right fit in a college where our student can thrive? Where are the hidden gems?
With more and more applying to the same top colleges, the admissions landscape has become competitive. Here are just a few examples:
Acceptance Percentages:
1990
2024
Yale
Brown
UPenn
Northwestern
Wash U
U Chicago
15%
20%
35%
41%
62%
45%
3.7%
5%
5%
7.5%
11%
5% (2023)
In light of the changing terrain of colleges admissions, students who "go it alone" apply at a disadvantage. Spotlight Admissions coaching offers an affordable alternative to high-priced coaching companies, so everyone can have the benefit of a qualified admissions coach.
Gretchen is whip-smart when it comes to the college admissions process! She is a strategic thinker, understanding clearly what colleges are looking for in a class and how to maximize your kid’s strengths in the application process. -- Parent, Admitted to Cornell
Services
I'll personalize your experience and meet you and your student where you are in the process.
I help a wide variety of students, but areas of specialty include:
Actors/music theatre (BFA, BA or just enthusiasts)
Musicians/Singers (BMus, BA or nonmajor musicians)
Engineers
STEM magnet students
ADHD students
Gretchen is incredibly personable. She really goes “all in” on learning your child’s interests and background - and in doing so, she is able to tailor her assistance to exactly what they need. Working with Gretchen means your child gets a superior level of time and attention. -- Parent, Admitted to Wellesley
I offer a variety of services, and am happy to suggest the best course of action, but you choose how much help you'd like.
For juniors and seniors who have a list, we can focus on the application process and timeline.
For sophomores and juniors, we may look at college options and fit factors as well as testing, extra curricular activities and award opportunities
For those interested in highly selective colleges, it's good to think about extra curriculars and course progression as early as middle school.
For parents wondering about costs, savings and financial aid options, it's wise to meet at elementary age.
There are so many areas where guidance can be a worthwhile investment, and my goal is to make that affordable to everyone.
I was unsure how to highlight my experiences in my application, but Gretchen's support was incredible. She helped me craft a narrative that resonated with colleges and made me feel proud of my story. --Admitted to Boston University
Personal guidance yields results. See Spotlight success stories for yourself!
Gretchen's dedication to my success was evident in her quick, thoughtful responses. Her analysis of my essays was both thorough and insightful, challenging me to refine my arguments and strengthen my writing. Her prompt feedback and a keen eye for detail were instrumental in elevating the quality of my essay and I think without her I wouldn’t be able to express myself tellingly. -- Admitted University of Michigan