College Counselors in Bend, Oregon
Updated 1/8/25
The journey to college can feel overwhelming, but a great college counselor can make all the difference. They help students navigate tough decisions, simplify the application process, and find the right fit for their goals. In Bend, where opportunities are as unique as the community, college counselors provide invaluable guidance.
Why Work With a College Counselor?
College counselors guide students through every step of the process. They help with:
Choosing classes and activities that align with college goals
Building a list of colleges that fit academic and personal interests
Writing essays and completing applications
Finding scholarships and financial aid
Local counselors know the challenges Bend students face and tailor their advice to fit your needs.
Take the stress out of college planning—reach out to a Bend college counselor today and start the new year off strong.
Top College Counseling Options in Bend
MOORE Educational Services
Founded by Suzanne Moore, MOORE Educational Services provides comprehensive educational consulting, including college admissions guidance, transfer assistance, career preparation, and collaborative problem-solving techniques to enhance students' executive functioning skills.
Services Offered:
College admissions counseling
Assistance with college transfers
Career preparation and readiness
Collaborative Problem Solving® (CPS) approach
Specializations:
First-generation college students
Homeschooling
Dual enrollment
STEM and international education
Cascade College Advisors
Cascade College Advisors, based in Bend, Oregon, specializes in guiding students and families through the college admissions process with a personalized and supportive approach. Led by experienced professionals, Cascade College Advisors helps students identify their strengths and goals, crafting a pathway to college success tailored to their unique aspirations.
Services Offered:
Development of a customized college list based on student goals and interests
Assistance with college application strategies and timelines
Personalized coaching for essay writing and interview preparation
Guidance on scholarships, financial aid, and affordability
Support in navigating the entire admissions process from start to finish
Philosophy:
Cascade College Advisors focuses on empowering students to make confident and informed decisions about their future. They emphasize personalized attention, helping students not only gain admission but also find the best college fit for their academic and personal growth.
Website: https://www.cascadecollegeadvisors.com/
Journeys Consulting
Journeys Consulting, led by Katie, offers personalized guidance for high school students navigating college admissions, as well as future counseling for those considering alternatives to traditional college paths. They also provide academic support and relocation educational advising for families moving to Bend.
Services Offered:
College counseling
Future counseling (exploring alternatives to college)
Academic support
Relocation educational advising
Equity and Access:
Committed to providing access to counseling services for all individuals, regardless of financial obstacles
Website: https://journeysconsultingbend.com/
Sage College Advice
Sage College Advice, transitioning leadership to Amanda Conde as of January 2023, offers individualized, comprehensive counseling services dedicated to finding the best-fit college for each student. Their program guides students through the college search and application process, providing personal and professional knowledge about admissions, financial aid, and scholarships.
Services Offered:
Personalized college search and application guidance
High school coursework advising
Career path identification
Standardized testing planning
Essay feedback and interview preparation
Timeline:
Services tailored from sophomore through senior year, including an intensive application camp for rising seniors
Website: https://www.sagecollegeadvice.com/
Lewy College Counseling
Lewy College Counseling (LCC) provides expertise, guidance, and support throughout the college search and admissions process. They use a student-centered approach focusing on the individual, leading to college options that are a strong fit academically, socially, and financially.
Services Offered:
Comprehensive college counseling packages
Essay writing and application assistance
College and program selection
Introductory consultations
Approach:
Focus on self-discovery, empowerment, and personal growth throughout the college admissions journey
CollegeBoundGPS
CollegeBoundGPS, founded by Joy Flaherty, aims to make the college search an enjoyable and positive experience. They provide tools to find, apply, and gain acceptance into a best-fit college while minimizing the pressure and stress associated with the process.
Services Offered:
Research and development of a list of recommended colleges
Evaluation of student credentials
Curriculum planning
Application monitoring and essay review
Information on scholarships and financial aid
Packages:
Offers single sessions, college list packages, and comprehensive 10-hour packages
Website: https://www.collegeboundgps.com/
Lee College Counseling
Lee College Counseling, led by Lee, has over 16 years of experience in college consulting, specializing in assisting students aiming for programs in engineering, business, music, art, and STEM fields, particularly pre-med. They offer personalized services to guide students through the college application process.
Services Offered:
Comprehensive packages covering all aspects of college applications
Essay writing and application completion assistance
College and program selection guidance
Introductory consultations
Specializations:
Expertise in engineering, business, music, art, and STEM-bound students
AdMission College Counseling
AdMission College Counseling, led by Dr. Joanne Swenson, focuses on helping students discern and articulate their mission through the college application process. They emphasize aligning students' life purposes with their educational paths, moving beyond the traditional metrics of college admissions.
Services Offered:
Review of vocational assessments
Identification of suitable high school classes and extracurricular activities
Creation of personalized college lists
Guidance on application and scholarship essays
Assistance in choosing colleges that align with students' life missions
Philosophy:
Emphasizes personal worthiness and purposeful education choices
Website: https://www.admissionstutoring.com/
Each of these counselors offers distinct services tailored to meet the diverse needs of students in Bend
Guiding the Journey to Success: Inside the Heart of College Counseling in Central Oregon
College Counseling in Bend, Oregon
In Bend, the educational environment offers a unique mix of opportunities and challenges for aspiring college students. The city boasts a range of educational institutions and resources, catering to a diverse student population with varied aspirations. In this setting, the guidance provided by college counselors is invaluable in helping students navigate their options and make informed decisions.
What to Look for in a College Counselor
Choosing the right college counselor is a crucial decision. Look for counselors with a track record of success, a deep understanding of college admissions, and a style of communication that resonates with the student. It's important to find someone who is not only knowledgeable but also approachable, ensuring a comfortable and productive relationship.
The journey to college is a pivotal experience for high school students, and having the right guide can make all the difference. For students in Bend, Oregon, tapping into the wealth of knowledge and support offered by college counselors is a step towards securing a bright educational future. As you embark on this journey, remember that the right guidance can turn a daunting path into a road filled with potential and promise.
The Process of College Counseling
Early Preparation
The college counseling process often starts earlier than many might expect. In some schools, like Sanford, the foundation for college applications is laid well before the junior year. This early stage focuses on preparing students through a rigorous curriculum, developing interpersonal skills, and exploring various interests. Students are encouraged to take challenging courses, engage in meaningful extracurricular activities, and build strong relationships with faculty who may later provide recommendations.
Role of College Counselors
College counselors are experts in the admissions process who work closely with students to identify best-fit schools and craft applications that highlight their strengths. They help students set admission goals, create a plan of action, and adjust strategies as needed throughout high school. Counselors act as coaches or mentors, guiding students through each step of the process, from researching schools to making final college choices. Their responsibilities include interviewing prospective students, discussing application strategies, and helping manage the admissions process. College counselors also assist in personality profiling and report collection to tailor their approach based on individual student strengths and weaknesses.
Counseling Activities
The process involves a variety of activities such as college fairs, campus visits, and attending informational sessions. Students are advised to begin visiting college campuses ideally from their junior year. In these years, college counseling becomes more intensive, with regular support and guidance provided to ensure students complete all application requirements, including tests and financial forms. The counselors also help students navigate financial aid and scholarship options, which can be a complex and variable part of the college search process.
Choosing and Working with a Counselor
Selecting the right college counselor is crucial. It's recommended to choose counselors with recognized certifications and a background that aligns with the student's interests. Building a strong relationship with the counselor is important, as they offer personalized advice and support throughout the journey. Students should communicate their goals clearly and take the counselor's advice into consideration when making decisions.
College Counseling in Central Oregon
While the specifics of college counseling services in Central Oregon might vary from other regions, the overall process remains similar. Students in this area would also engage in activities like choosing colleges based on their interests and rankings, undergoing personality assessments, and receiving tailored advice for their college applications. Counselors in Central Oregon would similarly assist students in understanding the complex process of college admissions, from exploring different colleges to making the final decision based on various factors including financial considerations.
Empowering futures, one student at a time. In the heart of every college counselor's office, lies the crossroads of education and aspiration, where guidance meets ambition, and dreams are set into motion.
FAQs - College Counseling in Bend, OR
What does a college counselor do?
College counselors assist students in navigating the college admissions process. This includes helping with college selection, application strategies, essay writing, and identifying scholarship opportunities. They also provide guidance on high school course selection and extracurricular activities to strengthen college applications.
When should a student start working with a college counselor?
It's often beneficial to start working with a college counselor in the sophomore or junior year of high school. This timing allows for adequate preparation for standardized tests, development of a strong academic and extracurricular profile, and thoughtful consideration of college options.
How do college counselors help with college selection?
College counselors help students identify colleges that match their academic profile, interests, career aspirations, and social preferences. They use their knowledge of colleges and universities to suggest schools that students might not have considered.
Can college counselors assist with financial aid and scholarships?
Yes, many college counselors provide guidance on the financial aid process, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and help identify scholarship opportunities for which students may be eligible.
What's the difference between a school-based college counselor and an independent college counselor?
School-based college counselors are typically employed by a high school and may have a large number of students to advise. Independent college counselors usually work outside of the school system, often providing more personalized, one-on-one counseling services.
How do college counselors support students with the application process?
They assist with organizing application materials, meeting deadlines, preparing for interviews, and providing feedback on essays and personal statements. They can also help students understand application requirements and admissions criteria.
Do college counselors help with standardized test preparation?
While college counselors may provide general advice on standardized testing (like the SAT or ACT), most do not offer test preparation services. However, they can often recommend test prep resources or services.
Can college counselors help students with special circumstances?
Yes, college counselors can provide tailored advice for students with unique situations, such as athletes, artists, students with learning differences, or those interested in gap year programs.
What role do college counselors play in career planning?
College counselors often assist students in exploring career paths and how different college majors can align with their career aspirations. This guidance can help students make informed decisions about their future.
How do college counselors stay informed about college admissions trends?
College counselors regularly update their knowledge through professional development, networking with college admissions officers, and staying current with changes in college admissions policies and trends.
Can college counselors help with letters of recommendation?
They can guide students on whom to ask for letters of recommendation and how to approach them. They might also offer tips on ensuring these letters effectively support the student's application.
Do college counselors assist international students with specific challenges?
Yes, they provide specialized support for international students, including advice on visa processes, English proficiency tests, and understanding the U.S. college admissions system.
How often should a student meet with their college counselor?
The frequency of meetings can vary based on the student's needs. Regular meetings are typical during crucial periods of the college application process.
Can college counselors help with decision-making after college acceptances?
Yes, they can assist students in evaluating and comparing college offers, including financial aid packages, to make the best decision for their future.
What is the typical background and training of a college counselor?
College counselors usually have a background in education or counseling and are trained in college admissions processes, career guidance, and student development.
How can students and parents evaluate the effectiveness of a college counselor?
Evaluating a college counselor can be based on their knowledge of college admissions, the quality of their guidance, and the outcomes of the students they've worked with, such as college acceptances and satisfaction with their services.