College Counseling Services
Jodi Walder-Biesanz, an independent college counselor in Portland, Oregon, offers comprehensive college counseling for students of all backgrounds and achievement levels. She helps high school students identify, apply and gain admission and financial aid at right fit colleges.
Keywords: college admission, college counselor, college counseling, college essays, admission essays, Jodi Walder-Biesanz, college admission coach, college counselor Portland
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
I have been in business since 2005
What is your primary product or service?
College counseling services include: pre-college planning, advice regarding standardized testing, review of student career interests and possible college majors, creation of college wish list including safety, match and reach schools, college visit planning, application timeline creation, assistance with the common application and school-specific applications, admission essay topic selection and essay critique, student interview practice, financial aid guidance, scholarship resources, review of admission offers and wait list follow-through.
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
I was a high school English teacher, and later a magazine editor. My children's friends started to ask for help on their college application essays. I could help with the essays, but needed more training related to the rest of the admissions process so I took the college counselor certification program at UCLA.
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
I work with students of all abilities - from those that want admission to highly selective schools, to those seeking admission to schools with extra support for learning differences. I often work with highly creative students such as aspiring engineers, entrepreneurs and visual and performing artists. My focus is on understanding the student and supporting him or her to find the right fit school, and get financial aid and scholarships.
What is the best compliment anyone can give you?
The biggest compliment students give me is to stay in touch once attending college, let me know that it is the perfect place for them, and offer to speak to other students about their college experience!