Educational Consulting

What is Educational Consulting? The Banyan Tree's educational consultants offer extensive resources for students and families in all areas of college admission counseling. These resources include a unique level of personal assistance and attention to assist students through the college admission process. We guide individuals and families through the exploration of numerous educational options and design specific college admission plans for each student. These services are provided through group as well as individual sessions and address the following needs:

• Identify schools that meet students' needs, abilities and aspirations
• Guide students through the complex and challenging application procedures
• Empower students with a strong sense of self and the ability to communicate that strength in the essay, the personal resume and during college visits
• Guide students through the applications for Financial Aid and Scholarships
• Focus students on appropriate course selection, co-curricular and service activities,  as well as summer enrichment and work experience
• Facilitate preparation for college entrance exams

We generally work with students for 5 or 10 sessions. While those who choose the 5 session package receive the same information as those who choose the 10 session package, the difference is the amount of time the consultant spends with the student or family. For example, if you would like to have someone assist you as you actually complete the applications for admission, scholarships and financial aid, you will need 10 sessions. However, if you are simply looking for direction and individualized resources, the 5 session package will generally be sufficient. 5 Individual Session Package:

• Session I: Overview of the Entire Process & Organization
• Session II: How to Choose Where to Apply
• Session III: Completing the Applications
• Session IV: Financial Aid
• Session V: Scholarships

10 Individual Session Package:

• Session I: Overview of the Entire Process & Organization
• Session II: Career & College Interest Assessment & Matching
• Session II: How to Choose Where to Apply
• Session III: Narrowing Choices
• Session IV: Completing the Applications
• Session V: Essay Writing, Interviews & Recommendation Letters
• Session VI: Finalizing Applications
• Session VII: Financial Aid
• Session VIII: Financial Aid
• Session IX: Scholarships
• Session X: Scholarships

College Admission Group (5 classes)This group meets for 90 minutes once per week for 5 consecutive weeks. The topics covered are the same as addressed in the individual packages.