Choosing a college counselor is a big decision, so here are honest answers to the questions families ask me most. I'm Karen, a solo college admissions consultant in Phoenix, and I work one-on-one with every student. If your question isn't here, book a free consultation and ask me directly.

Do I need a college admissions counselor for my child?
Not every family does, but many benefit from one. School counselors are often responsible for hundreds of students, so they rarely have time to work through a single student's activities list, essays, and college list in depth. Parents are busy too, with jobs and other kids. I give your student one-on-one attention, so their application shows the best of who they are.

What does a college admissions consultant actually do?
I help your student build a balanced college list, present their activities and accomplishments well, and write essays that sound like them. I also keep them organized and on schedule, so deadlines don't sneak up on anyone. My comprehensive package covers every step until choosing your student’s college.

Why does college counseling cost what it does?
Because the work is far more than a few meetings. For each student, I spend hours outside our sessions researching schools, reading and marking up essay drafts, reviewing activities lists, and checking application details. I work with a limited number of students, so each one gets that level of attention, and I do the work myself. You won't be handed off to someone else. My package pricing starts at $3500. If you'd like to see how the investment breaks down, the free consultation is a good place to start.

Why should I hire Oppen Admissions?
I'm a solo practitioner, so you work directly with me from start to finish. I've spent about five years in college admissions consulting, and I'm also a parent who has taken four kids through the college process. I know teenagers, and I know what this process feels like from both sides of the table.

Do you only work with students applying to Ivy League schools?
No. Every student gets the same level of care, whatever schools are on their list. The goal is the right fit for that student, not the most famous name.

What is a balanced college list?
It's a list with a few reach schools, several schools that are a good academic match, and a few where admission is more likely. My one non-negotiable rule is that your student has to genuinely like every school on it. Every student who works with me gets a list built around what matters to them, including the academics, environment, and cost.

What is holistic admissions?
It means colleges review the whole application, not just grades and test scores. If your student has a lower score or a few weak grades, that doesn't decide the outcome. Essays, activities, recommendations, and context all count, and the application gives room to explain the story behind the numbers.

When should my child start working with a college counselor?
Starting sooner leaves more room to build the profile, while starting later still lets us cover the essentials.

Do you support students with ADHD?
Students with ADHD aren't ignoring the process. They often need more help with organization, relief from pressure, and permission to submit work that isn't perfect. I adapt the schedule, break big tasks into manageable steps, and keep deadlines visible so nothing gets missed.

Who is a good fit for your services?
I am currently accepting students for the Class of 2028 forward. My best-fit students are ones who are open to the process, with at least a 3.0 gpa, looking for majors in STEM or Business.

How do I get started?
Schedule a free 20-minute consultation. It's a chance for us to see whether we're a good fit, and there's no pressure.