Question 1

Why should we hire a private admissions consultant?

Accepted Answer

Each year, more students are applying to college, yet the number of available spaces is virtually the same. Some college admission officers decide an applicant's fate in as little as 10 minutes. In approximately 85% of those cases, the application is not reviewed again (WSJ). That means you spent weeks compiling an application that will be reviewed for less time than it takes to drink a large coffee.
Making the process even more impossible, one guidance counselor is often responsible for hundreds of students, making it difficult for them to dedicate enough time and attention to make you as successful as you can be. 
This is why so many students are turning to independent college counseling services. College is one of the most significant investments you will make in your life. You want your future in the hands of someone dedicated and passionate about advocating for you.

Question 2

What makes Optimal Admissions different from other admissions consultants?

Accepted Answer

While having a founder (javascript:void(0))with college admissions experience at an Ivy League Institution is a great asset, our passion sets OA apart. Our founder, Lindsay Petry, established OA to create more transparency in the application process to help applicants from all walks of life successfully navigate the college admissions process. Furthermore, our policy is one of honesty and empathy. We understand that strong emotions and expectations surround the college admissions process. We will work with you and your family to develop a strategic plan focused on your needs and wants.

Question 3

Will Optimal Admissions work with students from anywhere in the country?

Accepted Answer

Yes! OA provides services through Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, Google Meets, Google Duo, phone, and email. We are happy to work with students from all over the world.

Question 4

Who will I be working with?

Accepted Answer

All students and their families work directly with our founder,(javascript:void(0)) Lindsay Petry. Lindsay has over seven years of experience in student affairs and undergraduate admissions.

Question 5

I'm an 'average' student, can Optimal Admissions still help me?"

Accepted Answer

First and foremost, there is no 'average' student. Every student is unique and has their strengths. OA will help you play to your particular strengths during the application process through smart institution selection, carefully crafted storytelling, captivating essays, and well-selected recommendations.

Question 6

When should I start working with Optimal Admissions?

Accepted Answer

It is never too late, or too early, to work with OA! Our guidance will benefit anyone from 8th graders to high school seniors to students looking at transferring colleges. Our expertise at any point in the process can make a dramatic difference in the outcome for our students.

Question 7

What services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer a wide range of services, from complete packages to single session appointments. Schedule a free consultation (javascript:void(0))for more information.

Question 8

Will Optimal Admissions help with just the essay?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! OA offers an essay consulting package, or you can choose to select a single session appointment to work on your essay(s) with us.

Question 9

How many students do you work with?

Accepted Answer

OA's number of students will vary depending on the year and what packages those students select. We ensure that every student we work with receives our best. We recommend contacting us (javascript:void(0))to guarantee a spot with OA as soon as possible.

Question 10

How do I schedule a consultation?

Accepted Answer

It's easy-- all you need to do is fill out our consultation form!(javascript:void(0)) We will get back to you within one business day.

Question 11

How has COVID-19 impacted your services?

Accepted Answer

OA provides services through Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, Google Meets, Google Duo, phone, and email. We remain open during the current global pandemic and are committed to helping students and families through the upcoming admissions cycle.

All you need to know before you schedule a session