Traits to Look for in a College Counselor
It’s human nature to assume that higher cost = higher value, but when it comes to choosing a college counselor, that’s not always true. As an independent college counselor, I’ve seen outrageous prices and empty promises—some even guaranteeing students a spot at their dream college (which, let’s be real, is impossible).
So, how do you find the right college counselor? Here are the key traits to look for:
✅ Qualified
Do they actually know what they’re doing? Ask yourself:
Have they worked in college admissions?
Do they have a certificate from UCLA’s College Counseling program or similar credentials?
When was the last conference they attended?
Are they active members of professional organizations like NACAC, WACAC, ASCA, or IECA?
Before investing, make sure your counselor is legit and staying up-to-date with the constantly changing college admissions landscape.
🤝 Relational
A great college counselor should take the time to truly understand you. After your initial consultation, you should leave feeling calm, confident, and inspired—not overwhelmed or unheard. If they don’t take the time to get to know you, how can they help you craft a strong application or build a college plan that actually fits your goals?
💰 Affordable
This process does NOT need to be expensive.
Unfortunately, many private counselors exploit the scarcity mindset—marking up their services simply because they can. The truth? There are plenty of affordable ways to navigate the college application process without breaking the bank. Look for a counselor who is transparent about pricing and willing to work within your budget
What We Offer at Caffeinated Counselor
At Caffeinated Counselor, we check all these boxes:
✅ Qualified – We bring you the most up-to-date admissions info, tools, and resources while partnering with the best professionals in the industry.
🤝 Relational – We genuinely care about you as a human, not just as an applicant. Our goal is to help you become the best version of yourself.
💰 Affordable – College counseling shouldn’t be a luxury. We keep our pricing transparent, competitive, and accessible, with a sliding scale for families needing extra support. Never hesitate to reach out and ask!
Caffeinated by Coke Zero.