2233 Huntington Drive, San Marino, California 91108 w 626.568.2732









WHY CHOOSE CCS?


  • At College Counseling Services (CCS) we recognize that planning ahead for college and the application process can sometimes feel overwhelming. Particularly if a family is approaching this milestone for the first time, it may seem like the questions and concerns are unending. We believe the CCS approach to planning, coaching, and decision-making, in addition to our expertise in the field, can smooth the road ahead and provide structure, direction and balance for both students and parents.

  • We believe that replacing anxiety with thoughtful planning, knowledge and careful consideration, as well as building student self-awareness, will result in a positive set of post-secondary educational choices.

  • We believe the process of making - for most students their first major life decision - can and should be exhilarating and exciting. Our guidance is structured with that goal in mind.

  • In the process we are committed to helping students and families make decisions which are based on a carefully considered set of criteria. Given the wide variety of choices available, we believe that building student self-awareness includes identifying an environment in which the student will be challenged, excited about learning and will thrive.

  • Our approach is to offer individual and personal attention to students and parents throughout the college planning process. Through a series of individual counseling sessions:
    • We get to know each student and his/her family and help discover qualities that will lead to the best student/college match.
    • We provide guidance tailored to all aspects of the application process, from setting priorities to making the final decision.
    • We are flexible and accessible for meetings in our professional offices and we regularly communicate via email, phone and fax.

  • The CCS staff is made up of committed professionals - experts in the field. We have strong educational backgrounds, credentials, and many years of experience in college and career counseling. We know and understand the process from the perspective of the student, parents and the colleges. Our advice and assistance is thoughtful and adheres to the highest ethical standards in educational consulting.

  • Based on the CCS history of helping families navigate the college planning process, and our insight into the process, we believe our professional counseling team can assist students in broadening their horizons, finding new opportunities, and learning more about themselves as they make important life decisions.

  • Our services are comprehensive and include:
    • Exploring and setting educational priorities
    • Researching colleges to match priorities
    • Assisting throughout the application process
    • Planning the calendar for test-taking and campus visits
    • Developing essay topics and the personal statement
    • Developing and practicing interviewing skills
    • Assisting with academic planning (in consultation with the high school counselor) and extracurricular activities
    • Providing guidance in the decision-making process
    And, we keep the student on track in the college planning process, and the parents informed and involved along the way.

  • We recognize that different families have different needs and requirements. In response, we offer flexibility in the levels of service offered. Plans may start as early as the freshman year and continue through high school. We also offer individual consultations on an hourly basis for short term or special help at any point during the college planning or application process.


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