why work with an IEC?
Wondering how to tackle college planning? An IEC makes it simple.
The college admissions process can be confusing and stressful for students and families. That’s where an Independent Educational Consultant (IEC) can help. At Blue Birch College Consulting, we guide students through every step of the college process, offering personalized advice and support. We help students explore their strengths, identify what matters most to them, and create a college application that reflects who they truly are.
Academic & Extracurricular Planning: Thoughtful recommendations for coursework and activities that align with each student’s strengths, interests, and goals.
Personal Exploration: Interest and aptitude assessments that help students better understand their preferences and strengths, and connect them to potential majors and career paths.
College Research & List Development: Guidance in building a balanced college list that fits academically, socially, and financially.
College Affordability: Clear support navigating financial aid, including need-based aid and merit scholarships.
Essay Support: Step-by-step guidance to help students write authentic, compelling essays in their own voice.
Application Planning & Strategy: Thoughtful planning around application timing and deadlines to keep students organized and on track throughout the process.
Family Communication: Consistent communication and summaries to keep students and parents informed and aligned.
what does an IEC do?
What are some common myths about working with an IEC?
“IECs are only for top students interested in elite colleges.” IECs work with students with a wide range of academic profiles. The goal is finding the right fit, not highly selective schools.
“IECs do the essay and application work instead of the student.” IECs guide, coach, and support, but students are responsible for the work and decisions.
“IECs have special connections or insider influence.”
Ethical IECs do not guarantee outcomes or have preferential access to admissions offices. Success comes from planning and finding a school that aligns with the student’s needs and goals.
“IECs are only for families who are confused or behind.”
Many families work with IECs to reduce stress, stay organized, and feel confident throughout the process.
“You only need an IEC senior year.”
While seniors benefit, most families start earlier to plan coursework, activities, testing, and essays, and to approach applications strategically.
how is an IEC different than a school counselor?
School counselors play an essential role in the college admissions process, and a successful application season wouldn’t be possible without them. They manage essential responsibilities such as preparing school profiles, writing recommendation letters, submitting materials, overseeing application platforms, hosting college visits, and more. Counselors also provide students with guidance and resources, often while supporting hundreds of students at once.
A college consultant is designed to complement, not replace, a school counselor’s work. Here’s how an IEC adds support:
One-on-One Support: While school counselors manage large caseloads and many responsibilities beyond college planning, IECs work with a smaller number of students to provide one-on-one guidance.
Convenient Scheduling: IECs are able to meet with students and families outside of the school day, including evenings and weekends.
Focused College Research: In addition to the guidance provided by school counselors, IECs spend significant time researching colleges and visiting campuses to support recommendations.
Personalized Guidance: Because every student is different, we tailor our approach to meet each family’s goals and priorities.
School counselors remain an essential part of the admissions process. Working with an IEC builds on that foundation, giving students additional guidance, structure, and support.
next steps
An IEC offers personalized support that reduces stress and helps students stay focused on finding the right college fit while telling their story authentically.
Blue Birch College Consulting helps guide families through the process with clarity and confidence.
We’d love to help your family take the next step - reach out to learn more.