This service is designed to get students and parents started on the right foot when they start to think seriously about the college-going process.   The primary target group is high school juniors although there also are students on either end, 10th and 12th graders, who can benefit from my college counseling method.    The Basic Family Service consists of:

• The completion of a college questionnaire by both the student and parent

• If applicable, the completion of a brief financial statement by parents
  

• A meeting, usually lasting about an hour and a half, with the student and parents that covers:
   
  • An in-depth discussion of the information on the questionnaires
  • A close look at the high school transcript
  • A review of the student's academic and personal accomplishments similar to the way a college admission committee evaluates such information
  • An organization of the college list that takes into account the competitive level of the colleges under consideration
  • Suggesting other colleges that fit the student's goals and accomplishments

• Providing tip sheets on other aspects of the college-going process such as interviews, essays, and college visits
• Free SAT or ACT prep courses

Fee: Varies, depending on access to test prep courses

If you have questions or would like to schedule an initial meeting, call me at (609) 737-7377 or send an email to dbett@princeton.edu with a number where I can reach you.

For Families

While the above format and content is intended to meet the objectives of the majority of families that are looking for help, when it comes to individual needs, there are many variations in time frame, educational goals, and priorities. To respond to this kind of diversity, I also offer a number of Other Family Services that may be of interest to you.

For Groups

In addition to offering a variety of counseling sessions for individual families, I am available to give Group Seminars/Workshops on admission and financial aid.