Independent Educational Consultant, highly qualified College Counselor/Advisor and Personal Coach

Looking for a College Advisor, or Personal Coach?

Start Now

Independent Educational Consultant, highly qualified College Counselor/Advisor and Personal Coach

Looking for a College Advisor, or Personal Coach?

Start Now

About Lauren Melando with My Big Decisions

My Background

I have been working with students and families for 23 years as a School Counselor in the public schools, helping them make the big decisions about college. I am here to share my knowledge of college admissions and financial aid, and coach you through the process and decisions that will affect your future. It is never too early to start planning!

My Philosophy

I believe that everyone has the potential to have a fulfilling and meaningful career. By identifying strengths and passions and working towards small goals with my clients, they are able to better identify what they want and how to make it happen.

My Services

I offer a wide range of services including one-on-one coaching, course selection support, college visit planning, testing choice, essay review, FAFSA support, college admissions support, resume review, interview coaching, scholarship assistance, and volunteer connections. These services are designed to help clients overcome obstacles, improve their portfolio, and achieve their goals.

Continuous Learning

Being a life-long learner is something that I believe we should all strive to be. I challenge myself to learn one new thing a day. I am a member of several professional groups which enable me to continue learning the most up to date information in College Admissions. I visit many new colleges each year, so that I may provide the best information on specific campuses and programs.

I am a proud member of the IECA:

Independent Educational Consultants Association.

Services Offered

Start to Finish : Complete High School Plan

This package covers 4 years of pre-college planning and assistance. Quarterly meetings to discuss grades, involvement, volunteerism and course selection. We begin meeting to discuss colleges and majors during sophomore year and continue until a finalized list is ready for senior year. Senior year meetings will include application completion, requests for letters of recommendation, essay writing, resume and transcript requests. Help with the FAFSA and CSS Profile will be available to parents.

Senior Year: Multi-Session Package

During our sessions, your child will finalize a list of where they would like to apply, identify which tests need to be taken and submit scores, fill out and submit all applications, request letters of recommendation, complete their essay, build their resume, and complete what is required for their home school (transcript requests). Sessions can be virtual, but I prefer in person.

Scholarship Assistance Package

Students will be taught how to find scholarships catered to their profile, interests, or local affiliations. Several essays will need to be prepared to be submitted with various scholarship applications. Package includes 3 hours of direct and indirect assistance.

Expert Essay Sessions

You have a great idea, but you need help getting it all out on paper. Work with one of our experts to write the perfect college essay. These meetings are virtual.

Expert Resume Support

Resumes are important for many colleges, but also for scholarships. Work with one of our experts to create the perfect resume. These meetings are virtual.

Gift Certificates

Gift Certificates are available in $50 increments, and make a great gift from loved ones!

Looking for a College Advisor, or Personal Coach?

Looking for a College Advisor, or Personal Coach?