it sure is true, @massmom2018 - i’ve looked at this forum many times when i’m looking for nuances in the college admission process and actual experiences. I find a lot of people here useful. But I also research university websites, rankings from different sources (not just US News). Half the battle is doing the research for fit and value. Once that is done, the other half is getting all applications put together (including making sure the essays are done on time)…
CC is great but what I like about our private counselor is she knows D20 better than anonymous people on the internet. For example, she has interviewed my D and has seen her entire HS transcript, knows the HS very well, and what kids got accepted to what colleges and how they did it. It’s very personalized and she is in the business of college admissions, in real time. Most of the “experts” here have no real expertise in educational or college admissions, and most regulars are retired or close to retirement and CC is just a hobby for them. (i.e you get what you pay for).
If a family can afford it, I highly recommend a few sessions with a well respected private counselor. The good ones are worth their weight in gold.