Is it worth a shot and should I hire a college counsellor?

Chance Me / Match Me!
1

<p>Hi there,</p>

<p>This is my first post on College Confidential :)
I'm a junior at high school and would potentially be applying as an international student. What I was wondering was if I actually stand a chance at applying to America before I really dive into the whole application process/take SATs, and wondering if I should hire a college counsellor. I would be so grateful for some advice. I'll start with my profile:</p>

<p>Academics:
I'm not sure about GPA's, but last year my Cambridge International Examination results were: AS Maths 91%, AS Economics 92%, IGCSE Biology 93%, IGCSE English 91%, IGCSE Music 96% & top in NZ.</p>

<p>EC's:
School Choir & Orchestra 4th year, chamber orchestra 2nd year, debating 4th year, interact club 4th year & 2nd year leader, house tutor 1st year, community orchestra 2nd year, children's telephone counsellor (volunteer) 1st year, violin 10th year.</p>

<p>Also, I will need to apply to colleges with need-blind financial aid for international students. So that sets the bar even higher (HYP Dartmouth Amherst)</p>

<p>The offer I have from a potential college counsellor is an ex-student from my school, who got into UPenn, UCLA, UCBerkeley, USC, other UC's. He's charging the equivalent of $700USD for 4 months (before he goes to the US) of face-to-face meetings whenever and as often as I want for help on at least 2 personal essays, personalised schedule for next 2 years of high school, general info on America apps, research & advice on unis. Also I can email him for the next 2 years. When put into perspective that is a pretty reasonable rate, but it's still a risk considering he's not a professional and that I don't know what my chances are like at this point. Also, is there much point in starting essays this year when there will be so many things to add to it next year the whole thing might change? Is it worth paying for this service or can I find all the info I need by myself? Hmmmmmm. I'm so lost here at the moment and I just don't know where to start.</p>

<p>Thanks so much!!</p>

2

<p>Well if u are an international student than ur pretty good as it is. Though I doubt something like HYP. He may just be going to give u crap that u may know as well</p>

3

<p>It’s definitely worth a shot, besides what’s the worst that can happen?
Also, in my opinion i would not hire a college counselor unless ofcourse he will write essays for you (which is academically dishonest), especially someone who is not a professional. Has he worked with anyone else who has had success? I think that most of the information that he will give you can be found online with some research. Besides, you never want to limit yourself to only one person looking at your app.</p>