The Early Risers program introduces families to the college journey before high school pressure begins. Instead of reacting to deadlines later, students and caregivers gain the clarity and communication tools needed to approach high school with intention.
Students begin developing self-awareness, curiosity, and direction, while caregivers gain the knowledge and context needed to support their student thoughtfully.
The result: families entering high school aligned, informed, and confident.
Includes: Dedicated counselor + structured sessions + unlimited engagement during the program period.
This program is designed for families who want to:
Many families assume the college process begins in junior year. In reality, some of the most meaningful foundations begin earlier.
Eighth and ninth grade offer a rare window when students have the time and freedom to explore their interests without the pressure of applications or testing.
Starting at this stage helps families:
The goal is not to rush the process. It is to give students and families time, perspective, and clarity long before decisions become high-stakes.
Our program intentionally includes students, caregivers, and the family together, because the college journey is one of the first major transitions families navigate collaboratively.
Each engagement includes dedicated sessions with:
This structure ensures that everyone has a voice, shared expectations are established, and students remain at the center of the process.
Explore Curiosity / Family Alignment
Academic Direction / Career Exploration
Limited Early Risers engagements available each semester.
Choosing college guidance is an important decision for families. Our programs are built on decades of experience helping students and caregivers navigate one of the most significant transitions in a young person's life.
Our curriculum was developed by professionals with more than 30 years of experience in college admissions and financial aid. Both have served as presidents of major regional college counseling organizations, helping shape professional standards and best practices across the field.
Our counselors bring experience across a wide range of institutions, including public universities, private colleges, and specialized programs. This breadth allows families to understand the full landscape of higher education—not just a narrow slice of it.
Students pursue many different futures. Our team includes expertise in specialized admissions pathways such as NCAA recruitment, arts and conservatory programs, and other distinctive academic tracks.
Most college counseling focuses primarily on the student. Our model intentionally includes caregivers and the entire family, ensuring decisions about opportunities, expectations, and financial realities are made with clarity and shared understanding.
Investment: $4,060
Total Session Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Sessions Included:
Plus: unlimited engagement with your assigned counselor during the program period.
Students begin building the skills and self-awareness that support intentional high school planning. Focus areas include:
Students leave with greater confidence and curiosity about the journey ahead.
Caregivers receive guidance and context that helps them support their students effectively. Topics include:
Families come together to build the communication habits that support long-term success. Key outcomes include:
The goal is to help families create a "better dinner table conversation"—one built on curiosity rather than pressure.
Investment: $5,000
Total Session Time: 4 hours
Sessions Included:
Plus: unlimited engagement with your assigned counselor during the program period.
Students begin translating curiosity into long-term direction. Focus areas include:
Students leave with a clearer sense of direction and increased ownership of their high school experience.
Caregivers gain the context needed to support their student thoughtfully and strategically. Topics include:
These sessions strengthen family alignment and communication. Topics include:
By the end of the program, families typically leave with:
Most importantly, families gain time and clarity—two of the most valuable advantages in the college planning process.
Families who begin early approach high school with less anxiety, more clarity, and stronger communication. If your student is entering 8th or 9th grade, the Early Risers program is designed to help your family begin the journey with intention.
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