Gloria remembers a case where a student and mother had a particularly troubled relationship. Although she was a talented and bright student, the daughter’s performance at school suffered as she rebelled. Eventually, she was asked to leave the school because of substance abuse. “She was referred to us and we managed to convince her to attend a boarding school overseas. We continued to guide her throughout her high school years and she prospered into a serious student who eventually entered one of the top universities in the US. At the time of her graduation, her relationship with her mum had improved dramatically and she’s now a successful banker!”

Look before you leap

While education consultants might help to increase the chances of your child getting his name onto the register books and possibly help to resolve family conficts, there is no guarantee of success. While there is evidence supporting the popularity of such centres and successful case studies to go by, success typically boils down to having a shared vision within the family, setting realistic expectations and sheer hard work from the student.

In many instances, some research and careful planning on your own is

your best route rather than working with a consultant, says Ann White, founder of Clear View College Consulting. “I think students can fnd suitable schools and complete applications on their own if they do enough research and start thinking through what they want from an institution. They will then realise that there is much more to achieving the ‘best ft’ than a brand name.”

For parents looking to jump on the bandwagon of engaging education consultants, Ann cautions, “Ask if the education consultants also serve as paid agents of overseas institutions. This can limit the

number of choices that they of fer to students and their parents. Undoubtedly, we all want our kids to bear the school crest of a reputable institution. But, at the end of the day, there’s only so much that you can do as a parent. The child himself plays the more important role in determining whether his education – local or overseas – turns out to be a successful experience. “We navigate, but they are the drivers,” says Frank from Apex Education Center. “If they refuse to drive, we will not get anywhere. Our job is to guide them and to bring them back on track whenever they veer off.”

That extra nudge

It takes more than a good education consultant to kick start your student’s journey to success. These tips can help.

1. Put your child’s interests frst. Remember that there might be a difference between what you think is good for them and what really is good for them. Have an open mind, listen, and try not to control every decision. By showing respect and being supportive, you’re actually letting your child grow.

2. Give yourselves time. Education consultants can serve as advisers and guides, but they can’t guarantee entrance to the school of your dreams. Plan in advance and allow ample time for preparations and processes. Applications can take as long as four to fve months. 3. Do your homework. It’s good to have professional advice, but it never hurts to be more informed or prepared. Encourage your child to start thinking about his own skills, preferences and goals. Visit universities abroad, and attend open houses, talks and forums.

September 2012 81