College counseling in Greater Boston and nationwide
Thoughtful guidance for the decisions, deadlines, and possibilities ahead.
I’m Andrew Snyder, Ed.D. I help students and families approach college admissions with a clear plan, an honest understanding of their options, and room for the student’s own voice. I offer in-person college counseling in Greater Boston and virtual guidance for families nationwide.
Arrange a no-cost introductory meeting
A college plan built around your student
A useful college list starts with the person who will live and learn there. We consider academic interests, campus culture, learning support, location, and affordability together. The goal is a balanced group of colleges where your student can thrive.
Planning can begin as early as ninth grade. I help families think through course choices, activities, and the steps ahead without turning every high school experience into an admissions exercise. As interests and circumstances change, we adjust the plan.
What comprehensive counseling includes
College planning and list development: academic preparation, activities, college research, visits, and a balanced application list.
Application strategy: a manageable calendar, school-specific requirements, recommendation planning, and Common Application guidance.
Essays and presentation: brainstorming, writing feedback, activity lists, résumés, interview preparation, and supplemental applications. The writing remains the student’s own.
Financial considerations: help organizing financial aid and scholarship requirements, understanding offers, and comparing affordability.
Decisions and transition: support with admissions decisions, deferrals or waitlists when needed, and the move toward college.
Experience and a personal approach
My background includes directing college counseling at The Cambridge School of Weston and Moses Brown School, and serving as a tenured professor and department chair at Rhode Island College. I bring that experience to practical, individual conversations with students and parents.
I work with a wide range of students, including transfer applicants, students pursuing specialized programs, and neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ students seeking an affirming college experience. Fit, well-being, and long-term success remain central to our work.
Read student and family testimonials or learn more about my background.
How we begin
Our first meeting is a no-cost, no-obligation conversation about your student, your questions, and my approach. For families in the Boston area, I offer an introductory visit at your home. Virtual counseling is available nationwide. You then decide whether working together feels like a good fit.
Questions families ask
When should we start college counseling?
I work with high school students in grades 9–12. Early work can focus on course selection and exploring interests; later work centers on college lists, applications, essays, and decisions. We begin with where your student is now.
What does comprehensive counseling cost?
The all-inclusive rate is $29,000 and includes services and meetings throughout the college application and decision-making process. Focused packages are also available. See current packages and pricing.
Do you work with families outside Massachusetts?
Yes. I offer virtual college counseling nationwide, alongside in-person work with Greater Boston families.
Let’s talk about your student
Email andy@snydercollegeconsulting.com to arrange an introductory meeting.
Learn more about my college counseling for neurodivergent students.
Explore my college essay guidance, including brainstorming, thoughtful feedback, and support that keeps the writing in the student’s own voice.