Lessening Anxiety: How Private Consultants Profit from the Pressures of Applying to College

• In Event: 3429 - Section on Sociology of Education Refereed Roundtables (1 hour)
  In Refereed Roundtable 60min: 1. Access to Higher Education

Abstract

The college admissions process is a yearly source of stress and anxiety as students vie for acceptances from their top choices. Between decisions about areas of study, locations, and cost, it’s easy to get lost in the depths of applications. Private admissions consultants, per their websites, are available to make that process easier. With a hefty price tag, a client can rely on a consultants’ “expertise” to help them get into their top choices and/or top tier institutions. With the rising pressures to gain acceptance to a top tier postsecondary school, private consultants are able to sell their services as means to quell anxiety and simplify the process.

Author

• Kelsey Harris, Boston University