Q and A with Megan

We’re here today to answer your burning college admissions questions! When working with students and families, Megan brings a myriad of invaluable firsthand experiences as well as comprehensive training across academic disciplines. Megan excels in helping students craft compelling essays that sway a college admissions committee.

About Megan…

Megan holds a Bachelor's in English and a Speech Communication minor from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. This degree is complemented by both an English and Public Services Teaching credential and a College Counseling Certificate from the University of California, San Diego. 

Megan also ventured into law as a certified Paralegal. Awarded Teacher of the Year in 2021, Megan's dynamic career as a high school teacher has seen her passionately guiding college-bound teens. 

Currently residing in California, Megan's expertise spans from West Coast institutions to colleges across the U.S. (as well as internationally), aiding students in gaining admissions to prestigious schools like Pepperdine, the University of California campuses, Cal Poly SLO, Northeastern, Loyola Marymount, USC, Texas A&M, and more.

What experiences do you have that make you a great counselor? 

“Over 18 years as a high school educator and more than a decade guiding students through the college application process, I have gained a deep understanding of the educational landscape. Counseling my son through his college journey has given me a personal perspective on the challenges and rewards of this process. As a former activities director for seven years, I've helped students develop successful Passion Projects, enhancing their applications and personal growth. My experience enables me to connect with students and parents on a meaningful level, providing empathetic and informed guidance. I'm passionate about inspiring students to pursue their interests and navigate the complexities of college admissions. My background and personal approach make me a dedicated and effective college counselor.”

How would you describe your approach to counseling?

“As a counselor, teacher, and mother to two teenagers, my approach to working with college-bound students involves balancing empathy and understanding with the clarity and guidance necessary to navigate students through the complexities of the college admissions process. Getting to know my students is a top priority, and I take a genuine interest in what my students do outside the classroom, including their hobbies, family life, and extracurricular activities, while acknowledging them as individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences. In addition, I believe in the importance of setting realistic goals, holding the students accountable, and creating a productive environment where students are motivated to take action through manageable steps and guidance.”

What is something you’ve learned from your students? 

“As an educator for over 18 years, I have learned that every student is unique. Each student has their own learning style, interests, and pace of learning. I recognize and appreciate these differences, and I made every effort to adapt my teaching and counseling style to meet my students' varied needs and personalities.”

One piece of advice you would tell students now?

“Surround yourself with people who believe in you, your passions, your goals, and your vision.” 

What is a piece of life advice that stuck with you?

“Failure is not the opposite of success, but a part of it. Every failure is an opportunity to learn, grow, and understand what doesn’t work so that you can find a way that does.”

Looking to work with a college counselor like Megan? Email Megan at Megan@zencollegeprep.com or book a free consultation here: https://www.zencollegeprep.com/book-online