Today we’d like to introduce you to Munira Ezzeldine.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I am a professional counselor and have worked with adolescents and adults since 2007.
My work with adolescents specializes in college counseling – helping students apply to college and gain the self-awareness necessary to prepare for life after high school.
Reflecting back to when I was a student, I wish I would have had more guidance planning for my future because as a child of immigrant parents, I was left to figure it out on my own. I researched opportunities and worked hard to achieve my goals but later realized it didn’t have to be as difficult. My parents could not guide me because they didn’t understand the educational system in the US, If I had a mentor to guide me in my career development earlier I would have chosen my career more thoughtfully and been better prepared for college.
Attending UCLA for my undergraduate degree was pivotal to my growth as it gave me the time to explore my interests. I later went on to receive my master’s degree in counseling from CSUF. I now am raising three children of my own through public schools in Orange County, so I am acutely aware of the academic climate of today’s high achieving students. I believe every student is unique and deserves the time to explore interests and goals. I understand the stress and academic pressure students face when applying to college. I am able to connect with adolescents to encourage and even push when they need it, while at the same time empathize with their experience throughout the process. With my organizational skills, students feel focused and encouraged as I assist them in completing their college applications.
I strongly believe that education is the door to personal growth, career fulfillment, and financial success. I am passionate about supporting all students in their educational pursuits and have worked with diverse students, making me adaptable to different learning styles and pathways to success. I love what I do.
Has it been a smooth road?
Working as a college planning counselor has been a perfect fit for me and a thoroughly positive experience. I find that all parents want to see their children thrive. I feel honored to be a small part of that journey.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the My Private College Counselor story. Tell us more about the business.
My Private College Counselor is a boutique educational consulting business. I work with a limited number of high school students each year to provide individualized attention.
Unfortunately, most public high school guidance counselors don’t have adequate time to help students self-reflect, develop a college list, nor discover the career path that best meets their needs. I provide personalized advice for students with monthly meetings where they can take personality and interest assessments, build rapport, and uncover their areas of strength and growth as they explore career options. I specialize working with international students guiding them through the educational requirements in the US. I am committed to creating strong relationships with families and approach all students holistically so academic and personal goals are in alignment.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
The educational consulting industry will continue to grow in the coming years.
According to the Independent Educational Consultants Association, the number of consultants in the U.S. has grown from 2,000 to nearly 5,000 in recent years. Two factors have contributed to this growth: acceptance rates at the nation’s top schools are at record lows and parents of ambitious and high-achieving students (who went to prestigious colleges themselves) have big aspirations for their children. This has led to families seeking support from independent counselors who can help them navigate the process with greater success.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.myprivatecollegecounselor.com
- Phone: 949-444-2429
- Email: munira@myprivatecollegecounselor.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myprivatecollegecounselor/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/my-private-college-counselor-irvine
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