Betsy Veidenheimer

Certified Essay Coach, Wow Writing Workshop, College Essay Experience

Certificate in College Counseling (with distinction), University of California, Los Angeles

MBA, Kenan-Flagler Business School, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

BA, English Literature, Kenyon College

For over a decade, I have counseled students from every corner of New England and across the country from my location in suburban Boston. I have attained professional status in the Independent Educational Consultants Association, a designation conferred on approximately 10% of IECA members, who have achieved the highest standards of education, professional development and ethical practices. I read and evaluated admissions applications and interviewed candidates for both UNC-Chapel Hill and Kenyon College. Additionally, my experience working with both parents and administrators at public and independent high schools equips me with a unique perspective on the necessary preparation and advocacy (from administrators, teachers, coaches, parents and students themselves) to ensure a successful transition to college. Finally, I understand the parent perspective and bring a seasoned and rational approach to my work, based upon my past experience guiding my sons through the college process.

Earlier in my professional life, I spent many years working in financial services, in equity sales, and later as an investor relations professional, for top corporations including Morgan Stanley, Lehman Brothers, Zurich Insurance Group, and Fortune Brands. 

After leaving the corporate world to raise my children full-time, I became actively involved in my hometown of Concord, Massachusetts. I held senior leadership positions and served on the boards of numerous community and charitable organizations. Now residing in Wellesley, Massachusetts, I continue to volunteer in my community. 

I challenge my students to develop specific academic, extra curricular and personal goals for their college years. Then, using a data driven framework, coupled with my deep knowledge of colleges, I help them develop appropriate and balanced lists. My goal is to encourage my students to reach for their dream schools, while remaining grounded and protected with thoughtful target and comfortable admissions options.

I have extensive corporate communications experience, a degree in English Literature, and specific professional training in college essay coaching, which enable me to deliver top-notch application development. I guide students through the process of transforming their Common Application, personal statement, and college supplemental essays into stronger, more strategic reflections of themselves by helping them find their voice and use their own words to tell their story with clarity and authenticity. I visit college campuses annually and commit to ongoing professional development and participation in industry networks to keep current in my knowledge of the college landscape, emerging trends, and best practices.

I am a professional member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) as well as a National Association for College Admissions Counseling (NACAC) International University Advocate.