Ethical Practice
I take great pride in maintaining an ethical practice as I support students applying to universities around the world. You may be aware that there are I expect my students to go through this process ethically, and I expect parents to set a positive, ethical example as well.
As a a Certified Educational Planner, a professional member of IECA (the Independent Educational Consultants Association) and International ACAC, I use the AICEP Principles of Good Practice, the IECA Principles of Good Practice, and the NACAC Guide to Ethical Practice in College Admission as guiding documents, and abide by them in my work.
Trusted, Student-Centered Support
Whether applying to universities in their home country or abroad, every student should seek guidance from a trusted source. They may have a school counselor who has expertise about the universities or regions you’re considering, or they may not. The choice to seek additional support can be scary, because students and families want to feel certain that they’re choosing someone who will keep the student’s best interests at the center of the process, free from conflicts of interest.
According to NACAC’s Trusted Sources: Seeking Advice on Applying to Universities in Another Country, an independent educational consultant (a.k.a. IEC, like me) is “a professional hired and paid only by students and their parents for personalized advice on the university admission process, financial aid, and career possibilities. An option for students who may not have a school-based counselor or are seeking additional assistance. Independent from high schools and universities; they are not contracted or paid by these institutions.”
In other words, before you sign on to work with someone, ask who is paying them. The correct answer should be that they are paid only by students and families, and not by schools, colleges, and/or universities. Then, you can trust that they will (in the words of NACAC) “expose you to a full range of higher education options so you can identify the universities that meet your academic and personal goals.”
Why Choose a Certified Educational Planner (CEP)?
SOURCE: AICEP
Educational success is the means by which dreams can become reality. Dozens, indeed hundreds of choices provide exciting environments in which young people can grow. The choices and options can be overwhelming. And, like most important decisions, the choice of a new educational environment should be the result of careful and thoughtful planning. Helping families make good educational choices is what educational consultants and counselors do. They bring years of knowledge, experience and expertise to help make a decision that is well informed and wise — a decision that will best enable a student to grow to full potential. Educational planners work directly with students and families to provide choices of college, schools, and other special needs alternatives.
WHAT ARE CERTIFIED EDUCATIONAL PLANNERS (CEP)?
Certified Educational Planners (CEPs) are professionals who have passed board-certifying assessments administered by the American Institute of Certified Educational Planners (AICEP). CEPs have demonstrated the education, experience and high standards required by the Institute as exemplified by:
possessing a master’s degree or higher in a relevant field.
passing a comprehensive assessment.
visiting a minimum of 75 educational institutions within the initial five years.
demonstrating expertise through membership in relevant associations, leadership and experience in the counseling profession, speaking engagements and books and articles published.
pledging to adhere to the AICEP Principles of Good Practice.
CEPs must be re-certified every five years to help ensure they are maintaining their professional expertise through ongoing professional development activities and visits to campuses and programs.
WHY CHOOSE A CEP?
Certified Educational Planners represent the highest level of professional standards. They demonstrate extensive knowledge, expertise and experience in the field of educational planning. CEPs provide you with the broadest and most informed educational choices for your child.
Why Choose an IECA Member?
Source: iecaonline.com
