College Access Consulting

From Application to Matriculation,
College Access Made Possible.

Mariana E. Ruano


With over 12 years of experience helping Parents and Students achieve access to higher education.


Welcome! As a professional in the field of Student Affairs and Higher Education Administration, Mariana has worked with over 400 students and parents through each phase of the college research, application and matriculation process.

Mission

  1. Make the college application manageable for the student while financialy feasiable for the parent or guardians.
  2. To provide expert knowledge that allows students and families make well-informed desitions about post-secondary plans.
  3. Enroll students at an institution where they can flourish and become successfull and well-equipped professionals.
College matters can definetly be an overwhelming and dounting endeavor. yet; you don't have to figure it all out on your own!

 

I am here to help you!
30 minutes free consultation. Send me a message

My Background





Work Experience

  • Carthage College: Career Specialist
    • Provide academic and career guidance to incoming freshmen.
  • Schuler Scholar Program: Regional Director of College Counseling
    • Equipped highly achieving students access Liberal Arts institutions/Ivy Leagues.
  • TRIO/Educational Talent Search College Access Program: Program Manager
    • Federally funded program which serves first-generation, limited income students; as well as students with diverse documented learning abilities.
  • Northeastern Illinois University, Admissions, Recruitment and Community Outreach Coordinator.
    • Recruited students throughout Chicagoland area public schools, Reviewed applications and determined admissibility.
  • Loyola University Chicago, Achieving College Excellence-Graduate Assistant
    • Curated co-curricular programming for high achieving students. Created and implemented academic success plans and career pathways for incoming freshmen and sophomores.

Education

  • Loyola University Chicago, M.Ed. Student Affairs & Higher Education Administration
  • Roosevelt University, B.S. Psychology with a minor in Biology.
  • Professional Accreditations & Memberships
    • ISAC
    • Illinois Student Assistance Commision (FAFSA)
    • ACPA: The American College Personnel Association
    • NASPA: National Association of Student Personnel Administrators
    • Illinois Association for College Admission Counseling
    • College Board
    • NCORE: National Conference on Race and Ethnicity
    • Illinois Latino Council on higher Education
    • ACE: American Council on Education

Civic Engagement

  • Centro San Bonifacio (add letter under a “read more” section?)
  • Our Lady of Mercy & St Padre Pio Parishes in Chicago (include Jose’s letter and Nancy’s letter)
    • Religious Ed. volunteer teacher
    • Youth programming and event coordinator
    • Hosted college access workshops and college fairs for community members.
  • Waukegan Methodist Church Soup Kitchen

Content Knowledge

Areas of Experties and Specialization

Services

From Application to Matriculation, College Access Made Possible.
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Financial Aid Services

  • FAFSA
  • FSA ID
  • College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile
  • Understanding Fin Award Letters (and payment plans)
  • Appeals to obtain additional funds based on family special circumstances 
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Campus Visits

  • Scheduling in-person family campus visits
  • College Road Trip (itinerary+registration) based on fit factors
  • Virtual Tours
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Developing Fit Factors

Learn more about which educational factors are important to you while learning a number of strategies to conduct detailed, in depth college research in a way that makes sense to you!

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College List Building

Let's build a balanced list!

Is not about the number of schools in your list; It is about the admissions strategy and holistic preparation to increase your chances of admission. 

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Personal Statement

Learn about creative ways to write a well-developed written piece where you can highlight the best of your academic personal and pre-professional experiences in a way that informs the reader why you are a desirable candidate. 

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Common App review & completion support

  • Select the correct registration type for their Common App
  • Understand the Common App requirements 
  • Answer the "optional" supplemental essays
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Family Meetings

Parents and Guardinas- yes, we need you as part of this process. I am glad to offer unlimited family meetings to get to know you and your student and customize the guidance provided through the entire process -from application to registration. 

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Interview Preparation

Preparing for an interview primarily means taking time to thoughtfully consider your goals and qualifications relative to the College Admissions process. Let's practice and tame those nerves. I can assure you, is not that scary. 

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Supplemental Essays

A supplemental essay gives you an opportunity to tell the admissions committee about something you weren't able to cover in your main essay. This is the place where you should highlight your interest and passions, unique traits, and professional aspirations. 

 

Testimonials

A look back of success stories.
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-Jose Salinas, Cornell University

Mariana was extremely helpful in my journey applying to and transitioning to college. She was always someone I could rely on when I had questions, and was always willing to help. She is someone who is determined to help those around her achieve their goals.

Packages

Lets work together and let me help you to get where you want to go!
  • Basic Guidance

 

  • Parents - Student Coaching

 

  • Last Minute Assistance

 

  • All Help I Can Get

 

I am here to help you!

30 minutes free consultation. Send me a message