Admissions Arent a Lottery

December 15th, 2023 was the crucial day to find out our Early Decision results. While traveling abroad, I found myself nervously refreshing my email, keeping track of the time difference. Then, a message from a friend whose daughter was also applying came throughit was filled with celebratory emojis indicating she was accepted to Cornell! I was thrilled for her and later introduced her to Ms. Cathleen Shiels when my son began working with her.A few moments after, a notification from BU arrived. I hurried to my computer, but the internet seemed painfully slow and the webpage wouldnt load. Suddenly, a paper firecracker animation appeared on the screenyes! He was accepted!That pure joy is something only parents whove been through it can truly understand. I hope everyone reading my review gets to experience that happiness for their own child one day.It wasnt a shock. With all the support Mrs. Shiels provided, the thorough analysis from the Solomon team on the competition, and the deep discussions with my son to discern his true desires, his Early Decision application wasnt a gamble. It was a well-planned strategic move. Under the guidance of a professional coach, his chances improved significantly compared to going it alone. It wasnt a lottery win; there were few surprises. We trusted their advice, and the result was that my son was accepted to his top-choice, most suitable school.More importantly, through strategic planning, Ms. Shiels helped my son gain a better understanding of himselfknowing who he is and what he wants. My son isnt the most diligent, self-driven, or highly disciplined, nor is he the best listener to his mother. Yet, throughout the process, he was guided and motivated to complete some of the most challenging research assignments, becoming increasingly independent in choosing his own path in life.So far, Ive referred two other friends to work with Ms. Shiels, and both have achieved their goals.I hope my review helps other parents who are still researching their options.