"For twenty years as a classroom instructor, I was a passionate and dedicated teacher of critical thinking with a focus on social justice. My primary goal was to teach individuals not what to think but how to think critically, how to evaluate their world, and how to empower their own ideas with a strong, compassionate voice. A productive classroom is a haven for innovation, and I began with these essential questions: where is the students’ truth; what motivates them to learn; and how will I embed my instruction with the students’ personal and cultural experience at its core. I bring this same, student-centered philosophy to my work as a College Admissions Coach [CAC] helping teens and their families navigate the often confusing transition from high school to college. Together we create a comprehensive plan [or map] for the years leading up to your high school graduation. We debunk the myths about the “right” schools and ensure your college list reflects your values, desires, and financial considerations. My primary goal, as your CAC is to provide an enjoyable, supportive experience where you are inspired and excited to take that next step in your academic career." Qualifications and Certifications
Certified College Admissions Counselor [earned with distinction]- UCLA Member of Pacific NW Assc. for College Admission Counseling [PNACAC] Member of Portland Area College Counselors Consortium [PACCC] Associate Member IECA - Independent Education Consultant Association Education Master of Arts in Teaching, Lewis and Clark Graduate School of Education Bachelor of Arts: Film and Communications, Columbia College Chicago Highly Qualified Teacher: Oregon Certified: International Baccalaureate Org. Certified: Professional Learning Communities Certified: Career and Technical Education state of Oregon: Media Arts Certified: AVID |
Vanessa has twenty years of experience working with adolescents and their families as a highly qualified teacher of high school English Language Arts, International Baccalaureate, and Media Production. Moving from classroom instruction to working with individual students, Vanessa is bringing that same passion for education to College Admissions Coaching.
People, Place, Program [formerly Supplemental Learning] was launched in 2020 to support students and families with their education. Specifically, we provide college admissions counseling, personalized tutoring, and small group, subject-specific workshops |