"College is a match to be made, not a prize to be won." - Frank Sachs
Helping students and families navigate the college application process
strategically and confidently for three decades.
My Services
Comprehensive Package
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pre-application support including strategic advising on course selection, standardized testing, extracurricular activities, summer planning, and letters of recommendation
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college and university lists
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affordability and financial assistance
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essay development
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application review
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interview prep
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demonstrated interest advising
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campus visit planning
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post-application strategy
Hourly Consulting
Targeted support around any of the areas outlined in the Comprehensive Package.
Your Trusted Consulting Partner
With nearly 30 years of experience, Melissa Palmer has guided hundreds of students and families through the college application process with care, insight, and expertise. After earning her Master’s in Clinical Psychology in 1997, she began her career in college counseling at Oakwood School in North Hollywood. She completed UCLA’s Certificate in College Counseling in 1998 and served as a volunteer application reader for UCLA from 1999 to 2001. From 2018 to 2025, Melissa was a member of the University of Chicago’s Counselor Advisory Board.
In addition to her extensive experience in college counseling and admissions, Melissa led and taught in Oakwood’s Human Development program for nearly two decades and provided social-emotional support to cohorts of high schoolers through the school’s advisory program—helping students grow personally as well as academically. Driven by a genuine passion for supporting teenagers and their families through this exciting transition, Melissa founded Melissa Palmer College Consulting LLC to provide personalized, strategic, and ethical guidance throughout the college admissions journey.
What My Students and Families Say
"Working with Melissa Palmer College Consulting LLC has been a game-changer for my college application journey. Their dedicated team ensured I received expert guidance and support throughout the process."
John Smith
"Melissa Palmer College Consulting LLC helped me prepare for standardized tests effectively. Their test prep support was professional and instrumental in my test-taking success."
Emily Johnson
"I highly recommend Melissa Palmer College Consulting LLC for their exceptional guidance in extracurricular planning. Their support helped me stand out in my college applications, and I received multiple offers from top universities."
David Williams
Contact Me
Get in Touch
Melissa Palmer College Consulting LLC is dedicated to guiding students and their families through a thorough and thoughtful college application process. Helping students author authentic applications and identifying schools for the best academic, social, and financial fit, I strive to alleviate stress and uncertainty.
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