Are you the parent of a high schooler saying:
"The headwinds of college choice are strong."
"This is our first 'flight' ."
"I'm not even sure where the 'airport' is."
"We could use some help!"
Consider letting me be your "tailwind" :
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a helpful boost towards college success,
ensuring your child lands at a school
that sets them up
for success and happiness.
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Applying to college in 2026 means you need someone who:
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- will give you the updated view of what is happening in higher ed and how that affects YOUR FAMILY​
- suggest reasonable colleges which fit YOUR financial boundaries
- understands YOUR CHILD, not applying a cookie-cutter approach
- celebrates where your child is RIGHT NOW, and helps build their confidence and independence for the future
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Identifying colleges where your student can thrive ---not just looking at Top 50 rankings---is what makes my families happy. At Tailwind, I put the student FIRST, learning about their talents and strengths, then we learn about colleges and how to interpret what they offer.
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I understand you want your child to be well-positioned for college
(and life) success. We share that goal!
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Independent Educational Consultant Assn.
2025 Mentorship Excellence Award
2024 Making a Difference Award
About Me
Jenny Buyens, MBA
For over 15 years, helping high schoolers find a great flight path is what I love to do! ​
Working with Tailwind means equipping your student with the latest information so they fly to and land at a college that feels like home. I provide personalized support that targets your student's particular college search and builds independent skills at the same time. Parents love my honest advice and dedication to helping students fly high!
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Think of me as your college "air traffic controller".
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- I interpret AI results from the lens of expertise and experience. No need to struggle to understand what AI just spit out to you --- let me help you interpret your AI results and make sense for your family!
- I fly to (and sometimes drive to) public and private, large, medium, and small college campuses every year all across the US so I understand colleges from the ground up.
- I know from personal conversations with college admissions professionals what makes a strong college application and what stands out in a positive way.
​- I stay on top of the latest higher ed data through professional conferences and webinars, supported by a national network of independent education consultants.
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But it's not just knowing about the schools and the process.
- I listen closely to understand what makes your high schooler tick (and what college would help them THRIVE!).
- I guide your student to take charge of their search, but I'm always there with a steady hand and a listening ear. ​
- No cookie-cutter process from me; every step is tailored to the guidance your student needs.
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Simply complete the form on the last page and let's get you started with the Tailwind advantage!
Here is a list of questions one might want to ask a college counselor instead of "What schools did your students get into?" *
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Have you helped students discover and thrive at colleges they hadn’t considered before?
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How do you help families stay within budget and still find colleges that fit their student’s needs?
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Can you describe how you support students in exploring career paths or alternatives to four-year colleges?
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What does a strong college list look like to you, and how do you help students build it?
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How do you support students with learning differences, unconventional goals, or nontraditional backgrounds?
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To which professional organizations do you belong and what kind of professional development/continuing education have you participated in this year?
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What tools do you use that can help our family with research, organization, and timeliness?
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How do you stay up-to-date on the ever-changing landscape in higher education?
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Tell me about something new or surprising you learned on your last college visit.
* Our decision not to reveal where our students are admitted reflects our belief that there is a right school for you, so it's not important where previous students, who may or may not share similar goals as your student, are enrolled.
Tailwind Services
"The Flight Path"
Professional, ethical college planning services offered virtually to students in all 50 states.
Comprehensive Plan
"The Wind Beneath Their Wings"
Our most popular package!
Perfect for a sophomore or junior! Complete professional college application support including academic review, standardized test recommendations, building extracurriculars, HS course choice, college list construction and research, college visit tips, application set-up and review, personal statement development, up to five supplemental essays, interview prep, decision support.
College List Plan
"The Updraft"
For the junior or senior who wants to expand their college options with a balanced list of choices.
We develop college characteristic preferences, build a balanced college list, assign research; collaborate on final list development. No essays in this package.
Senior Crunch Plan
"Full Speed Ahead"
Available after August 1 of student's senior year. Includes balanced college list build and refinement, Common App set-up, personal statement review. Supplemental essay reviews are
an add-on.
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available on a limited basis in the fall of senior year. Choose from an a la carte menu of our most popular services.
Just in Time Plan
"The Final Approach"
Contact me today for a free
30 minute consultation.
