The
College
Knowledge
Monthly

My name is Rob Schwartz.  I am a full-time independent college counselor in Southern California, though I work with students throughout the state. I have worked as an independent counselor since 2010. My prior educational work experience was spent as a Territory Manager for The Princeton Review (2006-2015), a national leader in test preparation services.

I am a UCLA graduate (BA, Political Science w/ Business Administration Specialization) and I earned an MA in U.S./Military History from California State University, Northridge.  I am also a proud graduate of the UCLA College Counseling Certification program, where I later became a member of the faculty (2015-2022). 
I am a fan of sharing knowledge with families as well as my colleagues in the college and guidance counseling space, whether that be by speaking at public and private high schools each year, giving a talk to my peers at conferences, via private consultations, or by providing information via this journal/blog. I am also an active member of the Western Association of College Admission Counseling (WACAC).
My main contention is that there is more misinformation and inappropriate/illogical information spouted by American media outlets (and sometimes counselors) that lead families astray when it comes to college (overall) and certainly within college admission. The college universe is only as scary as we make it, and it is my firm belief that college counselors can do a better job of disarming perceived threats and allow families to remove the abundance of fear from this most important process.
My intent is to share my experiences, research and knowledge with my students, parents and counselors alike,  encouraging discussion and deeper thought to allow for more comprehensive solutions for the families we all aim to serve, and to also give a fair perspective on the difference between being a good independent college counselor and a successful one. They are not always the same.