 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 | ||||
International Graduate Admissions Consulting Association FormedLeading educational advising firms form professional association to promote high ethical standards and professional development among graduate admissions consultants, to increase public understanding of graduate admissions consulting, and to enhance channels of communication with complementary organizations and entities. SACRAMENTO, CA – May 3, 2007 – The process of applying to graduate school can be full of twists and turns, opportunities and pitfalls. Not only must applicants follow stringent guidelines, they are also evaluated side-by-side with other applicants who also have stellar test scores, high GPAs, and diverse work experience. As the acceptance standards have risen, the demand for guidance from private consultants has increased dramatically, leading to concern among schools that guidance might become inappropriate coaching. The Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants (AIGAC) has formed to ensure high ethical standards, principles of best practice, and professional development among graduate admissions consultants worldwide. When asked her opinion of AIGAC, Rose Martinelli, the Associate Dean of Student Recruitment and Admissions at the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business stated, "An organization like AIGAC assures both schools and candidates that there are industry standards in place and consulting firms linked to this organization are following ethical practices. It also opens the door for sharing best practices within the counseling industry and for closer engagement between the counselors and the schools." Linda Abraham, president of AIGAC, agrees with Ms. Martinelli and adds, “By setting the standard for professionalism and service, AIGAC will serve graduate school applicants, consultants, and schools:
The Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants was founded by Linda Abraham of Accepted.com, LLC, Ricardo Betti of MBA Empresarial, Irene Maxx Duffy of Maxx Associates and Graham Richmond of Clear Admit, LLC, who have a combined 70 years of industry-defining experience. Headquartered in Sacramento, AIGAC is organizing as a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit association. # # # |
"Four admissions consultants faced a crowd of admissions professionals at the Annual Industry Conference, prepared to describe their services and dispel any rumors about inappropriate application assistance. According to [the panelists], admissions consultants act as advisors, serving the same purpose as … career centers and writing tutors. They help applicants prepare for the process, they mentor their clients during essay-writing, and they conduct mock interviews." - GMAC News |
||
|
Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants |
