top of page

Case Study #1
Jane: Finding the Right Fit — Academics, Adventure, and Affordability

Background

Jane came to Rule College Consulting as a well-rounded, curious, and motivated student. A dedicated high school and club soccer player, Jane balanced strong academics with creative and scientific interests. Her favorite subjects were art and science, and she was especially drawn to sustainability, writing a standout essay focused on plastics and environmental responsibility.

She envisioned a college experience that went beyond the classroom — one with:

  • Outgoing, adventurous people

  • A strong college atmosphere with games and events

  • Excellent academics

  • Plenty to do both on and off campus
     

Academically, Jane explored pathways toward medicine and physical therapy, supported by AP coursework and a genuine love of learning. (Fun fact: Ted Lasso was her favorite show — a fitting reflection of her team-oriented, optimistic mindset.)

​

The Challenge

Jane had many strong options and no shortage of acceptances, which made the decision both exciting and complex. The challenge was identifying a school that truly matched her personality, academic interests, athletic background, and desire for an engaging, adventure-filled college experience — without creating unnecessary financial strain.

​

College Acceptances

Jane was accepted to an impressive range of institutions, including:

  • Reach: Cal Poly, San Diego State University

  • Match: University of San Diego, Colorado State University, University of Oregon

  • Safety: Oregon State University

  • International: James Cook University (Australia)
     

She also advanced through the first round at Stanford University and earned an interview with a local alumni interviewer, underscoring the strength of her application.

​

Strategy & Guidance

Working together, we:

  • Clarified Jane’s priorities around campus culture, community, and lifestyle

  • Explored non-traditional and international options that aligned with her adventurous spirit

  • Evaluated academic pathways toward medicine and physical therapy

  • Carefully compared financial aid and total cost of attendance across U.S. and international schools
     

A key part of the process was helping Jane see that “fit” isn’t always about prestige — it’s about where a student will thrive personally, academically, and socially.

​

The Outcome

Jane chose to attend James Cook University in Australia.

This option stood out because:

  • The bachelor’s degree could be completed in three years

  • With financial aid support, tuition and housing costs were equivalent to U.S. colleges

  • The international experience aligned perfectly with Jane’s adventurous nature

  • The academic structure supported her interest in health and science

  • The environment reflected the vibrant, outdoorsy, community-driven atmosphere she wanted
     

Final Result

Jane secured multiple strong acceptances, gained clarity and confidence in her decision, and ultimately chose a path that combined academics, affordability, global perspective, and personal growth.

This success marked the first official client of Rule College Consulting — setting the tone for a values-driven, student-centered approach focused on finding the right college, not just a well-known one.

Case Study #2
Scott: Aligning Academics, Structure, and the Outdoors

Background

Scott was a driven, highly organized student with a deep love for learning and the outdoors. A football and soccer player and an avid skier, he balanced a packed daily schedule that included academics, sports, clubs, exercise, and work. He served on student council and thrived in environments with structure, deadlines, and clearly defined goals.

Academically, Scott excelled in science — AP Biology was his favorite class — and he was interested in pursuing biology or biological research at the undergraduate level. During senior year, he gained clarity about how he learns best and what academic environments help him succeed.

Scott values reflection and connection to his past, which showed in a personal essay about meaningful moments skiing with his father.

​

The Challenge

Scott needed a college that could support serious academics and undergraduate research while also offering daily access to the outdoors. He was looking for a medium-to-large university, strong biology programs, and a setting where skiing and mountain life were part of everyday culture — all while keeping cost in mind.

​

College Acceptances

Scott earned acceptances from a broad range of institutions, including:

  • Safety: University of Oregon, University of Utah, Idaho State University

  • Match: University of Washington, University of Colorado Colorado Springs

  • Reach: George Mason University, Rutgers University, University of Massachusetts
     

Strategy & Guidance

Our work together focused on:

  • Identifying universities with strong biology and undergraduate research opportunities

  • Prioritizing campuses that matched Scott’s need for structure, organization, and academic rigor

  • Evaluating lifestyle fit, especially access to mountains, skiing, and outdoor recreation

  • Comparing costs and identifying schools offering tuition advantages, including WUE options
     

Because Scott was a non-local student, all guidance and planning were conducted virtually.

​

The Outcome

Scott chose to attend the University of Utah.

This choice stood out because:

  • Strong biology and research opportunities for undergraduates

  • Direct access to skiing and outdoor activities

  • A medium-to-large campus with clear academic structure

  • Reduced tuition through the WUE program, making the option financially smart
     

Final Result

Scott found a college that supports his academic strengths, love of structure, and passion for the outdoors — without sacrificing affordability.

This case demonstrates Rule College Consulting’s ability to guide students remotely, align academic goals with lifestyle priorities, and uncover high-value opportunities that lead to long-term success.

bottom of page