Roland Allen College Counseling and Higher Education Consulting
Roland Allen has spent his professional career working in college admissions, college counseling, and higher education consulting. He held appointments in the admission offices at Westmont College, Colby College, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and Stanford University. He subsequently directed the college counseling programs at The Branson School in Ross, California; Sidwell Friends School in Washington, DC; and St. Margaret’s Episcopal School in San Juan Capistrano, California.
His career has provided him with an unusually broad perspective on the college admission process, having worked on both sides of the admission desk. His experience includes evaluating applications at highly selective universities, guiding students and families through the college search and application process, and leading college counseling programs at independent secondary schools.
Today, Roland works as an independent higher education consultant, drawing on that experience to serve both organizations and individual families. He advises educational technology companies on product content, development, and strategy, bringing a practitioner’s understanding of college admissions and the needs of students, families, and counselors.
He also works directly with students and families, offering individualized guidance through the college admission process. His approach emphasizes thoughtful planning, informed decision-making, and helping students identify colleges and universities that align with their interests, abilities, and aspirations.
Throughout his career, Roland has maintained a commitment to helping students approach higher education with curiosity, confidence, and a sense of possibility.