“We know this process can be challenging, but it can also be a very exciting time. We are here to help.”
— Janet, Co-Founder of The College Connection LA
Our Mission
The college admissions process is overwhelming and confusing. In the last twenty years, the number of students applying to college has increased substantially, creating unforeseen challenges and changes in our culture. Parents and students alike are expected to navigate this system without the proper resources, assistance or guidance.
90% of students apply to only 10% of potential universities. We’re here to help you think outside the box. One size does not fit all, and we embrace that in our work.
We’ve been helping students and parents navigate this process for over 10 years. In our experience, we learned that each individual has a unique profile and brings to the admissions process his/her own personal story, academic history, needs, and expectations. That individualism and personalization is championed at the College Connection LA. We provide students with a number of practical and realistic options to allow every student to reach his/her full potential and feel successful.
Helen Sztrigler Weston
Helen was born and raised in Mexico City and received her B.S. in Communication from Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico. She went on the get a certificate in Radio Production from the British Broadcasting Corporation and an M.S. in Television Production from Syracuse University. She has a College Counseling Certificate from UCLA and has been counseling students for the last 10 years.
“I wholeheartedly supported my kids’ efforts as they went through the demanding and all-consuming process of applying to college and general preparation before entering college. I know that it’s nerve-racking. On the other hand, college gives you the opportunity to explore, to re-invent yourself, to become the person you always wanted to be; a reason to think and a purpose to continue dreaming. Going to college is the opportunity of a lifetime.”
Janet Tuchman
Janet was born and raised in Toronto and moved to Los Angeles in her early teens. After high school, she attended a teacher’s seminary in New York, earning her credentials in early childhood education. She later receive her B.A. in History from UCLA and continued working in the education field, teaching and creating curriculum early childhood. After raising her family, Janet branched out into other areas of education. She received her college counseling certification from UCLA and volunteered at various high schools throughout the city. This quickly became a passion project and a fulfilling ‘second act’.
“I believe that all students deserve the chance to attend college, to pursue their passions and achieve their goals. After working with numerous families and students, I know the college admissions process can be confusing and difficult, especially for first generation applicants, but with the right advice and plan, anything is possible.”
What parents are saying…
“Helen and Janet have a deep understanding about what colleges are looking for in candidates today. They know how writing samples can distinguish an applicant and which topics will help them stand out. They understand the importance of finding the right 'fit' and took a great deal of time to get to know our daughter and advise on her list of schools and options. Their guidance really helped our daughter through the application and decision-making process. Hiring Helen & Janet took so much pressure off our family!”
— Roberta B. (Parent)
