I’m looking for an experienced college-admissions counselor who can guide students through the very first stage of the application journey—deciding where to apply. Here’s what I need: • A personalized shortlist of colleges that fit my academic interests, grades, preferred location, and financial considerations. • A brief rationale for each recommendation, highlighting key programs, campus culture, and admission selectivity so I understand why it’s a good match. • An outline of next steps for each school (early-action vs. regular, key deadlines, and any special application notes) so I can move smoothly into the rest of the application process. I’ve already decided to handle the essays and form-filling later; right now I simply want clear, actionable guidance on choosing the right colleges. Your expertise with U.S. admissions data, ranking tools, and up-to-date acceptance trends will be essential. Quick turnaround and concise advice are a plus, as I’d like to start shortlisting immediately.