College admissions & educational consulting
Find a college where you don’t just get in — you thrive.
Personalized guidance for students and families through every stage of the college journey, with a specialty in supporting neurodivergent students.
Led by Dr. Rachel Kraushaar — college professor, educational consultant, and parent of a neurodivergent young adult.
Where families get stuck — and how we help
- ✓ Finding the right-fit college, not just a “name” one
- ✓ Applications & essays that sound like the real student
- ✓ Understanding accommodations & support programs
- ✓ The transition to independent college life
Services
Guidance for every stage of the college admissions journey
Work together on the pieces you need most—or partner from first college list to first semester.
College fit & list building
Identify colleges where your student can gain admission and genuinely thrive—weighing academics, support services, culture, and independence.
Applications & essays
Craft compelling, authentic applications—including essays that sound like the student, not a formula—while keeping the timeline calm and on track.
Accommodations & support programs
Understand disability services, documentation, and specialized support programs so families know what to ask for and where it’s truly available.
Transition to college life
Prepare for the leap to independent college life—self-advocacy, executive-function systems, and the routines that make the first year work.
Results & reviews
Students have earned their place at outstanding colleges
Every admissions decision belongs to the college—but with the right essays, strategy, and support, students Dr. Kraushaar has worked with have gone on to schools like these.
“I’m very grateful to Dr. Kraushaar for the guidance and encouragement she gave me in writing college essays. She really helped me hone my essays and clearly articulate what I wanted to say. She was kind and patient, with great ideas and suggestions. She is awesome!”
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Do you only work with neurodivergent students?
No. Supporting neurodivergent students is a specialty, but Beyond Common works with any student and family looking for thoughtful, personalized guidance toward the right-fit college.
When should we start?
Earlier gives more room to build a strong list and applications without the last-minute rush—but families join at every stage. Reach out and we’ll tell you honestly what makes sense for your timeline.
How does consulting actually work?
Engagements are personalized. Some families partner on the full journey; others come for a specific piece—list building, essays, or understanding accommodations. We’ll scope it together on an intro call.
Can you help us understand college accommodations?
Yes. Understanding disability services, documentation, and which support programs are genuinely strong is a core part of what we do—so families know what to look for and what to ask.
Let’s talk
Start with a free introductory call
Tell us a little about your student. We’ll listen, answer your questions, and share honestly how Beyond Common can help.
Book a free intro call