Why I Belong: Trisha Uhler

Before becoming an independent educational consultant (IEC), I was a counselor at a large, highly competitive high school where many families hire IECs (something my fellow counselors and I supported), so I was familiar with the influence IECs have on the college application process. Although I was content in my role as a high school counselor, I was also a little jealous of the IECs, because it seemed like they were able to focus on the parts of my job that I was interested in the most. So, in early 2020, when a friend sent me a job description for a consultant position at a local college advising company, I decided to apply. During the interview process, I was given the opportunity to observe a few IECs in action. I realized that my skills and passions aligned perfectly with those of the IEC, and that I could have an even greater impact on students in this role.

I didn’t get the job, but the experience, combined with the introspective period brought on by COVID less than two months later, prompted me to consider my future. During the winter break in 2020, my husband and I decided to move from Austin to Fort Worth to be closer to family. Then, in the spring, I proposed another idea: instead of finding new jobs in schools after our move, why not start our own IEC business? I would handle college advising, while my husband would use his experience as an English teacher and speech and debate coach to assist with essays, résumés, and interviews. My husband agreed that it was a great idea and that we had a solid business model. With each day of planning, my excitement grew, and I quickly contacted some former counselors who had become IECs for advice. Within a month, we had a name, a website, and a general plan.

In June, my contract at the high school ended, and the next day, we signed our first client—a former student of mine. Within weeks, thanks to our experience and some fantastic colleague referrals, we had contracts with multiple clients. I knew the basics of college admissions, had visited many colleges over the years, and had developed a college and career curriculum, so I was confident that I could provide value to the clients I was working with. Truthfully, though, there were many aspects of the job in which I had no clue as to what I was doing. I did not know how to run a business and I didn’t have any real systems in place, so it felt like I was constantly adapting and doing something completely different with each student. Unlike at the high school, where I would work with students in groups or individually on an as-needed basis, I was making my curriculum on the fly and changing it almost daily as I adjusted to working with each client throughout the college search and application process. This is where IECA came to the rescue.

The IECs all stressed the importance of joining IECA, so I became a member immediately. I was so thankful I did. During those first few (terrifying) months, I dedicated most of my spare time scouring the IECA website, trying to learn how to be an IEC. I devoured the Business Training Videos and College Conversations webinars on IECA’s website, often watching them multiple times. I began reading the posts on the College Community of the IECA Member Network and joined Affinity Groups to learn more about aspects of the job that I was unfamiliar with, but that I knew I would need a general understanding of. I attended my first IECA conference, held online, and I still refer back to the notes I took. I began meeting with a group of supportive IECs in my area each month. I signed up for a mentor, who patiently answered my questions and provided guidance and assurances. I reached out to IECs I knew and to some I didn’t, seeking advice, and thankfully they were willing to share their knowledge and expertise. With each step I took, I began to feel more confident.

As I grew more comfortable in my role as an IEC, I began volunteering. I joined the Outreach Committee, connecting with IECs nationwide who are committed to helping new IECs learn about the benefits of IECA. I also volunteered as a tour facilitator and moderated a roundtable discussion at the Tampa conference. Each experience has been an opportunity to give back to a community that has not only supported me but has also provided an environment that has allowed me to connect with colleagues and learn from them.

What I enjoy most about being an IECA member is the collaborative spirit we share that elevates the level of ideas and expertise. No matter how basic or trivial my question might seem, I know I can reach out to multiple IECA members who will patiently explain concepts, offer new perspectives, and provide the resources needed to find answers. I, in turn, strive to do this with both current IECs and with the people I meet at various events who are considering transitioning into IEC work. These benefits of IECA membership far exceed the cost of dues.

When I reflect on why I belong to IECA, it’s clear that being part of a group of professionals who care deeply about each other and their clients, who are determined to learn and grow, and who provide the support necessary to elevate the profession is exactly where I want to be.

By Trisha Uhler, MEd, IECA (TX)