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Lynn Hofstad, Ph.D.

My Story

I began my career as an admissions counselor for a non-profit educational organization, where I gained valuable insights into the admissions process. As I transitioned to roles within the admissions departments at my graduate institutions, I refined my skills and deepened my understanding of how admissions operates in higher education. With over a decade of teaching in collegiate settings, I am uniquely suited to discern what colleges and universities are looking for in successful students, as well as the importance of finding a good educational fit for the student. After leaving academia, I have served as a holistic review reader for a large, selective university, where I have evaluated hundreds of first-year applications and honed my ability to recognize the qualities that colleges desire in their candidates. 

My Philosophy

Applying for college is a complex process, between finding institutions that match the academic and social needs of the student and assembling the many parts of the application, the process can often seem overwhelming to students. What should be a life transition filled with excitement and anticipation, is often overtaken by stress and anxiety. One of my strengths lies in guiding individuals to develop a structured approach to the application journey, breaking it down into manageable steps. This empowers students to feel confident in their ability to complete the process successfully.

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Additionally, my approach to finding the right institutional fit for a student is holistic. I adamantly argue that a well-matched educational community is as important to the success of a student as the academic prowess of the institution. Nearly one-third of collegiate students transfer at some point during their college career. Finding the right academic and social collegiate setting for a student is crucial. The student can attend a premier academic institution, but if it is not the right fit for them personally, they will not perform to the best of their ability. Therefore, I understand the importance of matching the communal, social, and academic aspects of an institution with each unique student. 

Education

Ph.D.

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M.A.

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B.A.

Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, CA

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Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, CA

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St. Olaf College, Northfield, MN

 2013

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2006

 

2002

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