Kristen BixbySandra is a senior college counselor with Campus Bound. Learn more about her, including why the students who work with her love her so much, in this Staff Spotlight.
BA, Tufts University
MEd, Boston University
After several years in undergraduate admissions, Sandra moved to the high school side of the desk when she wanted to work more closely with students and families. Although she has worked in the college admissions field since 1993, Sandra gained a deeper appreciation when she went through the process as a parent in 2017.
In Her Own Words:
My approach:
“Being by students’ sides as they work through the college admission process, guiding them as they come to realizations about themselves and the future, is a privilege. Sometimes my role is to be a sounding board, other times it is to be a cheerleader or task master. All of the time, I can offer a wealth of experience and deep familiarity with the process, from preparation and exploration to enrolling. My goal is for students and families to find the journey enjoyable and rewarding.”
What I love about what I do:
When I look back on my own college process, I wish I had enjoyed a better relationship with my counselor. I didn’t feel comfortable opening up to her, and it must have been tough to steer me in any direction at all. Now, as a counselor myself, I treasure the opportunity to build a rapport with my students, and get to know more about their plans for college and beyond. Guiding students as they discover their new home, where they can grow and find success, is incredibly rewarding. I enjoy helping students and families find the humor and the bright side in the process, particularly when stress levels rise.
How I spend my free time:
I became an “empty nester” in 2018, and I have had more time on my hands to do some of my favorite things: read, play Scrabble, go thrift shopping, and spend time with friends and family. Since I don’t work full-time, I can often travel with my husband on his business trips; I recently visited Poland and Shanghai, and have a family trip to Italy planned for this summer. My favorite place to visit has been Costa Rica and the amazing rainforests.