Planning for College, Preparing for Life
We are higher education and life coaches who are college planning experts, helping families and students identify the right educational and career path and financial aid options to maximize their financial investment in higher education.
10/14/2025
Every teen has a dream. Not every teen has a guide. That’s where The Brass Ring Project comes in—helping kids discover careers, navigate college, and believe in their future.
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Learn more: www.BrassRingProject.org
Dear OptimumEd Community,
It is with mixed emotions that we announce the retirement of Tom Leahy, the visionary founder of OptimumEd, who has decided to step down after 13 remarkable years of dedicated service and unparalleled leadership.
Tom's journey with OptimumEd began with a simple yet profound vision: to support youth to plan for college and prepare for life. Over the years, he has not only realized this vision but has also expanded it, touching countless lives and building a legacy that will continue to inspire and guide us for years to come.
As we bid farewell to Tom, we are pleased to announce that the esteemed processes and services of OptimumEd will continue under the umbrella of Optimum Growth Coaching. In addition to carrying on the strong foundation that Tom built, Candice Suarez, will also offer life coaching services to both teens and adults. Candice brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of educational and personal development.
Candice's approach to life coaching aligns seamlessly with the values of OptimumEd, emphasizing continuous improvement, learning from experiences, and overcoming roadblocks and limiting beliefs. Her expertise in building habits and routines to support desired life outcomes will complement our existing services, providing a holistic approach to growth and development.
Tom's impact on OptimumEd cannot be overstated. His vision and leadership have left an indelible mark on our organization and will continue to influence our mission for years to come. While we will miss his day-to-day presence, we are excited for him as he embarks on this new chapter of his life.
Please join us in expressing our heartfelt gratitude to Tom for his extraordinary contributions and wishing him all the best in his retirement.
Thank you for your continued support of OptimumEd and your enthusiasm for the future of Optimum Growth Coaching.
Warm regards,
Tom and Candice
07/26/2024
Letters of recommendation offer a window into your character and achievements. Choose recommenders who know you well! 💌📜
07/23/2024
To SAT or not to SAT? Research your colleges’ admissions policies. A strong GPA and course rigor might outweigh the need for test scores. 📚⚖️
07/18/2024
Your personal essay is your voice in your application, and it's even more important in this test-optional environment. Share your story, goals, and what makes you "you" ✍️🌟
Schedule an introductory session to learn more!
https://www.optimumedcenter.com/booking-calendar/introductory-call
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07/16/2024
Extracurricular activities shine in a test-optional world! Show your involvement, leadership, and passion beyond the classroom. 🌍❤️
Schedule a consultation to learn more https://www.optimumedcenter.com/booking-calendar/introductory-call
07/05/2024
Colleges that adopt a test optional policy focus more on other aspects of your application, such as:
High School GPA and Course Rigor
Extracurricular Activities
Personal Essays
Letters of Recommendation
Read more: https://www.optimumedcenter.com/post/to-test-or-not-to-test-navigating-a-test-optional-environment
07/02/2024
It's important to note that "test-optional" is not the same as "test-blind." Test-blind schools do not consider standardized test scores at all, even if submitted. Some test-optional schools may require additional items, such as an essay, if test scores are not submitted.
Deciding whether to take the SAT depends on several factors.
Schedule a consultation to learn more https://www.optimumedcenter.com/booking-calendar/introductory-call
06/20/2024
From communication and teamwork to problem-
solving and time management, every task you undertake during an internship or part-
time job contributes to your skill set. Which will standout to colleges and future job opportunities. Visit our website to find out more: www.optimumedcenter.com
06/18/2024
It's competitive out there! A standout resume is essential for college applications and future job opportunities. Participating in internships or part-time work can showcase your real-world experience. Our advisors can help get you started visit our website for more info: https://www.optimumedcenter.com/
06/13/2024
Clarify your goals and chart a course for your future! An Optimum Ed Advisor can help you get on the right path to reach your career goals. Get a FREE 30 consultations, visit our website: https://www.optimumedcenter.com/booking-calendar/ introductory-call
06/11/2024
Exploring career interested during the school year can put extra demands on your valuable time. But finding a shadowing program or internship in the summer is a fun way to refine your interest and clarify your goals. If you don't know where to start, set up a free 30 minute consultation with one of our advisors: https://www.optimumedcenter.com/booking-calendar/introductory-call
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