Jessica Velasco

Jessica Velasco is an independent college counselor and founder of JLV College Counseling. She uses her prior experience and knowledge as an admission counselor and director to provide guidance to students and their parents as they go through the college admissions process.
Books, cellphone, notebook and calculator piled up.
college admissions

Why Test Scores Matter in College Admissions

By Jessica VelascoLast updated on December 22, 2022
Test scores still matter. Even as more colleges are going test-optional, they are still very important in college admissions. In addition, just because a college does not use test scores when making admissions decisions, they may need test scores for other reasons. Here are seven ways they are used in the college admissions process: 1. …
A student writing in a notebook with an orange pen.
questions & answers

Should I Take IB Classes in High School? How to Determine if International Baccalaureate Courses Are Right For You

By Jessica VelascoLast updated on December 22, 2022
International Baccalaureate, or IB, classes, are a bit like AP classes, but not entirely. It depends on a lot of factors if you should take an IB class in high school. We’ll highlight those factors below. Students may be confused when they have the opportunity to choose between IB and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Here …
Prospective students take a walking tour of MIT's campus during a college visit.
college search

Junior Prep for College: 10 Easy Tips

By Jessica VelascoLast updated on May 24, 2023
As a third-year student in high school, it’s a great time to start thinking: What should juniors do to prepare for college? Instead of stressing about the process during the fall of your senior year, get ahead of the game, and start planning now. If you’re wondering what should juniors do to prepare for college, …
A college visit is essential so you know if a college is for you or not
college search

13 Ways to Make the Most of Your College Visit

By Jessica VelascoLast updated on December 22, 2022
Most college counselors will strongly recommend that you visit the colleges you are considering. They are right. The college visit is the only way you will know if the campus feels “right”. The college visit scheduled with the admissions office will look very similar at many colleges. Visitors will get a brief information session about the …
A big stop sign hanging on a pole.
college admissions

How to Deal With College Rejection Letters: 7 Steps

By Jessica VelascoLast updated on December 22, 2022
No matter what anyone tells you, rejection hurts. How to deal with college rejection – first, take it easy on yourself! Failing to get into your “dream school” or other colleges you applied to, can be crushing but it’s important to remember: you have options. It’s not the end of the world, and acting now …