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Crib Sheet #28: Educational Consultant Deena Maerowitz.
Meet Deena, a college admissions advisor and educational consultant who reinforces the doing-what-you-love mentality but also gives us insight into another momtrepreneur juggling work and time for children. Quoted as an expert in the New York Times(consulting business), this momma knows her stuff.
What business did you start up?
I run a college consulting business guiding students and their families in all aspects of the college admissions process. School list building, essay review, resume help, mock interviews, what to look for on campus visits, etc.
What motivated you to do college consulting business?
I’ve sort of always been doing this on the side. I’m an avid researcher and when I was working in Washington, D.C. for The Children’s Defense Fund, I often set aside time to meet with high school students who wanted to know how I got into my line of work and how I developed my skills (I’m a J.D./M.S.W.). I started to provide college admissions advice to kids because I was passionate about helping them see all of the opportunities college could bring.
How many children do you have, and how old are they?
I have one four-year old amazing daughter, Ruby August Maerowitz Saloom. She is funny and sparkly and talks a LOT!
How long have you been running your consulting business?
I started when Ruby was born. I was actually advising someone who had heard about me through word of mouth and had just decided that I couldn’t go back to my former job as Associate Director of Admissions at Columbia Business School because I couldn’t bring myself to leave Ruby full-time. My husband said, “Why don’t you actually start your own consulting business guiding people through admissions since you do it so much in your free time?”
How long did it take you to start becoming profitable and/or successful, however you choose to measure success?
I started to see clients referred to me via word of mouth and lots of requests for meetings after about 2 years. The success I met with helping clients and their families through this process was almost immediate. My take on this whole transition is that I can help to make it easier for everyone and that I want to reduce stress around this process.
How did your family react to you starting your own consulting business?
My husband and parents were very supportive. The summer after Ruby was born, I attended a workshop at the IECA (Independent Educational Consultants Association) and was away for five days learning about how to start my own business. It was one of the only times I’ve been away from Ruby for more than a night or two and I had to miss a family reunion to attend. Everyone has encouraged me to do what I love, and this is it.
Easiest part of your job?
Talking with the kids. I love teenagers. I’m drawn to their complicated and unique perspectives on the future, their own lives, and how they see the world around them.
Hardest part of your job?
Not spending time with my daughter. I travel to clients’ homes in the evenings, often away from our home and I miss putting Ruby to bed.
What skill would you most like to improve?
Getting better at saying “No, I’m sorry, I don’t have time to do that.”
What, if any, tools or advice do you wish you knew then that you know now?
Be good to yourself. I’m still learning that. You will make mistakes along the way, but as long as you learn from them, it will be okay.
Can you recommend 3 essential websites for moms in, or going into, business?
Epicurious (this site gives me a good break and makes me feel like cooking dinner might actually happen).
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of?
Getting quoted in the New York Times as an expert. Pulling my own weight financially without having to work full time in an office away from my family.
Favorite part of a typical day?
5:00 when I look at what I’ve accomplished. Take a break and take a walk.
A few more questions, just because American Express should be featuring more momtrepreneurs…
Childhood ambition…..to be a child psychologist.
Fondest memory…..summers in Maine with my family as a child.
Indulgence….Mallomars.
Last purchase…..memory stick for my computer!
Favorite magazine…..Brainchild.
Inspiration…..my father. He ran his own business and always seemed confident and sure about what he was doing.
My Life…..is a constant balancing act and I wonder if I’ll ever get the hang of doing so much all the time.
