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Knowledge Worx 4 College

Where college dreams become reality Choose your grade to get started

Thanks to Nagla I’m starting at my dream school this fall!

Eli B. – UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CLASS OF 2021

325

STUDENTS ACCEPTED

24

FULL-RIDE SCHOLARSHIPS

46

SAT & ACT BOOTCAMPS

1123

ACCEPTANCE LETTERS

Knowledge opens doors

Knowledge is power

Knowledge Worx

Education and admissions consulting for students from 7th to 12th grade.

In one-on-one sessions with students and their families, independent college consultant Nagla Orlando offers personalized support to help students pursue their collegiate dreams. Nagla founded Knowledge Worx to share her know-how and experience as a California educator and college mentor to help guide students and their families through the exciting process of preparing for college admissions success.

Preparing for the college application process does not need to be stressful. It should be an exciting time–not an overly complex one. Partnering with Knowledge Worx means working with a neutral voice to alleviate some of the tension that the process seems to bring about and making it productive and enjoyable for all involved.

Knowledge Worx provides:
  • Application strengthening
  • Testing prep & guidance
  • College list assistance
  • Financial aid & scholarship information
  • Essay development & support
  • Academic assessment
  • Extracurricular guidance
  • Application review & fine-tuning
Download Our Guide To Achieve College Admissions Success
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American University

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Brown University

California State University, Long Beach

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California State University, San Marcos

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Saint Louis University

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UMASS Lowell

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University of St. Andrews (UK)

University of Saint Joseph

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Vassar College

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Recent college acceptances are you next?

Knowledge Worx has helped countless students navigate the college application process and get into their dream schools. Check out the schools here to see where our students have been accepted!

KnowledgeWorx helps find your perfect fit

Using a state-of-the-art online assessment, Knowledge Worx gets to know student aptitudes and interests to help guide college and career choice exploration. With comprehensive insights in hand, Nagla encourages students to discover the unique path that best suits their personality.
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Answer the survey questions

Take a proprietary survey designed by college admissions experts and get back your customized results.

Keep an open mind

The insight you get might surprise you and introduce you to options you have never considered. That’s a good thing, so lean into it!

Chat out the options

Discuss your results and chart your course with educator and college admissions consultant Nagla Orlando

The Knowledge Worx process fuses the eight pieces of the college admissions puzzle

The best way to alleviate the stress of the college application process is to demystify the process. High school is, and should be, an experience of self-discovery. In other words, high school should not be experienced as a “to do” list to get into college, but rather as part of a journey to self actualization. That is, a genuine personal high school experience will naturally culminate in strong college applications.

Knowledge Worx uses a combination of a personality and aptitude assessment, which provides insight to each student’s unique strengths and interests, and an application strengthening process to produce the most compelling college applications possible.

Choose your grade to check out your options
Interest Profile Assessment

Students take a proprietary survey that measures both aptitudes and interests. Nagla will use this as the starting point to dig deeper into what makes the student tick.

Uncover educational and career objectives

With fresh insights uncovered, students are guided on an exploration of their own educational and career goals with an emphasis on translating talents into real-world academic and career pursuits.

Extracurricular & summer activities

Extracurricular activities demonstrate interests and abilities to admissions officials. Knowledge Worx assists students and families to make sure these activities highlight student attributes to the fullest potential.

Toot your horn in your academic resume

We will dial in your resume, giving shape to all of the experiences, classes, activities, and personal interests that makes each student unique. A resume isn't just for job applications- a properly crafted academic resume forms the background of the entire college application!

Prep for standardized tests

Don't stress out the week before the test. Knowledge Worx uncovers testing weaknesses for each student and tailors a test prep program designed to improve scores.

Find your voice in your college essay

The college admissions essay is easily the most dreaded part of the application process for students. Knowledge Worx guides students to brainstorm, shape, edit, and polish compelling essays.

Effective letters of recommendation

Who students turn to for their letters of recommendation can mean the difference between a glowing letter and recommendation that looks like all the others. Knowledge Worx advises students to find the references that highlight the traits that colleges are looking for in their incoming students.

Crunch the numbers

College can be expensive, and navigating the financial aid process can be rough. As an experienced IEC, Nagla knows where to look to tap into federal, state, and school-specific scholarship, grant, and loan opportunities.

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Get the individual attention you deserve

200 %
Above average counselor : student ratio

The average rate of high school students per counselor in California is 945 to 1. That’s over 200% of the national average, and far above the recommended ratio.

21 %
Time spent on college counseling

According to the National Association of College Admissions Counseling, the average public high school counselor spends only 21% of their time on college counseling.

Knowledge Worx won’t replace your school counselor. Rather, Nagla assists your counselor in making you the best possible candidate for the job you are seeking…college student!

Ready to talk?

Get your free consult today

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Success Stories

I hated writing my college essay and didn't think I really had anything interesting to say about me that wasn't in my application already. Nagla helped get to the core of the message I was trying to relate, and after a few sit downs with her my essay was perfect. I definitely think it is what set me apart from everyone else.

Adam

COLBY COLLEGE

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Nagla helped me get into my top choice school and I can’t thank KnowledgeWorx enough for everything that she has done for me. I was stressed out of my mind my senior year, and KnowledgeWorx helped ease the stress and get me on track to get in to my top choice school.

Emily

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Frequently Asked Questions

Working with a college admissions consultant is a big decision. To help you in your decision-making process, check out our most frequently asked questions about college admissions consulting. If you have additional questions, please contact Knowledge Worx and Nagla will be happy to speak to you!

For Parents

  • Why should I hire an Independent Educational Consultant (IEC) for my student?

    As with most things in life, when it comes to the college application process, knowledge is power. The more you know about colleges and universities, the application process, standardized testing, and financial aid, the better off you will be in helping your child make an educated decision about what he or she wants, the right fit, and gaining admission. The process has a reputation of being complicated, confusing, and overwhelming. In reality, it is very straightforward, pragmatic, and student-centered. 


    You must commit to the process and make it a time of growth and reflection for your child. Additionally, the application process is a time for students to learn skills that will serve them during and beyond college. Because these skills will be unfamiliar to them, it is my job to assist and teach your child how to hone in on them and make the application process one of enjoyment and excitement. I am here to advocate for you and your student! 


    Benefits of working with an IEC:

    • Expert knowledge of universities/colleges and programs

    IEC’s spend time away from their practice touring schools, meeting with professors, and student and admissions representatives to bring back first-hand information about the school to their clients.  During these tours, IEC’s learn about academic program strengths, the variety of activities, and the financial reality of each institution to introduce options to their students and families.

    • Objective third party

    Many students feel an IEC is their partner and listen to them, unlike a parent or guardian. For some, being the liaison and facilitating those difficult conversations is the most valuable aspect of working with an IEC.

    • Equanimity

    In this time of uncertainty of “who gets in” and “where,” as the admissions climate is ever-changing, it can lead to anxiety for both the student and parent.  Sometimes those regular check-ins for parents can be as therapeutic as they are informational. In addition, freeing the parent from the role of “taskmaster” allows the process and the relationship to be less stressful and more enlightening.

    • Pragmatic/Sensible expectation setting

    An IEC can assist parents in understanding the new realities of college admissions by dispelling the myths and illusions of gaining admission to a particular college or university.  “Who gets in” and “where” are not as apparent and straightforward as it was when they were applying to college. IEC’s can communicate this reality and assist in setting and reaching attainable goals.

    • Student self-awareness

    An important and crucial aspect of an IEC is to provide students with the ability to be self-aware, “who do you want to be?”, “why do you want to go to college?” are questions that engage the student in the process of recognizing their strengths and learning how to articulate them.  This skill-building process equips students to gain self-awareness and motivation. Such awareness is pivotal in college when it comes time to “adult” and find internships, use student support services, manage work and social balance, learn fiscal responsibility and build relationships with potential recommenders and employers.

  • Can I still use your services, I'm not located in Central California or the Western U.S.?

    Absolutely! Knowledge Worx students hail from around the country and world. I work with students and families in person or remotely via video conferencing, phone, or email. All of Knowledge Worx’s services can be accessed remotely, as I find them to be efficient and an excellent match for the busy schedules of students and families.

  • What makes Knowledge Worx and Nagla Orlando unique?

    Just as each institution is unique, so is each individual student! My philosophy and approach to the college admissions process differs from others in that it is student-centered, focused, and driven. With that, the focus will be on personal growth allowing for skill development, character building, and leveraging experiences to encounter success in a broader sense, rather than the limited process of college admissions. Ultimately, this presents and prepares the student for the most optimal college admissions process for success.

  • Do I need a Independent Educational Consultant if my student already has a college counselor at school?

    Preparing for the college application process can be stressful. However, planning during high school can turn your applications into a time of growth and reflection. Knowing how to sequence courses throughout middle and high school to provide the most rigorous college preparation can mean the difference between a competitive applicant and one that is not. 


    Today’s aspiring college students face more complexity in the selection process than ever before. Vast amounts of information, complex questions and answers, and multiple application formats can overwhelm even the most dedicated students. Additionally, this takes place amidst studies, work, and free time. 


    High school counselors are indeed valuable assets and are an integral part of the college admissions process. I work with them collaboratively to realize student and family goals. Unfortunately, many college counseling offices have been decimated due to budget cuts. Across the country, the average student caseload for a high school counselor is over 400 students; in California, that can rise 900:1 student to counselor ratio as the norm. In comparison IEC’s average 30 to 50 students in their caseload. Additionally, many high school counselors wear many different hats. College counseling is only one aspect of their job that also entails handling behavioral and discipline issues, supervision, and administrative duties. Consequently, they lack the time and fiscal resources to travel to stay abreast of changes in the higher education world. 


    My approach draws from years of experience as an educator working with students and understanding the process's demands and the requirements for course sequencing, rigor, and the skills required to navigate the process with organization and confidence.  

  • How early can my student start the college admissions process?

    As I remind parents and students, the college admissions process is not a stand-alone piece in personal growth but rather is a piece that scaffolds the foundation of functionality and is the cornerstone for success in life. As these skills are applied to the college admissions process, students will learn to assert them to other life processes and challenges. 


    Preparing early allows for proper course sequencing, relevant test prep, engagement in meaningful extracurricular activities, and exploration of interests and goals. In addition, preparing early for the admissions process provides for early analysis and the discovery of learning style, personal strengths, and natural aptitudes. All of this leads students to engage in major exploration and career-matching to find the  proper college “fit.”

  • What qualifications should I look for when choosing an Independent Educational Consultant?

    • Just like each student is a “fit” for a college or university; every IEC should “fit” with the family and student. Look for someone who is supportive and who’s style and personality is a match for your student.
    • A qualified IEC should be knowledgeable about current admissions trends in addition to colleges and universities and their offerings.
    • An IEC that contributes and continues in their professional development growth and activities.
    • Fees and services are established and are adhered to based on a written service agreement.
    • Effective and qualified IEC’s are members of respective professional organizations such as the organizations below, as they adhere to principles of good practice and ethics.
    • HECA – Higher Education Consultants Association
    • NACAC – National Association of College Admissions Consultants
    • WACAC – Western Association of College Admissions Consultants

    Resource Links:

    HECA Standards for Working with Students and Families

    NACAC Statement of Principles of Good Practice (SPGP): Code of Ethics and Professional Practices (CEPP)

For Students

  • Can you get me into my dream school?

    While no ethical college admissions consultant can guarantee that a student will gain entry into a particular institution, I provide resources, skills, and experience. I will work with you to identify multiple college and university matches and provide sustained, focused counseling every step of the way so that the process and finished application will place you in the most competitive light. Having someone on your side who knows the ropes increases your chances of acceptance into institutions that are your “best fit.”

  • What if I'm not a 4.0 student?

    Not all colleges are looking for the same student. Believe it or not, there is more to a great college application than having a top GPA. Colleges accept non-4.0 students all the time for qualities beyond students’ high school grades. 


    Every GPA, standardized test score, extracurricular activity, and interest has an institution that is looking for that match.  Unique circumstances such as undecided career paths, those with learning disabilities and difficulties, and/or average academic performance; does not mean that a college or university will not accept you. KnowledgeWorx offers a consultation to thoroughly review each students full potential. Every college and university in the country is unique in its mission, composition, and character. Their goal, however, is the same, to find students who are the right “fit” for them. 


    Knowing what the school is looking for and what they have to offer (financially, academically, socially, and most importantly, emotionally) is what makes it the right “fit” for you!

  • Are you going to be another adult in my life that will hassle me about my college applications?

    My approach stems from years as an educator and also as a mother of two grown boys. If I have learned anything it is that “hassling” or “bugging” a teenager about anything only results in push back, continued procrastination, resentment, and relationship struggles.  Changing the perception that the application process happens around you rather than because of you is how you get to be in the driver’s seat. 


    You need to take an active role in the process and you must be the driver. Ultimately this is your goal not mine. In other words, you will get out of it what you put in. That is why, from the onset, I will ask YOU what you want from the college application process and I’ll support you, your parents/guardians, teachers and school counselor to ensure that those goals are always at the forefront of the process. Yes, I will remind you of deadlines, keep you focused on the process, suggest revisions to essays and college lists, recommend testing options, and advise you of internship and extracurricular opportunities.  Ultimately, my job is to advocate for you, help you feel less annoyed and stressed about the process, and to empower you to reach your goals to pursue the college or university education you want and deserve.

About Knowledge Worx

MEET NAGLA ORLANDO, M.ED., CEP

Nagla Orlando, M.Ed., CEP, Knowledge Worx 4 College, founder, and principal, approaches the college application process as a life-long educator; she is a 25-year veteran California credentialed educator in Science (Biology, AP Biology, Anatomy and Physiology). In addition to teaching, Nagla mentored thousands of students in interpersonal growth and leadership skills outside of the classroom through the renowned Boomerang Project LINK Crew Initiative. Nagla built Knowledge Worx 4 College around her passion for helping students gain exposure to their innate strengths and talents and higher education options to find their best fit! Nagla prides herself on creating positive working relationships with school counselors and prioritizing "student first" in her California Central Coast consulting practice. Nagla holds a California Single Subject Teaching Credential, M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction, counseling certification, and most recently received the highly distinctive Certified Education Planner CEP from AICEP in 2022. It is an honor to be among a prestigious group of 254 (one of only 35 in California) educational consultants and school counselors in the US and abroad to earn the designation of Certified Educational Planner (CEP).

With a singular focus, an engaging personality, and an intuitive ability to relate to students and parents, Nagla has the expertise to understand the individual, their needs and passions giving her the unique insight to objectively see each students strengths and potential. Nagla helps you see yourself objectively rather than merely as a test score, GPA, or letter grade. When you are able to perceive yourself in this light you are able to communicate these attributes in your college application allowing an admissions officer to get a glimpse of your intellectual curiosity, tenacity, evidence of personal growth and excellence.

Nagla’s Education and Professional Memberships:

  • California State University of Long Beach, BS, Human Health Science
  • California State University of Long Beach, Single Subject Teaching Credential
  • William Howard Taft University, M.Ed., Curriculum and Instruction
  • American Institute of Certified Educational Planners
  • University of California, San Diego, Certificate in College Counseling
  • National Association for College Admission Counseling
  • Western Association for College Admission Counseling
  • Higher Education Consultants Association
  • Independent Educational Consultants Association – Professional Member
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