The Mountain and the Path: A Story About the Hunt for College
I’ve always felt most connected to myself—and to life—when I’m out in the wild. There’s something about being in the middle of the forest, with the towering mountains all around, that makes everything feel simple and clear. No noise, no distractions—just the quiet beauty of God’s creation.
Earlier this year, I was scouting for mountain goats, and as I hiked up the steep terrain, I couldn’t help but think about how similar this was to helping students like you hunt for the right college. I know it might sound strange at first, but hear me out.
The Hunt for the Right Environment
When I hunt, it’s not just about walking into the forest and hoping to stumble upon an animal. It’s about understanding the environment. I spend hours researching the land, learning where animals are most likely to be, and figuring out which conditions are right for a successful hunt.
In the same way, finding the right college isn’t something you just "happen upon." It takes research. You need to understand what type of environment will allow you to thrive. Are you someone who needs a big campus with lots of activity, or would you prefer a smaller, quieter setting? Do you want to be close to home, or are you ready to explore a new state? Do you prefer small class sizes to get more individualized attention and support from the professor? Are you looking for a specific type of college experience? Think of every college visit and conversation as a way of "scouting" for your perfect spot.
Preparation Equals Confidence
Preparing for a hunt isn’t just about gathering gear; it’s about conditioning my mind and body. I hike miles, lift weights, practice my aim, and make sure I can control my breath under pressure. This preparation makes me feel ready, confident, and proud of the effort I’ve put in. I know that even if things don’t go as planned on opening day, I’ve done everything in my power to succeed.
Your college journey is the same way. Every piece of preparation—whether it’s researching schools, practicing your essays, asking questions, or planning out your deadlines—helps you build confidence. The more work you put in, the better prepared you’ll be and the more at peace you’ll feel when decisions start rolling in. Even if you don’t get into your dream school, you’ll know you gave it your all, and that sense of pride and accomplishment will stick with you.
Flexibility in the Face of the Unexpected
Here’s the thing about hunting: You can plan for everything, but you can’t control it all. Sometimes the weather changes, or the animals don’t appear where you expect. That’s where adaptability comes in. I must be aware of my surroundings and flexible enough to change my approach. In those moments, staying calm, trusting my instincts, and being emotionally in control make all the difference.
The college process is no different. You might face setbacks—maybe a school you love doesn’t work out, or maybe you change your mind about what you want to study. That’s okay. Be flexible, stay open-minded, and trust that you’ll find your way. You can’t control every outcome, but you can control how you respond. The more you engage with the process the more empowered you will feel in making your own decisions in life.
The Peace of Letting Go
One of the most important things I’ve learned from hunting is that I can’t control every outcome, and that’s where faith comes in. After all my preparation, I know that the final outcome is in God’s hands. There’s peace in that. I trust that whatever happens—whether it’s a successful hunt or a long day of waiting—is exactly as it should be.
As you move through the college process, it’s normal to feel uncertain or anxious. But remember, you are not in this alone. You’ve put in the work, and now you can trust that whatever happens is part of a bigger plan. Your path is your own, and it will lead you exactly where you’re meant to be.
Why I’m Sharing This With You
I’m sharing this story because I want you to know that I care deeply about you—not just as a student going through this process, but as a person. I’ve been working with teenagers for nearly two decades, and I love every part of it. I see the beauty in each of you, and I understand how overwhelming this time in your life can be.
I also want you to know I’m not just a college consultant. I’m someone who values hard work, preparation, and faith in the journey—whether it’s in the mountains or in the college search. I’m here to help guide you through your own “hunt” for the right school, to help you prepare, and to remind you that no matter the outcome, you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.
A Blessing in the Hunt
There’s something else I should mention: this past year, I only had a 4.2% chance of drawing a Mountain Goat tag in Colorado. The odds were stacked against me, and yet, by some blessing, I got that tag. Not only that, but I was also successful in harvesting a mountain goat on opening day! I do not take this opportunity for granted, as it took me many years to get to this point.
When you have such a slim chance, it can feel impossible. But you must believe, and when the blessing comes, you must be thankful for it. It’s a reminder that all the preparation in the world leads you to a place where the impossible can happen. It’s the same with your college journey—believe in yourself, prepare as much as possible, and trust that when the blessing comes, you’ll be ready to receive it.
So, lace up your boots, start planning, and trust in the process. I’m with you every step of the way.
Always, Stefanie
