About Us
Empowering Students. Supporting Families. Achieving Results.
At College Admissions Planning Service (CAPS), we help families navigate the college admissions process with clarity, confidence, and a personalized approach that centers each student’s strengths, goals, and unique story. Parents come to us because they want expert guidance, a clear plan, and peace of mind—and that’s exactly what we deliver.
For more than a decade, CAPS has supported students from across the U.S. and abroad in building strong academic profiles, developing standout applications, and gaining admission to schools where they can thrive. Families trust us because our approach goes far beyond checklists—we provide strategy, structure, and consistent mentorship that reduces stress and keeps students moving forward.
Whether your child is just starting to explore options or preparing competitive applications for highly selective universities, CAPS ensures your family never feels lost, overwhelmed, or alone in the process.
Why Families Choose CAPS
Proven Results
More than 500 students served locally, nationally, and internationally—with the majority accepted to their top-choice schools and receiving significant merit scholarships or financial aid.
Comprehensive Expertise
Our guidance combines college admissions insight, strategic planning, essay development, application management, and scholarship support—all tailored to the needs of each student.
Professional Integrity
CAPS maintains active membership in leading professional organizations, including:
Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA)
National Association of College Admissions Counselors (NACAC)
Southern Association of College Admissions Counselors (SACAC)
Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA)
A Student-Centered Approach
We don’t just coach students—we mentor them. Our process helps teens build confidence, take ownership of their goals, and navigate decisions with clarity.
About the Founder
Cynthia Hawkins began her work in college admissions in 2008 as the Pre-College Director for Kaplan Test Prep and Admissions, where she delivered admissions seminars across Georgia’s public and private schools. After seeing the growing demand for one-on-one guidance, she founded the College Admissions Planning Service (CAPS) in 2010.
With a background that includes a B.S. in Marketing from SUNY New Paltz and over 20 years of corporate education sales and management with companies such as Xerox, Wachovia Bank, Scholastic Books, Macy’s, and Kaplan Test Prep, Cynthia brings both professional insight and a deeply personal commitment to every family she supports.
She has also mentored aspiring consultants, helping them build successful practices of their own. A longtime resident of the Johns Creek/Suwanee–Buford community, Cynthia and her husband of 36 years are proud parents of two college-educated daughters—and two equally accomplished pups, Chippy and Roo.
Your Partner in the Journey Ahead
College planning doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With CAPS, your family gains a trusted guide who brings expertise, structure, and genuine care to every step of the process—so your student can shine and you can move forward with confidence.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Schedule a personal consultation and discover how CAPS can simplify the process, support your student, and set your family up for success.
