Hilary Lehn
Consultant and Owner
HR Lehn Educational Consulting (British Columbia, Canada)
What drew you to the world of college admission counseling?
As an undergraduate tour guide, I became curious about the function of an admissions office, management of financial aid, and administration of higher education in general. I decided that I wanted to work in higher education, and earned a master’s degree in College Student Personnel Administration, which led to my first professional position in admissions.
What is your favorite part of the job?
I like the cyclical nature of it, the enormous variations on the “typical day,” the travel to all parts of the globe, and the opportunity to positively influence people who are finding their way. Hard to pick just one.
How has NACAC played a role in your career?
Especially in the early years of my work, NACAC provided absolutely essential professional development for me. The listserv and conferences provided bastions of knowledge, as well as connections to other professionals who shared their experience and wisdom.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our profession today?
Fear. We are living in a world where there is constant change; a frightening political climate; and an ever-present spotlight on threats to a happy, healthy, peaceful and productive existence. When people are fearful for their (or their kids’) futures — whether that be economical, professional, social, or otherwise — they tend to make less thoughtful and rational decisions that are often not for the best. So we, as counsellors and advisors, are faced with the challenge of guiding families with a sense of calm amidst fear, order amidst chaos, clarity amidst misinformation (or disinformation), and confidence amidst insecurity.
When you aren’t working, what do you like to do?
I enjoy spending time with family; nature walks along the oceanfront or on trails or with our Aussidoodle; paddleboarding; new experiences; curling up on the swing chair with a great novel or getting immersed in the latest Taylor Sheridan series; listening to “blinks” on Blinkist; meeting friends at the gym or for coffee; and lately, listening to country music.
What five words would you use to describe yourself?
Complex, sensitive, humorous, genuine, and also “cringy” (according to my 13-year-old daughter).
Published Sept. 8, 2025