Jane B. Hahn
IEC/Founder
My College Advocate, LLC (UT)
What drew you to the world of college admission counseling?
Growing up in a rural coastal town in Maine and being a first-generation student, my access to college resources and information was often limited in nature. I am eternally grateful to those (especially my English teachers) who pushed me to see beyond and provided guidance when I needed it most.
What I enjoy most about this work is how mentorship can change lives. The opportunity to guide students and help them utilize important resources are ways I can make a difference and what drew me to the profession. The connections I have built with my colleagues also inspire my work every day. Working collectively to support our students with the most accurate information and guidance possible is deeply rewarding.
What is your favorite part of the job?
I love building relationships with students and helping them discover their voice in this
often-complicated process. The opportunity to observe their growth and development as we work together is a real gift. Their ability to show vulnerability when it matters most; to take risks and do the hard work when it seems most daunting; and to trust in the process (and me) are aspects that make this profession so fulfilling. Finally, I am moved and impressed by what students share when working on their essays.
How has NACAC played a role in your career?
NACAC has played a vital role in my career, especially when I began working as an admission officer for a small private liberal arts university. New to the field, my NACAC membership provided a professional springboard to launch my career and “uplevel” my skills in a swift manner. Years later, when I decided to work as a college counselor for a boarding school, NACAC was right there to provide another set of educational tools, perspective, and professional connections to thrive in this role. Now, as an IEC, I continue to utilize NACAC for its rich forum of professional offerings including national conferences, listservs, mentoring opportunities, regional membership groups, and so much more. NACAC has been my “educational sherpa” throughout my career and has given me the tools to be the most-informed resource I can be to my students and families.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our profession today?
The impact of social media on the emotional well-being of students is one of the biggest challenges I think we face in this profession. Unfortunately, the excessive use of social media by students continues to impact their self-worth, interpersonal communication, motivation, and vision for their future. Technology can be a helpful tool in so many aspects of learning. But because of the design and engineering of social media platforms (and their unregulated use) we are experiencing firsthand how they are rewiring the adolescent brain and affecting students with their overall learning and general well-being.
When you aren’t working, what do you like to do?
I love to bake, travel, swim, work on puzzles, read Jane Austen novels, source a good vintage MCM furniture find, and work in my gardens.
What five words would you use to describe yourself?
Kind, authentic, honest, supportive, and optimistic.
Published March 16, 2026