BROOKS IMEL
Affiliate Consultant
Brooks began his career in education teaching humanities in independent schools, after receiving a B.A. in literature and M.A. in history. He taught a wide array of history & social science courses, but his favorites were in intellectual history and moral philosophy.
While teaching, Brooks became fascinated by the science of learning, and in 2018, he received a PhD in educational psychology, with a specialty in Cognition, Motivation, & Learning. During his doctoral studies, Brooks taught undergraduate courses in developmental and educational psychology and conducted research on the cognitive processes involved in reading and learning using digital devices. He also spent time as a student reviewer for the Journal of Learning Disabilities.
Brooks’s special talent for college guidance stems largely from his ability to relate with students. Whether as a middle school teacher or a college lecturer, Brooks’s teaching was always distinguished by an unparalleled ability to connect with and motivate students–a quality that is perhaps even more important for the college counselor. Furthermore, his intense intellectual curiosity combined with his past educational experiences makes him an invaluable resource for highly-gifted high school students who wish to apply to top universities.
A talented and passionate educator, college counseling allows Brooks to fully immerse himself in the kind of work that he truly loves: mentoring young people and helping them unlock their true potential.
Education
B.A. (Cum Laude), English, University of Pennsylvania
M.A., History, Georgetown University
PhD, Educational Psychology, University of California, Riverside
Highlights
Expertise in adolescent and young-adult learning and cognitive development
Special knowledge of, and interest in, advising students with learning disabilities in the college selection and admissions process
NCAA Division I recruit; enjoys working with athletes to help them with their communications and evaluation of college athletics programs.
Extensive experience helping students craft high-quality essays—both as a secondary school and college instructor and working one-on-one as a private tutor
Admissions Interviewer, University of Pennsylvania
Former Fellow, Klingenstein Institute, Columbia University Teachers College
Chancellor’s Distinguished Fellow, University of California, Riverside
Member of the American Educational Research Association
Member of the American Psychological Association
Member of Western Association for College Admission Counseling