Learn more about me and why families choose to work with me
While clients find out about me for variety of reasons, my families appreciate my successful process and outcomes. Similarly, my genuine, mentoring approach and professional experience are assets students benefit from. Due to my years of experience as a successful college counselor, I am confident we can maximize your post-secondary options together.
Results, Relationship, & Location
Results: Families have confidence in my demonstrated ability to guide students through the search and admissions process successfully.
I have extensive experience with successful outcomes as an independent US college counselor and, formerly, school counselor. With my support, hundreds of students have gained admission to selective and highly selective institutions across the US, Canada, and Europe. My background as an educator includes serving as a school counselor at a highly-ranked International Baccalaureate World School for over 6 years. I have visited dozens of college campuses, including a number of ‘by invite only’ tours. In addition, I continue to learn about and visit new campuses each year.
Relationship: Students appreciate my calm, warm style and easily build trust with me.
The best consulting outcomes happen within a secure and ethical relationship. This foundational relationship allows for personal growth and insight on the part of the student. Additionally, it allows me to firmly redirect and advise, as is sometimes needed when working with teenagers and deadlines.
I have always loved working with students. Indeed, I have worked with hundreds of students in a wide variety of areas over the span of more than two decades. Before becoming a US college counselor, I worked with students in community, athletic coaching, school, and outdoor recreation settings. Similarly, I serve as a dedicated volunteer with a handful of non-profit groups supporting students in numerous ways.
Professionally trained in mental health counseling and child development, I understand adolescent cognition and behavior. I hold a Masters degree in Educational Psychology from a leading large, public research university in the Midwest. My Bachelor of Arts in History and Secondary Education is from a medium-sized, private liberal arts and sciences university in the Pacific Northwest. In light of this background, I guide students in a developmentally-appropriate and professional manner.
In serving as a presenter, volunteer, facilitator, and regular participant, I am active in a number of professional organizations. As a member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), I engage in regular training and work to advocate for students’ best interests throughout the process. I am also a member of the Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA) and follow their standards and code of ethics.
Location: I have unique experience with both domestic and international university admissions on each side of the Canada – US border.
Finally, I am a Minnesota native who is thrilled to call Calgary, Alberta home. With the Canadian Rockies nearby and a city filled with rich diversity, innovative arts, and engaged citizens, I am proud to be a part of the energy in Calgary. Given my professional experience on both sides of the border, I am uniquely able to help students navigate post-secondary between the two systems, whether applying as domestic or international students.
I work with students throughout Alberta, across Canada and the United States, and around the world. The admissions and financial aid processes differ depending on where a student currently resides, their citizenship status, and where they will complete high school. I can help you successfully navigate these differences with ease.
“Thank you so much for making college planning less stressful. I honestly don’t know what I would have done without you because the process is not easy. I also appreciate you getting back to me as soon as you could because I had so many random questions. Thank you for EVERYTHING!
KVP Student