About Me

I am a mom. An auntie. A teacher. A writer. A researcher. An advocate for kids. In 2016, two of my beloved nephews, knowing that I like to write, asked for help with their college applications. Much to our surprise, we enjoyed the process (most of the time). And we were all delighted when they were accepted to their top choice colleges!

Two years later, my son and his friends came to me for help. In working with them, I came to believe that this was the work I was meant to do. I took a chance and applied for a job as a college essay advisor for a large college prep company, got that job, learned the business, and then set out on my own.

Since then, I’ve helped dozens of young people from all over the country find the right college, and perhaps more importantly, discover who they are.

In addition to college counseling, I am an Adjunct Assistant Professor at SDSU, and I’ve worked for more than a decade as a Research Associate at SDSU’s Institute for Public Health. Prior to that, I consulted with nonprofit organizations about strategic planning, fund raising, and program development and worked for 14 years as Vice President of Programs at Voices for Children, the San Diego Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Association.

And finally, my educational background: After graduating from high school in Kansas City, MO, I received my undergraduate degree magna cum laude from Boston University, my Master’s degree in Child Development from Tufts University, and spent some time in a Human Development and Psychology doctoral program at Harvard.

I love using my understanding of research and statistics to inform my work, my deep knowledge about child development to relate to students, and my writing skills to help students craft the best college applications.

I’m always happy to answer your college-related questions, so reach out any time!

I am a professional member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association.