About Kristen McSherry

My path to college consulting began with a surprising comment from my daughter. After working with a professional college consultant during her application process, she turned to me and said, "You should do this!” 

That vote of confidence, combined with my decade-long passion for researching college admissions trends, sparked something. After my daughter's successful journey to her perfect-fit school, friends started seeking my guidance over coffee. As word spread and more families found success with my approach—focusing on fit over prestige and spending time together over stress—a friend finally said what I needed to hear: it’s time to become a college consultant so you can help more families.

Kristen McSherry College Consulting Bellevue Washington

“We are so grateful to have found Kristen. She is knowledgeable, patient, and supportive. She has guided our daughter on high school course selection, offered recommended summer enrichment opportunities, and answered a multitude of questions – from standardized testing to strategies on finding the ‘best fit’ college. We were feeling totally overwhelmed with how to set our daughter up for success in the college selection and application process. Having a resource like Kristen to partner with to help cut through the noise has proven invaluable.”

— Kim D, Redmond, WA

Kristen McSherry college consulting based in Bellevue Washington

My years of researching college admissions evolved into something deeper when I experienced the journey with my own daughter. Despite my knowledge of trends and strategies, I saw firsthand how the college planning process can overshadow the final high school years. This realization led me to pursue an approach that transforms college planning from a source of stress into an opportunity for connection. 

Now, I'm dedicated to helping other families navigate this journey while protecting what matters most: their relationships with each other and their student's well-being.

Why I Do This Work

How I Help Families Like Yours

I work with families who want to:

  • Understand how the college admissions process really works, beyond the myths and misconceptions

  • Find schools that match their student's academic goals, personal interests, and financial resources

  • Learn how to evaluate colleges based on concrete factors like program strength and outcomes

  • Get clear guidance on financial aid, merit scholarships, and actual cost of attendance

  • Build a strategic college list that balances ambition with smart planning

  • Enjoy more family time and stress less about deadlines

  • Stay organized and on track throughout the application process

I help demystify the college application process and walk alongside your family as your student searches for their right fit college. Together, we'll look beyond the rankings to find schools that offer the right blend of academic opportunity, campus culture, and financial comfort.

My Background

My approach to college consulting draws from real-world experience and a lifelong commitment to education:

  • Proven success helping students find their perfect-fit schools

  • A decade of hands-on research into college admissions trends and best practices

  • Former middle school teacher with an MA in Education

  • Background in policy work as a Legislative Aide in Washington, DC

  • Active involvement in local schools and community

  • Most importantly, personal experience as a parent through this journey

Recent students have found their perfect match at institutions including:

  • The University of Michigan

  • University of Virginia

  • University of Washington

  • University of Oregon Honors College

  • University of Georgia Honors College

  • University of Indiana Kelley School of Business

    —each chosen not for their rankings, but for how well they align with each student's goals, interests, and finances.

Professional Affiliations & Education

I maintain active membership in key professional organizations and pursue ongoing education in college consulting:

  • Independent Educational Consultant Certificate from UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education

  • Member of Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA)

  • Member of Pacific Northwest Association for College Admission Counseling (PNACAC)

  • Master of Arts in Education

  • Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science, University of Washington

Let’s Work Together!

Ready to explore your family's college planning journey? Let's talk about creating a positive experience that incorporates both your student's future and your family's present.