College planning focused on
finding the
right fit
Finding the Right college is about discovering where your student will truly belong.
Kristen McSherry
Independent Educational Consultant
I guide families through the pressure of college planning to discover schools that offer the best blend of academic challenge, social connection, and financial comfort.
I help you free up family time for making memories—not meeting deadlines.
How we work together
Start With a Balance
We'll create a clear roadmap that builds confidence through structure while keeping wellbeing at the center.
Discover Strengths
We'll spotlight what makes your student unique and create opportunities to develop these talents meaningfully.
Look Beyond Rankings
We explore colleges based on how well they match your student's goals and interests—not only their selectivity.
Find True Fits
We consider academic fit, social connection, and financial comfort to find schools where your student will thrive.
Guide Applications
We provide structure and feedback as your student creates authentic applications for their best-match schools.
Services That Support Your Journey
EARLY HIGH SCHOOL SUPPORT
Consulting and expert assistance in crafting a 4-year academic plan
COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING
Full guidance and support throughout junior and senior year
SENIOR SUPPORT
Focused help for students starting later in the process
TARGETED CONSULTING
Expert guidance for specific needs
Why Families Choose This Approach
Every student deserves a college experience that energizes and inspires them. Every family deserves to enjoy their time together. With over a decade of experience in college admissions research, membership in professional organizations for independent educational consultants, and a background in education, I bring both expertise and heart to your family’s college planning journey.
My family-focused approach focuses on:
Building on your student's unique strengths and interests
Prioritizing mental health and balanced decision-making
Looking beyond rankings to find custom college fits
Creating a positive, lower-pressure application experience
Maintaining family harmony throughout the journey
As a mom who's been through this process, I understand the delicate balance of supporting while stepping back, of guiding while letting go.
Professional Expertise
With a certificate from UC Irvine's Independent Educational Consultant program and membership in HECA and PNACAC, I combine professional expertise with personal understanding.
My background as a legislative aide and teacher brings together my love of research and education with my passion for helping students find their best-fit colleges.
For families who value
Making the most of these last years at home
Supporting your student's mental health and wellbeing
Creating a balanced, positive college search experience
Choosing schools based on genuine fit rather than rankings
Let’s Connect!
Ready to focus on finding your student's right-fit college?
Let's talk about creating a great college planning experience for your whole family.
With her guidance, we could confidently make choices. She listens, she empathizes, she has a natural way of connecting with young adults, and in the words of my son, “isn’t naggy like my mom.” She innately knows how to guide in a way that empowers kids.”
-John K, Bellevue, WA