As an independent educational consultant, I specialize in the university admissions process. I approach this exciting time for each student and their family with optimism, passion, knowledge and empathy.
I am often humbled by the trust my students and their families place in me. I empower students to recognize their strengths, core values and opportunities for improvement, to value their instincts, and to gain confidence in their own voice. Highly selective universities seek authentic students, so it is very important for students to be able to showcase their authentic and best self through the application process and this does not come easily to most students.
I currently live between the US and in Trinidad & Tobago, with my husband. I first came to Trinidad in 2005 as a corporate consultant working on a project for BPTT. I loved the country, met wonderful people and have been here since. I have been fortunate to work throughout the Caribbean and have created a strong network across the islands.
I am a graduate of the Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and have a master’s degree in Public Policy and Economics from Georgetown University.
In 2016, I discovered my passion for university admissions counseling while volunteering with an amazing organization supporting inner-city youth. This organization hired an independent educational consultant (IEC) to support their students through the university admissions process and my interest was peaked. I jumped in to build university lists, edit essays and help complete applications. It was an amazing experience! I then earned a certificate in college counseling with distinction from UC San Diego. For more practical experience, I partnered with several established IEC firms in the US - two that have substantial expertise working exclusively with student athletes as well as another that works with international students.
As the owner of Ignite Global Consulting, a corporate strategy and transformation firm working with Fortune 1000 companies across the globe, I bring a professional perspective to the university admissions process, incorporating my strategic planning, project planning, marketing and organizational expertise to support this significant experience in the lives of students and their families.
Understanding what each university is looking for, how to best position yourself, creating a project plan and timeline are key for successful outcomes. And I know these well!
I am a member in good standing of several key industry associations, each of which sets individual membership requirements demanding years of specialized experience, education and training, and a firm commitment to continuing education. I attend at least two industry conferences per year to stay up to date on all policy and process changes and to make sure I’m hearing first hand what admissions officers are looking for.
I visit at least 25 universities per year and meet with admissions counselors, financial aid officers and students at each school to get a well-rounded picture of that school – what some of the unique characteristics are, how supportive they are of international students, how generous their financial aid is and what types of students will excel there.
I am not “tick a box” type of person. When working with me, you will never “just get it done” you will always be supported on how to put your best foot forward – an essential step in life, and certainly in this competitive landscape.
M*Power adheres to: IECA Principles of Good Practice