Hi, I’m Krissy! I believe the college search process should feel exciting, empowering, and deeply personal — not just a checklist or stressful. My goal is to help students better understand themselves first, because once that happens, finding colleges that truly fit becomes so much easier.
I spend a lot of time getting to know each student through conversations, interviews, assessments, and reflection exercises. Together, we explore how they learn best, what environments help them thrive, and what they value most in their future college experience. One of my favorite parts of this work is watching students gain confidence as they begin to understand themselves not just as students, but as people. I also love that my students inevitably teach me something new every year too!
Families often appreciate that I bring a calm, encouraging presence to what can sometimes feel like an overwhelming process. I use a lot of positive reinforcement and strive to make every student feel supported, understood, and capable as we navigate decisions together. Whether we’re discussing academic programs, campus culture, learning styles, or long-term goals, I want students to feel excited about where they’re headed.
When I’m not working with students, you’ll usually find me at home in Bend, Oregon, where I live surrounded by trees and forest after spending many years in California. Growing up in Hawaii and Guam sparked my lifelong love of travel, different cultures, and great food — experiences that continue to shape the way I see the world and connect with people.
My favorite Part of the Process
One of my favorite moments in the college process is the college list presentation meeting. I have each student create and present a slideshow to their parents highlighting the colleges they’ve chosen for their application list. I give students plenty of creative freedom, and it’s incredibly rewarding to watch them bring together everything they’ve learned about themselves, their goals, and the types of colleges where they will thrive. Seeing students confidently present their choices in their own voice and style is such a meaningful moment — and one of the clearest examples of how much growth, self-awareness, and confidence develops throughout the process.
My Favorite Thing About College Connectors
The College Connectors team is an incredible group of knowledgeable and experienced counselors who genuinely care about students. I love that we regularly share ideas, support one another, and collaborate to help students find colleges that are the right fit. We work hard, but we also have a lot of fun together and laugh often, which makes being part of the team so rewarding.
My favorite workspace
You will find me at home, either at my desk with a view of the trees or in my kitchen nook overlooking our little waterfall pond. My dog Sky and cat Jango are almost always nearby, keeping me company while I work.
My Favorite Pastimes
Living in Bend means I get to spend as much time outdoors as possible, which is truly my happy place. I love hiking, mountain biking, and practicing yoga, especially when I can be surrounded by the beauty of Central Oregon. I also love traveling and experiencing new cultures and food. Most of all, I treasure spending time with my husband and our two grown sons, whether we’re together outdoors, sharing a meal, or simply enjoying time as a family.
Credentials
- M.S., Counseling specializing in School Counseling — San Francisco State University
- B.A., Psychology — San Diego State University
- California Credential in School Counseling
- Former School Counselor in several California school districts
- Former School Counselor for the federally funded GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) program
- Former School Site Council Member & Chair
- Member of IECA and HECA professional organizations
- First-generation college graduate
