Take control of your college process
We’re here to help
Welcome to KJ College Counseling! Whether you are here as a prospective client or simply trying to learn more about the college process, we are ready to help.
While the college search and application process has changed over recent years one constant remains: this period of time is exciting, life changing and filled with opportunities for growth. The application process does not need to be stressful—if approached with intentionality, commitment and partnership between student, parent(s) and myself we open up the space for a more relaxed and healthier journey.
Who we are…
*With decades of school-based counseling experience across three independent schools we provide students the care and attention they deserve as they move through the college search and application process.
*We have extensive experience in working with a wide range of students including:
Highly academically motivated students
Students who may have gotten off to a slower start in high school
Those gifted in the visual and performing arts
Athletes who have chosen to play college athletics.
*Proven track record of working ethically and positively with students to ensure their voice is heard in their applications.
*Widely connected through both regional and national associations which has allowed for individual relationship building with admission directors and counselors around the country.
*Working with a select group of students we will not exceed 20 seniors in one year which will guarantee a 20:1 student to counselor ratio for my clients.
We love what we do and consider it a privilege to work with students and families at such an important time of their lives.
If you would like to learn more about what services we can provide in addition to prices/packages, please email me: Kelly@KJcollegecounseling.com
Sample Admits for Classes of 2022 & 2023
Harvard, University of Virginia, University of Michigan, University of North Carolina, University of Minnesota, Boston College, University of Texas, Wake Forest, Texas A&M, NYU, University of Wisconsin, Hamlin University, Washington University - St. Louis, Clemson, Texas Tech, Columbia, Carleton College, Northwestern, Reed, School of Visual Arts - New York, Macalester College, Trinity University, University of Richmond, University of Oklahoma, Trinity College, University of Chicago, Loyola University-Chicago, Pepperdine, Arizona State University, St. John Fisher University, Emory, Georgetown, Southern Methodist University, Duke, Johns Hopkins, Connecticut College, University of Rochester, UC - Santa Cruz, Rice University, Yale University, Southwestern, Case Western Reserve University, Syracuse, Auburn, University of Houston, University of Colorado
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Harvard, University of Virginia, University of Michigan, University of North Carolina, University of Minnesota, Boston College, University of Texas, Wake Forest, Texas A&M, NYU, University of Wisconsin, Hamlin University, Washington University - St. Louis, Clemson, Texas Tech, Columbia, Carleton College, Northwestern, Reed, School of Visual Arts - New York, Macalester College, Trinity University, University of Richmond, University of Oklahoma, Trinity College, University of Chicago, Loyola University-Chicago, Pepperdine, Arizona State University, St. John Fisher University, Emory, Georgetown, Southern Methodist University, Duke, Johns Hopkins, Connecticut College, University of Rochester, UC - Santa Cruz, Rice University, Yale University, Southwestern, Case Western Reserve University, Syracuse, Auburn, University of Houston, University of Colorado 〰️
What People Are Saying
Kelly is calm under pressure, has a wealth of knowledge, and is the voice of reason. She did a wonderful job of managing expectations, while still allowing us to “dream”. So thankful to have her wisdom and insights during this very difficult process. She “got” my kid and we are so very thankful for the outcome! Thank you, Kelly. Forever grateful!
Mindy H. - Parent
There simply are no words to describe the appreciation and admiration I have for Kelly Jorgensen. I approached my first formal college meeting with KJ at a San Antonio Starbucks in the summer of 2021 anxiety and caffeine ridden; all I could manage to do was talk a mile a minute about different strategies and statistics in an attempt to steer the conversation away from all the fears that plagued my thinking. I had allowed the college process to control me before my relationship with it had even begun, and not only did KJ instantly recognize this fact, but she knew exactly how I could take back control. As the next eight months ensued, she was my rock through countless hurricanes: doubting myself enough that I almost changed my main essay entirely, interviewing with esteemed alum from across the country, competing for full-ride scholarships from prestigious universities, and so much more. The number of times that I called KJ to cry, laugh, vent, or seek feedback might appear comical to anybody who has not endured the college process as a student in 2022, but I assure you that she was the advocate and advisor that my parents and teachers did not have the knowledge or expertise to be.
As a result, I came to control the process–not the other way around. This liberation allowed me to truly enjoy my senior year and relish in all of the moments high schoolers deserve to delight in, and when the time was right, my hard work paid off. We wisely created lots of options because the ultimate final acceptance decision wasn’t in our control. So, I set myself up to achieve a goal. And we very authentically went for it. And we did it.
Kathleen - Harvard Class of 2026
Working with Kelly was such a blessing! The personal attention that our daughter received was priceless. Kelly helped her organize the application process making it much less stressful. Her advice and support were pivotal in helping our daughter put together stellar applications. Kelly’s knowledge of what each school was looking for was incredibly valuable in helping her application stand out. Our daughter got into her dream school and we are so thankful to Kelly for helping her put her best foot forward. Thank you Kelly!
Rachel (parent)
Where to begin! Kelly was the only reason our family stayed sane throughout the college application process. She gives straightforward, honest information yet at the same time is an extremely encouraging mentor. She takes the time to get to know each student and then helps them create applications that truly reflect their own uniqueness. Navigating senior year is a challenge for both students and parents, but having Kelly as a guide was the best decision. She will be your child’s greatest motivator, advocate, and cheerleader!
Cyrena- Parent of Senior in class of 2022
We hired Kelly to support our daughter because of her strong level of knowledge in the college counseling area. She kept us abreast of key decisions and timelines for the application process. As a parent she kept me informed on Penny's progress and pending items. She also served as an ear when decision time came around and helped us gain perspective and guided our daughter to select the best option/offer for her needs. I would highly recommend having her in your corner. She was God sent!
Norma- Parent of Senior in class of 2022
I have known Kelly for nearly a decade, having witnessed her work with students when I was an admissions counselor for a premier, highly-selective U.S. university and most recently as a college counseling colleague. I can say with certainty that there is no one better in the country. Kelly represents the best of what college counselors should be: She is knowledgeable beyond measure and uses her admissions insight to help students craft strategic and purposeful college applications. I have witnessed first-hand her relentless and adept advocacy for students, and her results speak for themselves. She places the student at the center of the process and helps families prioritize their values in the college admissions process to accomplish realistic goals while not sacrificing aspirations or opportunities. Kelly is well-known by college admissions departments across the United States and collaborates with enrollment officers frequently, granting her direct access to information often kept "behind the curtain" of college admissions. She uses all of these skills and perspectives to empower students and families to tackle the college admissions process with confidence. Most importantly, she places the needs of the whole student -- from social emotional and physical health to college and career aspirations -- at the heart of her work to ensure that students are cared for, championed onward, and supported throughout the process. Simply put, Kelly Jorgensen is the consummate college counselor and advocate for students during the college admissions process.
Dustin L. -Colleague
I highly recommend Kelly Jorgensen to help your child through the college application process. She was incredibly thorough, made it enjoyable for my son, and helped to alleviate this first-time- college-mom’s stress completely. Kelly watched deadlines, oversaw timelines, and read, edited and encouraged on essays. By the time the submit buttons were pushed, my son felt confident and prepared. There is no one better. We had success in the process and I attribute much of that to Kelly!
Mitzi P. - Parent
I had the pleasure of working with Kelly Jorgensen in the College Counseling Office at an Independent College Preparatory School. In her role as Director of College Counseling Kelly created a professional, open and relaxed environment in dealing with students and their parents as well as teachers and staff. Kelly was truthful with her counselees and their parents. She was able to calm anxious parents and students and lead them to consider colleges and universities that met their needs academically and socially. These included the small liberal arts colleges, art schools as well the larger universities. What was the “best fit” for the student and their family was most important.
Kelly’s working relationship with college and university representatives was exceptional. Having worked in the college counseling field for many years, she was on a first name basis with representatives and directors. Together they worked to find appropriate colleges/universities for students.
Kathy S. - Longtime Colleague
Mrs. Jorgensen made one of the most difficult decisions of my life feel very logical and easy. Choosing a college was a very difficult decision for me as I have always been someone who feels a lot of anxiety and stress when making big decisions. Mrs. Jorgensen understood this and helped weigh out my options in a way that was very easy to understand. She took into consideration things that were very important to me, even if they were very minor. I am very thankful to have had someone who cared so very much. Because of Mrs. Jorgensen, I am a very happy college student!
William N. - Former Student
I just touched down in Ohio for the last time. The last four years for P. at Denison have been nothing short of magical and life changing. Some colleges truly do change lives and we owe it all to you. We are forever grateful. We remain the poster child family of how “trusting the process can work…if you let it.”
Aimee L-Parent
I had the privilege of working with Mrs. Jorgensen and greatly appreciated her professionalism and experience as I navigated the college application process. I want to preface my testimonial by sharing that Mrs. Jorgensen has a clear passion for what she does and it shows; throughout the whole process she was always willingly available to answer my questions or simply talk about life.
During the college process, Mrs. Jorgensen not only helped me identify my college list using her extensive knowledge of schools but also guided me through the complex process of applying to a vast collection of schools, and finally, she helped me choose the right school for me. Mrs. Jorgensen took time to get to know me and my family so she could better assist us in making the college decision that was in my best interest. Finally, when the time came to choose between two schools, Mrs. Jorgensen was the person I trusted to help me think through my options, and after our conversation, I was confident that Clemson University would be my home for the next four years.
I could not have asked for a better college counseling experience and I am still beyond grateful for all that Mrs. Jorgensen did for me and my family as we navigated my college journey and I will never forget her role in helping me find my dream college.
Bryce - Former Student
Kelly Jorgensen was the college counselor for my family. Well, she was the college counselor for my son, but trust me when I say she counseled all of us! My son was completely stressed and overwhelmed by the college application process. More so than I even realized. At our first meeting, despite not knowing my son well, Kelly immediately picked up on his anxiety and reacted perfectly. She was able to connect with him, pull important information from him regarding his fears, and give him some manageable tasks to complete. And then, she turned to his father and I and gave us our own tasks in addition to some much needed advice to help us all survive the process.
We all left that meeting still stressed and overwhelmed but finally feeling like we had someone in our corner to guide us through!
Over the next few months, we found ourselves looking forward to meeting with Kelly in addition to her check-ins via phone or email. She communicates with the perfect blend of humor, straightforwardness, and compassion – always holding my son accountable and pushing him while building trust and confidence. And honestly, she did the same for me. I felt confident that Kelly truly wanted my son to find his perfect match. And as I began to see that he was trusting that too, I was able to step back and let the two of them do their thing. The college application process can be stressful. Having someone we trusted to guide us through made all the difference in the world!
Jill W. - Parent
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Available Services
Classes are full for 2023-2024 School year. Reservations for 24-25 Jumpstart plan will open in December 2023. For all other 24-25, plans reservations will open January 2024.
Jumpstart Plan
Who: Current Junior (Class of 2025)
*Time Frame: Beginning January 2024 through April 2025.
This package is designed to support the current junior from pre-application through regular decision release; guidance deciding where to attend (after decisions are posted) and added support moving through deferrals and waitlists, if necessary.
This opportunity will include:
*Development of a personalized college application success plan (including the “summer of intentionality” between junior and senior year, course selection for senior year, an assessment of activities and a review of strengths and areas of needed improvement)
*Meet in person (or over zoom) a minimum of one time as a group (group=student, parent(s) and consultant)
*Assess current college list and develop options best suited for student’s goals
*I will work with you to establish a manageable timeline based on student obligations and commitments. The goal is to create deadlines that support the student in completing in a timely manner to minimize stress and maximize the opportunity for a healthy and positive experience throughout the entire search and application process.
*Discuss test scores and test optional schools
*Creation or revision of a resume for the student
*Full review of all applications prior to submission to ensure accuracy and consistency (this is especially important in the activities section)
*Individualized support on how to approach essays, edits, and feedback for main common app/apply Texas and all supplements for up to a total of 15 colleges
*I will personally guide the student through the UC application (this will count as only one of the 15 colleges regardless of how many UC schools the student chooses to apply to)
*Assessment and recommendation on what plan (ED I & 2, EA, REA, RD and Rolling) is best for the student based on their goals
*Upon request, I will provide an additional letter of recommendation through the common application which does not replace the school based letter but serves as a supplement.
*Parents and students have unlimited contact hours with consultant, face to face (in person or zoom), email and phone
Premium Plan
Who: Rising Senior (Class of 2025)
*Time Frame: July 2024 through April 2025
This package is designed to support the rising senior from pre-application through admission decision release of April 1st This package is ideal for the applicant who is planning to apply to 8 (eight) or fewer schools.
This opportunity will include:
*Development of a personalized college application success plan
*Meet in person (or over zoom) a minimum of one time as a group (group=student, parent(s) and consultant)
*Assess current college list and develop options best suited for student’s goals
* I will work with you to establish a manageable timeline based on student obligations and commitments. The goal is to create deadlines that support the student in completing in a timely manner to minimize stress and maximize the opportunity for a healthy and positive experience throughout the entire search and application process.
*Discuss test scores and test optional schools
*Full review of all applications prior to submission to ensure accuracy and consistency (this is especially important in the activities section)
* Individualized support on how to approach essays, edits, and feedback for main common app/apply Texas essay and all supplements for up to a total of 12 (Twelve) colleges
*I will guide the student through the UC application (this will only count as only 1 of the 12 colleges regardless of how many UC schools he/she chooses to apply to)
* Assessment and recommendation on what plan (ED I & 2, EA, REA, RD and Rolling) is best for the student based on their goals
*Parents and students are limited to 24 face to face contact hours with consultant (in person or zoom) Consistent email and phone support up to the eight college limit
Let’s Get Started
Who: Rising Junior - (Class of 2026)
*Time Frame: July 2024 through April 2025.
This package is designed to support the student/family who feels that they need a “head start” in getting the ball rolling as they look ahead at the college search and application process. This allows the student, family and consultant the gift of time to make a plan and really design an intentional approach that is best for the student.
This opportunity will include:
*This package allows for 10 (ten), one- hour meetings (in person or over zoom) and limited email support throughout the year
*Areas of focus will include, but are not limited to:
*A full review of the transcript and a holistic review of additional activities and involvement the student has participated in to date
*Assistance in building a resume for college purposes
*Support in applying for summer programs, if applicable
*Discussion surrounding the best use of the students’ time for the summer between junior year and senior year
*Devise a testing plan
*I will work with the student and family to build the initial college list for the student to research based on interests, location and any other factors that are important
*Explore the concept of demonstrated interest
*Discuss campus visits
*Revision of potential college list as the student moves through their junior year and is able to identify more specifics and explore decision plans
*Ideally, with teamwork and commitment from family and consultant, the student will feel confident at the end of the junior to pursue the application process with enthusiasm and an action plan
Early Bird
Who: Rising Freshman and Sophomores (Classes of 2027 and 2028)
*Time Frame: July 2024 through April 2025
This package is designed for the student/family who is eager to get an overview of the college process. The idea of this package is to introduce topics and to encourage a healthy approach toward high school that is developmentally appropriate.
This opportunity will include:
*This package allows for 4 (four), one-hour meetings (in person or over zoom) between student, parent(s) and consultant
*Areas of focus will include, but are not limited to:
*Start the conversation of intentionality
*How to approach high school in terms of involvement and interests
*Review of courses selected for current year and input for the following year
*Discussion about how to spend summers
*Assistance with summer program applications
*Encourage the tracking of activities and involvement
*Review testing plans (when to test based on curriculum)
