About

Kristen Merica is a dedicated and experienced college counselor with more than 20 years of experience. She began her career at a Cincinnati non-profit, where she developed and directed a successful college access program for first-generation students. Currently, she works as a school counselor at a private high school in the Cincinnati suburbs.

Throughout her career, Kristen has guided hundreds of students and their families through the college admissions process, helping them navigate it with confidence and enthusiasm. She focuses on the individual student, considering their unique interests, strengths, and goals to help them make informed decisions about their futures. She works closely with students and families to help them manage the college research and application process. She is experienced in working with students who have specialized interests and a range of abilities. 

Kristen holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Xavier University, a Master of Education in School Counseling from the University of Cincinnati, and a Professional Certificate in College Admissions Counseling from the University of California, Riverside.

A Cincinnati native, Kristen enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with her family. 

Ohio Association for 

College Admission Counseling

American School Counselor Association

As a member of college counseling professional organizations, Kristen follows strict ethical guidelines, including NACAC's Guide to Ethical Practice in College Admission.

Who Gets In and Why: A Year Inside College Admissions, by Jeffrey J. Selingo

The Price You Pay for College: An Entirely New Road Map for the Biggest Financial Decision Your Family Will Ever Make, by Ron Lieber

Where You Go Is Not Who You'll Be: An Antidote to the College Admissions Mania, by Frank Bruni

The Truth about College Admission: A Family Guide to Getting In and Staying Together, by Brennan E. Barnard, Rick Clark

Colleges That Change Lives: 40 Schools That Will Change the Way You Think About Colleges, by Loren Pope

College Essay Essentials: A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Successful College Admissions Essay, by Ethan Sawyer