Our Core Values

• We guide each student to define and achieve their goals and celebrate their individuality. 

• We are a team. You get our collective experience and expertise.

• We partner with our clients. 

• We are always innovating, with an eye on current trends and adapting to be our best.

• We think outside of the box. We encourage our students to do so as well.

Elisabeth Morgan, MALS, CEP

Founder and CEO, College and Graduate school consultant

My Approach

My role is part strategist, part teacher, and part coach. I help students understand how the college or graduate school admissions process really works, make thoughtful, informed choices, and tell their stories with clarity and confidence.

Just as importantly, I work with students as whole people—not as résumés or checklists. My goal isn’t just to help students get admitted somewhere; it’s to help them feel grounded, understood, and empowered as they move toward what’s next.

I break big, stressful processes into manageable steps, explain the “why” behind the advice, and meet students exactly where they are—whether they’re confident and curious, anxious and overwhelmed, or somewhere in between.

How I Got Here

My career has taken me through college admissions, classroom teaching, and educational planning. Across all those roles, I kept meeting students who needed more time, more context, and more individualized attention than traditional settings could provide.

That’s what led me to launch College Matters in 2003. The idea was simple then—and still is now: every student deserves thoughtful, one-on-one guidance that helps them make sense of their options and move forward with purpose, whether they’re applying to college, graduate school, or professional programs.

Who I Work With

I enjoy working with students who are curious, thoughtful, and still figuring things out—as well as those who already have clear goals. I work with both high school students and graduate-school applicants, and my experience guiding students through advanced-degree admissions gives me a broader, long-view perspective on how different choices can lead to meaningful outcomes.

I live by the motto “Be firm in your goals, but flexible in your plan,” and I truly enjoy helping students uncover pathways they may not yet have considered, in and out of the classroom. Whether a student is drawn to science, the arts, athletics, technology, or something still taking shape, my role is to help them move forward with clarity, confidence, and a sense of possibility—at whatever stage of the journey they’re in.

What Matters to Me

Equity and access are core to how I approach this work. For many students—particularly first-generation students or those from historically underrepresented backgrounds—the admissions process can feel opaque, intimidating, or full of unspoken rules.

I aim to be a steady, thoughtful guide: someone who explains the landscape clearly, advocates when appropriate, and creates space for students to ask honest questions without fear of judgment. My job is not just to advise, but to make sure students feel supported, respected, and capable throughout the journey.

Outside the Office

When I’m not working with students, you’ll usually find me reading, enjoying the outdoors, either playing platform tennis or skiing, experimenting with new technology, or enjoying time with family. I’m endlessly curious, a lifelong learner at heart, and someone who genuinely enjoys helping people make sense of big decisions—whether that’s choosing a college, a graduate program, or the next chapter of their lives.

Sarah Rickelman, MBA

Senior admission Consultant, College and MBA

I’m Sarah Rickelman, an Educational Consultant at College Matters, where I work with students and families on both college and MBA admissions. I believe this process should feel clear, manageable, and even enjoyable—and I aim to bring calm, perspective, and the occasional sense of humor along the way.

My Approach

I meet students exactly where they are. I see my role as a dedicated guide, breaking a complex process into manageable steps so the path forward feels clear and grounded. I tailor my approach to each student’s personality—listening closely to their goals, or helping them define those goals—so we can identify options where they’ll be both academically successful and personally fulfilled.

This is an important milestone, and while it can feel high-stakes, it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.

Experience and Perspective

I joined College Matters in 2008 and have spent nearly two decades helping students navigate the evolving college and MBA admissions landscape. Over the years, I’ve worked with a wide range of students and families, which allows me to anticipate challenges and offer steady, informed guidance throughout the process.

Strategic and Financial Insight

I hold an MBA and have a background in financial analysis, which allows me to approach admissions strategy with both clarity and realism. I help families understand how academic fit, admissions strategy, and financial considerations—such as merit aid—work together.

My goal is to translate complex information into a clear, cohesive plan that supports strong outcomes without unnecessary stress.

A Parent’s Perspective

I live in Madison, Connecticut, with my husband, our three children, and our lab. As a parent who has navigated these decisions firsthand, I understand the emotions and high stakes involved—and I’m committed to helping families move through the process with confidence and clarity.

Marcy Beatty

Senior college admission Consultant

I’m Marcy Beatty, a College Admission Consultant at College Matters since 2017. I believe in the transformative power of education and enjoy helping students find purpose through higher education.

My Approach

I like to help students better understand themselves so they can more clearly define their goals. I can then guide them on researching, identifying, and applying to schools that are truly a good academic, social, and financial fit. 

Central to our work together is helping students craft a cohesive application that conveys their strengths and authentic voice to admissions officers, thereby making a compelling case for admission. 

By using an informed, refined process and clear timeline, I help students move forward with confidence and agency, completing tasks on time to reduce anxiety and naturally improve outcomes.

Experience and Perspective

I began my career in the classroom as a high school teacher, then worked in business marketing in New York City and San Antonio. When I had my children, I returned to education through youth development work with middle and high school students, and volunteer parent leadership positions in the public schools in my town. Having gone through the college search and application process with my two children,  I also understand the parent perspective.

In 2017, I earned my Certificate in College Counseling from UCLA Extension, and am a Professional Member of the Independent Educational Consultant Association (IECA). I also trained with the WOW Writing Workshop to help students bring authenticity and clarity to their essays.

This broad combination of experiences in business and education informs how I help students tell their stories and how I partner with families. 

Staying Current

 I have visited well over 100 colleges and regularly visit campuses and attend webinars with admissions officers and leaders in the field to deepen my understanding of the ever-changing admissions landscape and to identify schools that may be the best match for my students.  I also value the collaborative culture at College Matters, where I can rely on other consultants to share their knowledge or offer second opinions as I work to provide the best, most up-to-date, and relevant information to my students and families.

What I Enjoy Most

I really enjoy working with high school students, learning about their lives, their interests and challenges, what motivates them, and how they think about and see the world. It is tremendously rewarding to witness their growth as they become more independent and assured through this process.

Taylor Schultz, MA

College admission consultant

I’m Taylor Schultz, a College Admission Consultant at College Matters. I help students navigate both the excitement and uncertainty of the college process by combining my background in teaching with a student-centered, relationship-driven approach.

My Approach

I believe the best outcomes come from strong relationships and clear guidance. I work closely with students to understand who they are, what motivates them, and what they need to feel confident throughout the process. From there, I help students identify colleges that are a strong academic, social, and financial fit, and support them step by step as they move forward.

A central goal of my work is helping students recognize their own agency—so the process feels empowering rather than overwhelming—and present themselves authentically and confidently in their applications.

Experience and Perspective

I earned my BS in Elementary Education with a concentration in Writing and my MA in Curriculum and Instruction, both from the University of Connecticut. As part of my graduate studies, I completed a teaching internship in London, an experience that broadened my perspective on education and deepened my love of travel.

With more than five years of classroom teaching experience across diverse communities, I bring strong relationship-building skills and a deep understanding of how students learn.

Supporting Diverse Learners

I have extensive experience working with students with a wide range of learning profiles, including those with IEPs and 504 plans. This background helps me support students with different needs, strengths, and challenges, and to tailor the admissions process so it feels accessible and manageable for each individual.

Staying Current

Since joining College Matters, I’ve pursued continuing education through the University of California, Irvine, focused on college counseling and educational planning. I also stay engaged with professional resources and communities to ensure I’m providing students and families with current, thoughtful guidance.

What I Love About This Work

I love helping students move through a process that can feel daunting at first and discover that they have more options—and more confidence—than they expected. Supporting students as they clarify their interests, identify their best-fit schools, and present their authentic selves is the most rewarding part of what I do.

Christine Dokko, JD

COLLEGE ADMISSION CONSULTANT

I’m Christine Dokko, a College Admission Consultant at College Matters. I bring the perspective of both a former admissions professional and a parent of two undergraduates, and I believe the college application process can be a meaningful season of self-discovery—not just a source of stress.

My Path to College Consulting

I began my career as a trusts and estates attorney in New York City before transitioning into college admissions, where I spent several years as an admissions reader for highly selective institutions. Seeing applications from the inside showed me how thoughtful guidance and clear storytelling can truly make a difference—and ultimately led me to work with students one-on-one.

My Approach

My priority is to guide students and families through a clear, well-informed, and organized process that helps students put their best foot forward. I focus on reducing stress by helping families understand what matters most, what matters less, and how to approach each step calmly and intentionally.

I aim to create structure without pressure, and clarity without overwhelm.

Commitment to Access and Education

Beyond my work at College Matters, I’m deeply committed to educational access and student support. I serve as an academic advisor, college essay coach, and board secretary for Guilford A Better Chance, and I’ve volunteered with a range of education-focused organizations supporting students and families at different stages of the admissions journey.

Training and Perspective

I earned my bachelor’s degree from Harvard University and my J.D. from New York University School of Law. I also hold a certificate in college counseling from UCLA Extension and am a Wow Writing Workshop–certified essay coach, reflecting my focus on helping students develop strong, authentic written voices.

Kate Beichner

COLLEGE ADMISSION CONSULTANT AND ESSAY SPECIALIST

I’m Kate Beichner, a College Admission Consultant and essay specialist at College Matters. I’m deeply committed to helping students find well-matched educational paths and to making the college application process thoughtful, organized, and personal.

My Perspective on Holistic Admissions

With today’s emphasis on holistic admissions review, I understand how important it is for students to present applications that are both authentic and confident. I help students identify and articulate their unique strengths, experiences, and perspectives so their applications feel genuine and compelling to admissions readers.

At the heart of my work is helping students develop an education plan that aligns with their academic, social, experiential, and financial priorities—not just where they can get in, but where they can truly thrive.

My Approach with Students and Families

I believe deeply in listening—carefully and fully—to both students and families. I bring a calm, steady presence to the process and welcome all questions, big and small. My goal is to create individualized plans and manageable timelines that reflect each student’s learning style and needs, while helping families keep perspective and enjoy this exciting moment.

Experience and Perspective

Throughout my career, meaningful and well-matched education has been a guiding force. Before joining College Matters, I taught in public, charter, and independent schools across Texas, California, South Carolina, and Connecticut. These experiences gave me a deep appreciation for different learning styles, educational backgrounds, and the many dimensions of “fit.”

I hold a B.A. in Psychology from The Pennsylvania State University, an English Language Arts teaching certification from Texas A&M–Kingsville, and I am completing a Certificate in College Counseling from UC Berkeley Extension.

What I Value Most

I’m proud to be part of a collaborative team that stays deeply engaged with the evolving higher education landscape. Students benefit from a process that is informed, supportive, and responsive—and ultimately leave feeling more confident, self-aware, and prepared for their next academic chapter.

Shelly Milstein, JD

LAW SCHOOL ADMISSION CONSULTANT AND ESSAY SPECIALIST

I’m Shelly Milstein, a Law School and College Admission Consultant at College Matters. I bring the perspective of a longtime attorney, former admissions professional, and education advocate, and I’m deeply focused on helping students showcase their strengths and gain admission to schools where they can truly thrive.

My Path to Educational Consulting

I graduated from the University of Michigan Honors College with honors in English and earned my J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center. At both universities, I worked in the Office of Admissions and later served as a Georgetown Law admissions alumni interviewer and a University of Michigan Alumni Association membership ambassador.

I spent more than two decades practicing as a litigation attorney, including extensive jury trial and appellate work. For over a dozen years, my legal practice focused on education law, and I also served on my local Board of Education—experiences that shaped how I think about students, institutions, and access to opportunity.

My Approach with Students

In recent years, my work has centered on helping students identify and clearly communicate their strengths, perspectives, and goals. I focus on helping students present themselves thoughtfully and persuasively—so their applications reflect not just accomplishment, but intention and fit.

I’ve worked with students in both school-based and private settings, including at a highly selective Atlanta high school and with students across the Atlanta area and around the country. In every case, my goal is to help students feel confident, prepared, and proud of the stories they are telling.

What I Value Most

I believe the college and law school admissions processes can be both rigorous and empowering. When students understand how to advocate for themselves—and feel supported while doing so—they’re better positioned not only for admission, but for success beyond it.

Rebecca Chase, MEd

Essay SPECIALIST

I’m Becky Chase, an Essay Specialist at College Matters. I focus on helping students craft college essays that genuinely reflect their unique talents, qualities, and personalities—so their writing sounds like them, not like what they think admissions officers want to hear.

My Approach to Essays

I believe the best essays come from thoughtful reflection, careful listening, and a process that allows students to gain confidence in their own voices. I help students identify what matters most to them, shape their ideas clearly, and present their stories with authenticity and purpose.

My goal is for students to walk away not only with strong essays, but with a deeper understanding of themselves and what they bring to a college community.

Experience and Perspective

I bring many years of experience working in college environments. Earlier in my career, I served as the women’s tennis coach at Yale University and as a tennis and squash coach at Tufts University and Trinity College. These roles gave me firsthand insight into college life and the many ways students grow and contribute beyond the classroom.

I’ve also worked as a grant writer and educator internationally with organizations including the National Peace Foundation and Save the Children, experiences that shaped how I think about storytelling, purpose, and impact.

Education and Background

I earned my B.A. in Psychology from Williams College, completed master’s-level coursework at Tufts University, and hold a Master of Education from Cambridge College in Massachusetts.

Since 2007, I’ve worked as an essay specialist both independently and with College Matters. I formally joined the College Matters team in 2012 and continue to bring my experience, insight, and enthusiasm for writing to the students I work with.

Katie Condulis

Client Experience Manager

I’m Katie Condulis, the Client Experience Manager at College Matters. My role is to make sure families feel supported, informed, and genuinely cared for throughout what can be both a stressful and exciting chapter of their lives.

My Role at College Matters

Since joining the team in 2018, I’ve focused on the behind-the-scenes details that shape each family’s experience—from communication and scheduling to logistics and follow-through. My goal is to create a smooth, welcoming process so students and parents can focus fully on the work they’re doing with their consultants.

I often serve as a first point of contact for families, and I take pride in making sure questions are answered promptly and that nothing slips through the cracks.

Background and Perspective

Before joining College Matters, I spent many years working as a Physical Therapist. That experience strengthened my skills in listening closely, problem-solving thoughtfully, and responding with empathy—skills that translate naturally into this role.

Alongside my professional work, I’ve been deeply involved in community outreach and volunteer leadership in my hometown of Old Saybrook, which has further shaped how I support families.

A Parent’s View

As a parent who has navigated the college admissions process with my own children, I understand the emotional highs and lows that come with this journey. That perspective helps me anticipate what families may need and respond in ways that feel organized, personal, and reassuring.

My goal is for every family’s experience with College Matters to feel calm, clear, and supportive from start to finish.