Why Hire Me?

Because I understand teenagers. Because I understand colleges. And, most importantly, because I care.

I’ve worked with teenagers all my life. I know how overwhelmed they are and understand their concerns and fears. Students need an advocate to cut through the noise and help them find their own individual path to colleges that will nurture and inspire them - whether in their home country or abroad. I help students expand their horizons and concentrate on the factors within their control. I develop meaningful relationships with all my students and enjoy more than a few laughs along the way.

- Kathryn Ackerman



Background

I moved from London in the UK to Northern Virginia about 20 years ago. I double-majored in history & classics and moved straight into the education field. I have over fifteen years of industry and education experience in the UK and US university systems and the US K-12 field, including ESL and creative writing tutoring.

I founded Admission Pathways in 2018 to provide advice and assistance to families from around the world. My own children are cross-culture kids of British, Indian, and Nepalese heritage, and we have personally navigated multiple unfamiliar education systems.

I am passionate about helping families minimize their stress and feel more in control of the process. Having helped each of my children through their own very different college journeys, including one with severe health issues, I understand that everyone’s experiences are unique and help must be personalized to be effective.

Professional Development

I completed the Independent Education Consultant Certificate Program at UC Irvine with electives taken in American College Consulting for the International Student and International College Consulting for the American Student. I have also recently received the International University Advocate Professional Certificate/Badge from NACAC and believe continuous professional development is essential is in this ever-changing field. I keep abreast of changes in the higher education industry, attending webinars and conferences. When I am not meeting with students and their families, I am busy visiting colleges and building relationships with industry professionals.


Industry Qualifications & Ethical Standards

Professional Memberships

  • IECA - Professional Member of the Independent Education Consultant Association.

  • NACAC - Individual member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling

  • International ACAC - Individual member of the International Association for College Admission Counseling

  • PCACAC - Potomac & Chesapeake Association for College Admission Counseling

  • SACAC - Southern Association for College Admission Counseling

Community Based Organization Involvement

  • ScholarMatch Coach - supporting first-generation and underserved students achieve their college potential