About Me

Group of six people including a graduate in red robe, posing for a photo indoors.

Greetings! I’m Karen Oppen, an independent educational counselor located in Phoenix, AZ. dedicated to helping students and families navigate the complex college admissions process. With firsthand experience as a parent of college-aged kids, I understand the unique blend of excitement, stress, and important decisions that come with this journey.

I’m a current member of Independant Educational Consultants Association and have certificates from UCLA and NACAC.

As a parent of four children — each with different interests, goals, and college paths — I deeply understand how overwhelming the college admissions process can feel. The sheer amount of advice out there is enough to make your head spin. I’ve been there: reading all the books, following the podcasts, and still feeling unsure about what would truly help my kids succeed. That experience taught me how confusing and stressful this journey can be — and it’s why I became an Independent Educational Consultant.

A little about me…I’m from Philadelphia, PA and have BS in Chemical Engineering from NC State University. I worked in that capacity until I had my first child. So, after spending many hours volunteering in K-12 schools, I thought it was time to get back in the workforce and follow my passion for college admissions.

I work closely with students and families to reduce the overwhelm, create clear timelines, and develop strong, authentic applications that reflect each student’s best self. My approach is student-centered, compassionate, and designed to help your child find colleges where they will thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

If you're looking for college admissions help, application coaching, essay support, or guidance in building a balanced college list, I am here to partner with your family every step of the way.

Let’s Begin