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Aligning your college plan to what works for you.
Every student is different. Some are navigating competitive admissions. Others are still discovering their strengths and direction. Many families are understandably concerned about affordability and long-term debt.
My role is to bring clarity to the process — serving as both guide and project manager from start to finish. Through personalized college list development, admissions strategy, essay coaching, and cost-conscious planning, I help students align their goals, values, and financial reality with the right college fit.
College should feel like an exciting step forward — not a compromise or a gamble. My goal is to help your family make confident, informed decisions that feel right both emotionally and financially.
Credentials:
Career and Life Planning Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF)
Certified Career Services Provider (CCSP)
Certified College Funding Specialist (CCFS)
MA in Educational Leadership - Higher Education AdministrationBachelor of Arts
BA in Social Science - Career & Life Planning
Minor: Child Development
Meet Ariel
Hi, I’m Ariel Ahlers, and I started College Aligned because I know how overwhelming the college admissions process can feel for both students and their families. My goal is to help families stay organized, make thoughtful decisions that align with both student goals and family finances, and navigate the college journey with greater clarity and less stress.
My background blends experience in finance, career services, and college advising. I have worked with students in K–12 settings as a college advisor and have taught career planning at both the high school and university levels. I am also certified in the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and Strong Interest Inventory (SII), allowing me to use proven assessments to help students better understand their strengths, interests, and potential career paths.
I make it a priority to stay current on the rapidly changing landscape of college admissions and financial aid. I regularly attend conferences, trainings, college visits, and college fairs so families receive informed, up-to-date guidance—saving parents the time and stress of trying to navigate the process on their own.
I look forward to learning about your student’s goals, values, and aspirations, and helping your family identify colleges where they can thrive academically, personally, and financially.