Biography

Kristina Dooley is a Certified Educational Planner (CEP) and founder of Estrela Consulting. Prior to launching Estrela Consulting in 2008, Kristina served as the Assistant Director of Admission at Hiram College (OH) and as the Director of Admission and Marketing at Andrews Osborne Academy (OH). In her previous positions, Kristina had the opportunity to assist students with varying academic and extracurricular interests and abilities with their school search processes. These experiences were the foundation for Kristina’s interest in assisting families through a process that, though seemingly complex, can also be very exciting!

In addition to assisting students from the U.S., Kristina has had the opportunity to work with students from around the world. Having lived in Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico, Kristina has a strong sense of the hurdles international students and “global nomads” face when applying to study in the U.S. or Canada. Her experiences living abroad have helped to strengthen her passion for working with international and expatriate students, particularly those in Latin America.

In addition to her work with students, Kristina is an instructor for the University of California Irvine teaching College Consulting Resources and also serves as a faculty member of the IECA Summer Training Institute for aspiring educational consultants. An expert in her field, Kristina has contributed to several websites, books and magazines on education-related topics. A sought after speaker, Kristina presents at conferences around the country each year.

Kristina earned a B.A. in Communication and Sociology from Hiram College, and an M.A. in Public Relations Management/Journalism from Kent State University. Kristina is a Professional Member and Past President of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA), and is a member of the Ohio and International Associations for College Admission Counseling (OACAC & IACAC), and the National Association of College Admission Counseling (NACAC). In addition, Kristina is a member of the Hiram College Board of Visitors, the IECA Foundation Board, sits on the Advisory Board of Hudson Community First, serves as a mentor for College Now Greater Cleveland and volunteers for JDRF Northeast Ohio.