Kari Pinkernell
College Counseling
Kari brings a thoughtful, analytical approach to college counseling, shaped by her years as an Investment Strategist at Merrill Lynch and her experience guiding her own three children through the college admissions process. She discovered her passion for helping students during her family’s college search journeys and is committed to making the process clearer, calmer, and more manageable for the families she supports.
Kari draws on her strengths in research, communication, and strategic planning to help students identify “best-fit” colleges that align with their academic goals, personal interests, and financial needs. Through the process, Kari works with students to develop the confidence and independence they need to thrive in college. Known for her organized and personalized style, Kari breaks the application process into manageable steps, keeping students focused, motivated, and confident from start to finish.
As a contributor to The New York Times, Money Magazine, and The Wall Street Journal, and a frequent guest on CNBC, FOX News, CNN, and Bloomberg TV, Kari has built a career on translating complex information into practical and insightful guidance. She brings that same clarity and care to her work with students, helping them explore their interests, tell their stories authentically, and reach their highest potential.
Kari has a BA in Economics and Statistics from St. Lawrence University, an MBA in Finance from NYU Stern School of Business, and a Certificate in College Counseling from UCLA. She is also a member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association.
Best advice: “Start your college search by understanding who you are: your strengths, interests, goals, and the environments in which you thrive. With that self awareness, the application process becomes more focused, less stressful, and much more successful.”

