MEET THE TEAM
Experienced. Dedicated. Here for Your Family.
Behind every student’s success is a team that truly cares. We combine deep expertise in college admissions and financial planning with a passion for helping students thrive.
Our Story
For more than two decades, we’ve helped students uncover opportunities, build confidence, and achieve their biggest dreams. Our approach is personal, proven, and focused on what matters most—your student’s future.
Every student. Every year.
You can trust our expertise.
In merit scholarships and grants.
More Scholarships
With the right strategy.
In student debt.
For families.
Our Mission
We empower students to discover their potential, create meaningful opportunities, and achieve extraordinary results through purpose-driven projects and strategic guidance.
We’re Here For You
We partner with students and families every step of the way—providing clarity, direction, and support.
Personalized 1:1 Guidance
Strategic Planning That Gets Results
Ongoing Support From Start To Finish
Empower Education. Expanding Our Mission Beyond Admissions
We believe in the power of education to change lives. Through our outreach and partnerships, we support students and communities around the world.
Our Core Values
These values guide everything we do—and shape the outcomes we achieve.
Purpose Driven
We lead with purpose and help students find theirs.
Student Centered
Every plan is tailored to the student’s unique strengths and goals.
Excellence
We hold high standards and deliver exceptional results.
Integrity
We are honest, ethical, and always act in our client’s best interest.
Innovation
We think creatively to open doors and create opportunities.
Collaboration
We work together with families, mentors, and communities.
Impact
We measure success by the positive difference our students make.
College Ready helped my daughter turn her love for the environment into a project that changed her community-and earned her a full-tuition scolarship.
– Michelle T.
Parent of College Ready Student
Meet The Team
Experts who care. Advocates who deliver.
Shellee Howard, Founder and CEO
With more than 18 years of experience in college planning and student success, Shellee leads with heart expertise and a commitment to life-changing results.
Michelle Rodriguez
Debra Carlson Wood
Kristine Johnson
Erica Norgren
Keri Anderson
Makena Ouiliette, BSN, RN
Dr. Ryan Ouiliette
Yona Walya
Dr. Renae McGowen
Julienne Ross
Mark Allen
Dannika Witt
And more caring experts dedicated to your student’s success.
Our Professional Team Certified for Results
College Admissions Experts
Certified Educational Consultants
Financial Aid & Scholarship Specialists
Experienced Counselors & Mentors
See What
Families Say
We were "very" lucky to have found College Ready! They were the perfect help for my high schooler. They helped shape his application with all his accomplishments nicely packaged, guided all their students through tough Covid times providing tons of alternatives, provided insightful seminars, were very encouraging throughout the process ... all in all a very enriching experience that gave us good r...
As we celebrate our son heading off to UCLA this fall, we also reflect on the level of guidance we had with the College Ready team. It took a village to get through this process and stay sane in the journey. The last 6 months have brought peace of mind as we had the ability to lean on College Ready to navigate all our sons' offers to find the right 'fit'. We wouldn't be where we are today without ...
My parents went to college but it was in another country so they could not help me. Shellee and Michelle were for me every step and took the stress out of not knowing. While my friends were angry at their parents for putting pressure on them, I was working on my own plan and rarely felt anxious. Knowing what to expect and allowing my parents to step back was a blessing to my family.”
As a mother , I was looking to find a great college counselor to help my son get ready for his future education. I’m so grateful to know that Shellee and her amazing team will give all resources, support and encouragement to my son. Shellee is so passionate about helping students and has a big heart. My son feels much more confidence since he started this journey with Shellee. Every time we have...