Empowering college-bound students to make their dreams a reality.

Catalyst College Counseling provides college-bound students and their families with personalized counseling and support through the college selection and admission process.

Welcome!

The college search and admissions process has become more complicated and competitive in recent years and Catalyst College Counseling consultants’ goal is to make the process easier and less stressful for families.

Whether you are a straight-A student with a long list of extra-curricular activities and community service, or a struggling student with a story to tell, college counselors Kate Harmer and Jon Harmer can help you find, apply, and get admitted to a college that meets your academic, social, emotional, and spiritual needs while achieving a good financial fit.

Indiana University

College Counselor Kate Harmer provides comprehensive, one-on-one college counseling services to help high-school students navigate the complicated college admission process. Students work directly with Kate on pre-college planning, career & major exploration, developing a college list, time management & meeting deadlines, college application essays, application completion, and finding scholarship & financial aid resources.  

Jon Harmer specializes in job interview prep for summer internships and that critical first job out of college. Jon brings years of experience in the business world as a manager and interviewer of prospective employees and can help guide young adults to secure an internship or job that will be both fulfilling and a strategic stepping stone.

Kate Harmer, MBA, MPH
College Counselor

Auburn University

We can act as your guide, interpreter, and facilitator for the entire selection and application process.

Working with someone who understands the system can be invaluable during this stressful time. We have experience in college admissions and know the intricacies of test preparation, applications, essays, interviews, and financial aid. We can even help you decide what academic, personal, and work experiences will best prepare you for success on campus. 

Our Services >

Berry College

Our counselors have undergraduate and graduate degrees from top institutions.

We spend hours with you, getting to the heart of the applicant's personality, interests, qualifications, and aspirations. A successful admission begins when we learn as much as we can about you, then work to find the college or graduate school that provides the best environment for your educational, social, professional, and personal growth. It's not only about being accepted – more importantly, it's about thriving at the institution that is the right fit for you. 

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Furman University

Don't just take our word for it...

  • "Thank you for all of your time and energy in making my college search successful!"

    North Springs Student

  • “I think your no nonsense approach and organized method helped her keep on track and manage things.”

    Dunwoody Parent

  • "I really appreciate the help you gave and found it very valuable.”

    Marist Student

  • "Our daughter was admitted to all 10 schools that we applied, which included a mix of safeties, matches and reach institutions."

    Grady Parent

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Helpful Resources

  • Quick Links

    We've compiled a list of links to help you through the college selection and admissions process. We have information on standardized testing and test prep, college search tools, and financial aid / scholarship info to help you wherever you are in the college search.

    Get the List

  • Best Practices

    We've seen it all, and we're happy to share our top tips and observations from years in the college counseling field. Avoid common mistakes and set yourself up for success by following a few key best practices.

    Catalyst Tips

  • Customized College Plan

    Students and Parents: Access your customized college plan below. (This resource is for current clients. For more information, please contact us.)

    College Planner Pro