Your Values. Your Goals. Your Path.

Welcome!

I'm Ariel, and I founded College Aligned because I saw too many students and their families making college decisions based on pressure, prestige, or price alone — rather than who they are and what truly fit. I believe the college process should be thoughtful, values-driven, and financially realistic.

I am a first-generation student (the first in my family to attend college), so I know first-hand how scary and overwhelming the process can be. Now as an independent college counselor, I work closely with students and families to navigate the college admissions process with clarity and confidence. My approach blends strategic college advising with meaningful conversations about identity, goals, and financial fit. I help students discover colleges that reflect who they are, what they value, and where they can truly thrive.

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Testimonials

“I first came to Ms. Ahlers having no idea what college was going to look like for me. Thanks to her, not only do I now know my goals, but I can see how individual colleges and universities might help me reach them. Thanks to her, and plenty of questions, I am able to say I will be attending the University of Notre Dame on a full-ride scholarship.

Let’s go Irish!!! ”

Grace, Class of 2023

“All students are deserving of a postsecondary education, and Ms. Ahlers made this standing clear throughout our time working together. Although this concept is far from new, she understood that for students of marginalized and first-generation communities, college symbolizes far more than four additional years of schooling. Today I stand as a first-generation Latina, studying pre-law and pre-med at a four-year university, none of which would be possible without the dedicated and unparalleled support of Ms. Ahlers.”

Norma, Class of 2022

"Ariel has helped me in so many ways as I begin my college journey. I had no idea what I wanted to study or what career I was interested in pursuing. Ariel helped me narrow down my interests and turn them into a career path I was interested in. I feel much more confident about college and my career path because of the way she has impacted me. She is always someone I can reach out to for help."

Sofia, Class of 2023