You know don’t know what you don’t know.
And that’s exactly why you’re here.
Rooted College Planning helps busy families with a plan for college so they can find the right colleges, reduce the overwhelm, and hit deadlines with less stress.
You're an involved, educated parent. You've done your research. And you still feel completely lost.
You're not sure where to start, what deadlines matter, or whether your kid is already behind. Nobody's explained the difference between scholarships and merit aid and what that means for your family.
And every time you bring it up at home, it turns into a thing.
That’s where Rooted College Planning comes in.
Families who work with Rooted College Planning walk away with a college acceptances that fit their student, a clear plan for affording them, and a lot less tension at the dinner table.
My job is to take the guesswork, the Googling, and the decision fatigue off your plate so you can show up for your kid instead of spiraling about deadlines.
Why Rooted College Planning?
I'm a Certified Educational Planner with two master's degrees — one in higher education and one in family and human development. Before starting Rooted, I spent over a decade working inside college admissions and enrollment offices, so I understand how colleges think about applications, affordability, and merit aid in ways that most families never hear about until it's too late.
I've also built Rooted to stay intentionally small, because your family deserves someone who actually knows your kid.
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Max of 15 students per graduating class so your child receives personal support
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Nearly 100 campus visits to better understand campus cultures and college offerings
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Over a decade of experience in helping teenagers and their families thrive
Not sure where to start? That's okay — that's what I'm here for.
What families are saying
Class of 2023
“Carly worked so well with our daughter to navigate the journey and help keep her on track. We were thrilled that she worked so positively with Carly! Rooted College Planning was worth it!”
– Kirsten, Parent
Class of 2023
“Carly helped me better understand and approach the college admissions process by making me feel confident in all of the steps I had to take. She ensured I knew what to expect.”
– Nola, Student
Class of 2022
“I just got my first acceptance letter! Thank you, Carly, for all your help through the process, you were a huge help in making the process easier and less stressful.”
– Deborah, Student
Learn why teenagers and families trust Rooted College Planning.
Who This Is For
The Rooted Method — my customized, step-by-step plan — works best for families who are ready to stop guessing and start planning. Ideally, our work together starts junior year, though it's never too early to get grounded.
Most parents tell me they weren't even thinking about this until sophomore or junior year. If that's you, you're not behind — you're right on time. And if your child is a freshman, there's a foundational path for you too.
Resources to Help Your Student Succeed
Not ready to work together yet? That's okay.
Browse the blog for guidance on college affordability, parent-teen dynamics, college readiness, and more, written in plain language for parents who just want to understand what's going on.