My Story - Meet Julie!
Hi! I’m Julie Kutsner—Independent Educational Consultant and founder of PathWize College & Career Consulting LLC, based in beautiful Colorado Springs, Colorado.
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I’ve spent over a decade helping high school students and their families navigate the exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) journey toward life after graduation. I started my career as a school counselor at a public high school in Colorado Springs, where I supported students academically, emotionally, and in their postsecondary planning. While I loved working with teens in all aspects of their development, I was always especially drawn to the college admissions and career planning side—whether it was through hosting “College & Career” nights, coordinating concurrent enrollment, or diving into college research right alongside my students.
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As the demands of school counseling grew, I found myself pulled away from what I loved most: building strong relationships and helping students create meaningful, personalized plans for their futures. That’s what inspired me to start PathWize—a space where I could focus fully on college and career advising in a way that’s thoughtful, tailored, and student-centered.
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Now, I work closely with students in grades 9–12 to guide them through college research, essay writing, applications, major and career exploration, scholarships, summer programs, internships, and more. I take the time to really get to know each student so we can create a plan that reflects who they are and what they want for their future—not just what's expected of them.
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I hold a Master of Arts in School Counseling from the University of Northern Colorado and am a proud associate member of IECA (Independent Education Consultants Association), NACAC (National Association for College Admissions Counseling), RMACAC (Rocky Mountain Association for College Admissions Counseling where I serve as the Executive Assistant), and CCC (College Consultants of Colorado). When I’m not working with students, you can find me enjoying the mountains, spending time with my family, or learning a new craft—I’m always curious!
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I’d love to partner with you and help your student feel confident and supported every step of the way!
What sets my practice apart from other independent college consultants is a committed understanding of how high schools operate and my desire to work collaboratively with them. As a former high school counselor, I’m familiar with the systems, processes, and platforms schools use to guide students through college and career planning. I hope to actively coordinate with school counselors and staff to ensure every student’s experience is as seamless and supportive as possible.
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But my work goes far beyond just college applications—I focus on true postsecondary planning. I take the time to get to know each student: their interests, strengths, goals, and values. This allows me to create a personalized roadmap that looks not only at college options, but also at what they want to do after they arrive on campus—and after they graduate. Together, we explore opportunities like internships, job shadowing, summer programs, microcredentials, and certifications that align with long-term aspirations. My goal is to help students not just get into college, but build a foundation for a fulfilling and purpose-driven future.
THE PATHWIZE DIFFERENCE
The Values I Built this Practice on...
Integrity
I believe that honest, ethical guidance is essential to building trust with students and their families. I approach every conversation and recommendation with transparency, always keeping the student’s best interest at the center of the process.
Adaptability
Every student is unique, and so is their path. I adapt my approach to meet the evolving needs, goals, and circumstances of each individual, ensuring support that is flexible and responsive.
Collaboration
College and career planning is a team effort, and I value the partnerships I build with students, families, and other educators. By working together, we create a supportive environment where everyone feels heard and empowered.
My Professional Affiliations
