Kimberly Ortiz

College Admissions Consultant She/Her/Hers

College Admissions Consultant

Former Admissions Officer California Institute of Technology

Former Admissions Officer Harvey Mudd College

Former Application Reader Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship

My Background

I joined College Coach after working in admissions at two highly selective, STEM-focused institutions. At California Institute of Technology (Caltech), I evaluated student applications for a wide range of scientific fields like Aerospace, Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, and more. I was also fortunate to lead the admission evaluation process for students applying to Caltech through QuestBridge, a nonprofit that helps low-income students access educational opportunities. After Caltech, I became an Assistant Director of Admissions at Harvey Mudd College where I worked with exceptionally talented applicants who were interested in pursuing an interdisciplinary liberal arts college education with a STEM focus.. At Harvey Mudd, I interviewed prospective students, evaluated D3-recruited athletes, and led DEI recruitment initiatives.

“The guidance and preparation maximized [my son’s] opportunity and got him into the best college possible. If I had been 'guiding' my son, it would have been much more stressful (and difficult on our relationship).

Parent of a Vanderbilt University student

Why I Joined College Coach

While I find the always-changing admission landscape fascinating, I realize it can also be intimidating for families and prospective students. I am passionate about dismantling admissions barriers to make higher education more accessible. I joined College Coach to share my love for higher education with prospective students and their families. Working 1-on-1 with families allows me to build strong relationships, acknowledge valid concerns, and guide families using the extensive knowledge I’ve gained in admissions. I want families and students to feel comfortable asking questions that will help them gain confidence in this process.

Get to Know Me

My Education

University of California, Los Angeles Bachelor of Arts, Worlds Arts and Cultures

University of California, Los Angeles Bachelor of Arts, Chicana/o Studies

I have worked with students interested in:

Aerospace
Art
Biochemistry
Computer science
Engineering
Hispanic serving
Ivy league
Large State Schools
Marine biology
Mathematics
Research universities
Science
Small liberal arts colleges
Technology
Two year colleges

I have also worked with:

First-generation students
High school admissions

Some of my favorite pastimes

Some of my pastimes include exploring new coffee shops (I am always open to recommendations), being active, spending a lot of time hiking, and keeping up with fashion. Like the high school students I work with, I enjoy engaging with extracurriculars, such as serving as the Vice President of Public Relations for my local Toastmasters club and mentoring my fellow Bruins in the UCLA Alumni Association Mentorship Program.

Interested?

Interested in learning more about how our college admissions counseling services can help your student succeed?

Call 877-402-6224 or complete the form for information on getting your student started with one of our experts.