I know this journey from the inside. I have two children, both of whom dreamed big — academically and athletically. And like so many families, we didn’t have a lot of money. I remember the weight of that: wanting to protect their dreams while facing a financial reality that could have easily gotten in the way. I refused to let it. With a lot of hard work, a lot of resourcefulness, and a whole lot of faith — their dreams came true. Both of them. And that changed everything about how I show up for the families I serve.
I founded Beyond Ivy to be the guide I wished I’d had: someone who combines professional expertise with genuine personal investment in your student’s outcome. I hold a Master of Education (M.Ed.) and am a Professional Member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) — a distinction that reflects a commitment to the highest ethical and professional standards in the field. As a Certified College Financial Consultant (CCFC) and a You Need A Budget Certified Coach (YNAB), I bring a rigorous, whole-picture approach to financial aid strategy and family budget planning.
My Student-Athlete Advisor Credential means I understand the specialized, high-stakes world of athletic recruiting — the timelines, the rules, and the opportunities families often don’t know exist. And as a Human eSources Certified Assessment Professional, I help students explore who they truly are, so we can find the environments where they’ll genuinely thrive.
My approach is simple: I start with your family’s reality, then let your student lead. My job isn’t to steer anyone toward a prestigious name on a sweatshirt. It’s about asking the right questions, opening the right doors, and making sure your family walks into this process informed, empowered, and never alone.
Your student has a future worth curating. I’d be honored to help shape it.
My commitment to this work goes beyond credentials — it’s reflected in the training I’ve pursued and the recognition I’ve earned. I am a graduate of the IECA Summer Training Institute and hold a Certificate in Independent Educational Consulting from UC Irvine. I serve as a College Planning Expert with College Aid Pro, and I am proud to have been featured as an industry expert by Maia Learning, a leading college admissions platform trusted by schools and advisors nationwide.
I invest in my own education so I can bring the very best to yours.
College planning is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. Each student is unique, with their own strengths, interests, and aspirations. That’s why our comprehensive services are tailored to the individual needs of each client.
With character assessments, digital portfolios, personalized essay and standardized test prep, we make sure you put your best foot forward.
We enable homeschooled students to make a smooth transition to into college life.
We streamline the athletic recruiting process and find you the best academic and athletic fit.
College visits are instrumental to selecting the right school. Do more than take the tour.
A gap year isn’t just a year off. It’s a time to grow, gain experience, and learn more about what you want from your future.
Your activities and organizations in during high school can set you up for success in college and beyond.
Learn how to determine your affordable family contribution and receive guidance on scholarships and college financial planning.
Our process includes in-depth assessments of each student’s character, skills, and academic profile. Through a series of personalized meetings and assessments, we work to uncover the student’s true passions and potential, laying the groundwork for a college search that is aligned with their authentic selves.
Armed with this deep understanding of the student, we then embark on the college search process, leveraging our extensive knowledge of the higher education landscape to identify institutions that are the perfect fit. We don’t just look at rankings or name recognition – we delve into the unique culture, resources, and opportunities offered by each school, ensuring that our recommendations are based on what will truly enable the student to thrive.
Once the college list is finalized, we provide comprehensive support throughout the application process. From crafting compelling essays to navigating financial aid and scholarships, our team of experts guides students and families every step of the way, ensuring that every detail is handled with the utmost care and attention.
But our commitment to our clients doesn’t end there. We maintain close relationships with our students, even after they’ve been accepted to college. We offer support and guidance as they navigate the transition to campus life and beyond, ensuring that they continue to thrive in their chosen institution.
Sara Buffington is a teacher, tutor, and professional writer. She graduated from the College of William and Mary with a degree in English.
She has published several books and written hundreds of articles for educational websites. Although she loves to write, her passion is working with people. She has been an English and writing teacher for middle through high school.
She has tutored numerous high schoolers (including her own children) in all types of essay writing including those required for college admission.
Although she personally homeschools her children, she also has experience working with students in public and private schools.
Sara is dedicated to cultivating the student’s personal voice, so they can present their best and authentic self in their writing.
Chauntrice is a Project Manager at Beyond Ivy Educational Consulting with over a decade of experience in higher education, student success, and client engagement. Since joining in October 2024, I’ve led initiatives that streamline operations and improve client services.
With degrees in Health Services Administration and Health Informatics, a Master’s in Career & Technical Education, and certifications including Career Development Facilitator, She takes a data-driven, equity-centered approach. Her background spans academic operations, EdTech adoption, and student retention strategies. She’s passionate about building strong client relationships, delivering scalable solutions, and advancing inclusive practices in education.
“Beyond Ivy exceeded my expatations and helped remove almost all the
stress with an amazing outcome. Before I met Rose Ellen, I was preparing
our sweet student friend that it is very difficult to get into college and that
a four year institution may not be in the cards. I am thrilled beyond words
that our student was accepted to all three major universities she applied
for AND qualified for financial aid.”
Laura O.
Parent
“Their personalized approach and in-depth knowledge of various institutions made the entire process so much smoother and less stressful. I am now at a college that not only meets my academic and social needs but also provides me with excellent opportunities to grow and excel in cross country and track. Beyond Ivy’s dedication to finding the best fit for me has made all the difference, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice and I am so grateful I have found my perfect place!”
Hannah
Student
