Meet Christen!

Christen DeSimone, College Counselor

With nearly three decades of experience in education, Christen DeSimone brings a rare combination of heart, high standards, and hands-on expertise to her role as a college counselor. A former English educator, department head, and high school counselor in the academically driven Edison School District of New Jersey, Christen has helped countless students chart paths to college—often balancing academic readiness with personal growth, wellness, and resilience. She’s known for her deep knowledge of the college process and her unwavering belief in each student’s ability to succeed.

Christen holds master’s degrees in both Literacy and Counseling, a state certificate in Student Personnel Services, and a supervisory credential—all of which fuel her holistic, well-informed approach to counseling. She’s supported a broad spectrum of students: from high-achievers aiming for the most selective institutions to those still discovering their strengths and direction. At John P. Stevens High School, where she served as both a counselor and leader on the I&RS and 504 committees, Christen became known for her compassionate, student-centered advocacy.

As Christen explains it:

“I’m not just here to help students get into college—I’m here to help them grow. I see each student as a whole person, and I work to understand who they are, what they care about, and how we can bring that to life in their applications.”

Christen’s strengths lie in essay coaching, academic planning, and guiding students with a blend of compassion and clear expectations. She excels at creating structure around deadlines while still making room for students’ creativity and voice, and she’s particularly effective with families who value honest guidance and deep knowledge of the admissions landscape.

A lifelong learner and educator, Christen is also a devoted mom of three sons currently navigating the college journey themselves. When she’s not counseling, she enjoys practicing yoga, watching baseball, and finding new ways to help young people believe in what’s possible.

Education & Experience

Montclair State University, M.A.

Rutgers Graduate School of Education, M.A.

Rutgers University, B.A.

John P. Stevens High School, school counselor

Edison Township Board of Education, literacy leader

John Adams Middle School, student services counselor

Professional Organization Memberships

NACAC: National Association for College Admission Counseling