Company Overview
Premier College Consulting provides personalized educational consulting services designed to guide students and families through every stage of the college admissions process.
Central to our work is a strong partnership among the student, parent or guardian, and Independent Educational Consultant (IEC), grounded in honesty, trust, and open communication.
As Independent Educational Consultants, we work collaboratively with students and families to empower them to navigate the college journey with confidence. Together, we develop a realistic, thoughtful strategy that helps students explore options, understand opportunities, and make informed, well-matched college decisions. Our team-based approach ensures that each student’s academic strengths, personal interests, and long-term goals remain at the center of the process.
Premier College Consulting offers individualized support across all aspects of college planning, including college exploration and selection, application strategy, admissions guidance, and the financial aid process.
Our mission is to empower students to confidently pursue educational opportunities that align with their unique needs, aspirations, and future goals.
Ann Marie Mutz
Founder and President
Ann Marie is an experienced counselor, consultant, adjunct professor, and mother of two college-aged children. She brings the knowledge, skills, and patience needed to guide students through every step of the college admissions and financial aid process. Through her coaching-based approach, families find her supportive, practical, and refreshingly down to earth.
A Message from Ann Marie
I am the Founder and President of Premier College Consulting and an Independent Educational Consultant with over 30 years of experience in education.
Prior to launching my private practice, I served as a School Counselor at an urban public high school, where I supported a caseload of 170–200 students in grades 9–12.
Throughout my career, I have been an advocate for students and their families, working closely with them to address social-emotional needs, work readiness, and college and career planning. What I enjoyed most was working one-on-one with my seniors as they navigated the college admissions and financial aid process — helping them make informed, confident decisions about their futures.
In addition to my counseling role, I have held numerous leadership and educational positions, including Class Advisor, Coach, Club Advisor, Mentor, Department Chair, Adjunct Professor, and presenter of college workshops within the local community. These experiences have strengthened my ability to connect with students, collaborate with families, and guide individuals with diverse backgrounds and goals.
As the mother of two college-aged children, I have experienced the college process from both a professional and personal perspective. I understand the uncertainty, stress, and financial concerns that families face, and I bring empathy, honesty, and practical guidance to every relationship.
My philosophy is simple: hard work pays off, and asking for help is a sign of strength.
I try to be an active listener and problem-solver who meets students where they are — without judgment. My approach is rooted in a coaching model, where I teach, train, and guide students and families through the college selection process with clarity and purpose. Whether the journey is smooth or challenging, I believe that with straightforward communication and collaboration, every student can arrive at an educationally sound decision that fits both their goals and their circumstances.
Let’s do this together!
Credentials
Education & Certifications
Master of Science: Guidance and Counseling
Bachelor of Science: Business Administration
Certificate Program: Independent Educational Consultant Certificate Program
MA DESE Certification: Principal and Assistant Principal
MA DESE Certification: School Counseling
NYS Certification: School Counseling
Mentor certified in the state of MA for Secondary Education
Experience
30+ years in secondary education as a School Counselor and Department Head at Pittsfield High School in Pittsfield, MA
4+ years in higher education as an Associate Director of Admissions at Russell Sage College
Committee member to several organizations: Berk12 (Berkshire Educational Resources K12) Shared High School Course Study Team, STEM Committee at Berkshire Community College, Graduation Requirements Committee, PBIS Committee, Berkshire County Portrait of a Graduate Committee, District Drop-Out Prevention Committee, Alternative Education Committee, Board Member of Dollars for Scholars
Co-Presenter with the College Readiness Series organized by Adams Community Bank College Night Program for all Berkshire County residents
Instructor for the MCLA (Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts) Summer Academy - College Admissions Summer Course
Professional Mentor for the Massachusetts School Counselors Association (MASCA)
Berkshire Community College STEM-Starter Summer Representative
Member of Early College Team with Berkshire Community College
Coordinator for over 20 years of the College Board SAT Program held at Pittsfield High School
History of excellent evaluations and building rapport with students
Awards
2025 Impact Award Recipient, presented by the Mill Town Foundation to recognize outstanding teachers and staff members across Pittsfield Public Schools who exemplify excellence, innovation, and a deep commitment to students and the school communities
We adhere to IECA Principles of Good Practice:
Which are ethical guidelines that govern the actions of any IECA member in their work with schools and colleges, students and families and with colleagues.
We adhere to NACAC’s Guide to Ethical Practice in College Admission:
Reflects the association’s long standing commitment to principled conduct among professionals who support students in the college transition process from secondary school to postsecondary education.
We have experience working directly with:
Small, medium, and large universities
Private and public universities
Universities throughout the United States
Massachusetts State Colleges and Universities
Admissions Counselors
School Counselors
Financial Aid Counselors
Speaking Engagements & Workshops
Ann Marie is available for a variety of speaking engagements including schools, home school networks, and community events. She is also available to lead college application workshops.
Please reach out if you are interested.
