About Me

My name is Cheryl Coughlin and I am the founder of BestFit College Advisors. I started BFCA because I have a deep-rooted passion for engaging and helping high school students achieve their goals and aspirations, and watching them grow into highly productive adults.

For more than 30 years, I have worked with high school and college students as an educator, mentor, and advisor. My experience as a business teacher has allowed me to teach our youth the importance of Financial Literacy. I also have 13 years of experience working with students with learning differences, helping them transition and succeed beyond high school. The majority of my life has been devoted to helping young people believe in themselves and define their post-secondary goals.

After receiving my undergraduate degree from Salem State University, I then went on to earn my graduate degree in Administration of Higher Education from Suffolk University while teaching at Burdett Business College in Boston among other post-secondary schools. After moving to Maine, I spent several years as an adjunct faculty member at a local community college, and then transitioned into the high school setting. I completed my graduate studies in Special Education at the University of Southern Maine. My extensive educational journey prepared me well for advising students through the college admissions process.

After effectively guiding dozens of students, I realized that my services in this area were greatly needed, and I ventured out and started my business; BestFit College Advisors. My passion is helping students find their "spark", and in turn, helping them achieve their goals - high school, college, and beyond. 

I am very active within the college admissions community, as its critically important to understand the trends within the industry. Visiting colleges, attending professional conferences and webinars, and networking with college admissions reps, and school counselors, will allow me to assist students to find their BestFit college.

 

I'm currently a member of: 

• Independent Educational Consultants Assoc. (IECA)

• Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA)

• New England Assoc. for College Admission Counseling (NEACAC)

• Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA)

• Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)

I understand the college admissions process from both sides. As a mother of three amazing children, who I've guided through this process, I can relate as a parent, and not only as a professional.

Planning for college can be an exciting time for some, while others find it confusing, stressful, and overwhelming. Our goal at BFCA is to make the journey enjoyable and informative, while also placing a student on a path to success. We welcome the opportunity to guide your child through a tailored approach that best fits their academic, social, and financial needs.