Students walking together on a college campus
2,000+
UC applications scored as an admissions reader
25
years of school counseling experience
13
years as a high school Director of Counseling
9–12
grades we guide, start to finish
100+
families guided through Balanced College Planning
4
national associations we belong to
Success is a journey, not a destination.

Balanced College Planning helps you chart a course that fits who you are and where you want to go.

Rya Carpenter, founder of Balanced College Planning
How we help
Support at every step
Plan the high school years

Academic advising, extra curricular planning, and career exploration that builds a strong, authentic foundation from 9th grade on.

Build the right college list

Personalized college research and applications, including essay support and athletic recruiting advising, targeted to each student's goals and annual progress.

Make it affordable

Financial aid planning, so families can make confident, informed decisions.

"My oldest son wanted to attend a four year university and play basketball. He worked with Rya Carpenter his junior and senior years, and we found the perfect academic and athletic fit. She is experienced, well connected, and knowledgeable in all aspects of college counseling. Take the stress of applications, NCAA eligibility, deadlines, test scores, and essays off your plate and enjoy the journey with your child."

Lisa S.
Let's chart your course.

We're based in sunny California and ready to help your family navigate the road ahead.