About Mamas’ College Knowledge
A Personal Approach to
College Counseling
We’re Ivy and Cabrina, the two moms behind Mamas’ College Knowledge — and we’re here to simplify the college admissions process for students and families across the country. As certified school counselors and proud parents, we bring a rare combination of professional insight and personal understanding to every student we work with.
We know what it’s like to sit on your side of the table. We’ve helped our own kids navigate this path, and we’ve guided countless others to colleges where they not only got accepted — but felt at home, challenged, and supported.
Our Mission
To empower students and their families with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to make informed, intentional, and exciting decisions about higher education.
Our Story:
Where Professional Guidance Meets Mom-Wisdom
How It All Began
Mamas’ College Knowledge was born from real-life experience. After decades of guiding hundreds of students through the college application process—and later walking the same path with our own children, even beyond matriculation—we saw firsthand how overwhelming this journey can feel for families.
There were endless deadlines, dozens of decisions, and way too much pressure. Most importantly, many students were choosing schools based on rankings, not on fit. That’s why we created Mamas’ College Knowledge: to provide expert, compassionate support that makes the process clearer, less stressful, and more successful.
Why the “Mama” Matters
We’re not a faceless agency. We’re not just “experts.” We’re two real people who care deeply about the success and well-being of every student we serve.
Our clients know us by name. They trust us to guide their teens with compassion and clarity — and yes, sometimes with a little tough love, too. We build relationships, not just resumes.
Our Philosophy:
Each Student Is Unique
Every student is unique — and deserves a college experience that reflects their values, interests, and goals.
College admissions should be empowering, not anxiety-inducing.
A right-fit college isn’t always the most well-known one — it’s the place where a student feels challenged, supported, and excited to grow.
Families need a guide, not just a checklist.
We aren’t here to push an agenda. We’re here to walk beside your family — offering insight, accountability, and encouragement at every step.
What Sets Us Apart
Personalized Attention
No two students are the same — and neither are our strategies. From academic interests and career goals to extracurricular passions and personal challenges, we tailor our counseling approach to fit each student’s life and learning style.
Warm, Nonjudgmental Support
We don’t believe in panic, pressure, or perfection. We believe in progress. Whether your student is a high achiever, a late bloomer, or still figuring things out — we meet them exactly where they are, without judgment.
Real Communication
We’re big on communication — with students
and parents. We keep you informed, organized, and on track through every milestone. You’ll never feel lost or in the dark about what’s next.
Results That Feel Right
Sure, we celebrate acceptances. But we’re just as proud when a student discovers a college they didn’t know existed — one that fits them academically, socially, and financially.
Who We Work With
We guide students from diverse backgrounds, academic levels, and interests. Whether your teen is aiming for Ivy League schools, exploring liberal arts colleges, considering out-of-state options, or just starting to think about the future — we’re here to help.
We Support:
Meet the Mamas
Cabrina Noonan, M.A.
Co-Founder, College Counselor & Proud Mama
Cabrina brings years of experience in education and youth development, along with a calm, practical approach that helps students and families stay grounded through this complex process. Her superpower? Helping students identify what makes them shine - and showing colleges, in their own words, who they really are.
Ivy Hartman, M.Ed.
‘24-‘25 Rockwood School District High School Counselor of the Year
Co-Founder, College Counselor & Proud Mama
Ivy’s background in project management, college readiness, and personal coaching brings structure and momentum to every student’s journey. Her gift lies in breaking big goals into manageable steps — and making students feel confident at every stage.
Together, we are your partners, your cheerleaders, and yes — your “mamas” in this journey.
WHY US?
Your Journey Starts Here
You don’t have to do this alone — and you don’t have to figure everything out right away. Whether you’re preparing early or racing toward application deadlines, Mamas’ College Knowledge offers the wisdom, structure, and encouragement you need.
Ready to start planning your student’s future with confidence?
FAQ’S
Frequently Asked Questions
When should we start college counseling?
It’s never too early to start planning for college. Ideally, we begin working with students in 9th or 10th grade to build a strong academic and extracurricular foundation and to reduce stress later on. However, we regularly help juniors and seniors navigate the application process efficiently and confidently. Whether your student is just starting high school or approaching deadlines, we’ll meet them where they are to create a personalized plan for success.
How do your packages work?
During your consultation, we’ll help you decide what package might be best for you depending on where your student is in the process.
What makes you different from other IECs (independent educational consultants)?
What sets us apart from other Independent Educational Consultants is the depth and breadth of our real-world experience. With over 40 years of combined expertise working directly in schools, we have guided students and families through every stage of the college application process; not just as consultants, but as trusted professional school counselors. Over the years, we’ve also built strong relationships with hundreds of college representatives, giving us firsthand insight into what institutions are truly looking for beyond the application. This unique combination of experience, perspective, and connections allows us to offer guidance that is both practical and deeply informed by the realities of today’s admissions landscape.
