About The College Studio
The College Studio brings together a team with decades of professional experience in admissions, counseling, writing, art, design, strategy, and life coaching.
As professionals, we know what it takes to navigate the admissions process.
As parents, we also know it’s not that simple.
We believe admissions counseling isn’t a formula—it’s a craft that’s rooted in relationships, flexibility, and authenticity.
We understand the complex dynamics and delicate balance of angst, ambition, emotion, stress, and yes, joy – that coexist in this process. And we are truly invested in the outcome for every single one of our students.
Our goal is to help admissions feel manageable and purposeful.
Our approach is intentional, responsive, and light. We are not here to add unnecessary work, but rather to relieve stress and streamline the process from early planning through final decisions.
At its core, our work is about helping students do the real work of admissions, to understand themselves, lean into their strengths, and move confidently toward what comes next.
Our Team
Mary Lamb
Lead Counselor & Head Writing Consultant
Mary Lamb is a certified college admissions counselor and a journalist with over two decades of professional work in storytelling and communications. She holds a degree in English from the University of Delaware and brings a deep understanding of language, narrative, and voice to her work with students.
With a long-standing career as a freelance writer and journalist, Mary has interviewed and published feature stories about well-known authors, artists, public figures, and experts across a wide range of fields. Her background in storytelling shapes her approach to admissions, applications, and particularly essay development.
As a counselor, Mary works closely with students throughout the admissions process. As a writing coach, she revels in the creative process, helping students to discover their own unique stories and find the freedom to express themselves through writing. She enjoys building relationships with students, reducing stress in the process, and encouraging them to write their own next chapter with confidence and clarity.
Katie Fisher
Lead Counselor
Katie Fisher holds a Master’s of Education in Counselor Education from the University of Virginia and is a certified college admissions counselor who has dedicated her career to supporting students at every stage of their educational journey. Currently running a college and career services program for a Pennsylvania school district, Katie brings more than 20 years of counseling experience and a steady, thoughtful approach to working with students and families.
At The College Studio, Katie serves as a Lead Counselor and Curriculum Specialist, working closely with students as they plan their high school curriculum, and navigate the college search and application process. She is known for building strong, supportive relationships while maintaining structure and forward momentum, helping students stay on track without becoming overwhelmed.
Katie believes that every student has a unique story and deserves an individualized approach. She listens closely, helping students identify their strengths, clarify their goals, and present themselves with confidence. Her work is grounded in the idea of “fit,” guiding students toward colleges where they will thrive academically, socially, and personally, and where they will be well-positioned for what comes next.
Leigh Friedman
Art & Design Advisor
Leigh Friedman is a talented artist, graphic designer, and creative strategist with a strong background in brand building and visual storytelling. With experience in creative direction and marketing, she brings both an artistic eye and a strategic perspective to her work.
At The College Studio, Leigh serves as an Art & Design Advisor, supporting students applying to creative majors. She works with students on portfolio development, helping them refine their ideas, strengthen their visual work, and present cohesive, thoughtful portfolios.
Leigh is a trusted advisor to the team, offering specialized guidance to students pursuing art and design pathways.
Julie Traina
Life Coach & Family Advisor
Julie Traina is a certified life coach with a Master’s in Education and a deep understanding of the challenges that come with major life transitions. As a mother of five, she brings both professional expertise and personal experience to her work with families.
At The College Studio, Julie serves as a Life Coach and Family Advisor, supporting students and parents who need help navigating the emotional side of the admissions process. Her approach is warm, thoughtful, and grounded, helping families move through this time with greater clarity, confidence, and perspective.
Julie is a trusted resource to the team, contributing to content, newsletters, guidance for families, and offering additional support when it’s needed most.