About Us
Gemsight College and Career Planners is a collaborative and experienced group of caring professionals who strive to help each student present their best self during the admissions process. Since our team primarily works remotely with students using technology and resources we are able to successfully work with families from across the country.
Our practice is currently accepting high school students from the class of 2024, 2025 and 2026.
Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.
Embrace Our Philosophy
Our goal at Gemsight College and Career Planners is to ensure a rewarding educational experience by finding the right fit for you. The process can be challenging, but the objective is clear: to discover the best academic and social environment for every student.
Students, with the support of their parents, need to dedicate time and energy to having a successful high school experience to properly prepare for college admissions. We understand that high school is an era of personal growth and support the continued building of confidence, self-awareness, and learning.
When we work together, communicating openly, sharing ideas, insights, and feelings, we can make the admissions process a positive one – one that will encourage students and give parents peace of mind. We are committed to providing this service to both students and parents.
Mission
We work to empower our students to choose the college that matches their educational aspirations. From exploration and initial planning through the application process, students find the college where they will reach their full potential.
Our Team
Mary Harkins
Mary is a Founder and a Managing Partner of Gemsight College and Career Planners. A dedicated and credentialed educational consultant, she enjoys helping students find the college that fits them academically, socially and financially. She earned her undergraduate degree from Temple University in Risk Management and her Master’s in Education from Arcadia University. In 2021 Mary merged her private practice with Geri Perkal’s practice to create Gemsight, ensuring her families with additional resources and support in the ever-changing world of college admissions. Prior to establishing a private practice in 2007, Mary worked in the private and public school arena for nearly 20 years. Mary is a Certified Education Planner through AICEP, a professional member of IECA and an active NACAC member.
Email: mharkins@gemsightccp.com
Based in Philadelphia Metro area and Scottsdale, AZ
Geri Perkal
A Certified Educational Planner, Geri provides guidance, support, and assistance to students throughout the college admissions process. She is a Founder and a Managing Partner of Gemsight College and Career Planners. Through her expertise and passion for education, she helps parents and students realize the academic possibilities, and gain the confidence that accompanies a well-chosen college. As an advisor, she is committed to recommending colleges and universities that align with a student’s aspirations, personality, abilities, and needs.
Geri was Director of College Guidance for an independent school in NYC. She earned a Masters in Education from New York University and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Syracuse University. She holds certificates in College Counseling, and Special Education. She serves on the University of Arizona Counselor Advisory Board.
Email: gperkal@gemsightccp.com
Based in New York Metro Area
Erin Moran
Erin has over 15 years of experience in the field of education and has a proven track record of success in guiding, supporting, and assisting students through the college admissions process. She is well-versed in the latest technologies and approaches to college counseling and is dedicated to staying current on industry developments. Erin uses her expertise to guide students in finding the right college options for each student she works with to help them achieve their college goals and succeed in their future endeavors.
Her previous roles have included positions as the Director of Admission Events & Campus Visits, and Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions at High Point University. Erin holds a M.A. in Strategic Communication with a concentration in Public Relations from High Point University and a B.A. in Theological Studies with a minor in English Literature from Covenant College. She also taught English as a foreign language and lived abroad in Japan. When Erin is not working she enjoys traveling, cooking, hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. She is also an avid language learner, with knowledge of both Japanese and Spanish.
Email: emoran@gemsightccp.com
Based in Greensboro, NC
