“The direction in which education starts a person will determine their future in life.”
- Plato
Michael Corbelle |
Co-Founder and Educational Consultant
Michael leverages his extensive network of relationships with admissions directors, faculty, and coaches nationwide to offer expert educational consulting services. With years of experience in student placement and a deep understanding of the educational landscape, Michael is uniquely positioned to guide your family through the admissions process. As a Professional Member of the Independent Educational Consultant Association (IECA), he brings credibility and expertise to every consultation.
With a lifelong passion for athletics, Michael draws from his successful high school and college hockey careers to support student-athletes in achieving a balance between academics and sports. He understands the transformative impact of combining rigorous academics with athletic pursuits, particularly in boarding school settings, and is dedicated to helping students find the right fit.
Before co-founding Cairn Educational Consulting, Michael spent over a decade working in independent schools. His most recent role was as Director of Outplacement at Aspen Country Day School, where he guided 8th-grade students through the placement process. He also has experience as a teacher, advisor, and hockey coach at Taft School and Northwood School, providing him with a well-rounded perspective on educational consulting.
Michael holds a Master of Education in Learning and Teaching from Harvard University and a Bachelor of Arts in Government and Legal Studies from Bowdoin College. Residing in Colorado with his wife, Lizzy, and their dog, Brutus, Michael enjoys the many outdoor activities the Rocky Mountains have to offer. For personalized educational consulting, contact Michael at michael@cairneducationalconsulting.com or (518) 859-0269.
Alex Ince | Co-Founder and Educational Consultant
Alex's unique perspective as a former admissions gatekeeper, combined with her strong advocacy skills, makes her an exceptional educational consultant. Her deep knowledge of colleges and independent schools enables her to expertly navigate families through the complex admissions process.
Alex's expertise extends beyond working with families across the U.S.; she also has extensive experience assisting international families seeking enrollment in US schools.
Before co-founding Cairn Educational Consulting, Alex served as the Director of Admissions at The Frederick Gunn School (formerly The Gunnery), a renowned New England boarding school in Washington, Connecticut. During her decade-long tenure, she guided countless families through the admissions process and personally interviewed nearly 1,000 students. Her dedication to student success began early in her career as an attorney with the United States Environmental Protection Agency, where she mentored underserved youth in New York City, helping them gain new experiences and build confidence.
Alex holds a Juris Doctor from Vermont Law School and a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Science and Political Science from Barnard College, Columbia University. She is a Professional Member of the Independent Educational Consultant Association (IECA). Alex resides in Litchfield County, CT, with her husband, two sons, and two dogs. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, meditating, and birding.
For expert educational consulting services, reach out to Alex alex@cairneducationalconsulting.com or at (917) 747-7925.