About The Planner
Today's global economy requires a continuous commitment to learning as well as proactive career management. Devon O'Brien, founder of Destination College & Beyond, equips her clients to do just that. Ms. O’Brien has developed her college planning expertise through experience as the director of a youth entrepreneurial training program; as a consultant delivering educational offerings to both secondary and post-secondary institutions, and, as a long-time mentor to middle school through college-age students providing coaching on a variety of life planning issues including academic success, college planning and career development.
Ms. O’Brien is on the cutting edge of the rapidly changing college admissions and financial aid arenas. She hones her professional skills through daily updates on critical issues affecting the secondary and post-secondary environments; on-going collaboration with college planning, admissions and financial aid professionals; regular visits to college campuses as well as active participation in nationally recognized professional associations.
In addition to her education experience, Ms. O'Brien draws upon a rich career background spanning international Fortune 500 companies to "mom and pop" startups. Her path has included healthcare; financial services; retail; non-profit; social services and government relations. As a director, manager, team leader and trainer, she has coached individuals through all aspects of career planning including: creating a unique personal brand, career exploration and research, job search strategies, job preparedness, developing effective personal and professional networks and navigating the intergenerational workplace, to name a few . The goal of these activities is to assist clients in proactively managing a dynamic 21st century career.
Tapping her diverse background Ms. O'Brien continually creates the link between classroom and career. Her clients are well equipped to successfully navigate the path from college to career and beyond. Options, choices and well-reasoned decisions are key elements throughout her planning processes.
- Masters of Education - Oregon State University
- Bachelor of Arts - University of Washington
- Certified Professional Coach - Academy for Coach Training
- Professional Coach Certification - Franklin Covey
- National Association for College Admission Counseling
- Higher Education Consultants Association
- Pacific Northwest Association for College Admission Counseling
- National Career Development Association
