SANDRA POAG

College Navigators, Founder

My Background

I was raised in a home with two parents who worked extremely hard and like most parents, they wanted the best for me and my brother. Neither one of my parents had the opportunity to attend college, so when it was time to for me to apply my parents were extremely supportive but unsure about the process and exactly how to help. Thankfully, all ended well, and I was the first person in my family to graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree. In 1998, I graduated from Abilene Christian University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a minor in Education. Followed two years later with the completion of my Masters of Science in Counseling Psychology from Radford University in Virginia. My experience gave me a passion for helping students and families find their own success.

My Mission

After working in public education for 15 years, I have observed a growing need for practical college guidance for families. Unfortunately, today’s school system and high school guidance counselors are facing overwhelming tasks to maintain student mental health often with caseloads of 400+ students. With all of the demands for time, there is often little time for in-depth college and career planning/guidance; leaving parents and students feel overwhelmed by the process and unsure about where to get help.

As a counselor and first generation college student, I understand the need for practical help and education for families. The college application process can be overwhelming and is constantly evolving. Whether this is your first child to go through the process or your last - College Navigators can help! With a clear understanding of today’s admission practices, solid preparation, and planning students and parents can navigate the process with ease.

My Experience

As a teacher I was fortunate to work in a variety of settings that provided me with a wide range of experience. I spent 3 years working in the classroom with students as a Varsity Coach, AP teacher, and Special Education ELA/Reading Teacher. Following my time in the classroom, I served as a High School Counselor for 4 years and the Senior Coordinator. Followed by the unique opportunity to open a new high school as the Lead Counselor and build a counseling, college and career program from scratch for five years. Then, when a new position was created that focused solely on my passion of College and Career Readiness, I became a College and Career Specialist where I have spent the past 3 years assisting students and their families in my community.

My Life

I am a native Houstonian, wife and mother of two girls. I love to watch movies, read, shop, and depending upon the time of year you can find me cheering for my girls on the court or on the softball field. As a mom, I want my girls to have the confidence to pursue their dreams...