ABOUT COLVOS
Colvos Passage lies between Gig Harbor and Vashon Island and its strong, predominantly northbound current contrasts to the rest of Puget Sound, which varies with the tide.
Colvos College Advisors serves as a guide to help students harness the power of that northbound current and stay on track, pointing at their destination. We provide the “local” knowledge about the college journey so families can navigate what could be a difficult passage with ease and confidence.
The result is that family relationships are preserved during what can be a stressful time and all Colvos students are prepared for life after high school with the skills, tools, and confidence they need for success in a university setting.
MEET THE TEAM
BLYTHE WALTRIP
Founder + Lead Advisor
As the founder of Colvos College Advisors, I help students and families confidently navigate the college admissions process with personalized planning, essay support, and in finding their best college fit.
Before launching my independent practice, I spent a decade in education as an AP history teacher and college & career program coordinator, gaining first-hand experience guiding students from a wide range of backgrounds and developing a deep understanding of the college preparation, essay, and application processes. With this experience, I am able to go beyond the application, helping students build the organizational, time management, and study skills necessary for college. I hold a B.A. in European History from the University of California, Santa Cruz, a Secondary Education Teaching Credential from CSU Channel Islands, and an Independent Educational Consulting Certificate from UC Irvine.
Dedicated to staying current with admissions trends, I visit more than a dozen of college campuses each year and regularly participate in professional development and annual industry conferences. Beyond my consulting practice, I volunteer with ScholarMatch, supporting first-generation and low-income students through the college application process. As a Gig Harbor resident and the Chamber of Commerce Young Professional of the Year (2025), I also partner with local organizations to deliver community presentations, helping families gain the tools and knowledge they need to navigate higher education.
As an independent educational consultant, I serve as an objective third-party resource for families, offering expertise, encouragement, and clarity during an often stressful time. My mission is to simplify a complex and often overwhelming process, helping families make confident, informed choices. By inspiring students to take ownership of their journey, I empower them to find colleges where they will thrive academically, socially, and personally.
Memberships:
Seattle Area College Consultants
IAN SPRENGER
Aviation, Maritime and Military Pathways Advisor
A graduate of the California Maritime Academy, Ian served over two decades as a commissioned officer in the United States Navy, retiring at the rank of Commander. During his military career, he flew the F/A-18 Super Hornet and the C-130 Hercules while building deep experience in both operational flying and executive-level leadership. He continues to fly professionally today as a Captain for a major U.S. airline.
Ian knows that the path to a career in aviation, the military or the maritime industry must begin early and with purpose. He understands the full arc of that journey, from choosing the right undergraduate institution and ROTC program to navigating the service academies, maritime colleges, and aviation degree programs.
For those who are drawn to the sky, the sea, or service, Ian works with students to identify the right programs, build a strategic academic and extracurricular plan, and chart a course that positions them for success.
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