About Pinpoint Global University Advising

Pinpoint Global University Advising was founded by Ana Nadal and Katie Tornes, long-time friends who met in Portugal after relocating from the USA and UK, respectively. Sharing a passion for guiding students in their educational journeys, Ana and Katie combined their complementary skills of Careers Coaching and College Counseling to establish Pinpoint Global University Advising.

Based in Portugal but serving students globally, Pinpoint Global University Advising specializes in helping students pursue bachelor's degrees in English outside their home countries. Ana and Katie understand the challenges of applying to universities abroad and the personal struggles students face in making significant academic decisions.

Pinpoint Global University Advising navigates the complexities of studying abroad and provides tailored support to help students overcome hurdles and make informed choices. From the initial consultation to university acceptance, Ana and Katie support students every step of the way, relieving stress, building confidence, and ensuring personalized attention to find the ideal university fit.

Ana Nadal

Ana is an American who has lived in Portugal since 2016. After moving from Seattle to Lisbon, she left her Global Business Development role at Amazon and embarked on a new path as an Independent Educational Consultant.

Her interest in educational consulting began when she started considering university options outside the United States for her children. Touring universities during family vacations ignited her passion for this field.

Ana earned a Professional Certification in College Counseling from UCLA and actively participates in several professional associations, engaging in ongoing professional development and networking with college counselors globally.

In her free time, Ana loves to travel and tour universities. She also volunteers in her children's international school community, having served as Class Parent, Community Committee Chair, and PTA President.

Katie Tornes

Katie trained as a solicitor in the UK, working as an employment lawyer in Manchester for 15 years before relocating to Portugal in 2015 with her husband and two children.

Active in her children’s international school community, she served as Head of the Parent Teacher Association, helping new families integrate into school life and the wider community. Inspired by her international move, Katie retrained as a coach at the University of Cambridge, graduating in June 2022.

Now, Katie uses her coaching skills to guide young people through the university admissions process, helping them and their families make informed decisions. She believes that self-awareness of strengths, values, and interests is key to finding the right university fit, leading to a fulfilling academic experience.

In her free time, Katie enjoys long walks in the Sintra hills, running, playing tennis, and spending time with family and friends.