Meet Our Team

SARAH POTTHARST GIROLAMI, Managing Partner, Visual Arts

Sarah is a seasoned educational advisor and the Managing Partner of The Carnahan Group, where she leads a team of consultants based across the U.S. and Europe. Her approach is equal parts strategic and student-centered, reflecting a commitment to clarity, creativity, and compassion throughout the admissions journey.

Sarah began her career in educational consulting as an essay specialist, drawing on her dual degrees in Journalism and Spanish Language from Southern Methodist University (SMU) and her training in storytelling, design, and aesthetics from Parsons School of Design, a division under The New School. Today, she brings this foundation into all aspects of her work—whether advising on competitive applications, guiding creative portfolio development, or helping students articulate their unique voice and goals.

Having lived for many years in Italy, Sarah expanded The Carnahan Group’s reach internationally and continues to serve students from around the globe. She has worked with dozens of college-bound, graduate, and boarding school applicants in a high-touch capacity, ensuring each student receives thoughtful, customized support. Her expertise spans school research and selection, major exploration, academic planning, extracurricular guidance, essay development, interview prep, and more—always anchored in a deep understanding of modern admissions trends and institutional priorities.

As the leader of a growing consultancy, Sarah’s managerial role also requires her to stay ahead of the curve—tracking evolving admissions policies and capturing niche college data to ensure her team delivers exceptional and relevant service to every client. Sarah also serves as Co-Chair of IECA’s Gulf South Regional Group and the Peer-to-Peer Resources Coordinator within IECA’s College Committee, mentoring newer consultants and contributing to the strength of the profession.

Sarah is a professional member of: Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA), Southern Association for College Admission Counseling (SACAC), National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), and the Enrollment Management Association (EMA). Additionally, Sarah earned her College Counseling Certificate with distinction from the University of California – Irvine, an industry-renowned program recognized for its rigorous training of professionals supporting students through the admissions process.

Known for her sharp instincts, calming presence, and authentic voice, Sarah brings a rare blend of analytical precision and creative vision to every student and family she supports. Sarah now lives in her native city, New Orleans, LA, and supports clients internationally through in-person and online sessions.