Advisors

Get to know CollegeAdvisor's 300+ former Admissions Officers and Admissions Experts representing over 100 top colleges and universities.

Welcome! My name is Julius and I'm excited to work with you as you launch your college search. I earned my B.A. in Politics at Occidental College (2016), my Masters in Education Policy at Harvard University (2023), and am currently pursuing a PhD in Higher Education at the University of Michigan. My interest in college admission began during my own college search process. I had many disparate interests including theater and music, politics, literature, and even Spanish (to name a few) and was looking for a college experience that would allow these different pursuits to thrive. After exploring dozens of public and private institutions across the country, I was fortunate to find a home at Occidental College, a dynamic liberal arts college located in the heart of Los Angeles. Passionate about expanding access to higher education and supporting students in navigating the college search process, I joined Occidental's Office of Admission shortly after graduating. Over the course of five years with the Office, I've met with hundreds of students (and reviewed thousands of applications) from across the country…and the world! In 2022, I left Occidental College to pursue a Masters in Education at Harvard University. While there, I served as a first-year undergraduate academic advisor, supporting Harvard students in their transition to college. I also worked as a graduate assistant within the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid, assisting prospective applicants in completing their applications. Though I'm now pursuing a PhD in Higher Education, my research remains focused on current admission practices and, specifically, cognitive decision-making processes within admission offices. Additionally, I've stayed actively engaged in the field as a part-time application reader for Dartmouth College and Occidental College, and regularly attend and present at the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) conference.

I believe that the college search is a uniquely distinct and developmental process. While it allows students to reflect on who they are, it also affords them the opportunity to engage with who they hope to become. For many applicants, this might be the first time that they meaningfully articulate their values, identities, and aspirations. I'm confident that regardless of where a student may choose to matriculate, a robust and reflective college search process will equip them with the confidence and self-efficacy to have an intentional, impactful college experience.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

I recently graduated from MIT in 2024, completing both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Engineering in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science within three years. Currently, I am working as a Quantitative Researcher at a hedge fund based in New York. My experiences have fueled a strong commitment to education and mentorship, which I now bring to my role as a college admissions advisor, guiding students through the process with clarity and purpose. During my time at MIT, I served as a Peer Career Advisor, where I guided underclassmen to graduate students in creating compelling resumes, cover letters, and applications for internships and research opportunities. I provided tailored academic and career advice, helping students identify and achieve their goals. Additionally, I worked as a Teaching Assistant and Lab Assistant for several computer science courses, gaining valuable experience in mentoring students with diverse learning styles and academic interests. Before college and pursuing computer science, I was deeply interested in pursuing medicine and gained admission to multiple competitive 7-year BS/MD programs with full undergraduate tuition scholarships. This experience gave me firsthand insight into the application process in presenting a cohesive and authentic narrative.

My mission as a college admissions advisor is to leverage my experiences—both as an applicant and a mentor—to help students craft their unique stories. Whether it's through brainstorming personal statements, refining supplemental essays, or preparing for interviews, I aim to make the application journey not only successful but also rewarding and reflective of each student's individuality and aspirations. The college application process can seem daunting, but with a positive outlook and proper support, it becomes a chance to embrace the next chapter of your life!

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Massachusetts Institute of Technology

I am a graduate student at MIT, pursuing a Master of Engineering in Computer Science. I graduated last spring with a dual Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Economics, and Data Science (Department of EECS) & Business Analytics (MIT Sloan School of Management). Academically, I specialize in economics (econometrics, competition, behavioral, public) and machine learning (natural language processing, computer vision, algorithmic theory). I love working with big data to solve complex problems. Prior to joining CollegeAdvisor, I worked closely with students across five admissions cycles, offering one-on-one guidance in essay editing, test preparation, resume building, and college interviews for top-tier schools nationwide. I have also worked with over four education companies, developing and teaching AI, computer science, STEM, and math subjects to middle and high school students across the world. My role as a Teaching Assistant for multiple economics courses at MIT has further deepened my experience in mentoring students and helping them thrive academically. Growing up in a small town in Mississippi, I understand the transformative impact of access to quality resources and am passionate about supporting others as they navigate their educational journeys.

At school, I served as chair on the executive boards of the Undergraduate Economics Association and the 300-member dance group (Asian Dance Team) on campus. Professionally, I've worked in consumer pricing, cloud infrastructure, decarbonization of energy systems, and AI research. In my free time, I am experimenting with new recipes, exploring restaurants, and enjoying high-adrenaline outdoor activities.

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Vanderbilt University

I recently graduated Summa Cum Laude from Vanderbilt University with a bachelor's in Cognitive Studies and Medicine, Health & Society (public health,) as well as minors in Spanish and Special Education. I was accepted to Vanderbilt as Chancellor's Scholar, a full-tuition scholarship awarded to applicants who demonstrate exceptional accomplishment and intellectual promise. There are only 50 Scholars named each year, and they represent the top 1 percent of all applicants to Vanderbilt. Recipients receive not only full tuition, but also a one-time summer stipend for an immersive experience during their sophomore or junior summer. During my senior year, I began the year long process of applying for a Fulbright grant, one of the most prestigious scholarships in the country. After months of intensely writing personal statement and two rounds of bilingual interviews, I was awarded an English Teaching Assistantship to Mexico for the 2023-24 academic year, where I worked as an ESL teacher at the Universidad Autónoma Nacional de México (UNAM) in Mexico City. During my time at VU, I was president the Next Steps Ambassa'dores, a peer mentoring group for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I was also involved in college radio, the climbing team, and creative writing, where I won a first year essay writing award and first prize in a state wide collegiate poetry competition. Outside of academics and career interests, I enjoy climbing, reading, going to concerts, and writing.

When I was applying to undergrad as the oldest sibling in my family at a public school, I would have greatly benefited from the guidance of a program like College Advisor. Likewise, I am currently applying to graduate programs in Speech-Language Pathology, so I have renewed enthusiasm and empathy for the process of university admissions. I have ample experience with the process of applying to competitive institutions, pursuing financial aid, and using the potential of a blank page or an interview to bring an student's background to life and set them apart in the eyes of any admissions officer. Although applying to college can be stressful, I look back at it as a time filled with possibility and excitement, and I want to use my wisdom to replicate that experience for young people while making college admissions accessible and less intimidating for everyone.

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University of Pennsylvania

I graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Pennsylvania in May 2023 with a degree in Systems Engineering, a certificate in Law from Penn Law, and minors in Math and Engineering Entrepreneurship. While at Penn, I discovered my passion for guiding students through their educational journeys, especially the college admissions process. Over the years, I have worked with numerous high school students, providing personalized support in college essay writing, extracurricular planning, and academic advising to help them achieve their dreams of attending top universities. My experience includes helping students refine their writing skills to craft essays that authentically showcase their stories. I’ve assisted students in brainstorming, drafting, and editing personal statements, supplemental essays, and resumes, ensuring their applications stand out to admissions officers. I also specialize in helping students plan extracurricular activities that align with their passions and highlight their leadership and impact. In high school, I was very involved with scientific research/paper writing, academic quiz bowl, competition math (AIME, etc), US National Chemistry Olympiad, and I founded my high school's Society of Women Engineers chapter. I was also a Regeneron Science Talent Search Finalist in 2019. I'm eager to work with students with interests/questions in these areas as well. I’ve had the privilege of working with students pursuing a wide range of academic interests, including Engineering, Pre-Law, Business/Finance, and STEM. Whether it’s breaking down complex essay prompts, organizing application timelines, or offering advice on how to balance academics and extracurriculars, I’m dedicated to making the college admissions process as approachable and enjoyable as possible. Outside of advising, I worked as an Investment Banking Analyst in NYC, where I developed skills in strategic thinking, communication, and attention to detail. These skills translate directly into my ability to guide students through the intricate process of crafting well-rounded applications. This past admissions cycle, I also served as an Alumni Volunteer Interviewer for ED and RD candidates for admission to Penn. I understand how overwhelming applying to college can be, but I firmly believe that every student has a unique story to tell. My mission is to empower students to present their most authentic selves in their applications while easing the stress for both them and their families. I was the first in my family to attend college in the US, so I can relate to the unique expectations and feelings that arise with students going through a similar experience. I am also applying to law school this cycle, so I especially can relate to the toll of an admissions season!

When I’m not working with students, I enjoy doing workout classes like SoulCycle, running, perfecting my chocolate chip cookie recipe, and reading. I am excited to bring my experience, dedication, and passion for mentorship to CollegeAdvisor.com, helping students and families navigate this transformative chapter of their lives with confidence and success.

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Dartmouth College

I have ten years of experience as a Chief Enrollment Officer, and thirteen more years of experience as a senior enrollment leader. I have also worked at and with independent schools, advising middle school through college level students as part of a non-profit community-based organization, REACH Prep (RP). At RP, I oversaw a 15-month academic and co-curricular enrichment program for middle schoolers looking to be admitted into HS at college preparatory, highly selective independent schools. For scholars at independent schools, RP offered outdoor leadership programs, connection to summer opportunities, and programming for parents/families. While at RP, I was proud to serve as a founding member of the National Partnership for Educational Access. I've held Assistant, Associate, and Director of Admission and Financial Aid roles, in addition to Associate Dean, Executive Director, Associate Provost and Assistant and Associate Vice President roles in undergraduate institutions, graduate schools of education, state systems of higher education and women's colleges. I am a first-generation college grad and champion of inclusive excellence who has served as a Black Student Recruitment Coordinator and Director of Minority Recruitment. I have much experience in diverse pipeline building having worked with Quest Bridge, Posse and KIPP. Leveraging my undergraduate study of English and graduate study contextualized in journalism, including media training, along with years of admission and alumni interviews, I can help prep students to best advocate for themselves in writing and in person. Charged with rendering decisions on admission applications and participating in admission committees, I can demystify the admission process for students and families. Finally, as a long-time nationwide recruiter, I have researched and understood the academic and personal settings from which many applicants hailed, by meeting students, literally, where they are.

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University of Southern California

My journey in education began as a Programs Manager with the American Council for International Education, where I had the privilege of working with students from all corners of Uzbekistan. Traveling to both urban and rural areas, I helped recruit participants for U.S. State Department-sponsored exchange programs. This experience was truly eye-opening and sparked my passion for guiding students through the transformative power of education. One of the most impactful chapters of my career was my time at the University of Southern California International Academy. As Admissions Manager and Principal Designated School Official, I spent nearly a decade managing admissions for a variety of programs, ensuring visa compliance, and forming partnerships with universities and scholarship organizations worldwide. Most rewarding of all was my work with students from diverse cultural backgrounds—helping them navigate their academic journeys, achieve their dreams, and grow into the next chapter of their lives. These experiences have shaped my unwavering commitment to supporting students as they explore the exciting and sometimes daunting world of higher education. With my multilingual background and personal understanding of the unique challenges faced by students, I’m passionate about helping students and their families make confident, well-informed choices about their educational paths.

I hold a Master of Arts in Educational Administration with a specialization in Student Affairs and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, both from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. With extensive experience in education and admissions, I’ve led strategic initiatives to increase student success and help students achieve their dream of a college degree. Currently, I serve as the Director of Student Recruitment & Campus Visit Experiences at a large public university in the south. In my current role, I manage a team of dedicated admissions professionals as we create human centered enrollment strategies to admit the best and brightest students from across the world. We also get to host thousands of students on campus for fun events to learn about the university. Previously, as an Associate Director of Admissions at Washington University in St. Louis, I oversaw a subset of goals where our admissions philosophy encouraged us to know each students name and story through the admissions journey. At the University of Texas at Austin, I got a chance to work with talented and ambitious students who wanted to change the world. Earlier in my career, I held impactful roles at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where I worked with students on learning how to balance the fun and memorable experiences that come along with the academic rigors of being in college. Beyond my professional life, I enjoy playing with my dogs, exploring new worlds in video games (currently playing Hogwarts Legacy #Ravenclaw) or building elaborate LEGO sets, and fun game nights friends and family.

Hello! My name is Leo and I received a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a concentration in Painting from Maine College of Art & Design in May of 2022, where I also attended Pre College in the summer before my senior year. During my senior year of high school, I was awarded Presidential Scholarships from both MECA&D and School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), and ultimately chose to go to Maine based on additional grant availability and my positive experience in the Precollege program. I was also awarded a regional Scholastic Gold Key for my portfolio, which is one of the highest awards in the longest running, most prestigious recognition program for teens in the arts. Throughout the course of my adolescence, my mother was a tenured high school art teacher, certified in running AP Studio Art. Growing up, I was fortunate to watch her send dozens of her students to many of the best art schools in the country, including RISD, Pratt Institute, MassArt, Laguna, Ringling, Fashion Institute of Technology, and more. I was privileged to have that same support and access to resources when I underwent the admissions process myself. This gave me a unique perspective in witnessing the portfolio curation process in a number of ways throughout my life. Though my focus going into an undergraduate career was on visual art, I spent the entirety of my teen and preteen life also participating in theater and music, and having also had peers who went on to pursue careers in those fields, I possess solid foundational knowledge of how the audition process works for those trying to pursue performing arts.

During my undergraduate career, I was able to gain understanding and mastery within a range of modalities, including (but not limited to) observational still life and figure painting/drawing in various mediums, digital and film photography, sculpture, ceramics, music, video production, and performance art. In my own thesis work, I focused on a multimedia project involving community based performance art, installation, paintings using both oil and latex based materials, and video elements. I was also fortunate to have the opportunity in the summer between my junior and senior years to be a TA in the same Pre College program I had attended four years prior. Working in this position, I was able to both formally and informally guide my students through questions they had regarding the field, whether it was advice about looking at and selecting potential BFA/BA programs, or more specific critiques about their individual pieces in preparation for use in future portfolios. In this role, I was able to gain even more insight into the value of supporting young artists in pursuing their professional dreams. I understand and appreciate how much courage it takes to bet on your talent, and how much drive it takes to push through the doubt and insecurity that comes with following your passion and calling in this world. I also understand what a major difference it makes to have support from people with experience in the field, who can affirm that a career in the arts is possible, and given the right tools and guidance, it is very much achievable.

Northwestern University

Hi there! I'm Katrina, a Northwestern graduate with a B.S. in Cognitive Science and Theater and a minor in Entrepreneurship. As a National Merit Scholar, Presidential Scholar nominee, and recipient of multiple merit-based scholarships that funded my Northwestern education, I understand what it takes to stand out in selective admissions processes. My academic journey spanned pre-medicine, technology, and the arts, giving me unique insight into how students can craft compelling narratives from diverse interests while maintaining academic excellence. Currently, I work in AI while staying involved in Chicago's film/TV scene and startup ecosystem—experiences that keep me connected to both STEM and the arts. My commitment to education started early—in high school, I founded a nonprofit to mentor young women in STEM and coached students in speech and debate. In college, I helped students understand how to position themselves effectively for selective universities and guided them through academic planning and exploring potential career paths. My years of advising have sharpened my ability to help students move beyond simply checking boxes to tell authentic, memorable stories that make them stand out from other qualified applicants. My approach combines structured guidance with candid feedback and strategic insight. I excel at breaking down the nuances of college admissions into clear, actionable steps. While strong grades and test scores open doors, I help students learn the unwritten rules of what makes an application truly stand out to admissions officers. Through honest collaboration, I guide each student in crafting an authentic narrative that resonates with top schools—because given how competitive college admissions have become, a compelling story is what transforms a qualified applicant into a memorable one.

No matter where you are in the process, I'm here to help turn your experiences into a powerful story that sets you apart. Excited to make it happen!

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University of California – Davis

I graduated summa cum laude from the University of California Davis in 2018 with a bachelor's in Sociology- Organizational Studies and a minor in Spanish.  My own experience as a first-generation college student overcoming barriers in the transition to college and my experience supporting youth in college access nonprofit organizations inspire my commitment to helping students navigate the college admissions process, which has also been the topic of my sociological studies as an undergraduate and as a current Sociology PhD candidate at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.  Throughout my college years and the year following my graduation, I worked at two college access nonprofit organizations, guiding high-achieving, low-income high school students in preparing for college and the admissions process. I supported students with preparing to take standardized tests, developing college lists, and writing their college essays. I supported my students by setting and achieving their goals and reflecting on these processes to promote personal growth and development. My mission while advising is to support students in authentically presenting themselves in every stage of the college process and help students feel confident and grow through it. While this process can be challenging, with support tailored to meet your needs and positive, empathetic guidance, this experience can lead to success, be rewarding, and help you embrace this important transition. I am currently a Sociology PhD candidate at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. I have served as a teaching assistant for undergraduate writing-focused sociology courses at UW–Madison and love supporting students in developing their writing skills. My dissertation focuses on how college access nonprofit organizations can help students navigate college preparation and admissions processes. In my free time, I enjoy running, reading, exploring coffee shops, and spending time with friends and family.

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Massachusetts Institute of Technology

I'm Hannah, a current junior at MIT pursuing a double major in Computer Science and Data Analytics and Business. I have previously worked in Private Equity, Data Analysis for Sustainability, and Economic Research and currently serve as the VP of MIT's Consulting Group. I attended Phillips Academy Andover for high school where I was the captain of the Mens Crew team and President of Andover's Climate group.

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I am a recent graduate of the Dolan School of Business at Fairfield University from which I obtained my Master’s of Science in Business Analytics. This degree has enhanced my data knowledge and broadened my education of a business purpose with regard to data analytics. Prior to obtaining my Masters I attended Fairfield University for my Bachelor’s in Computer Science and Mathematics while minoring in Black Studies. In addition to obtaining this degree, I was a Division I college athlete which gave me lifelong skills around work-life balance as well as staying focused in pursuit of my degree. While pursuing my Masters at Fairfield University, I was a teacher apart of the Upward Bound program held on campus. This program provides academic resources for students who may either be first generation college students or want extra guidance along the way. As a teacher in this program I taught 9-12 grade Science as well as provided mentoring for my students around the College Application process. I have experience in both Credit Industry space, currently working as a Risk Management Analyst for American Express as well as Sports Industry experience where I worked in the Data Engineering department, focusing on Platform services that Major League Baseball offers.

Outside of my academic and professional career I enjoy spending time with friends and family, watching sports and trying new foods around NYC!

Princeton University

I graduated summa cum laude from Princeton University with a bachelor’s in English and certificates in Asian American Studies and Gender & Sexuality Studies. As a Matriculate Advising Fellow at Princeton, I guided 4 high school students throughout the college application cycle from junior to senior year. My students applied to and were ultimately accepted to top 20 universities such as Yale University, Columbia University, University of Chicago, and Boston University. My key responsibilities included editing Common Application and supplemental essays, preparing students for interviews, and providing extracurricular and academic advising to help students build a competitive applicant profile. I also gained special expertise in advising students on applying to and securing competitive scholarships such as QuestBridge and the Gates Scholarship. During the summers, I also worked part-time for an independent tutoring agency, with a particular emphasis on arts portfolio advising for college applications. From advising more than a dozen students over the course of four years in college admissions across the humanities, arts, economics, business, and law, I’ve learned that the most successful applications clearly illustrate the unique stories of each student. Through my advising, I aim to help students develop their voices and present their ideas in the most compelling, distinctive way possible. This guides my tutoring philosophy to tailor each session according to the unique needs and interests of each student. To add some more context on my Princeton experiences, I was awarded the Earl R. Miner prize for my senior thesis, which is awarded to one outstanding thesis for exceptional merit in the entire English department. This thesis analyzed Asian and Asian American art, literature, and film to consider the intimate entanglements of memory, immigration, love, and nostalgia. I also wrote for The Daily Princetonian, the school newspaper, and served as the Assistant Director of Student Relations for Design Nation, the largest student run conference on UX/UI, product design, and tech in the world.

Currently, I am working in the financial services industry in New York City. Beyond academics and career interests, I love reading, writing, hanging out with friends and getting involved with the Princeton alumni community as the social media chair for the Class of 2024.

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University of Texas – Austin

Hello! My name is Pranathi and I am a recent graduate of UT Austin where I double majored in Computational Biology and Government in pursuit of improving healthcare delivery through technological innovation and policy. During my time as an undergraduate, I interned for the White House and have experience in biomedical research. I have four years of college advising experience and helped all my students get into their top 3 choices and I am looking forward to help you achieve your goals.

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Georgetown University

Alyssa Rashaw has a strong background in education, communications, and college readiness, with a rich blend of academic and professional experiences. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies and a Master's in Public Relations and Corporate Communications from Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies. Her professional experience includes working in the charter school sector and higher education, notably as an assistant to the Dean at Georgetown University.

Alyssa is also a Strategic Communications Fellow at the DC State Board of Education, where she hones her skills in policy, advocacy, and strategic planning. At the District of Columbia Public Schools central office (DCPS), Alyssa supports the College Persists Department, working closely with college coaches and school leaders to ensure that students stay on track for post-secondary success. She is instrumental in managing data processes that track student progress and outcomes, providing crucial insights to demonstrate the program's effectiveness and its impact on DCPS graduates.

She is passionate about supporting college and career readiness, particularly among underrepresented groups, and is committed to addressing the technology and education gap in Black communities. Her experience spans advising, family engagement, and working in diverse educational settings, making her well-equipped to support students in achieving their college admissions goals as a Senior Advisor at CollegeAdvisor.com.

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lsu-seal

I am a professional with 10+ years of experience in K-12, higher education, and social services institutions. I am a confident, humble leader who is a quick learner, has an innovative mindset, am open to critical feedback, and can concurrently manage multiple projects, to effectively complete the outlined goals of a position or project. I have proven success with data-driven decision making, working across diverse student and professional communities, and high-level strategic planning to create long-term success in recruitment and student success improvements.

University of California – San Diego

Hi! My name is Cadence and I am graduating this year from the University of California San Diego with my Bachelor of Science in Molecular Synthesis. At UCSD I have been very involved in biomedical research at the School of Medicine, worked with students as a private tutor for math and chemistry, and worked on the board of officers for the archery team. I aspire to become a physician-scientist with an MD, and PhD and will begin applying to medical school this spring. I have extensive experience in standardized test prep and got a 95th percentile score on my MCAT. I first started working with CollegeAdvisor.com as a high school student when I was applying to schools and was thrilled with my experience as a client. It was through this process I learned the value of having someone knowledgeable to help you through the complicated process and I wanted to give back to students that were once in my shoes.

I know how hard it can be to navigate science and medicine in high school and college, and I am passionate about guiding other high school students and helping them explore and pursue different routes in medicine and STEM.

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Penn State University

I am a current undergraduate student at The Pennsylvania State University working on a bachelor's in mechanical engineering and a minor in engineering mechanics. During my first semester at Penn State, I was offered a three-rotation internship experience with Delta Air Lines. Following this experience, I completed a summer internship experience at The Boeing Company. While at Penn State, I was a mentor and career advisor as a part of The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) and the Multicultural Engineering Program (MEP) aiding working with students to build their resumes and secure internships very early in their undergraduate careers. As a mentor, I also offered guidance to students in their college experience helping them to find clubs, research, and other groups they could actively engage in either for a professional motive or to simply help find their passion. This experience has exposed me to using the vast variety of different backgrounds and interests these students have to leverage as their greatest strengths. I have worked with students who major in all forms of Engineering including Aerospace, Mechanical, Biomedical, Electrical, Computer Engineering, Architectural, Civil, Chemical, and Industrial. In addition, I have also worked with students in the fields of Computer Science and Cybersecurity. My mission while advising is to bring out the best in a student by leveraging their strengths and turning what may seem like weaknesses into opportunities for growth that the college would love to invest in. As someone who has gone through the application process myself, I understand that applications can be an anxious experience at times. But taking that first step of finding passion in yourself with enable you to display your best you.

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University of Notre Dame

I am originally from Canton, MI and a graduate of Detroit Catholic Central High School and the University of Notre Dame. I am a hard worker with a passion to succeed and a willingness to strive for goals. My work ethic has given me fulfilling work and volunteer experiences that have been successful. From my experiences in admissions, marketing, communications, customer service, and university relations, I have learned to hold myself accountable for the endeavors and tasks that I pursue. In my admissions experience, I have been able to help students from all different backgrounds and walks of life go through the college process and see how faith-based, mission-centric institutions could be the best fit for a student in their college career. I have had experience with reading applications, event planning and programming for visit programs geared toward high achieving as well as First Generation students, and tour guide management. Additionally, I had been a lead in the transfer application process at Notre Dame. I also helped create and launch an admissions-specific podcast, College Bound, targeted toward students applying to the University of Notre Dame. I have a passion for and a joy in connecting with others and understanding their backgrounds as community and connections are vitally important to interacting in professional and personal settings. I plan to bring that passion and my experience to students and families as they navigate the college admissions process. In my personal life, I am a HUGE sports fan. With being born and raised in the Metro Detroit area, I follow the Detroit Tigers, Lions, and Red Wings throughout their seasons even while still living in Indiana. I am an even bigger college football fan, though, especially to cheer on my alma mater, the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame. I also was a member of the Band of the Fighting Irish, playing trumpet in the ND Marching Band and in the pep band for men's and women's college basketball games. Additionally, I like to spend my time outdoors when I can. When the weather is nice (even cooler in the spring and fall), I like to spend my nights relaxing by a bonfire. And, I am a true foodie. I really like to cook; I enjoy being in the kitchen and cooking meals at home. But, I also enjoy experiencing new cuisine and in new restaurants especially when I am visiting a place that is not my original or current hometown.

Finally, I am interested in music and the culture that surrounds it, understanding all facets of the music scene from the past, present, and in the future. Some of my favorite TV shows of all time are The Office, Brooklyn 99, Ted Lasso, The West Wing, and House of Cards. My favorite movie of all time is I Love You, Man.

University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

Yolanda, a seasoned college admissions officer with over 20 years of experience, is dedicated to guiding students on their academic journeys. As a former Associate Director of Admissions at UNC-Chapel Hill, Yolanda deeply understands the college application process from institutional and student perspectives. Yolanda has a proven track record of supporting first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented students in achieving their higher education goals. With her extensive experience working with diverse institutions nationwide, Yolanda can provide expert guidance on everything from creating a college list to the enrollment process. Her expertise in leading college access programs supporting first-generation students has equipped her with the skills to assist students in identifying colleges that align with their social needs, academic strengths, and career aspirations. Yolanda's approach is tailored to each student's unique needs. She offers comprehensive support, from brainstorming potential colleges to crafting compelling applications. With a caring and empathetic demeanor, Yolanda fosters a supportive environment that encourages students to dream big and explore all their options. Additionally, her expertise extends beyond the application process. She hosts workshops and webinars to educate students, parents, and high school counselors on the college admissions landscape. Her goals are to demystify the process, provide clear guidance, and reduce stress.

Public - Private - HBCU - HSI - Ivy - Regional

While assisting students is a passion of Yolanda's, she spends her free time teaching yoga🧘🏾‍♀️ and going to the beach! 🏖️