Meet the Counselors
Undergraduate Counselors Who Actually Get You.
Our counselors are interviewed, vetted, and onboarded through our rigorous 12 hour course before ever meeting with a student.
Charlotte Burgess
University of Virginia
Media Studies | French
I am a junior at the University of Virginia majoring in Media Studies and minoring in French. I am from Annapolis, Maryland and my interests include singing, digital media content, boating, and fitness. Helping others has always been an important part of my life. In high school, I tutored younger students in French, Math, and English through the National Honors Society and was involved in the Student Council as Student Secretary and helped organize school events. Now at UVA I am a Personal Director and volunteer through Madison House while also creating digital news content for WUVA. My interest in helping others has led me to this amazing opportunity to help you! I know the college process is stressful with countless steps: the Common Application to fill out, writing the “perfect” college essay, and supplementaries to complete for different schools. However, I want to make this process enjoyable. Since I recently went through the college process, I have all my tips and tricks at hand and cannot wait to take this opportunity to help others tell their story and get them into their dream colleges!
1st Gen
Qais Youssef
University of Virginia
Commerce | Sustainability
I am a rising senior at the University of Virginia majoring in Neuroscience and minoring in Data Science. Originally from the Middle East, I bring a unique blend of interests ranging from entrepreneurship to exploring artificial intelligence.I graduated high school in Northern Virginia, where the academic competition is fierce. Throughout my academic journey, I've immersed myself in a variety of experiences - from an early pre-med track to now specializing in AI, education and research. This diverse exposure allows me to understand the complex web of choices students face. Having navigated through a myriad of academic possibilities before finding my passion, I am well-equipped to guide students through their college process. I understand the pressures of making significant decisions at such a crucial time and I am eager to share my tips and tricks to help you on your unique journey to college success.
Anya Gupta
Duke University
Environmental Science | Hindi
Hi! My name is Anya and I am a senior at Duke University double majoring in Environmental Science and Earth Climate Science (Geology Conc.) with a Hindi minor. I'm passionate about STEM and natural resource education, increasing accessibility and diversity in the outdoors, and sustainable tech! Growing up in Silicon Valley, CA, there was no shortage of stress and pressure during the college application process, but it really doesn't have to be stressful! If anything, this is a special time for you to share and reflect on what things inspire, motivate, and challenge you. My goal is to make the applying process fun for my clients - where you learn something new about yourself along the way. I am a big believer in "things happen for a reason". No need for sleepless nights over where you end up - it'll be a wonderful adventure and an even better story at the end. Let's chat!
Henry McGonnigal
University of Southern California
Psychology | Applied Analytics
I am a rising senior at the University of Southern California with a major in psychology and a minor in applied analytics. I am originally from Tampa, Florida but have started to enjoy the other coast. I'm currently a research assistant for USC's Child Interviewing Lab an active brother in Phi Delta Theta Fraternity and. After school, I plan to pursue a graduate degree in clinical psychology.
Thomas Little
Vanderbilt University
Media Studies | French
I am a sophomore at Vanderbilt University studying Human and Organizational Development and French with a business minor. I am from Arlington, VA and enjoy watching Arsenal, playing soccer/tennis/golf, reading and DJ'ing in my free time. I am a transfer student, so having been through this process twice I look forward to sharing all the knowledge and tricks I learned to help you find the right fit. I look forward to working with you.
Kyra Thordsen
American University
Political Science | Philosophy | Spanish
Kyra is a senior at American University studying Political Science, Philosophy, and Spanish Language. She hails from the San Francisco Bay Area, loves to swim, host dinner parties, read, and beat her friends at the NYT crossword puzzle. At AU, Kyra is involved in student government, club sports, college radio, community volunteering, and political internships. Kyra enjoys traveling, and just returned from her semester studying abroad in Madrid! After graduating in the Spring of 2024, Kyra hopes to attend law school and one day become a judge.
1st Gen
Evan Farnping
Brown University
Computational Biology | Entrepreneurship
Hello, my name is Evan Farnping, and I am from Lowell, Massachusetts. I attend Brown University, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computational Biology and a Certificate in Entrepreneurship, with an expected graduation year in 2025. As a first-generation student of color from a low socioeconomic background, I've gained valuable experience in labs, a pharmacy, as a teaching fellow, a tutor, a video editor, and a programmer. Despite my challenging upbringing, I've successfully gained admission to top schools and had fantastic work opportunities. Therefore, I aim to use my experiences and skills to help students from any background realize their potential in getting into their dream schools.
1st Gen
Naomi Tekola
University of Virginia
History | Business | Pre-Law
I'm a second-year at UVA from Centreville, VA studying History and Pre-Commerce on the pre-law track. I'm also a Posse Foundation Scholar and a current Echols Scholar. At UVA I'm DEI Chair for the Inter-Sorority Council, EESA Member, and OBOE Founder. Outside of school, I enjoy playing basketball, reading/writing, and thrifting. In high school, I did a lot of start-up and nonprofit work which has given me insight on the activities section of the Common Application and on resume building. The college application process was hard for me to navigate as a First Gen student and I would love to use my insight on resume building, essay writing, and any other general parts of the process to help students currently applying.
Leilani Garza
University of Texas at Austin
Spanish | Psychology | Pre-Health
As a pre-physician assistant student at the University of Texas at Austin, I plan to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with certificates in Spanish for Medical Professions and Business Spanish. While at UT Austin, I have gained immense leadership experience in Executive Board roles such as elected President of the Leadership Cohort in a freshman initiative and President for the Mu Epsilon Theta Sorority all while participating in youth mental health research through the UT Health Science Center in San Antonio's Youth Leadership Council and gaining clinical experience working as a dermatology medical assistant. The college process and pre-health mentorship are two subjects that I am motivated to share with others. I have experience with the pre-physician assistant track and pre-medicine track along with related health tracks. With experience applying to more than 30 diverse colleges in my senior year of high school, I hope to help students in any way I can as they take a step toward their academic and educational goals.
Jiya Manchanda
Rollins College
Philosophy | CS | Pre-Law
I am a Philosophy and Computer Science major in my junior year at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida. I am originally from Mumbai, India, but I relocated to the United States a few years ago. My minor is in Ethics and I am Captain of Rollins' Varsity Debate Team; I am pursuing a doctoral degree in Philosophy (Symbolic Systems) and a career in learning design technologies. I believe that curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking are the principles that underpin innovative ideation! I am currently a research assistant at the Roman Family Center for Decision Research at the University of Chicago, and I enjoy writing and reading Paul Graham's essays in my time off of work!
Andrew Tran
University of Virginia
Computer Science | Statistics
My name is Andrew, and I'm from Alexandria, Virginia. I am a third-year student at the University of Virginia studying Computer Science and Statistics. I love to swim, play basketball, and hike with friends, and I recently have gotten into cooking! I found the college application process confusing at first; I had no life-changing events or any special awards that could set me apart. However, I knew how to craft compelling college essays that told a story about my life, and eventually, I was accepted into schools like Brown, Duke, University of Michigan, and more. Now that I've finished the process, I want to help others achieve their dreams by helping craft their unique stories. I can't wait to streamline the process for students and provide the help I wish I had.
Diya Gupta
University of Virginia
Business | Global Sustainability
I am a rising second year at the University of Virginia from Los Altos, California, intending to major in Commerce and Global Environments and Sustainability. At UVA, you will find me involved in offering volunteer tax services to community members through the Madison House, conducting climate change research, mentoring incoming college students, playing intramural sports, and being involved in cultural clubs! I love being outdoors, traveling, and fashion, and am looking forward to help guide you and support you throughout this seemingly overwhelming process. As someone who recently went through the college application process, I hope to help alleviate some of your stress and give you comfort by helping you craft your applications so that they best represent the stories that make you "you"!
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Rohan Dodda
North Carolina State University
Computer Science | Business Admin
I'm a second year at NC State University double majoring in computer science and business administration with a concentration in finance and I plan on working in investment banking, wealth management, or asset management post-college. At NC State, I serve as the VP of Finance for the American Marketing Association and the Director of Communications for the Financial Literacy Club. I am also very active in the Alpha Kappa Psi business fraternity. Outside of school, I am actively involved in playing badminton and playing the piano. I found the college application incredibly difficult at first, but eventually found the tips and tricks that allowed me to write compelling essays and craft a unique application, yielding acceptances into schools like UNC, UIUC, and Purdue. I look forward to working with you to create a unique college application and landing an acceptance at your dream college!
1st Gen
Dani Magbanua
University of Chicago
Anthropology | Linguistics
I’m currently at the University of Chicago studying Anthropology and Linguistics, but I’m originally from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Outside of academics, I love to express myself creatively through all forms of visual arts, teaching myself how to play different instruments, and learning more about/sharing my Filipino-Puerto Rican culture. I truly believe that a great essay can be written on any topic, so I’m excited to work with you and see where your ideas will take you.
Anna Makover
University of Virginia
Environmental Science | Economics
I am a second year at the University of Virginia double majoring in Environmental Science and Environmental Thought & Practice and minoring in Economics. I am a member of the Women's Club Lacrosse team at UVA and I am our social media chair. In high school, I was captain of my varsity lacrosse team, a member of the track team, and lead many local initiatives related to solving environmental issues. During my college application process, I gained experience and knowledge applying to an array of schools across the country. Throughout high school, I was determined to get accepted to top universities and spent a lot of time working towards this goal. I am excited to have the opportunity to share what I have learned through my own experience in order to help students succeed in the college application process.
1st Gen
Barron Nguyen
Stanford University
Earth and Planetary Sciences
Hey! My name is Barron and I am a sophomore student at Stanford University. I am planning to major in the Earth and Planetary Sciences (EPS) with a possible minor in physics, focusing on astrophysics when I graduate in 2026. I grew up in the East Bay of San Francisco, so I’ve always loved hiking and taking walks in the foggy mountains around the bay. I especially love the ocean and beaches along the coast and you can always find me hanging around state parks and beaches in my free time. For the past few years I have been working in the planetary sciences, geophysics and astro subfield. My research has always been very fulfilling personally (who doesn’t love studying black holes and planets?)!
Hayley Gomez
University of Tennessee
Graphic Design
I am a rising senior at the University of Tennessee Knoxville majoring in Graphic Design. I plan to work in branding, web design, and app development when after graduation to showcase the personality of a company and communicate its mission clearly. In my free time, I love cooking, crafting, photography, and traveling with friends! During my college career I am actively involved in Greek life, I was the editor of our University’s first print magazine and worked as a resident assistant. The college application process taught me the importance of branding yourself and showcasing not only who you are, but also what sets you apart from someone else. I am eager to be able to help you identify your “brand” and encompass your passions into a memorable essay.
Danielle Lancaster
Bowdoin College
Economics & Government | Urban Studies
I am a rising sophomore at Bowdoin College double majoring in Economics and Government with a concentration in International Relations and minoring in Urban Studies. At Bowdoin, I am highly involved in Bowdoin Student Government, this past year as the Class of 2026 treasurer and next year as the Chair of the Treasury. I also have experience interning and doing research in the realms of sociology, government, and finance. I am originally from Jupiter, FL, and, in my spare time, I enjoy playing tennis, traveling, and reading. I know that this process is often overwhelming and frustrating, but I am here to make it as smooth and stress-free as possible. Throughout high school, I found myself interested in many different areas of study, which ultimately shaped how I approached the college process. In total I applied to 18 schools, only discovering exactly what I wanted after learning more about myself through the application process. We will work together to make your essays unique and showcase your story in a creative way. I am excited to help each student find their perfect college match, a place where they can truly see themselves thriving over the course of four years!
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Shane Sugden
University of Virginia
Politics | Business | Pre-Law
I am from Virginia Beach, Virginia, and a rising second-year in the class of 2026 at the University of Virginia, planning to study Political Philosophy, Policy, and Law or Commerce and minor in Entrepreneurship. Outside of my rigorous academic schedule, I am the co-founder of the Tidewater Solidarity Bail Fund, Resident Advisor, executive member of Profit with Purpose, Outdoors Club, and Beta Theta Pi. My hobbies are soccer, tennis, rock climbing, weightlifting, and photography. I am excited to share my experience with the college admission process and help you show your voice to college admission officers.
Meredith Halperin
Hofstra University
Early Education | Jewish Studies
Hello everyone, I'm Meredith! I am currently pursuing a B.S. in Early Childhood/Childhood Education with a minor in Jewish Studies, and an M.S. in Literacy Studies at Hofstra University, and I'm excited to graduate in 2024, and I am originally from Gaithersburg, Maryland. In my free time, you can find me with my nose in a book, taking walks, attending concerts with friends, and making a Spotify playlist:). Beyond academics, I actively engage with my university community as a former president and current member of the Future Educators at Hofstra club. Additionally, I take pride in being a New Student Orientation Leader for the past two summers, welcoming newcomers to Hofstra, and helping them transition smoothly into college life. I cannot wait to meet you!
1st Gen
Angel Lin
University of Virginia
English | Drama | Pre-Law
Hi everyone! My name is Angel Lin and I am a fourth year at the University of Virginia majoring in English and minoring in Drama on the pre-law track. At school, I am involved with the University Guide Service, Volunteers with International Staff and Students, UndocUVA, undergraduate research on education, and UVA Drama. Each of these organizations has sharpened my skills in writing, presenting, and educating others on how to communicate complex stories and ideas in manner that is nuanced and truthful to their individual voices. In my free time, I enjoy water-color painting, photography, cooking, baking, hiking, weightlifting, rock climbing, sunset chasing, and any other activities that keep me outside and active. As a first-generation student who found college applications to be daunting and oftentimes difficult to navigate, I hope to provide students with the experience, advice, and compassion to support them through the process. I look forward to working with you!
Jillian Tabone
University of Arizona
Speech Language Hearing Sciences | Communication
Hi, my name is Jillian and I am from Orange County, CA. I am currently a Junior attending the University of Arizona and planning to graduate in 2025. I am majoring in Speech Language Hearing Sciences and Disorders and minoring in Communication. I specialize in creative writing specifically building essays that are unique and tell each student's story. I used College Contact when I was a high school senior, so I am proud to now give back by being a counselor on the platform! I have been very involved throughout my high school and college career participating in theater, dance team, honors and AP courses, philanthropy, mentorship programs, and leadership positions. I would be honored to take part and help you throughout your college application journey!
Maya Jacobs
Williams College
English | Neuroscience
I am an English major and Neuroscience concentrator at Williams College with an integral interest in creative writing. Currently at Williams, I serve as a peer writing tutor where I help students develop clear arguments in their writing, placing critical and analytical thinking at the forefront of what I read. This, alongside my interest in creative writing, creates an environment that allows us to deep dive into your essay, dissect its strengths, and improve the work with a creative and holistic approach. I offer fresh insight and experience to share with rising seniors applying to college, and have little tips and tricks that make sure we help you achieve your goals in your work.
Chhavi Nahata
Stanford University
Psychology | Creative Writing
As a rising sophomore at Stanford University majoring in Psychology and minoring in Creative Writing and Performing Arts, I spend my time learning about peer counseling, soul-stirring storytelling, and the importance of connection in Latin dance. I discovered my love for writing at the age of 13 when I started working on my first teenage romance novel and since then I have penned 2 novels and a journal. I have experience in fiction and non-fiction writing, focused on characterization, emotional quotient, travel, dance, food, and stimulating all five senses. Working with an editor has helped me improve my editing and proofreading skills which I’ve used extensively to help friends and family edit their own college essays based on the requirements of various top-tier colleges. For me, writing is a poignant form of expression that tells more than just a story. I believe in keeping the soul and voice of the writer intact and I want to help you get into the college of your dreams by being true to yourself. Stanford taught me that nothing can ever stand between you and your dreams if you are truly passionate about something. I'll never forget the moment I received my acceptance letter and I want to help students experience that life-changing moment.
Kathryn Codiamat
Rice University
Biochemistry | English
Kathryn is a third year undergraduate at Rice University, pursuing a dual degree in Biochemistry and English. As a former military child, Kathryn has called a number of places home, including New Jersey, Japan, and San Antonio. In her spare time, Kathryn is an avid reader and professional shower singer. She is extremely excited to start working with you to get into the college of your dreams!
Leslie Berg
Emory University
Finance | Economics
I’m a senior at Emory University’s Goizueta Business School double majoring in Finance and Economics from Juno Beach, Florida. I’m also on the varsity softball team! After graduating from Emory in the Spring of 2024, I’ll be starting my career as a Business Transformation Consultant at FTI Consulting in Atlanta. Some of my hobbies include glassblowing, photography, traveling, weightlifting and cheering for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Boston Red Sox! As somebody who recently went through the college application process myself, and is currently helping my younger cousins and family friends through it, I know it can be a very stressful time. I hope to help alleviate the stress of this process so you can get back to enjoying your time in high school! I can’t wait to work with you!
Kate Hafer
Wake Forest University
English | EVSC | Counseling
I am a junior at Wake Forest University majoring in English with minors in Environmental Studies and Counseling (also titled Health and Human Services). I am from Berks County, Pennsylvania. In my free time I enjoy hiking, backpacking, skiing, and reading. At Wake Forest you will find me involved in many different areas on campus ranging from Alpha Kappa Psi (business fraternity) and Alpha Delta Pi (sorority) to working for Campus Recreation in the office of Outdoor Pursuits. The commonality between all of my involvements is that in each area I am able to connect with, build relationships with, and help others. That is why I am here to help you! After recently going through the college admissions process, applying to 17 schools, writing over 40 essays, and finally being accepted into one of my dream schools, I want to help you in your process. It can certainly be a daunting undertaking that is unique to each applicant. I want to build a relationship with you, so that I can best help you get into schools where you will not just succeed, but thrive. I could not be more excited to work with you and am honored to be part of this important and exciting time in your life!
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Indira Thodiyil
Williams College
Classics | Art History
I am a junior at Williams College studying Classics and Art History. Coming from New York City, I attended an all-girls school and developed a strong background across humanities and STEM, with a focus on biology and environmental science. As a student-athlete on the Women’s Soccer team, I have enjoyed many sides of the Williams community. On campus, I am also an active member of our investment group and consulting firm, where I most recently have led an account to develop an electric vehicle fleet transition plan for the college. Balancing my interests has shown me how different disciplines can intersect in exciting ways. Only recently removed from the college process, I can understand the pressure to stand out and convey your unique experiences compellingly. Drawing from my diverse academic background and personal experiences, I can provide valuable insight to help you shape an authentic, persuasive narrative that captures your individuality and potential. I’m here to help you navigate this important stage in your journey!
Alexander Laredo
University of Virginia
Business | Commerce
Hi! My name is Alex Laredo and I am a 3rd-year student (junior) at UVA studying Commerce. I am on the Club Tennis Team at UVA, in both a social and business fraternity, as well as an active member of the Student Council just to name a few of the things I do around Charlottesville. I grew up in Vienna, VA, and will be graduating from UVA with a Bachelor of Commerce in the Spring of 2025!
Lauren Adams
University of California, Berkeley
English | Education
My name is Lauren Adams and I'm an English major, education minor expecting to graduate in Spring 2024 from University of California, Berkeley. I come from Bakersfield, California, and in high school did speech and debate alongside taking all AP classes. These days I am involved in political organizing and helping run a political club on campus, as well as being involved in my sorority, Gamma Phi Beta. I also teach writing to Berkeley athletes as a tutor and working with younger kids in Oakland in an afterschool program through the East Bay Collaborative for Underserved Children. I am so excited to help you get into your favorite school and set you up for the success you deserve!
1st Gen
Gloria Kim
Cornell University
Economics | Finance
Hi! My name is Gloria Kim and I am from Long Island, New York. I am a rising junior at Cornell University, under the Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, seeking a concentration in finance and business analytics. At Cornell, I hold the position of VP of Operations/Previous Social Chair of Forté at Cornell, a preprofessional organization focused on educating and empowering women in business. Outside of school, I enjoy hobbies such as working out, traveling, and going on Trader Joe's runs! As a First Gen student, I found it challenging to navigate the college application process alone. However, College Contact (previously named Smith Education Consulting) helped me tremendously throughout the process and I was able to gain admission into my top schools! Now, I hope to use my knowledge and experience to assist more students in pursuing their dreams of getting into their desired schools. Look forward to working with you!
Cutter Jones
University of Virginia
Economics | Statistics
My name is Cutter Jones and I am a rising 4th year at the University of Virginia majoring in Economics with a double minor in Statistics and Entrepreneurship. At UVA I participate in Greek life and serve as a volunteer manager for the UVA men's lacrosse team. Some of my favorite hobbies include wakesurfing, pickleball, lacrosse, hiking, and cheering on the Cincinnati Bengals!
Juan Ma Lugo
University of Pittsburgh
Industrial Engineering | Econonics
My name is Juan Ma Lugo and I am a rising third year Industrial Engineering student with a minor in economics at the University of Pittsburgh. I am currently a researcher in the engineering department. I grew up in San Pedro Sula, Honduras and when I was 15, I moved to Guadalajara, Mexico. I am trilingual (Spanish, English and French), love to travel, play sports, read and hang out with my friends.
Jake Elias
University of Virginia
Business | Statistics
Hi! I’m Jake Elias, a rising second-year with my studies concentrated in commerce, statistics, and economics at the University of Virginia, from Bethesda, Maryland. I’m a passionate athlete on the club roundnet team and a dedicated member of the sports business club as well. My interests include real estate, hockey, weight-lifting, and cooking. I’m incredibly excited to provide my expertise and help you discover and be admitted to your dream school!
Mira Karande
Bowdoin College
Math | Physics
Hi I'm Mira, and I am in Bowdoin's class of 2026. I live in Concord, Massachusetts but I grew up in New Jersey, South Africa, Egypt, and Switzerland. I am the daughter of Indian immigrants and am the first generation of my family to live in the US. At Bowdoin, I plan on being a Mathematics and Physics double major and Art History minor, and I am on the Bowdoin Women's Squash team! I was unsure of what I wanted to study in college but knew that I wanted to play squash, so I went through the athletic recruitment process and chose Bowdoin. The liberal arts curriculum has allowed me to take classes in many different realms and hone in on subjects that I truly find interesting! The college application process can be daunting, but I hope to share what I have learned to make the process as seamless for you as possible!
Porter Landefeld
University of Southern California
Aerospace Engineering | CS
I am a rising senior at the University of Southern California pursuing a B.S. in aerospace engineering with a minor in computer science. I am also enrolled in an accelerated M.S. program in aerospace engineering at USC. I grew up mostly in Arlington, Virginia, but before ending up there I also lived in Florida and Hawaii because my dad was in the Navy. I am a bit of a space junkie, and at USC I have been apart of both the Rocket Propulsion Lab and the AeroDesign Team. Another passion of mine is helping others, so I recently began tutoring students from underserved communities in the Los Angeles area.
Camryn Brown
University of Miami
Physiology | Sports Admin
Hi! My name is Camryn and I am an undergraduate Exercise Physiology Student at the University of Miami with a minor in Sport Administration. I am Class of 2024 and am from Atlanta, GA. I love sports and play on the Women's Club Basketball team and I have a passion for exercise, health, and wellness. I also love to crochet as a hobby. I am looking forward to working with you to help jumpstart your college career!
1st Gen
Toby Atwill
University of Virginia
Business | Real Estate
Hi! My name is Toby and I am a rising Sophomore at the University of Virginia. I am currently pursuing a degree in Commerce, with the hopes to complete a Minor in Real Estate. Although I now live in New York City, I was born and raised in Sydney, Australia. For my high school experience, I attended a Northeast boarding school named Hotchkiss. During the school year, I am involved with the Scholars of Finance Club, the Gamma Iota Sigma business fraternity, am a member of Beta Theta Pi and a children's health charity called Hoothon. In my spare time I love playing rugby, going to the beach, hanging out with friends and I love history.
Isabela Perez
Cornell University
English | Film
Hi! My name is Isabela Perez, and I am a Junior at Cornell University studying English and Film. I was born and raised in the Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York in the town of Au Sable Forks. At school, I am a staff writer for the campus newspaper, The Cornell Daily Sun, and I like to get involved in theater, the Mexican American Association, as well as film projects on campus. As for my other interests, I am a book and film nerd ranging countless genres and years including Marvel, Jane Austen, and obviously Percy Jackson. In high school I was involved in student government, musical theater, varsity volleyball, and more. I am so eager to help anyone and everyone get into their dream schools, and I believe it all starts with a great idea and how you tell your story!
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Max Van Zandt
University of Virginia
Applied Statistics | Data Science
I am a second year at the University of Virginia studying Applied Statistics with a concentration in Data Science. While I'm heavily involved in STEM at UVA through the Data Science Analytics Club and the Statistics department, I'm also involved in the humanities and liberal arts side of the university. I've taken a number of creative writing workshops, and sociology, psychology, and history courses while at UVA. I'm a passionate writer and firmly believe that STEM fields are much better served by having good writers. The college application is filled with many components that can be confusing and challenging to navigate. When it came time for me to apply to colleges, I had two very different career paths in mind (commercial aviation and data analytics). In addition, my main extracurriculars couldn't be more different (Boy Scouts, band, lacrosse). Throughout my application process, I built a story that tied my activities together, with a focus on how each activity contributed to either career path - with unique twists. I created an overall story that incorporated my activities and was specific to each school.
Miriya Huie
University of California, San Diego
Literature | Psychology
I'm a rising junior at University of California: San Diego majoring in Literature/Writing and minoring in Psychology. In high school I was heavily invested in my school's stagecraft and writing programs, so I love to find ways to express ideas creatively. I also worked with the tutoring department and value volunteering and community building opportunities. The college application process can be daunting, but with the right tools and perspective, I found it to be a really fun and exciting process. I want to help everyone else feel that thrill of new possibility as they chase down their favorite school too.
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Aleah Vega
Northwestern University
Creative Writing | Film
Hi! My name is Aleah Vega and I am from Chicago, Illinois. I am a rising senior at Northwestern University and I will be graduating with a degree in Creative Writing and Radio/Television/Film in June, 2024. I have experience working with nonprofits and independent tutoring services. In my free time, I love to make jewelry, dance, study botany, and spend time with my cat, WhiteSox (he does in fact have white socks). I love working with others and, most of all, I love editing essays! I have helped friends and peers with their essays for as long as I can remember, and I am thrilled to be able to continue this work. College application season is a hectic time. As a senior in high school, I remember feeling lost and unsure of what my future would look like. But, I am here to tell you that everyone feels this way at some point during the process, and that is ok! Allow me to take some of this stress off your plate and guide you through the steps to building an application that truly represents you.
1st Gen
Alexander Wenig
University of Pennsylvania
Cognitive Science | Architecture
My name is Alexander Wenig (though most generally call me Alex) and I am from St. Louis, Missouri. I am a senior (class of 2024) QuestBridge scholar at the University of Pennsylvania majoring in cognitive science and minoring in architecture and my main interests are design, human behavior, and artificial intelligence. I am a part of College Contact because I believe in how much of a difference consulting can make in the quality of a prospective student's college application!
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Alinor Smith
University of Virginia
English | Public Policy
I am a junior at the University of Virginia double majoring in Public Policy and Leadership and English and minoring in Entreuneurship. I am from Alexandria, Virginia but spent the first 11 years of my life in Central Florida. My interests include playing a plethora of sports: soccer, skiing, and water polo, being an avid concert-goer and vinyl collector, and traveling. I am a guest lecturer for sexual health and wellbeing in high schools around Virginia, I do sexual assault prevention training on UVA’s grounds, and I am interested in going to law school after my time in undergrad.
Annabel Stifler
Swarthmore College
Political Science | Philosophy | Economics
My name is Annabel and I am from Tampa, Florida! I am a rising sophomore at Swarthmore College pursuing a special major in political science that is enhanced with economics and philosophy. Aside from studying and fulfilling my commitments as a college lacrosse player, I often find myself experimenting in my dorm’s kitchen, jogging around campus, or completing consulting case study prep. Having a strong support system while enduring the up and downs of the college application process makes all the difference. I am truly so excited to be a source of support for students as they take this huge life step!
Aminah Attaras
University of California - Los Angeles
Human Biology | Society
Hi! My name is Aminah, and I am a second year at UCLA majoring in Human Biology and Society. I’m originally from the Bay Area, and I love going to the beach, stargazing, and thrifting. I’m passionate about community health and spend time volunteering at hospitals and local health fairs. I know the college application process can be overwhelming, and I’m excited to share what I’ve learned through my own experience to help students be successful in their applications.
1st Gen
Palak Parikh
University of California, Los Angeles
Psychobiology | STEM
Hi! I’m a rising second-year at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) studying psychobiology on the pre-med track and minoring in Spanish. I’m originally from the Bay Area. I’m actively involved in my school’s Indian Raas dance team. I also do kidney transplant research with UCLA’s Nephrology Department, volunteer at high school heart screenings, and enroll patients in neurogenomics trials at a neurology outpatient clinic. In my freetime, I love listening to Taylor Swift and cooking new vegan recipes. I applied to over 20 colleges and can understand how overwhelming and daunting the admissions process can be. However, I’m here to share all the strategies, advice, and tips I learned when I applied to help you express your authentic self and story through your essays and alleviate the stress and uncertainty you may be experiencing during this time.
Isabela Motta
University of Virginia
Leadership & Public Policy | Spanish
I’m a senior at the University of Virginia studying Leadership and Public Policy and Spanish. I’m from upstate New York (go bills!), but grew up in Fredericksburg, VA. My experience applying to colleges was stressful; there weren't many available resources in my public school, so I had to figure out the college application process by myself. At the same time, I was also going through the ROTC scholarship application process. Once I was accepted to colleges in Fall 2019, I started helping friends and family with their college applications, and have been working with seniors ever since! My passion to empower others to pursue their aspirations has continued into college life. At UVA, I volunteer as an admissions liaison for the Frank Batten School and aid undergraduates in applying to the public policy major. I also volunteer as a speaker with an organization that prepares seniors for the transition into college life. The college application process can feel overwhelming! I want to work with you to present your best application, empower you with information about the admissions process, and make sure you recognize your value and strengths at the end of it all. Let’s do this together!
Tucker Lawrence
University of Notre Dame
Economics | Applied Mathematics
Hey! I'm a rising junior at the University of Notre Dame studying economics and applied math. Originally from Westport, CT, I enjoy playing golf and hockey, am an avid New York sports fan, love country music (especially Zach Bryan), and hope to get my pilot license one day. At school, I'm involved in the Notre Dame Investment Club and the Student International Business Council, and play as many intramural sports as I can fit into my schedule. When applying to college, I was surprised by how little guidance there was in such an overwhelming process. I hope to share my experience with you to make this the exciting time it should be. Look forward to meeting!