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Meet the Team
SOPHIE SMITH
FOUNDER & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER (CEO)
"I am a self-starter with a desire and passion to give back what I have learned to help other students be successful."
BIO
Ever since starting my own play company at 12 years old, I have wanted to be an entrepreneur. At the age of 16, my dream became a reality and I successfully founded my own non-profit organization, Bluewater Teen Babes which became an instant success in my hometown of Jupiter, Florida.
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After getting into my dream college and completing my first year here at UVA, I realized another dream of mine was to give back in my own way that is personalized to strategies and tricks I have learned and accumulated through all of my mini successes in high school.
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College prep services and mentorship programs can be expensive. I want to make this process less financially stressful while also providing value and commitment to my clients and families.
EDUCATION
University of Virginia, B.S. in Commerce with Concentrations in Marketing and Information Technology
Aug 2019 - May 2023
At UVA, I am pursuing a Bachelor's in Science Degree in Commerce from the McIntire School of Commerce with concentrations in Marketing and Information Technology, a Track in Business Analytics, and a minor in Innovation Entrepreneurship.
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Beyond my academic pursuits, I am currently the founder and sitting Executive Director of Money Makes Change, a Program Director with CASH, a Tour Guide with the University Guides Service, and am a member of Tri Delta sorority.
PERSONAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS
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Founder and Executive Director of Bluewater Teen Babes (2016)
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Congressional Award Winner, Silver, and Bronze (2016-2019)
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Palm Beach Post Pathfinder Nominee for Community Service (2019)
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American Association of University Women Junior Award (2018)
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Deans List every semester (current)
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Selected to be a Tour Guide with University Guides Service (>10% acceptance rate) (2019)
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Landed 3 internships during COVID-19 summer (2020)
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Founder and Executive Director of Money Makes Change (2020)
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Accepted and promoted to be a CASH Program Director (2019)
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Selected to become a Bank of America Student Leader (>5% acceptance rate) (2018)
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Accepted into my dream university (go Hoos!) (2019)
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Winner of the Burger King College Scholarship (based on my essays) (2019)
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Winner of the 2022 UVA eCup Concept Challenge for College Contact
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Summer software investor with PSG in Boston, MA (10 week program- 2021)
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Wealth Management Analyst at Morgan Stanley in NYC (10 week program- 2022)
TIFFANY GANDHIKUMAR
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
The University of Florida '22
BIO
From the start of high school, I was directed at one goal; getting into my dream school. I spent countless hours researching, speaking to professionals, studying and creating the "perfect" academic profile for my college applications. I ended up applying to almost 30 schools!
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The college application process is a stressful time and can cause a lot of unnecessary stress if not guided in the right direction. I have experience from applying to BA/MD Accelerated Programs to Early Application Programs to even Regular Admission.
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Sophie Smith contacted me because she felt I was the perfect person to help her in this journey to provide our knowledge and resources to the masses. I really hope to help make your journey to college as easy as possible!
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LEILANI GARZA
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
The University of Texas at Austin '24
BIO
The college process and pre-medicine mentorship are two subjects I enjoy helping others in. As the first pre-medicine student in my family, I quickly understood how important it was to research, network, and ask for help regarding the college admissions process. I was welcomed by so much support and found a passion for the college process, university studies, and mentoring others.
I have previous experience in editing resumes, providing interview advice and networking tips, and assisting with job searches. I have found opportunities to deepen my knowledge of the pre-med track and learn more about the route to medical school. If you are considering a career in the medical field, I would be happy to help formulate an academic and extracurricular plan!
With experience in applying to more than 30 diverse colleges my senior year or college, I hope to help students in any way I can as they take a step towards their academic and educational goals.
EME NWOKO
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
UCLA '23
BIO
My name is Eme (pronounced like the letter “M”) and I am a 4th year Psychology Major at UCLA. I am from Fort Worth, Texas, but originally I am Nigerian and Chinese. Aside from school I enjoy eating, cooking, traveling, doing yoga, learning about different cultures, going to the beach, and helping others in any way that I can. I am also an avid connoisseur of reality television.
As a senior in high school, I poured everything into my college essays which was a very transformative process for me. I strongly believe that these essays were the reason for my admission into UCLA. Now that I’m on the other side of this stressful experience, I would love to help others make their dreams a reality just as mine were. I strongly believe that no matter the differences we have, every high schooler has a story worth telling. I can’t wait to bring these stories to light and help alleviate the anxiety that is college applications.
MAIA HUTCHESON-JONES
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
The University of Virginia '23
BIO
I am a senior at UVA studying Sociology and Social Entrepreneurship. When I am not studying, I am listening to music, trying out new recipes, and seeking out new adventures. Growing up with parents who are teachers, I have always had a passion and appreciation for education, and I am excited to help clients create and achieve their educational goals.
I transferred to UVA after completing my freshman year at Occidental College in Los Angeles, where played on the Women’s Lacrosse Team and intended to pursue Sociology and Music Production. Music has always been a passion of mine, but after deciding that I desired a more business-focused educational path at a larger school, I knew UVA was the right fit. Transferring taught me many things about myself and how important it is to find the right university to best suit your goals.
I am thrilled to help students find their college match and tell their stories through the college application process. Crafting essays to creatively and confidently share your story is key, and my numerous years of expereince in writing and editing essays makes me a great resource for clients as they craft their stories. While this college application process can seem daunting and stressful, together we will make this an exciting time to tell your story and achieve your goals.
LEAH GUESMAN
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
The University of Virginia '23
BIO
I am a rising junior at UVA studying Marketing at the McIntire School of Commerce and Economics. When I’m not balancing my double major, I work as an indoor cycle instructor and take any chance I get to be outdoors.
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I have always had a passion for education, especially helping students. In high school, I was an active leader in student government and served on my school’s site council, an organization dedicated to improving equity on campus. At UVA, I’m Vice-Chair of Marketing for ULink, a peer advising network that helps freshmen adjust to college life. I also volunteer as a tutor/mentor for a 4th grade English language learner.
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I am thrilled to have this new opportunity to help students tell their stories and achieve their goals as a College Consultant. I remember the college application process as a total fever dream full of countless essays and a lot of worries about where I would end up. I’m hoping to make that process less chaotic for my clients. I know applying to college can be stressful, but more than anything, it should be exciting!
MAYA JACOBS
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
Williams College '25
BIO
I am an incoming sophomore at Williams College, with an interest in double majoring in English and Neuroscience. Throughout high school, I focused intently on pursuing my interests, be it creative writing or coaching gymnastics, while also working to take rigorous academic courses.
I was able to find a balance throughout these four years that allowed me to craft an application that authentically represented my character and work ethic, and I was accepted and will be attending my dream school. All of that is to say: you can too!
Having just completed the college application process, I feel I offer fresh insight and experience to share with rising seniors on applying to college during the pandemic, including little tricks or timelines that helped me along the way. Given my interest in creative writing, I enjoy diving deep into essays, dissecting their strengths, and improving the work with a creative and holistic approach!
MEGAN KELLEHER
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
University of Virginia '22
BIO
Everyone has a story to tell. I want to help you create a well-rounded, authentic application that will tell your story. I’ve had so much help along the way—from high school to McIntire—and I want to help you craft essays that are true to you.
My passion for helping people has manifested itself in my YouTube channel, where I make college and lifestyle videos. I love connecting with my audience about UVA and fielding questions about the college admissions process. In high school, I was an editor for my school’s newspaper and a student college admissions blogger for Sara Harberson. Currently, I’m a fourth year at UVA studying Marketing and Management on the Strategic Brand Communications and Consulting track in the McIntire School of Commerce.
I want to pass on my deep experience with writing, resumes, and the college admissions process to you to make everything a little less stressful.
KENDALL HARROW
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
University of North Carolina Chapel Hill '22
BIO
I am a senior studying Business Administration at UNC-Chapel Hill's Kenan-Flagler Business School with a minor in Sustainability Studies. I have work experience in marketing within the financial services industry. I am originally from Palm Beach Gardens, FL. My interests include sustainability, volleyball, photography, and fashion.
I attended a college preparatory high school and graduated in the top 10% of my class. I applied to 14+ colleges and was thrilled at my options. I could not be happier with where I ended up and I want you to feel the same way!
I, too, have lived through the anxiety and uncertainty of the college application process. I am here to guide you and provide personalized tools to make this process as smooth as possible. Together, we will flesh out your essay ideas, hone in your experiences, and develop your voice to showcase your authentic self.
SEIRRAH KORS
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
University of Virginia '23
BIO
I am a fourth-year at UVA studying Marketing and IT with a track in Business Analytics at the McIntire School of Commerce. Some of my hobbies include making pottery, spending time outdoors, and reading mystery novels.
I remember that applying to colleges felt daunting and full of uncertainty. I didn’t know what colleges were looking for or how to “brag” about myself. I finally felt relief once I submitted my final application, but I had one regret: I wish I had asked for help sooner.
That’s why I’m here. I want to help support and guide you, so you feel confident throughout the process and gratified about the stories you share. Even though this journey is challenging, it is thrilling to start the next chapter of your life. I can’t wait to see you get into your dream school!
JILLIAN TABONE
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
University of Arizona '25
BIO
I am a rising sophomore at The University of Arizona Honors College studying Speech-Language Hearing Sciences and Disorders with minors in Spanish and Communication.
Throughout my life, I have always loved to write. I have taken a collegiate-level Honors Creative Writing as well as taken multiple high-level writing classes in order to continue growing my skills as a writer. In high school, I spent much of my time getting involved whether that was balancing a varsity sport, being part of my high school’s mentorship organization, taking rigorous AP and honors courses, or volunteering in my community through National Charity League. This all proved to not only make me a well-rounded student but also a great college applicant as I was accepted to more than 10 top-ranked public and private universities across the country and ultimately chose to attend my dream school as part of the Honors Program.
Navigating your way through the college application process can be quite intimidating, especially during these ever-changing times. Having gone through this process so recently I have up-to-date first-hand experience and a wealth of knowledge to share with you. I would love to guide you through this exciting journey helping you get into your dream school!
OUR ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM
ZOE RHODES
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
University of California Los Angeles '23
BIO
I am a rising junior at UCLA majoring in Communications with a double minor in Film Studies and Conservation Biology. Outside of my academics, I am passionate about surfing, hiking, traveling -- pretty much anything outdoors!
I have always loved tutoring other students and have been a private tutor for the past six years. My strength as a student and a tutor has been with writing. From initial brainstorm sessions to editing final versions of papers, I work with my clients through any step of the writing process they need help with.
Having gone through the college application process only a few years ago, I know that it can be an overwhelming and stressful experience. Throughout my application process, I was fortunate enough to have family and mentors to help me navigate my initial school search, writing numerous essays, and the overall anxiety surrounding what schools I would get into. I look forward to helping my clients develop strong applications and relieve some of the stress of the process.
ZOE RHODES
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
University of California Los Angeles '23
BIO
I am a rising junior at UCLA majoring in Communications with a double minor in Film Studies and Conservation Biology. Outside of my academics, I am passionate about surfing, hiking, traveling -- pretty much anything outdoors!
I have always loved tutoring other students and have been a private tutor for the past six years. My strength as a student and a tutor has been with writing. From initial brainstorm sessions to editing final versions of papers, I work with my clients through any step of the writing process they need help with.
Having gone through the college application process only a few years ago, I know that it can be an overwhelming and stressful experience. Throughout my application process, I was fortunate enough to have family and mentors to help me navigate my initial school search, writing numerous essays, and the overall anxiety surrounding what schools I would get into. I look forward to helping my clients develop strong applications and relieve some of the stress of the process.
ZOE RHODES
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
University of California Los Angeles '23
BIO
I am a rising junior at UCLA majoring in Communications with a double minor in Film Studies and Conservation Biology. Outside of my academics, I am passionate about surfing, hiking, traveling -- pretty much anything outdoors!
I have always loved tutoring other students and have been a private tutor for the past six years. My strength as a student and a tutor has been with writing. From initial brainstorm sessions to editing final versions of papers, I work with my clients through any step of the writing process they need help with.
Having gone through the college application process only a few years ago, I know that it can be an overwhelming and stressful experience. Throughout my application process, I was fortunate enough to have family and mentors to help me navigate my initial school search, writing numerous essays, and the overall anxiety surrounding what schools I would get into. I look forward to helping my clients develop strong applications and relieve some of the stress of the process.
ZOE RHODES
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
University of California Los Angeles '23
BIO
I am a rising junior at UCLA majoring in Communications with a double minor in Film Studies and Conservation Biology. Outside of my academics, I am passionate about surfing, hiking, traveling -- pretty much anything outdoors!
I have always loved tutoring other students and have been a private tutor for the past six years. My strength as a student and a tutor has been with writing. From initial brainstorm sessions to editing final versions of papers, I work with my clients through any step of the writing process they need help with.
Having gone through the college application process only a few years ago, I know that it can be an overwhelming and stressful experience. Throughout my application process, I was fortunate enough to have family and mentors to help me navigate my initial school search, writing numerous essays, and the overall anxiety surrounding what schools I would get into. I look forward to helping my clients develop strong applications and relieve some of the stress of the process.
ZOE RHODES
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
University of California Los Angeles '23
BIO
I am a rising junior at UCLA majoring in Communications with a double minor in Film Studies and Conservation Biology. Outside of my academics, I am passionate about surfing, hiking, traveling -- pretty much anything outdoors!
I have always loved tutoring other students and have been a private tutor for the past six years. My strength as a student and a tutor has been with writing. From initial brainstorm sessions to editing final versions of papers, I work with my clients through any step of the writing process they need help with.
Having gone through the college application process only a few years ago, I know that it can be an overwhelming and stressful experience. Throughout my application process, I was fortunate enough to have family and mentors to help me navigate my initial school search, writing numerous essays, and the overall anxiety surrounding what schools I would get into. I look forward to helping my clients develop strong applications and relieve some of the stress of the process.
KARLEY DIBOFSKY
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
University of Virginia '23
BIO
Writing the “perfect” essay on college applications seems like an overwhelming task, yet it is something everyone is capable of. Taking a creative, witty and personal angle to writing these essays is key, and I am excited to provide others with guidance to achieve that. This was my strategy when I was applying for college, and it got me into my top school, UVA! Admissions officers will encounter thousands of students with perfect GPAs and high test scores, but writing a captivating essay is what will really set you apart from the pack. I will help you write memorable college essays that you are proud of and confident in.
I am a third-year Kinesiology student in the School of Education and Human Development. Outside of school, I love hiking, running, cooking, and traveling. I believe in the importance of finding a healthy work or school-life balance, where finding time for yourself is just as important as getting your assignments in on time.
I have marketing and public relations experience from my leadership roles in my sorority, Hoothon at UVA, and an internship that I completed last summer. Writing an effective college admissions essay essentially means that you marketed yourself well, and I am here to help you accomplish that.
CHARLOTTE BURGESS
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
University of Virginia '25
BIO
I am a sophomore at the University of Virginia, with the intent of studying Media Studies and minoring in French. My interests include nutrition, singing, reading, French, politics, 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. I 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. 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!
MORGAN MCGURK
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
University of Arizona '25
BIO
I am a sophomore at the University of Arizona W.A. Franke Honors College majoring in Family Studies and Human Development with minors in Public Health and Biology. In my free time, I love playing tennis, reading, reviewing movies, and going to concerts! I think maintaining a balance between academics and personal interests is incredibly important, and some of these interests even guided my college essays.
I had success applying to a wide variety of schools and scholarships by crafting essays that showcased my personal story, and I would love to be a resource to you as you conquer the same task. While the college application process can feel stressful, I found the process to be quite introspective, and I learned so much about the values and goals most important to me. With my experience and advice, I hope to ease some of the anxiety surrounding college applications and help you achieve your biggest goals!
ANNA MAKOVER
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
University of Virginia '25
BIO
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 also 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 own college application process, I gained experience and knowledge applying to a wide 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 student’s succeed in the college application process!
TARA MOON
COLLEGE CONSULTANT
University of Virginia '23
BIO
I am a fourth-year at the University of Virginia studying Public Policy & Leadership and Youth & Social Innovation. I am passionate about educational equity and will be teaching as an elementary school teacher in Washington D.C. through Teach for America after my graduation in the Spring. I have always enjoyed working with students and helping them grow, and look forward to continuing this important work as a career.
Outside of school, I am a singer in an acapella group as well as a cover band. I have always loved performing, whether it be through musical theatre, singing competitions, or even at concerts, and I can't wait to bring my performance skills into the classroom with my students!
My journey to UVA was a long and difficult process. As a senior in high school with little idea of what I wanted in college, I applied to as many schools as I could with very little guidance. I struggled to understand that the college search is just as much a search of my own, rather than just a search to be accepted by someone else. I am thrilled to support current high schoolers facing similar difficulties and help to make the college search feel exciting and full of opportunities, rather than an uphill climb. Every student has a place that is the perfect fit for them, and I look forward to helping you find your home away from home!