When you choose to hire an independent educational consultant, you want to make sure you select wisely.
One-Stop has helped hundreds of students and parents navigate the college application process, and we’re proud of our success! Read how our families have praised their experience with us…
Member Testimonials
Boston College, Class of 2029 – STUDENT
We did it!! Yay! I am so happy! Everyone is so jealous that I don’t have to stress anymore—just looking at my fellow classmates stare down their college essays makes me feel relieved. Thank you so much for all your help, Laurie! Without your editing and much needed accountability, I wouldn’t have been able to be celebrating my Early Decision admit right now!
Yale University, Class of 2029 – STUDENT
Working with Laurie was one of the most impactful parts of my high school journey. Beyond helping me navigate the many layers of the college application process — from essays to interviews — she offered thoughtful guidance every step of the way to ensure the real me was shown through my application. Whether it was encouraging me to focus on what truly mattered, offering insight on how to make the most of my high school years, or gently pushing me outside of my comfort zone, Laurie helped me grow not just as an applicant but as a person. This experience from freshman to senior year helped prepare me for life during and after college, and I’m so happy she set me on the right path. I’m incredibly grateful for her support, perspective, and belief in me.
University of Chicago, Class of 2029 – STUDENT
I cannot thank you enough for the time you spent with me, and the dedication toward helping me find the best fit college. I appreciate everything you did. THANKS SO MUCH!
Brown University, Class of 2029 – STUDENT
I am forever grateful to One-Stop for their guidance throughout not just the college process, but all of high school. One-Stop’s suggestions for my extracurriculars, courses, and essays proved to be extremely beneficial, as they made my applications more authentic and articulate. Despite the inherent stressful nature of college admissions, One-Stop provided constant help and aid, making the whole process much smoother; I can confidently say that without their help, I wouldn’t be attending Brown this fall!
Wesleyan University, Class of 2029 – STUDENT
I got into Wesleyan University! It’s my dream school, and I’m very excited. I couldn’t have done it without One-Stop’s help. They truly simplified this chaotic college process. Without them I would have gone completely bananas. Thank you so much for everything you did for me, I am forever grateful.
University of Michigan, Class of 2029 – PARENT
Use a college counselor if you can! We made the mistake of navigating the college applications process by ourselves for our first child, and realized we needed help for our youngest. Laurie and Matt made an incisive evaluation of where we had gone wrong the first time, and we were so impressed with their insights that we engaged them immediately to help our son. Laurie and Matt are generous with their time. They interviewed our son comprehensively to assess his interests, strengths and weaknesses and helped us prepare a comprehensive list of 'reach', 'likely' and 'safety' schools with deep knowledge that we ourselves did not possess. This led to a more precise and realistic choice than we would have made for ourselves. Teenage children do not take advice or suggestions from their parents, but they do from other people. Laurie and Matt were very good at reminding our son what was due, and when, somehow without nagging - and got him to prepare more thoroughly than we would have been able ourselves. This is especially important for interview preparation as well as submission deadlines. All the time they showed their extensive knowledge of different universities and how to make the best impression with each of the admissions directors. They provided constant advice and encouragement, connecting with us and checking in even when we hadn't asked. They never watched the clock or ended sessions before we finished the matter at hand. They were also extremely detailed in editing and making suggestions for our son’s essays, and their help brainstorming for his personal essay was crucial for us. This is a very personal service. Once we were informed of colleges' decisions, Laurie and Matt consulted with us extensively to find the best potential match for our son, having taken the trouble to get to know him properly. Children have the skills to attend college, families have the ambition for their children, and Laurie and Matt have the expertise and knowledge to ensure students make the most realistic mix of applications and ultimately make the best choice. Engage them!
Columbia, Class of 2029 – STUDENT
I committed to Columbia! Thank you for all the work you've done with me over these past few years!
Brown University, Class of 2029 – PARENT
Thanks so much, Laurie! We were so fortunate to have you as an advisor. You are so committed, passionate & intelligent. We will recommend your services to everyone!
University of Pennsylvania (Engineering), Class of 2029 – PARENT
We could not have gone through the whole college application process without Laurie and Matt. My husband and I have both demanding jobs, and my daughter went to a boarding school in Massachusetts, but everything was seamless thanks to One-Stop College Counseling. At the first meeting, we learned we had to make scheduling changes with French and math as her schedule wasn’t ideal from a college standpoint. Their input for essay writing was critical and helpful, and their detailed knowledge about college made it easy for us to choose schools to apply to. Our daughter got admitted to most of the colleges that she applied and even received large merit scholarships at some. We are grateful for Laurie & Matt’s guidance and help throughout the journey.
Duke University, Class of 2029 – STUDENT
Thank you for all the support and help during this process. I will be committing to Duke!
Washington University in St Louis, Class of 2029 – STUDENT
One-Stop was truly such a helpful source of guidance throughout my entire college application journey. Since I have no older siblings, both my family and I didn’t really know what to expect. Having someone that could answer all my questions made the process a lot less overwhelming. Whether it was contacting an admissions officer, narrowing down a list of colleges, preparing for interviews, editing essay drafts, or ultimately making my final decision, One-Stop was there every step of the way. Their guidance in helping me make the most of both my school year by helping me choose classes and my summer by offering an extensive list of summer opportunities also directed me to build a strong application and grow more confident in my academic and personal interests. Thank you, Laurie, Matt, and Brooke, for all your support! I couldn’t be happier with where I’ve ended up.
Cornell University, Class of 2029 – STUDENT
As a first generation American, my parents had no experience they could use to guide me during the application process. Laurie and Matt provided that in spades, together with support during stressful times, and helped me get admittance to my dream school - an Ivy.
Swarthmore College, Class of 2029 – PARENT
Many thanks Laurie & Matt! She was admitted. We are celebrating; thank you for all your support.
University of Miami, Class of 2029 – STUDENT
As per your prediction, the U Miami Early Decision results came out today, and I got in!!! Thank you so much for helping me these past couple years and for your kind words of encouragement. You helped give me the best opportunities, pushed me when it came to my essays, and helped me make the best decisions I could to get the result I wanted. I've really enjoyed working with you these past couple of years, and I can't thank you enough for what you've done for me.
Brown University, Class of 2029 – STUDENT
I'm proud to let you know I've been accepted to the class of 2029 at Brown. Thank you so much for all your help during the process. I couldn't have done it without you. I'm looking forward to the next 4 years at Brown!
University of Michigan (Engineering), Class of 2029 – STUDENT
I got into Michigan and will be attending next fall! Thank you for all the help throughout the process! It was a stressful few weeks, but it all worked out in the end. Again, thank you so much for all your help.
University of Pennsylvania (Dual Degree), Class of 2029 – STUDENT
I truly don't think I'd be on the path to my dream school—or have grown into the person I am today––without One-Stop. Laurie's thoughtful guidance and unwavering support over these past four years have been an absolute game-changer in both my high school journey and college application process, and I'm beyond grateful for her steady presence during this crucial time in my life. Laurie and her team's dedication to their students and natural gift for what they do undeniably set them apart—you're in great hands with them!
Rice University, Class of 2029 – STUDENT
Thank you for your guidance over the years!
Villanova University, Class of 2029 – PARENT
Laurie & Matthew, your knowledge of the schools and process was amazing. You really helped us find the right set of schools for our daughter to apply. I loved how you broke the process down into steps; it made a daunting task much more manageable. The process was organized and efficient which really helped. Your method of feedback to all of us was great. You were straightforward when changes were needed or we missed the mark on something, but you did this in a balanced way that didn't hurt our daughter’s feelings or confidence. So, to you both, we’d like to say a sincere THANK YOU! We could not have done this without you. We found your guidance and support to be invaluable from college selection right through the final admissions steps.
University of Michigan, Class of 2029 – PARENT
Wow, our last kid! Thank you so much for everything you have done for our three children. And all the other kids we've introduced to you. It has been wonderful to work with you. Thanks for seeing us through this journey. We are so grateful for all that you’ve done.
Harvard University, Class of 2028 – STUDENT & PARENTS
Student: I am so grateful to One-Stop for their guidance leading up to and throughout the college application process. Thank you, Matt and Laurie, for offering invaluable feedback on my personal statement, editing my supplemental essays, helping me finalize my college list, giving me practice with interviews, reminding me of important deadlines, and providing detailed and thoughtful responses to my (many) questions! Under your guidance, I stayed focused on my goals and learned which activities and tasks I should commit my energy to; your help definitely made the process much less stressful than it would have been. Harvard was my top choice—thank you so much for helping me get there! Parents: We are really thrilled to be at a successful end of the journey and we wanted to express our deep gratitude to both of you for being with us every step of the way and for supporting our daughter through it all. We are so happy to be sharing this happy moment with you!
Columbia University, Class of 2028 – STUDENT & PARENTS
Student: Thank you so much for your guidance! I am thrilled to commit to Columbia University! Through this process, I was able to confidently focus on my passions while receiving personal and detailed feedback. I appreciate the time you spent editing my essays to perfection. Without you, I would not have been able to go through this process so smoothly and successfully. Parents: The college application process is a lengthy and challenging journey. We want to express our gratitude to Laurie and Matt for their invaluable assistance over the past four years. They consistently offered the best advice and support, enabling our daughter to showcase her best self. The resources and opportunities they provided offered guidance on how to excel in school and make the most of every summer. I am delighted that our daughter has discovered her passion and can pursue it while attending a fantastic college to further nurture her interests.
Princeton University, Class of 2028 – STUDENT & PARENTS
Student: Your guidance was key in making my college application process even more successful than I could have hoped! Throughout the last several years working, you were a constant source of motivation and positive pressure, encouraging me to pursue my interests on a deeper level and to take the admissions process seriously. You were endlessly receptive towards my passions and ideas. You were the main influence in my college search process, ensuring that I applied to colleges that I believed truly fit me. I’m a reserved person, and you pushed me to expand on my activities in ways that were outside of my comfort zone. Moreover, your rehearsals and guidance regarding interactions/interviews with admissions officers were a source of confidence. You guided me in demonstrating interest in all my schools. You made sure that my essays were tweaked to perfection and aligned with the specifics of each school – thank you for always responding quickly even during application crunch season! Parents: Thank you so much for all your help throughout this stressful period. Your encouragement and confidence in my son had helped him a lot; the process had also helped him learn and grow…
Emory University, Class of 2028 – STUDENT & PARENTS
Student: I'm a critical person, and I rarely have such glowing words for teachers/tutors/counselors. But I truly have the utmost respect for both of you. I don't think anything would have made the admissions process enjoyable, but you made it informed by lighting the way and showing me the truth about college admissions. Your ability to understand my situation and personality from our Zoom meetings each year has always astounded me, almost as much as your knowledge of the ins and outs of not only the admissions process, but also minute details about each college. It is like watching Carl Sagan explain black holes - there is no question regarding your expertise. I am incredibly grateful to my parents for choosing One-Stop as our counselling service. We walked into this process only knowing snippets of rumors from other parents and walked out with my commitment to a university I will love. Thank you, once again, for all your help, and happy holidays! Parents: My wife, daughter, and I are so fortunate to have you as our college admission counselors. The best part in the last few years is that throughout the entire journey, we knew exactly when to expect, what to expect, and how to expect. We are not only talking about planning college visiting, communicating with admission officers, selecting AP courses, or understanding the difference between high reach and likely schools. It was a tremendous relief for my wife and I who had no firsthand experience applying to US colleges and you gave us peace of mind. We are talking about the inspiration you gave to our daughter and us on how to prepare for college life or even her entire life. We will never forget the article you forwarded to everyone the other day; it prepared us for any outcome. Fortunately, it was a HAPPY ending, and we could've not been more grateful. You probably have realized by now that our daughter is a bit critical. On multiple occasions, she has said, "Laurie and Matt are very, very good. They are so knowledgeable. They have my total respect.” She never uses "very, very good" to describe anyone. And, we can't agree with her judgement more. You are the best among the best! Please, try to help as many kids as you can. They need you. Your unparalleled experience and knowledge have changed and will continue to change people's life.
Tufts University, Class of 2028 – STUDENT
Without One-Stop, I most definitely would not be going to my dream school—Tufts! In fact, I probably wouldn’t have even applied there. Seriously, without the support and guidance of One-Stop, I never would have discovered my top school—whoo-hoo! Thank you. I couldn’t have asked for a better team to guide me through this stressful college process. Besides helping me form a rigorous and achievable schedule, write a bunch of essays, and other customary college counsel-y things, One-Stop helped me make the best out of my high school years, while also enjoying them! Who would’ve known college counselors could do that?! Laurie encouraged me to take not only the most rigorous course schedule, but she also helped me discern my passions and interests so that I could take classes I truly liked. I was guided to dive deeper into my activities and hobbies I loved, while also discovering opportunities to pursue new programs, awards, and scholarships. Initially, I thought I’d only receive some sage college advice and humbling statistics; however, I quickly found that the One-Stop experience is so much more than that. I was taught how to advertise myself and write a strong resume, and I learned how to conduct myself in interviews through mock interview prep. I became adept at emailing adults professionally, and I improved my writing through intensive and personal essay reviews. I bumped my SAT score up, took advantage of various opportunities, got outside my comfort zone, fixed my incorrect “highschool” spelling, learned how to use a semicolon, and other good stuff like that. Essays were written, colleges applied, and several life skills happily learned—which I think is pretty great! Not only helping me succeed in high school and with college acceptances, Laurie & Co. also set me up quite soundly for my future, goals, career, and other daunting life words I used to think were so scary as a young high school freshman. But now, as a rising college freshman, I feel confidently more assured and optimistic thanks to One-Stop. Thanks, One-Stop!
Brown University, Class of 2028 – STUDENT
Thank you, Laurie and Matthew, for all your guidance! As the first child in my family to go through the college admissions process, we knew very little about what to expect, and of the tidbits we thought we knew, most of them turned out to be misguided and unfounded rumors. I can’t thank you enough for being patient with my family and me as you answered all the questions we had about the process and clarified all that we thought we knew. More than that, I can’t thank you enough for amplifying my voice rather than replacing it. Your meticulous guidance through the essay-writing part of the process exemplified that, but even from the start, by giving me the encouragement I needed to explore my values and passions without feeling like I was behind or doing something wrong, I never felt forced to do something that was contrary to my identity. And, because of all your help, I couldn’t feel better, not only about being able to attend one of my top-choice universities, but also about myself and my future beyond college.
Northwestern University, Class of 2028 – STUDENT & PARENTS
Student: Laurie and Matt, thank you so much for all your guidance! Over the last four years, you've helped me every step of the way: picking classes, encouraging me to partake in extracurriculars, preparing for the ACT, reviewing my personal statement and supplementals, helping me form my college list, and so much more. The college application process is extremely daunting, and I never would have had so much success navigating it without all your resources and help. I'm so excited to begin the next chapter of my life at Northwestern, and it wouldn't have been possible without you. Go 'Cats! Parents: Once again, One-Stop's guidance has proven to be the key to unlocking doors to a top-tier education We can't express enough gratitude for the invaluable support One-Stop provided for both of our children, several years apart. Both were accepted into their Early Decision schools—a remarkable achievement we attribute to One-Stop's expertise. One-Stop's advice goes beyond improving grades and test scores (although their testing strategies are clearly invaluable). The misconception that strong grades and scores guarantee acceptance at elite universities is dispelled by One-Stop's understanding that it's the "everything else" that truly matters. Their insight into the determinative factors sets them apart; their strategies and advice are absolute game-changers! We are grateful for One-Stop's role in making our children's educational dreams a reality.
New York University/Stern, Class of 2028 – STUDENT
I was accepted into NYU Stern! Thank you so much for your guidance and insight over the past four years, I truly could not have achieved this without your help. NYU has always been one of my dream schools, so thank you for helping me to reach this point!
Princeton University, Class of 2028 – STUDENT
Thank you so much! I’m thrilled right now, and I'm so grateful that I have been accepted to such amazing schools. Thank you for your help, especially with reviewing my Princeton essays.
Vanderbilt University, Class of 2028 – STUDENT
I just got into Vanderbilt. Thanks for all the help!
Amherst College, Class of 2028 – STUDENT
I finally made a decision!!!
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