College Counseling
1,700 +
families supported across four continents over nearly 20 years, guiding students from middle school through young adulthood.
15
to 25 students per counselor at Interface, versus an industry average of 60–100, enabling deeper relationships.
50 +
of the world’s most selective universities represented, with students placed at every Ivy League institution.
Journey
By high school, the pressure is no longer subtle.
For families facing the college admissions process, the process can feel increasingly complex, where each decision carries weight and the path forward is not always clear. What is often misunderstood is where the real risk lies. It is not a lack of achievement, but a lack of clarity.
Students are high-performing, deeply committed, and surrounded by opportunity, yet that alone is no longer enough. The admissions landscape has fundamentally shifted. It is more competitive, less predictable, and defined by expectations that extend well beyond what appears on paper.
At Interface, we see students who are accomplished on paper but struggle to articulate their meaning, value and purpose in life.. They have learned how to succeed academically, but not how to define a clear point of view about their lives. In a landscape where intelligence is assumed, a strong sense of self matters.
Interface approaches this differently by treating college admissions as the outcome of a deeper process of development and positioning. Through structured guidance, we empower students to clarify their identity and direction early, so that each academic choice, activity, and experience builds with intention over time.
Alongside that work, we guide every step of the admissions process with precision, ensuring that each element reflects not just what a student has done, but how they think and who they are becoming. The result is a process that is both strategic and aligned, leading to a compelling application and a student who moves forward with clarity and confidence.
Services
We work with students across the full arc of their high school years, guiding each stage of academic, extracurricular, and personal development while shaping a thoughtful, well-positioned path through the college admissions process.
Full Service College Counseling
Comprehensive, end-to-end guidance spanning early academic and extracurricular planning through final application strategy, positioning, and submission
Writing & Narrative Development
Intensive, individualized support to help students articulate their experiences, perspective, and voice with clarity and authenticity across all application materials
Academic Performance & Well-Being Coaching
Targeted support to strengthen focus, resilience, and consistency, helping students manage pressure and perform at a high level over time
Customized College Tours
Thoughtfully curated campus visits designed around the student’s interests, goals, and evolving college list to inform stronger decision-making
Interface–USC Marshall Summer Program
Exclusive academic and leadership experience for high school students, offering early exposure to university-level expectations and environments
Additional Advisory Services
Specialized guidance for boarding school, transfer, and graduate school admissions, tailored to each student’s path and objectives
TESTIMONIALS
Real transformation is best described by the families and students who experience it.
“Before Interface, I assumed my job was to push. What I realized is that I needed to change. Listening differently, asking better questions, showing up without an agenda. Interface helped me see my son as a person, not just a project. He got into a great school. We also came out of it closer.”
Interface Parent
“I followed a path that felt safe but was never really mine. Interface pushed me to slow down and think about what I actually cared about, not what looked good on paper. Once I stopped building something impressive and started being honest about my interests, everything got easier to explain.”
Interface Student
“I wanted my daughter to develop a genuine sense of herself, not just a strong application. Interface gave her the space to do that. What I noticed over time was how she approached difficulty. She became deliberate, less impulsive. The hard moments ended up mattering just as much as the wins.”
Interface Parent
“Interface worked with me to start early, and do fewer things well. I had time to explore without pressure, which made it easier to figure out what I actually wanted to commit to. By the time applications came around, I was not scrambling to pull everything together. I was just showcasing what I had already […]
Interface Student
“There was always pressure to do more. At some point I stopped listening to it. Interface helped me see that depth matters more than volume. Once I focused on things I genuinely cared about, the work got better and decisions got easier. I was not building an image. I was just doing the work.”
Interface Student
Case Studies
COLLEGE COUNSELORS
Interface is unique among counseling services, offering a true partnership of American and global expertise. Our veteran educators have spent years as counselors, admissions officers, and teachers at selective universities and high schools around the world, providing unique insights into the application process
Dr. Toby B.
Senior CounselorDr. Toby B.
Senior Counselor
With more than 15 years of experience in university admissions and counseling, Toby helps students develop thoughtful, compelling applications to leading universities in the United States, the United Kingdom, and around the world. His work focuses not only on where students apply, but on helping them understand who they are as learners and how to communicate that clearly through their applications.
Before joining Interface, Toby served as an admissions officer at the University of Oxford and later worked closely with students applying to highly selective universities internationally. He also served as an examiner for Oxford's History Aptitude Test while completing his DPhil in the History of Science at Oxford.
Toby works with students pursuing admission to highly selective universities in both the U.S. and abroad. His students have earned admission to institutions including Harvard, Stanford, MIT, Duke, Johns Hopkins, Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, LSE, ETH Zurich, and Sciences Po. Families value his calm, thoughtful approach and his ability to help students transform complex interests and experiences into clear, compelling application narratives.
Dr. Chris T.
Senior CounselorDr. Chris T.
Senior Counselor
Chris helps students navigate the college admissions process with a combination of deep expertise, thoughtful mentorship, and a strong commitment to student growth. With more than a decade of experience in college counseling and admissions, he works closely with students to develop ambitious goals, identify meaningful opportunities, and build authentic application narratives that reflect their strengths and aspirations.
Chris earned his bachelor's degree from Georgetown University and both a master's degree and Ph.D. in Education from the University of Pennsylvania, where his research focused on access to higher education. He has served as Director of College Counseling at both Saint Martin de Porres High School and Cristo Rey High School, and later as Director of College Access with Thrive Scholars, a nationally recognized organization supporting high-achieving students through admission to highly selective colleges and universities.
Throughout his career, Chris has helped students gain admission to institutions including Harvard, MIT, Northwestern, Georgetown, Cornell, and Washington University in St. Louis. Families value his collaborative, student-centered approach and his commitment to helping students develop the confidence, self-awareness, and skills needed to succeed both in college admissions and beyond.
Jessica S.
Senior CounselorJessica S.
Senior Counselor
Jessica has spent her career helping ambitious students stand out in some of the country's most selective admissions pools. A former admissions officer at Rice University, she reviewed more than 12,000 applications while recruiting students, advising families, and evaluating candidates through the committee-based admissions process. That experience gave her an insider's understanding of what distinguishes memorable applicants from simply accomplished ones.
Jessica is especially skilled at helping high-achieving students build an application that feels authentic, intellectually cohesive, and unmistakably their own. Rather than encouraging students to collect impressive activities, she helps them discover the connections between their interests and develop a clear, compelling story that reflects who they are and where they want to go. Families appreciate her ability to explain even the most competitive admissions landscape with honesty, clarity, and optimism.
Students quickly feel comfortable with Jessica because she combines thoughtful guidance with genuine warmth. She meets students where they are, asks insightful questions, and creates the kind of trusting relationship that allows them to think more deeply, take intellectual risks, and grow in confidence throughout the process. By the end of their work together, students haven't simply built stronger applications. They've developed a clearer understanding of themselves and how to communicate what makes them distinctive.
Keith G.
Senior CounselorKeith G.
Senior Counselor
Keith Gramling brings more than 25 years of experience in college admissions and counseling, including over two decades leading university admissions and recruitment efforts. He helps students and families navigate the admissions process with clarity, confidence, and a deep understanding of how colleges evaluate applicants and build incoming classes.
Throughout his career, Keith's focus has remained consistent: helping students identify their goals, understand their options, and make informed decisions about their educational futures. His extensive admissions leadership experience provides students and families with a unique perspective on the admissions process from the inside out.
Since joining Interface in 2015, Keith has worked closely with American and international students, guiding them through thoughtful application strategies tailored to their individual backgrounds, interests, and aspirations. He believes college counseling is not simply about gaining admission, but about helping students and families understand the admissions landscape, develop confidence in their choices, and find the institutions where they will thrive academically and personally.
Dana Z.
Counselor + Portfolio SpecialistDana Z.
Counselor + Portfolio Specialist
Dana Zullo is the author of The Creative Candidate: A Guide to College Admissions for Teen Artists and a college admissions counselor who specializes in helping students discover and communicate what makes them distinctive. She is particularly skilled at working with creative students, including artists, designers, musicians, performers, and other students whose talents and interests may not fit traditional admissions narratives. Families value her ability to help students develop authentic portfolios, essays, and application strategies that showcase both their accomplishments and their individuality.
A graduate of Columbia University and former NCAA Division I athlete, Dana brings a diverse background in education, admissions, writing, and the arts. She has served as a college counselor, a Senior Enrollment Representative for the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), and a Columbia alumni interviewer. Following graduation, she also served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Ghana, an experience that continues to shape her commitment to personal growth, cultural understanding, and educational opportunity.
Dana is a published writer whose work has appeared in literary and arts publications, and she has helped students gain admission to selective universities throughout the United States and internationally, as well as leading art and design schools where students have earned significant portfolio-based scholarships. Her counseling philosophy centers on helping students identify their strengths, communicate their stories with confidence, and pursue opportunities that align with their goals, talents, and values.
Dr. Lei Y.
CounselorDr. Lei Y.
Counselor
Dr. Lei Yu advises both undergraduate and graduate school applicants, drawing on doctoral training in student development, behavioral research, and statistics to provide highly personalized admissions guidance. He helps students identify their strengths, develop meaningful academic and extracurricular plans, and build authentic application narratives that reflect both achievement and personal growth.
Lei holds a master's degree from the University of Southern California, a Ph.D. in Social Gerontology from Miami University, and a graduate certificate in Applied Statistics. His academic background provides a unique perspective on how students develop interests, motivation, confidence, and identity over time. Students and families value his ability to build high-trust relationships while maintaining clear structure and accountability throughout the admissions process.
Lei has successfully guided students to admission at highly selective colleges and universities, including Ivy League institutions and leading public and private universities across the United States. His counseling philosophy is grounded in both empathy and rigor, helping students pursue ambitious goals while developing the self-awareness, independence, and resilience that will serve them well beyond admissions.
Susan G.
Special AdvisorSusan G.
Special Advisor
Susan Goodkin helps students develop distinctive academic, extracurricular, and personal profiles that reflect their genuine interests while positioning them for success at highly selective colleges and universities. Families value her ability to identify opportunities that move students beyond conventional activities and toward experiences that demonstrate intellectual curiosity, initiative, and authentic engagement.
Susan is a graduate of Harvard College and Harvard Law School and was awarded a Rhodes Scholarship to study at the University of Oxford. Before transitioning to education, she practiced law, developing the analytical thinking, persuasive communication, and strategic problem-solving skills that now inform her work with students and families.
At Interface, Susan works closely with students to identify meaningful academic interests, design unique projects and experiences, and build compelling application narratives that stand out in an increasingly competitive admissions landscape. She is particularly skilled at helping students connect their interests across disciplines and pursue opportunities that align with both their strengths and long-term goals.
Hope M.
Special AdvisorHope M.
Special Advisor
Hope Murtaugh is a Special Advisor at Interface, where she provides strategic guidance on selective college admissions and works closely with students and families navigating high-stakes application processes. A graduate of Princeton University, Hope began her career in admissions at her alma mater, where she served as an Admission Officer and Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions.
Since then, she has spent more than two decades counseling students around the world on admission to top U.S. and U.K. institutions, while also leading counseling teams and advising programs. Her work is grounded in a deep understanding of how highly selective admissions decisions are made, as well as a strong commitment to helping students present themselves with clarity and authenticity.
Hope is known for her calm, perceptive approach and her ability to help students think more clearly about who they are and how they want to move forward.
Debbie G.
CounselorDebbie G.
Counselor
With nearly three decades of experience in college counseling, Debbie Meyer Greenberg is known for her warm, encouraging approach and her ability to help students build confidence, discover their strengths, and reach their full potential. Families value Debbie's gift for meeting students where they are and helping them grow into more self-aware, motivated, and confident versions of themselves throughout the admissions process.
Throughout her career, Debbie has served as a college counselor, founded her own educational consulting practice, and developed college counseling programs for nationally recognized college access organizations. She previously served as Director of College Counseling at College Bound St. Louis and as a college counselor at Whitfield School. In recognition of her impact on students, she was selected as Counselor of the Year by the Colleges That Change Lives consortium.
Debbie is particularly skilled at working with high-achieving students who struggle with self-confidence, students who need encouragement to recognize their own potential, and those who are still finding their voice. Her students often arrive feeling uncertain or overwhelmed and leave with a stronger sense of purpose, direction, and belief in themselves. She is known for building meaningful relationships with students and creating an environment where students feel comfortable taking risks, exploring possibilities, and growing through the process.
Debbie holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and a master's degree from Washington University in St. Louis. Her counseling philosophy is rooted in the belief that college admissions is not simply about gaining acceptance to a university, but about helping students develop the confidence, resilience, and self-understanding that will serve them throughout their lives.
Rob A.
CounselorRob A.
Counselor
Rob is a graduate admissions counselor with more than 14 years of experience helping students gain admission to top graduate and professional programs. A graduate of Harvard University and Cornell Law School, he combines firsthand admissions experience with deep expertise in law school admissions, graduate education, and professional development.
Before joining Interface, Rob served as an admissions officer at Harvard University, where he developed a nuanced understanding of how highly selective institutions evaluate applicants. He later built a successful career as an attorney at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, one of the world's leading law firms, giving him unique insight into both graduate education and the professional pathways that follow.
Rob's students have earned admission to leading graduate and professional programs including Harvard, Columbia, the University of Chicago, the University of Pennsylvania, NYU, Cornell, Georgetown, UCLA, USC, Vanderbilt, and Washington University in St. Louis. Families value his ability to help applicants articulate their experiences, goals, and strengths in ways that resonate with admissions committees while remaining authentic to who they are.
In addition to his admissions work, Rob is a published author and former test-prep company founder. His counseling philosophy emphasizes thoughtful self-reflection, strategic positioning, and clear communication, helping students present compelling applications while preparing for long-term professional success.
Katerina P.
CounselorKaterina P.
Counselor
Katerina Papageorgio brings more than two decades of experience in college admissions, student advising, and higher education administration. She is known for her warm, supportive approach and her ability to help students and families navigate the admissions process with confidence, clarity, and reduced stress.
Katerina began her career in higher education at Washington University in St. Louis, where she worked in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions before serving as Assistant Dean and Director of Overseas Programs in the Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts. Her experience evaluating applicants, advising students, and working closely with families provides valuable insight into the admissions process from multiple perspectives.
Throughout her counseling career, Katerina has guided students through every stage of the college admissions journey, helping them identify best-fit colleges, develop thoughtful application strategies, and stay organized throughout a complex process. Families value her ability to break large goals into manageable steps while providing steady encouragement and personalized support along the way.
Katerina holds a Bachelor of Arts from Washington University in St. Louis and an MBA from the University of Missouri–St. Louis. Her counseling philosophy is rooted in the belief that successful admissions outcomes come from thoughtful planning, strong relationships, and helping students feel supported as they prepare for the next chapter of their lives.
Kathleen S.
CounselorKathleen S.
Counselor
Kathleen has spent her career helping students gain admission to leading universities around the world. She has led college counseling programs at highly respected international schools across Europe and Asia, helping students navigate admissions to selective institutions in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Europe, Australia, and beyond. Families value her global perspective, deep admissions expertise, and commitment to helping students find institutions that align with their goals, strengths, and aspirations.
In addition to her counseling work, Kathleen serves as a reader for undergraduate applications at UCLA, where she has personally evaluated thousands of applications. This experience provides firsthand insight into how admissions decisions are made and what distinguishes successful applicants in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Kathleen is widely recognized as a leader in the college admissions profession. She has written articles and book chapters on admissions best practices, regularly presents on admissions topics, and has served in leadership roles within the International Association for College Admission Counseling (International ACAC), one of the most respected professional organizations in the field.
Her counseling philosophy centers on helping students identify their strengths, explore opportunities that align with their interests, and present authentic applications that reflect both their accomplishments and their potential. She is known for building strong relationships with students and helping them approach the admissions process with confidence and purpose.
Claire D.
CounselorClaire D.
Counselor
Claire brings more than four decades of experience in college counseling and student advising, helping students and families navigate the admissions process with clarity, structure, and accountability. A former high school counselor and one of Interface's earliest counselors, she is known for her hands-on approach and unwavering commitment to helping students stay focused, organized, and on track throughout the admissions journey.
Throughout her career, Claire has guided hundreds of students to successful admissions outcomes at colleges and universities across the United States. Families value her ability to quickly identify strengths, challenges, and opportunities for growth, providing practical guidance that helps students make meaningful progress toward their goals.
Claire's counseling philosophy is rooted in the belief that successful outcomes come from consistent effort, thoughtful planning, and strong communication. She works closely with both students and parents, serving as a trusted advisor who provides honest feedback, clear expectations, and personalized support every step of the way.
Joy F.
CounselorJoy F.
Counselor
Joy Flaherty brings more than a decade of college counseling experience to her work with students and families. Drawing on her background in social work, she helps students navigate the admissions process with thoughtful guidance, careful listening, and a deep commitment to understanding each student as an individual. Families value her ability to create a supportive environment where students can explore their interests, strengths, and goals while making informed decisions about their future.
Joy holds a master's degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago and has spent her career helping students identify colleges and universities that align with their academic interests, personal values, and long-term aspirations. She believes the college search process is not simply about gaining admission, but about finding the environments where students will thrive both academically and personally.
To ensure students receive current and informed guidance, Joy regularly visits college campuses, meets with admissions representatives, and participates in professional development opportunities throughout the year. She is known for building lasting relationships with students and families and helping them approach the admissions process with confidence, clarity, and perspective.
Joann E.
CounselorJoann E.
Counselor
Joann brings more than three decades of experience helping students and families navigate the college admissions process. She is known for her thoughtful, student-centered approach and her ability to help students build confidence while reducing the stress often associated with college planning. Families value her steady guidance, attention to detail, and genuine enthusiasm for helping students discover and pursue their goals.
With a master's degree in counseling, Joann has served as a high school college counselor, independent educational consultant, and application reader for a major university. She has also held leadership roles within her state's professional counseling association and is the author of two books focused on college admissions and finding the right college fit.
Throughout her career, Joann has helped students identify their strengths, develop confidence in their abilities, and make thoughtful decisions about their educational futures. Her counseling philosophy emphasizes self-awareness, organization, and informed decision-making, helping students approach the admissions process with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose.
