Academic advisor with over 15 years of experience in college admission and advising offers guidance on the college search and application process.

I worked with Vala as an incoming college student and could not have navigated the application/acceptance/financial aid process without her! She is warm, helpful, knowledgeable, and committed to making the college-going process not just easy but fun! I was the first in my family to attend a university and Vala helped me reach my potential. I highly recommend her services if you or your child needs support with the college and financial aid process

Vala and I were colleagues in an academic setting for a number of years. She is very smart, extremely knowledgeable about career options and issues, and one of the clearest thinking and articulate people I know. Vala commits 100% when she decides to do something, and I know that anyone who works with her will benefit from that interaction. I have learned a lot from Vala over the years and highly recommend her as a teacher on any subject. She will be there for you, and you will be glad you signed up to receive her assistance.

Vala was my supervisor in the admissions department in college. She is organized, knowledgeable about all things "admissions," and kind in her direction. She knew most answers to any questions we brought to her, but she also knew how to find any answers she didn't have for us. I strongly recommend Vala!

I worked with Vala for over 10 years and saw first hand how well she works with students of all ages and backgrounds. She is a very approachable counselor with a wealth of knowledge about the education industry. She is very patient and does a great job explaining the complexities of college admissions, financial aid, and academic advising and treats everyone with the utmost respect and care. I highly recommend seeking Vala's support for anybody who is trying to navigate the process and looking for a supportive coach!

I knew Vala as both as a transfer student entering college and later as a colleague. Vala has a unique talent at connecting with students and parents. She understands both the stress and coordinated efforts needed to make the college admission and transition seamless. I highly recommend Vala for all your college counseling needs!

Vala's coaching not only helped me raise my GPA at City College of San Francisco, she also coached me through applying to Mills College - and when I was accepted, she figuratively held my hand all the first semester to help me familiarize myself with Mills' programs and systems. I'll be graduating with my B.A. from Mills in Spring 2020 thanks to Vala. She's knowledgable, she's compassionate, and she's patient. She'll let you melt down if you need to, then help you re-solidify when you're ready. She's someone it's very easy to talk to!

I have known Vala for 8 years. She was my admissions counselor to my dream college and became my friend, mentor, and more. Vala is kind, thoughtful, and supportive to everyone she meets. She has a heart of gold and strives to support her student's needs what ever they may be. She is a creative thinker and can see any problem from many perspectives. She strives to make sure every student she comes across feels successful in their endeavors. Whether it be small goals or big goals, she will support you in getting there and help you see your progress as you go. Vala never gives up and she can help you reach your goals too!

I worked with Vala for several years at Mills College. During that time she advised students throughout the college admissions process, and also served as an academic and career advisor. Vala worked at Mills College for over 10 years and would work with students for as long as it took for them to feel comfortable on their path, whether it was adjusting to a new college, major or career. She is one of the most kind-hearted and empathetic people I have ever met. She truly cares about her career and the students she works with.