Testimonials
What students and families say about working with Dot.
These are the stories that matter most — not just college acceptances, but students who arrived knowing who they are and what they want.
15+
Years of experience
Hundreds
of students guided
Nationwide
Remote sessions
4-year
Relationship-based model
Student reviews
In their own words.
Whole child
"I would not be a graduate of NYU Tisch if it were not for Dot — but more importantly, I would not be the young woman I am today had I not met this wonderful and wise woman."
— Nina V.,
NYU Tisch School of the Arts
Finding the right fit
"I initially chose schools based on what I thought was expected of me rather than what I wanted, but Dot saw the distance between the person I was and the colleges I had selected. One of her suggestions is now not only my alma mater, but also the place where I met my spouse."
— Melanie B,
Scripps College
Seen as a person
"Dot really understood me as a person, rather than as "just another student trying to get into the most prestigious college as possible." I ended up going to the school that Dot told me about — I hadn't even heard of it before — and it was where I truly met my people."
— Non K.,
Northeastern University
Whole child
"Dot truly changed the way I looked at the college process and my high school path in general. She has never failed to inspire me and show me how much potential I have. Being a first-generation college student means not having many people to guide you, but she was right there for every step of the way."
— Amaya Q.,
Columbia University
Process & calm
"Working with Dot made the college application process so much less overwhelming. Dot really took the time to understand who I am, my goals, what I care about. What meant the most was that Dot believed in me and helped me see my strengths. She made the entire process feel doable, not stressful."
— Callie D.,
San Diego State
Mentor relationship
"Ms. Kowal was more than a counselor; she was a mentor who shaped my academic, career, and personal growth. She has a rare ability to listen, understand, and provide thoughtful, actionable advice — creating a space where people feel truly seen and heard."
— Andy I.,
Pacific University
Essays & voice
"Essay writing was one of the most challenging parts of high school for me. But with Dot's relatable and expert guidance, the process became much smoother. She kept me on schedule with regular check-ins, which helped me avoid last-minute cramming. In the end, I learned skills that will stay with me beyond college applications."
— Conrad C.,
Purdue University
More than college counseling
"I initially worked with Dorothy as a college counselor for two years, during which she provided invaluable support. Our sessions were so productive and enjoyable that I continued to work with her as a therapist for another three years. Dorothy stands out due to her nonjudgmental approach, intelligence, and deep understanding."
— Mikaela R.,
Loyola Marymount University
Knowledge & fit
"Ms. Kowal was an incredible mentor who genuinely cared about my success. More than that, she takes the time to understand each person's goals and strengths, offering guidance that goes beyond just getting into college — it's about finding the right fit for the future."
— Sam O.,
Xavier University
Parent reviews
From the families who trusted the process.
Whole child
"Working with Dot was one of the best decisions we made for our daughter Callie. From the very beginning, Dot truly saw her — her strengths, her goals, her personality, and the kind of college experience she dreamed of. As parents, we felt supported the entire way."
— Allegra and Joe D.,
Parents
Calm & organized
"As parents of three boys we were initially overwhelmed by the college application process for our first son, but Dot truly made it manageable. She not only provided expert advice on choosing the right schools, she helped Luke stay organized and on track while offering encouragement throughout the entire journey. We are so grateful for Dot's calm demeanor and unwavering belief in our child's potential."
— Steve F. & Rebecca F.,
Parents
Strategic & personal
"Dot is an experienced college counselor having held multiple leadership roles at elite Bay Area schools. In addition to helping my son stay disciplined, she also facilitated the creative development of authentic essays and maximized admissions opportunities by aligning strategic planning with individual student goals."
— Tony K.,
Parent
Knowledge of colleges
"Dot is an experienced counselor who has relationships with admissions departments at colleges and universities all over the US and beyond. She also knows the intricacies and strengths of programs that will fit the needs of your student. Even better, Dot possesses the magical skill of listening to students and helps them take the next step that will grow them into mature adults."
— Kathleen V.,
Parent
Organized & thorough
"Dot has been an awesome college consultant for our son. She helped him navigate through all aspects of the college process from choosing a major to creating a list of colleges, keeping him on track with his essays and meeting multiple college deadlines. She would patiently and thoughtfully work with him on each essay and regularly communicate with us on his progress."
— See-Eng P.,
Parent
Long-term relationship
"Since our first meeting eight years ago, when I was 17, Dot has been a godsend of a mentor. Through our first conversations, Dot helped me trust in and strengthen my goals, and offered the wisdom and encouragement I needed to pursue them. The years after high school are anything but linear, and I'm so lucky that Dot has been my confidante."
— Nathan B.,
Deep Springs College → Columbia → Cambridge
Professional peers
Respected by colleagues across the field.
Dot has worked alongside educators, school leaders, and college counseling professionals for over 15 years. These are people who have seen her work up close.
Colleague & school leader
"I've had the privilege of knowing and working alongside Dot for twenty years, and in that time, I have seen firsthand the incredible impact she has on students, families, and school communities. Her ability to connect with students from all walks of life with authenticity, deep compassion, and unwavering respect is extraordinary. She is the kind of educator and advocate every student deserves: someone who listens deeply, leads with care, and helps young people believe in what's possible."
— Katie B., Director of Community Well-Being, The Hamlin School
College counseling colleague
"Dot is an exceptional, experienced college counselor who truly prioritizes the unique needs and aspirations of each student and family. With a deep, intersectional commitment to helping students find the best fit for their academic and personal journeys, Dot creates a supportive, warm, and understanding environment that allows students to thrive. A welcome antidote to the cultural obsession with brand-name institutions."
— Katie M., Associate Director of College Counseling, Sonoma Academy
Ready to write your own story?
The Discovery Call is free, 30 minutes, and completely pressure-free. It's the right place to start — wherever your family is right now.