Vanessa Garrido

The world of college admissions can feel exclusionary to people who aren’t “in the know.” I’ve felt this firsthand: I’m the eldest daughter of Latin American immigrants and the first in my family to go to college. I joined College Coach because I’m dedicated to educating and supporting families during this formative time. The college admissions process can feel daunting, but it can also be an experience of self-discovery and empowerment. One of my favorite parts of being an admissions counselor was leading case studies about how college applications are assessed. I enjoyed demystifying the admissions process for students and their families, helping them replace their confusion with clarity. As a high school English teacher, I created a unit on crafting college essays. I encouraged my students to tell authentic, meaningful stories and allow their unique voices to shine in their personal statements. I love working at College Coach because I’m able to combine the best elements of my previous jobs, while being part of an amazing team that centers care and education in our work with families.