Cesar Contreras

College Admissions Consultant He/Him/His

College Admissions Consultant

Former Admission Advisor University of California, Los Angeles

Former Admissions Officer Summer Science Program

My Background

I started my career in the admissions office at UCLA where I evaluated thousands of first-year applications for a range of majors, from engineering and life sciences to arts and architecture. I also counseled students through strategic A-G course planning, demystified the UC Personal Insight Questions, and provided insight into extracurricular expectations. I later transitioned to an admissions operations role, helping to integrate technology and communications for the admission office, an experience which helped me further gain an understanding of recruitment and communication strategies, as well as the matriculation process for admitted students. Along the way, I developed deep familiarity with UC admissions trends and data, including admit rates by major, holistic review factors, and how academic rigor and activities are assessed.

My passion for expanding access to STEM pathways led me to my most recent role as an admissions officer at the selective Summer Science Program (SSP) where I recruited, evaluated, and yielded STEM-passionate and high-achieving applicants from the US and all over the world, including Canada, India, Spain, and the UK.

[Our counselor] provided excellent input and helped my daughter craft a balanced college list. Given that the schools that my daughter liked were very similar to each other, we were appropriately guided towards an early decision strategy which worked out well.

Parent of a BHCC Student

Why I Joined College Coach

As a first-generation college graduate, I understand the stress and confusion that comes with figuring out the complex admissions process. I have also experienced first-hand how transformational education can be for a student and their family. These principles have guided my passion for helping students find opportunities to grow as scholars and individuals by empowering their choices and clarifying misinformation. I joined College Coach to share my expertise and holistic approach to admissions. I aim to work in partnership with students to demystify the process and to help them make the best decisions to achieve their goals and dreams. I truly believe each student can reach their potential, and I love helping them achieve it.

Get to Know Me

My Education

CSU Dominguez Hills Bachelor of Sciences, Business Administration

I have worked with students interested in:

Biochemistry
Business
Communication
Computer science
Data science
Economics
Engineering
Hispanic serving
Humanities
Ivy league
Large State Schools
Mathematics
Nursing
Political science
Pre-dentistry
Pre-law
Pre-med
Pre-veterinary
Psychology
Religiously affiliated schools
Research universities
Science
Small liberal arts colleges
Social Sciences
Teaching/education certification
Technology
Theater
Two year colleges
Visual and performing arts

I have also worked with:

First-generation students
High school admissions
Home schooled students
IB program
International students
LGBTQIA+ students
Non-traditional students
Transfer students

Cesar posing in a meadow of yellow flowers.

Some of my favorite pastimes

You can find me cycling, dirt biking, off-roading, hiking, and camping. I also enjoy yoga, caring for my houseplants, and walking on the beach.

Interested?

Interested in learning more about how our college admissions counseling services can help your student succeed?

Call 877-402-6224 or complete the form for information on getting your student started with one of our experts.