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Jay Bonham

College Admissions Consultant He/Him/His
Jay Bonham Bright Horizons College Coach
College Admissions Consultant
Former admissions officer Hamilton College
Former admissions officer Kenyon College
Former application reader Dartmouth College
Former application reader Bucknell University

My Background

When I started working in Hamilton College’s  admission office, I never thought I would find such a fulfilling career. I graduated from Hamilton with a government degree and planned to move to Washington D.C after a few years of working for my alma mater. However, what I thought would last just two years turned into many more! I loved all aspects of working in admissions, but I especially enjoyed interacting with prospective students and helping them navigate the admissions process.

While at Hamilton, I read and evaluated applications, helped train new admission officers, coordinated the transfer admission program, and served as the athletic liaison to the Athletic Department. When my family relocated to Ohio several years ago, I read first-year applications for Dartmouth College remotely and later joined the Kenyon College Admissions Office. My responsibilities at Kenyon mirrored those I had at Hamilton but expanded my knowledge of other schools. I have also read for Bucknell University, evaluating applications for their College of Arts and Sciences, College of Engineering, and Freeman College of Management. My experience with Bucknell helped to expand my knowledge in the world of business and engineering.

Jay was positive and balanced while also providing good, constructive coaching. The essay support was particularly helpful.
Parent of a Syracuse University student

Why I Joined College Coach

As a college admission officer, I loved to read applications and learn all about the students’ amazing experiences and backgrounds.  I now want to help students so that they can shine in the process. I know it can be a very stressful time, but I hope to help the student (and family) manage that stress. I also experienced the process first hand two years ago when my oldest son successfully completed the college process. I now have a greater appreciation of what families go through!  I look forward to joining you on your journey, working together as a team to help you attain admission to the best schools for you.  As a former college counselor so eloquently stated, "college is a match to be made, not a prize to be won."

Get to Know Me

My Education

Hamilton College Bachelor of Arts, Government
The Maxwell School of Syracuse University Master of Public Administration
I have worked with students interested in:
  • Art
  • Business
  • Economics
  • Engineering
  • Government
  • Honors programs
  • Humanities
  • International relations
  • Ivy league
  • Large State Schools
  • Music
  • Political science
  • Psychology
  • Religious Studies/Theology
  • Science
  • Small liberal arts colleges
  • Social Sciences
  • Sports analytics
  • Two year colleges
I have also worked with:
  • Athletes
  • Gap year students
  • High school admissions
  • International students
  • LGBTQIA+ students
  • Students with learning differences
  • Transfer students
Jay Bonham Bright Horizons College Coach

Some of my favorite pastimes

Exploring the outdoors (Jackson Hole is my happy place), travel, watching my kids’ sporting events and concerts, trying new restaurants

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.

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