We guide students through every step of the admissions process while giving parents confidence that nothing is falling through the cracks. The goal: successful outcomes AND a less stressful experience for the entire family.
Starting as early as 9th grade, we help students build a strong foundation for college admissions through thoughtful course selection, extracurriculars, summer planning, standardized testing, and more. Along the way, we explore interests, majors, careers, and colleges to create a personalized path forward.
Beginning at the end of junior year, we build a personalized college list and guide students through every step of the application process—from the Common App and personal statement to supplemental essays, activities, recommendations, and interviews. Our proven timeline keeps students organized, on track, and confident through every deadline.
Start early. Stress less.
Strong college applications start well before senior year. We help students make strategic decisions about academics, extracurriculars, leadership, testing, and summer opportunities that support their interests and long-term goals.
Finding the right fit.
We build balanced college lists based on each student’s academics, interests, career goals, campus preferences, financial considerations, and admissions profile — helping students find colleges where they can truly thrive.
Tell your story with confidence.
From the Common App and personal statement to supplemental essays and activity lists, we guide students through every component of their college applications. Our advisors help students tell their stories authentically while presenting their strongest possible application.
Guidance until decisions arrive.
We keep students organized through deadlines, interviews, admissions decisions, financial aid, and enrollment. From the first college conversation to the final decision, we’re there every step of the way.
Working with Jay completely transformed the way I approached my college essays. From helping me with grammar to refining the overall structure of the essays, Jay helped me articulate my thoughts in a compelling way. His understanding of what admissions committees look for was extremely helpful in getting me accepted to my dream school.
Hudson C., University of Chicago
Jay was incredibly thorough when helping put together the essay that got me into Swarthmore College. Together, we crafted an essay that made me a strong candidate, while still ensuring that the topic was meaningful and true to who I am, from the very start of the writing process to when I submitted my application. I am so grateful that he was there to guide me every step of the way
Zoe C., Swarthmore College
Jay was a fantastic college counselor, providing extremely personalized feedback, being dedicated to his students, and most importantly, being a mentor to the all-around student. With Jay, I’ve increased my score by over 200 points since starting with him and got into a Top-20 college.
Alonzo C., University of Michigan
I am extremely grateful for Jay’s organized and intentional time management, encouraging yet rigorous teaching style, and breadth of professional knowledge and experience as a college counselor. With his support, I was able to optimize my potential for each component of the application process – from supplemental essays to test scores – helping me get to where I am now at Barnard College!
Carolina J., Barnard College
First Choice Prep is awesome. They have tutored three of my children who have gone on to great schools (Yale, Harvard and Stanford). They still stay in contact with my children and are available to help at the college level too.
Ann B., New Vernon, NJ
The team at First Choice Prep was exceptional from start-to-finish. First Choice Prep was instrumental in making a daunting and stressful process much more manageable.
Denelle W., Summit, NJ
James speaks in a way that makes kids ‘hear’ him. He was easy to talk to, and tailored the verbal reviews to my son’s math brain. He went up 330 SAT points.
Chris L., Randolph, NJ
Want to get the inside scoop monthly? We offer free webinars, promote helpful events, share test-taking tips, and more. Fill out this form to be added to our monthly newsletter.
