lem·ma noun, mathematics

A smaller result, proved on its own, that the larger proof depends on.

Four years of provable steps toward one application.

Independent college guidance for students in mathematics, science, engineering, computer science, and medicine. We work with families from Grade 9 through submission — building a trajectory, not a résumé.

The work

STEM admissions ask for more than strong grades.

Students pursuing mathematics, science, engineering, computer science, or medicine need thoughtful academic planning, real intellectual depth, and activities that develop with purpose over time. General application advice does not get them there.

This is not résumé construction. It is the work of helping a student grow into a curious, capable applicant with a clear sense of direction.

How we work

Where to start

Three things worth reading.

Grade 9 stands alone. Grades 10–12 build in sequence.

One 01Approach

How the four years fit together

Each year rests on the one before it.

Course selection, STEM enrichment, competitions, research, independent projects, leadership, and summer planning — sequenced so that senior year is an execution year rather than a scramble. This section also sets out who we work with.

Read the approach

Two 02Programs

One program for each grade

Grade 9 is a short engagement. Grades 10 to 12 are ongoing.

Four programs, from a two-meeting foundation intensive in Grade 9 through weekly meetings across the application cycle in Grade 12, including deferral and waitlist response through spring.

See the programs

Three 03About

Who you would be working with

Software engineer, then teacher, then university admissions.

Faina Prager taught AP Computer Science A and served on the admissions team at Santa Clara University — which means guidance informed by having read applications from the other side of the desk.

About the counselor

Start with a conversation.

An initial consultation is a chance to talk through where your student is now, what they are drawn to, and which program fits the year ahead.

Book a consultation