Testimonials

Working with Peter was the best decision I made during my college application process. He took the time to truly understand my background, interests, and goals, helping me craft authentic essays and prepare confidently for interviews. What set him apart was not only his expertise and strong relationships with college admission officers, but his genuine investment in my success. Ultimately, he became more than just a college counselor — he became a trusted friend, and I am deeply grateful to have met him. Thanks to his guidance, I was fortunate to be admitted to several Ivy League and other competitive schools, and I look forward to working with him again when I apply to graduate school.
— Susannah, Yale University Class of 2026
Not every guidance counselor can guide. Some may tell you that your cultural disadvantages are far more important than your supplemental essays. Being left to fend for yourself during a stressful time of college applications is detrimental as not only will it impact your application outcomes, but also your future. Peter has encouraged me to reach for the stars, and because of him, I will be attending Princeton in the fall on a full scholarship. My guidance counselor told me to specifically not apply to Princeton as no one in my school has received an acceptance Regular Decision. Peter shattered that barrier because I received acceptances from Princeton, Stanford, Brown, Columbia, Barnard, Wellesley, and many more. This was a record-breaking application cycle at my public high school as I am the only student accepted to three Ivy League schools. Although no one in my school believed in my abilities, Peter did, and because of his deep belief in my potential, I will be able to attend what is currently ranked as the #1 school in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report.
— Kendra, Princeton University Class of 2029
Peter Wilson’s invaluable college advising ultimately led me to succeed at the school that was right for me. He encouraged me to apply for schools I would never have otherwise considered, including my now alma mater, the Stony Brook University Women in Science and Engineering program. Though applying to college can be stressful for any student, his wealth of knowledge on universities, programs, and financial aid demystified the process. Peter’s connections to admissions officers also allowed him to make tailored application recommendations that helped students be admitted to top universities. While he worked with countless other students in parallel, he always remembered the schools I was interested in and where I was in the process.
— Emily, University of Michigan, PhD candidate
Peter is the most important tool in your arsenal when it comes to applying for college. No matter what, Peter always puts you and your deadlines first.
— James, Binghamton University Class of 2026
I am deeply appreciative of the invaluable guidance and mentorship that Peter provided during my college application process in 2013. His expertise in navigating the complexities of admission requirements and the Common App system was truly invaluable—without his support, I would have been completely lost.

I was accepted into both match and reach universities from the prospective college list that Peter helped me create. Ultimately, he encouraged me to attend SUNY Oneonta, which could not have been a more perfect fit. His thoughtful approach to helping students choose the right college was a true gift.

Peter’s influence extended far beyond logistical support—he fundamentally shaped my writing abilities, pushing me to refine my personal statements to a level of excellence that continues to resonate in all my written work and communication. His impact on both my academic and professional development has been profound, and I remain sincerely grateful for his insightful and thorough guidance to this day.
— Alyssa, SUNY Oneonta Class of 2017
I have known Peter for a long time, back to high school when I applied to college in 2018. When I decided to pursue a master’s degree, I turned to him again for assistance with the application process. He helped me review my resume and personal statement, which made a significant difference. Thanks to his guidance, I was accepted into both NYU and Columbia University! I completely trust his expertise and experience. He is an exceptional college advisor dedicated to providing you with all the information you need for your college applications, interviews, and more, ensuring that everything is polished and outstanding!
— Natalie, Columbia University School of Social Work
I can confidently say that working with Peter Wilson was a turning point in my college journey. At the time, I was a highly motivated student who often felt overlooked by my high school’s guidance resources. I was eager to succeed but lacked the support to navigate the complexities of the college application process.

Seeking help outside of school led me to Peter Wilson and his incredible team, who welcomed me with guidance, encouragement, and a deep understanding of what students like me needed. With their support, I expanded my college options beyond local institutions and gained the confidence to aim higher. I received hands-on help with my personal statement, learned how to present my story authentically, and even had the opportunity to visit college campuses—experiences that helped me envision life as a college student and truly believe it was possible.

Peter Wilson’s dedication to his students goes beyond checklists and deadlines. He empowers you to see your potential and equips you with the tools to pursue it fully. I am incredibly grateful for his mentorship, which continues to inspire me today.
— Stephanie, Hunter College Class of 2023
When I was in high school at Townsend Harris, my guidance counselor told me not to bother applying to Barnard—I wouldn’t get in. But Peter believed in me. He worked with me tirelessly, through 18 drafts of my personal essay, helping me find the words to tell my story. Thanks to his encouragement and expertise, I not only got in—I thrived. Barnard shaped my academic journey, opened doors to incredible internships, and ultimately helped me build a career I love. Today, I’m a VP of Talent Acquisition at a bank, and I owe so much of that trajectory to Peter’s guidance. I’m deeply grateful for his support and can’t recommend him enough.
— Paramita, Barnard College Class of 2015
Peter had a transformative impact on both my academic path and professional development. The guidance Peter offered to me and my fellow public school classmates far surpassed what even the most elite private school students typically receive. Peter took the time to truly understand my strengths, aspirations, and areas for growth, and used that insight to challenge me in ways that were both constructive and empowering. It is thus no surprise that Peter has continued to dedicate his career to this work for so many years. Peter’s mission has never been to just help students appear well-rounded for college admissions—but rather, to actually become well-rounded individuals who are prepared for their future.

Peter encouraged me to pursue experiences in high school that not only strengthened my college applications but also aligned with who I was and what I valued. Peter’s feedback on my application materials, especially my personal statement, was relentless in the best way. He doesn’t coddle; he demands deep reflection, consistent effort, and personal accountability. But if you are serious about your growth and success, there is no better college advisor to have in your corner. Thanks to Peter’s unwavering support and strategic guidance, I was admitted to an Ivy League sister school and built a foundation for a successful legal career as a lawyer and judge. Peter is a true mentor whose guidance has a lasting impact in helping students recognize their strengths and achieve their full potential, not only in the college admissions process but well beyond it. The fact that former students—myself included—continue to vouch for him two decades later speaks volumes about his lasting impact.
— Sabina, Barnard College Class of 2010, CUNY Law 2013
As a practicing physician and former student of Peter Wilson, I highly recommend his services if you want your child to not only go to college, but feel prepared for every step of their career path. Peter Wilson has devoted his entire career to ensuring that high school students are well prepared to succeed at some of the country’s most competitive universities. I know myself and thousands of other students are successful because of his comprehensive understanding of the college admissions process. We spent hours after school studying for board exams, touring different college campuses, revising college essays and learning about the different financial options for attending university. I was accepted to the University of Pennsylvania for undergrad and am currently an alumni with vast career opportunities, largely because Peter’s curriculum prepared me for those next steps in my education. His program is a priceless resource for any student hoping to succeed.
— Estevana, University of Pennsylvania Class of 2012, MD, MSCR
As a first-generation student, neither my family nor I fully understood the college admissions process or even what it entailed. Without Peter and his exceptional team, I would not be where I am today. Choosing to work with them was one of the best decisions I have ever made, and it played a significant role in shaping the person I am today. Peter took the time to truly understand me-my interests, aspirations, and long term goals. Unlike many professionals who view clients as just another number and offer standardized solutions, Peter approaches each individual with genuine care and attention, providing guidance tailored to their specific needs. Although I was paying for a service, Peter’s dedication went far beyond expectations. There were many occasions where he stayed well past office hours to work with me, demonstrating an extraordinary level of commitment and support. His philosophy is simple: the effort you put in is matched by the effort he invests in you. Although success depends heavily on the student’s own dedication, active participation and persistence are essential-Peter consistently went above and beyond to guide and support me throughout the journey. Thanks to his mentorship, I experienced remarkable growth not only academically and in my writing skills, but also in my personal development. Peter served not just as a mentor and counselor, but also as a trusted friend. With his unwavering support, I received multiple acceptance letters from both reach and target schools, along with many scholarships.

I am confident that without Peter’s help, I would not have believed in my ability to gain admission into such prestigious institutions, nor would I have navigated the college admissions process as successfully. Overall, working with Peter was truly a life changing experience. His genuine dedication, personalized approach, and steadfast support not only helped me achieve my academic goals but also empowered me to believe in my potential.  I am incredibly grateful for everything he has done for me and wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone seeking guidance through the college admissions process.
— Eric, Fairfield University Class of 2020
The college application process is filled with what can seem to be an overwhelming number of steps and choices that are dauntingly byzantine. When I first started thinking about what my next steps were after high school, I didn’t know where to start. Peter helped me realize my potential and he unveiled key opportunities that pushed me beyond the limitations I had imagined for myself in my ignorance. His guidance ranged from concrete advice on application processes and test strategies to broader advice that aimed to help us continually recognize and take advantage of the opportunities surrounding us.

The counseling Peter gave reached beyond the classroom, beyond the confines of the college halls. Even out of college, I remember his lessons in my writing, in my work, and even in my social life. Peter was an invaluable mentor to my friends and me. I constantly meet other alumni from his program and the consensus is clear - Peter truly cares about the success of his mentees and works tirelessly to help push people to not only meet their potential, but to push past their potential to places they may not have imagined possible. I wholeheartedly endorse Peter’s qualifications and recommend his services to anyone who is currently navigating the college application process.
— Peter, Swarthmore College Class of 2020
Where do I even begin? I truly don’t know what I would have done without Peter’s incredible support as my college advisor. He guided me through every step of my college journey, including my master’s program, making a process that can often feel overwhelming so much more manageable and less stressful. I’m incredibly grateful for all the advice and information he shared with me along the way. Thanks to Peter, I always felt supported and confident. I feel incredibly lucky to have had him by my side, and I will be forever grateful for everything he’s done for me.
— Yocely, Master of Arts in Teaching Queens College Class of 2016
Peter guided my daughter, Susannah, through her college application process and admission to a number of Ivy League schools, including her top choice of Yale.  He was recommended to me by a work colleague, whom Peter helped gain admission to Barnard.

At the time, my daughter was at boarding school with a designated guidance counselor and many other college application resources.  However, at my wife’s and my request, Peter took on the role of primary advisor, teleconferencing with Susannah weekly on how best to present herself to admissions officers during a challenging post-COVID cycle.  Peter took the time to bond with Susannah, and we all trusted in his successful track record, relationships with admissions officers at selective schools and, importantly, his creativity as an artist to help curate a compelling picture of Susannah’s accomplishments over the years.

Full disclosure: Peter has become a family friend on whose judgment we continue to rely as Susannah prepares for graduate school.  Our family recommends him without reservation. 
— Victor, Parent
Peter was the college counselor for both my children. His holistic approach to the college application process was the ideal fit for our family. His support through this very stressful period extended beyond essay writing. He was the voice of reason that guided us through stressful times. Peter’s unique approach makes him the best at what he does. As a result of his help, both my daughters were admitted to the top tier universities in the country.
— Connie, Parent
Peter was exactly what my son needed to handle the overwhelming college process. He has extensive knowledge and experience, and a personalized system that guides and supports while also putting the student in charge of their destiny. Working with him helped the whole family manage the college stress, and led to a great result!
— Allison, Parent
Peter Wilson is an alchemist in college advising. He truly takes talented students and helps them find their ways into excellent college students. While he may often come across as a larger than life character who has plenty of wisdom to share with students, it is his down to earth charm that I think disarms students into seeking, following, and succeeding with his guidance. I have worked with him for over a decade at BSGE and I am truly amazed how year after year, the results stay the same regardless of the class size. Peter finds ways to excite and unite his students around the idea of finding the right fit, a balanced list that makes actual sense, and will advocate to ensure his students are avoiding unnecessary costs to pursue their future. Mediocrity is seemingly distilled out of all his students - at least by the time they get to the college admissions process. The amount of commitment Peter shows is unrivaled. I can clearly see the image of the line of students wrapped around the office coming to meet with him each fall for their personal essay review. Peter sets the right kind of expectations - the high kinds that can be exceeded with a bit of group effort. It is truly rare to see one figure catalyze such a talented and diverse group of students every year. And, pick any letter of recommendation written by Peter, and it will be clear that Peter cares deeply about the individual just as much as the class as a whole. He is one of the standouts in advising: someone I count as a main confidant for advice, student insight, a true deep dive on the world of college admissions, and life.
— Craig, Associate Director of Admissions, Binghamton University
I first met Peter Wilson in 2008 as a 7th grader at a 7-12 IB school in Queens, NY. Peter was a guiding light throughout the college application process. He single handedly fostered a broader college-going culture at my high school, encouraging students to dream big and helping them see the path towards success. Peter works to aid and assist his students but also holds them and their work to a high standard. When I was applying to Columbia University in 2014, he pushed me to further revise my writing and dig deeper. I was so thankful for his guidance and was admitted a few months later!

He is straight talking and knows what is talking about. He will be real with you about your college lists and have in depth conversations about what your greater goals are as you plan for life beyond college too. I now work as an admissions officer at an Ivy League school and Peter is a fantastic college counselor from a professional perspective as well. He is a fantastic thought leader and a clear communicator. To know Peter Wilson is a gift.
— Olivia, Admissions Counselor

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