walking alongside you.
At Way College Counseling, we believe that every student's path to college is unique—and so is our approach. We walk alongside each client, student, and family through every step of the college application journey, curating a personalized and collaborative experience tailored to individual goals, strengths, and values. By blending expert guidance with thoughtful partnership, we help students navigate the complexities of the process with confidence, clarity, and purpose.
who’s advising you?
michael smith
advisor
kate ripoll
founder
Way College Counseling was founded by Kate in 2025. At Way all advisors are seasoned professionals with a shared passion for guiding students toward their brightest futures. While also serving as counselors at the top-ranked high school in the nation, Bergen County Academies, our advisors bring a depth of insight, strategy, and care to every student and family they work with.
Our advisors understand that no two journeys are alike. Their approach is deeply personal, highly strategic, and always grounded in what’s best for the student. Whether you're just starting to explore college options or refining your application strategy, their expertise ensures you’ll have a trusted, knowledgeable partner walking alongside you every step of the way.