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What Makes Our Team Different?

PalmDrive USA is an educational consulting firm founded by educators from Stanford, Harvard, Columbia, UPenn, and UC Berkeley in 2014 with a shared vision to redefine college admission consulting. Our counselors are not just experts; we call ourselves mentors because we have walked the same path. We understand the pressures and aspirations of college-bound students. With personalized insights, we’ve successfully guided countless students to achieve their goals. Our relatable, empathetic approach turns the daunting application process into an empowering journey. With our counselors, you’re not just a client—you’re part of a community dedicated to your success.

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Tina Sheng
CEO​

Stanford University 

​M.A. in Secondary Education

After graduating from a teaching college in Beijing, Tina moved to America to pursue her teaching dream. Over six years in Bay Area schools, she served as an admissions officer, teacher, adviser, and college counselor. Tina helped hundreds of students succeed, guiding them to their dream colleges. Her passion for education led her to PalmDrive, where she continues her journey as an educator and administrator.

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Zihao Feng
Counselor

University of Pennsylvania

M.S. in Computer Graphics  Game Technology

Zihao pursued a Computer Science degree with a focus on Computer Graphics and Gaming Technology, earning her master’s from the University of Pennsylvania. As a software programmer and art director, she also served as an alumni interviewer for Penn. Since entering college admission consulting in 2013, Zihao has helped hundreds of students achieve their dream school admissions.

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Dorothy Sun
Counselor

Harvard University

M.Ed. in Psychology and Human Development

Dorothy developed an interest in children’s language acquisition while studying Cognitive Science and Education at Vanderbilt’s Peabody College. She later earned an M.Ed. in Psychology and Human Development from Harvard, where she explored educational technology and literacy development. Her passion for education motivates her to help more students get into their dream schools as a consultant at PalmDrive.​​​​​​​

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Xinyi Zhang
Counselor

Columbia University 

M.A. in Sports Management​

Moving to the US at 15, Xinyi majored in European History and minored in Italian at Mount Holyoke College, earning scholarships for her research on nationalism and social justice. At Science Leadership Academy in Philadelphia, she guided over 100 students through college applications, helping seven gain admission to UPenn and many others to top universities and liberal arts colleges.

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Emma Zhang
Counselor

Pennsylvania State University

M.A. in Education

With over five years in higher education, Emma holds a master’s in Education from Penn State. She has taught academic writing and ESL grammar and worked in the international student office. After moving to the Bay Area, she joined the admissions office at San Francisco State University. Emma’s diverse experience offers unique insights, helping students navigate college applications and make informed decisions.

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Rex SunZhou
Counselor

University of Wisconsin-Madison

B.S. in Economics and Mathematics with Business Certificate​

​Rex's passion for education stems from four generations of educators in his family. As an undergraduate, he supported international students and initiated teaching and counseling training courses. With 12 years of experience, Rex has guided hundreds of students from junior high to graduation. His dedication to each student's growth and success drives him to serve as a teacher, mentor, and friend.

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Chloe Zhong
Counselor

Harvard University

M.Ed in Technology, Innovation, and Education

Chloe is a seasoned college prep counselor with a strong background in design and technology. She specializes in guiding students applying to art, design,  HCI, and other tech-related majors, drawing on her experience working in leading tech companies in the Bay Area as a Designer. With a track record of success, Chloe has helped students gain admission to prestigious institutions, including Ivy League schools and top universities.​

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Annie Deng
Counselor

Pennsylvania State University

Ph.D. Biochemistry, Microbiology and Molecular Biology

With a decade in Silicon Valley, Annie excels in American university applications and strategies for Asian families. She provides tailored academic guidance, uncovering students' strengths and motivations. Her friendly, humorous approach creates a supportive environment and lasting friendships. Annie also offers unique insights into students' future goals and career development.

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Elena Wang
Counselor

Northwestern University

M.S. Communication

Elena excels in educational planning and academic advice, guiding students in course selection, leadership development, and extracurricular activities. Her professional yet approachable style helps students craft unique application stories while fostering creative and reflective skills. Known for forming deep connections, Elena is a beloved mentor who prioritizes personal growth and motivates students to explore their passions and career goals.

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Meet Our Essay Editors

Our essay editors are part of an extensive network of over 4,000 Academic Mentors across North America and Europe, with 90% hailing from the top 30 world universities. This elite team brings unparalleled expertise to the table, ensuring each essay is polished to perfection. They offer personalized feedback and strategic insights, helping students craft compelling narratives that stand out in the competitive college admissions process. Our editors' deep academic backgrounds and rigorous standards drive success.

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Kyle Kaplan

Harvard University

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Danielle Gauthier

Hamilton College

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J.Y. Lee

Princeton University

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Daniel Kwon

 Duke University

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Lee Ann Song

Harvard University

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Tarub Mabud

Stanford University

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Anna Roberts

Dartmouth College

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Maike Prewett

New York University

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Geneva Jonathan

Northwestern University

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Seamus Flory

Harvard University

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Vanessa Kan

LMU Munich

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Elizabeth Simons

Columbia University

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Emily Loane

 Duke University

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Joanna Xing

Dartmouth College

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Orelia Jonathan

University of Pennsylvania

Visit Our Office

Welcome to PalmDrive USA’s Silicon Valley office, where technology meets personalized college consulting. Here, we host workshops, share the latest admissions updates, and provide 1:1 in-person meetings for families and students. It's a perfect place to connect with our counselors and stay informed about the latest in college applications.

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