About Mary
Founder of Snap Academics & Lead Counselor
Two Decades of Education Experience
With over 20 years of experience in education, I have served as a high school teacher, independent college counselor, school administrator, and most recently a VP in an ed-tech company. As the founder and director of Snap Academics, I am dedicated to guiding students through their college application journey. My role as the Supervisor of College and Career Readiness at the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) and my time at Chavez High School have given me a profound understanding of the diverse needs of students in various educational settings. Additionally, at Lick-Wilmerding High School in San Francisco, I served as the Dean of Studies, where I managed the college admission process and oversaw the College Counseling Department.
Learn more about my professional background in college advising.
Empowering Students From All Backgrounds & Learning Styles
I am deeply committed to empowering students from all walks of life, including those who are the first in their family to attend college in the U.S. I understand the unique challenges and strengths these students bring and am dedicated to supporting them with the necessary tools and confidence to navigate their way to college. My passion also extends to working with students who have learning differences, such as ADHD, dyslexia and executive functioning struggles. My approach is empathetic and tailored, ensuring that each student's unique learning style is supported. I firmly believe there is a college for every student, and my role is to provide an individualized path to college for each one.
Demystifying the College Process for a National Audience
As the lead author for the XQ Institute’s College Pathfinder guides, I have showcased my ability to simplify the complex college admission process for a diverse range of students. My involvement in course development for Everfi further highlights my commitment to providing accessible and comprehensive guidance in the field of college admissions.
Lifetime of Learning & Professional Growth
I walk the walk as a lifelong learner. I seek opportunities to learn and grow personally and professionally. I earned my Bachelor's degree from American University in Washington, D.C., and hold three Master's degrees from Brown University, St. John’s College, and San Jose State University. I founded the Premise Institute, an inclusive learning community for adults. My lifelong commitment to learning has enriched my knowledge and deepened my understanding of the educational landscape, making me a knowledgeable and empathetic guide for students embarking on their college journey.
Essay Coach
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With over 20 years of experience in secondary education, I’ve dedicated my career to helping young people discover their passions, refine their writing, and navigate their unique paths to success. As a teacher, advisor, tutor, instructional coach, and professional writer, I’ve guided students through critical academic and personal milestones, ensuring they feel empowered and prepared for the future.
I hold a B.A. in History from Oberlin College and an M.A.T. from Brown University. My journey began at The Met High School in Providence, Rhode Island, where I led 11th graders in designing Learning Through Internship plans that linked their passions to potential careers. At Kestrel Heights School in Durham, North Carolina, I facilitated students’ self-expression through the Literacy Through Photography program in collaboration with Duke University’s Center for Documentary Studies. Later, in Washington, D.C., I supervised teacher trainees in D.C. public schools through American University and George Mason University, honing their instructional skills. At Georgetown Day School, I worked closely with individual students, fostering their writing abilities and supporting them in mastering rigorous coursework.In each of my teaching roles, I’ve edited countless student essays, including college essays, helping students bring their authentic voices to life. My interest in the college essay development process deepened when I worked with my own children as they applied to college. I found that coaching and editing their essays brought together the perfect blend of my writing, editing, teaching, and coaching expertise.
As a professional writer and editor, I write screenplays and short stories, and I’ve worked as an editor for various education organizations. I’m passionate about working with students from diverse backgrounds and abilities, helping each one find the college that aligns with their academic goals and personal growth. Whether they’re discovering their authentic voice or shaping their academic future, I’m committed to guiding students every step of the way.
