As one of the most sought-after private admissions counselors in the country, Dr. Kat Cohen, founder of IvyWise, and her team of former Deans and Directors of admissions at top universities have helped thousands of students gain entry to the world’s most selective colleges. But behind the powerhouse brand is a woman who knows how to savor summer in the Hamptons. While she usually makes the most of the time to relax, this year, she’s preparing to send her daughter off to USC in the fall. With a home on the East End and deep ties with the community, Dr. Cohen has long been an integral part of the Hamptons. We caught up with her to talk about trends in admissions, building standout student profiles, and her plans for one last family summer before her daughter heads off to college.
You’ve read thousands of personal statements. What is something a student has done that made you stop and say, “This one’s special!”
The most memorable essays don’t just tell a story — they uncover a deeper truth about who the student is. One of my students wrote her essay on how her Catholic faith clashed with what she was learning in AP Biology. Another used her passion for psychology to examine how her views of feminism have evolved. What sets these essays apart is how they connect personal experiences with intellectual curiosity. That combination lingers in an admissions committee reader’s mind long after the last sentence, so the student stands out.
What’s one of the most unforgettable applications you’ve worked on?
One of the most unforgettable applications we’ve worked on came from a student who loved both composing music and studying physics. Initially set on applying only to music conservatories, he hadn’t considered how his dual interests could open broader doors. We encouraged him to explore research universities as well, and he crafted his personal statement around the musical concept of contrast, showing how STEM and the arts intersected in his life. He ended up at Harvard.
How do you design a bespoke admissions plan that balances strategy with a personal, authentic narrative?
No two students are alike, and neither are the paths we craft for them. Our bespoke admissions plans begin with a deep understanding of each student’s individual strengths, interests, and aspirations. This personalized approach ensures that every aspect of the admissions process is tailored to develop each student’s unique narrative. A hallmark of our bespoke services is the IvyWise Roundtable, a unique simulation of the actual admissions committee review process.
Additionally, we are excited to launch our luxury college tour, the Elevation Experience, this fall. Families will visit seven colleges in four days under the guidance of an IvyWise counselor who will ensure that they make the most of each visit. Each student will receive a customized research report for the schools they visit, based exclusively on their needs and profile. The tours include private jet and chauffeured car service transportation, stays at five-star hotels, meals at top-tier restaurants, follow-up admissions services, and more.
What age should families start thinking seriously about college admissions?
Students should start preparing to have an intentional high school experience from day one of ninth grade. I always say, “Don’t let high school just happen to you.” It’s about course rigor, impact, and shaping a narrative. Our long-term students work with us to build profiles over time, which pays off in the long run. However, it’s never too late to start — we also offer short-term programs for 12th graders.
Are there any emerging trends in admissions that students and families should be paying close attention to?
Application numbers are up, acceptance rates are down, and standardized testing is making a comeback. Brown, Caltech, Harvard, MIT, and Yale have reinstated testing requirements. Essays are also getting longer and more nuanced, especially after the SCOTUS decision against affirmative action. It’s a more complex landscape than ever before.
What are some tips you would like to share with students who are preparing for the college admissions process?
Students should begin shaping an intentional high school experience beginning in ninth grade, recognizing that their transcript will be a cornerstone of their application. While strong grades in challenging courses are essential, it’s equally important to pursue opportunities that deepen their interests and allow them to contribute meaningfully to their communities. That means making deliberate choices that not only enhance college applications but also foster personal growth and have impact.
What role should parents play in guiding their children toward long-term success—not just in college, but in life?
Parents play a pivotal role in helping their children build the foundation for long-term success — not just academically, but in life. True success comes from knowing who you are and what drives you. That’s why one of the most powerful things a parent can do is foster curiosity, resilience, and a genuine love of learning.
While strong grades and test scores matter, they’re only part of the picture when it comes to college admissions. What truly sets a student apart is self-awareness: knowing their unique strengths and values, and how they can use those to make a meaningful impact. Parents can guide their children toward discovering this clarity by encouraging exploration, reflection, and ownership of their goals. That’s the kind of preparation that lasts a lifetime.
You spend your summers in the Hamptons — what are you most looking forward to this season?
This summer feels especially meaningful – it’s our last one before my eldest daughter heads off for college. I’m savoring every moment and am focused on quality time. I plan to unwind, cook with fresh local ingredients, and spend time together by the water. In August, we’ll head to Los Angeles to help her settle in at USC. As a new Trojan mom, I’m already feeling the pride. More than anything, this summer is about celebration, reflection, and enjoying each moment.
