your next four years, and the life that follows

Independent college counseling from a 38-year educator. Fit over prestige. Clarity at every step.

I’m Judd Shapiro.

For 38 years I taught, coached, and led schools, including more than 25 years as an English Department Chair and 5 as an associate head of upper school. For the last 20, I’ve guided a small number of families each year through college admissions at Clearing.

I hold a BA in English and a master’s degree in marital and family therapy, which means I pay attention to two things at once: the application, and the family navigating it. My belief is simple - the best school is the one where your student will be challenged, supported, and known.