Aaron had big dreams of studying aerospace engineering, practicing medicine, and changing lives. But as a homeschooled student with parents unfamiliar with U.S. admissions, he needed expert guidance to navigate the process. With our support, Aaron built a strategy that showcased his drive and accolades, earning him a spot in one of the nation’s most competitive BS/MD programs.
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Aaron
Counselor
We packaged Aaron as someone who wanted to help the world. He had already helped thousands of students—we had to demonstrate that the right college could help him reach millions.
Location: Austin, TX
Class Rank:
Test Score: SAT - 97th percentile
Major: BS/MD
Student Ambassador, NSHSS
Founder, STEM Non-Profit
Student Researcher, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Varsity Golf
Aaron’s vision for his life is as ambitious as it gets: become a doctor, astronaut, and pilot all in one. His career goal? Provide surgical and medical care for astronauts while conducting research in aerospace medicine. By the time he started working with HelloCollege, he had already founded a STEM nonprofit, spoken at national conferences, and served as a student ambassador for the National Society of High School Scholars.
Aaron’s parents, immigrants who both earned engineering degrees in India, were unfamiliar with the American college admissions process. On top of that, Aaron’s homeschool background meant he needed a counselor who could go beyond traditional advising. His HelloCollege counselor, Raymond, stepped in to build his academic credibility through carefully chosen recommenders, tutors, and supplemental documents, while also taking on tasks like writing recommendation letters and reaching out to colleges directly.
Aaron’s accomplishments were impressive, but listing them wasn’t enough. Raymond worked to package him as a future changemaker in medicine, public health, and leadership. And Aaron’s essay coach, Chris Bench, helped him craft a narrative that showed not only what he had achieved but why it mattered, positioning his work as the foundation for the kind of global impact he hopes to make in the future.
Applying to 35 schools, including highly competitive BS/MD programs, meant Aaron had to go above and beyond. Raymond coached him on showing demonstrated interest by connecting with admissions officers, showcasing his resume, and asking bold, memorable questions. This early engagement helped schools see him as more than a name on paper—they saw a future changemaker.
After more than 50 hours of essay coaching, strategic storytelling, and family guidance, Aaron was accepted into multiple top programs. He ultimately chose the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley BS/MD program—one of the most selective in the country with an acceptance rate under 3%.
“We don’t just coach students—we support entire families,” said his HelloCollege counselor, Raymond. “This wasn’t just about getting into college. It was about launching Aaron’s future.”
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