College Counselor
Raymond brings 11 years of experience guiding students to Ivy and elite college acceptances from Brown, Duke, Georgia Tech, Notre Dame, and UCLA. A first-generation college graduate with master’s degrees from Harvard, UPenn, and USC, Raymond specializes in BS/MD programs, liberal arts colleges, and nursing students. He also serves on the Common App Advisory Council to shape best practices in college admissions.
Raymond Gonzales was amazing. He helped our daughter, and really our whole family navigate this challenging college application process. He was so knowledgeable and all of his advice was spot on.
Parent of Zuri
Jones College Prep High School
Northwestern University
We had a terrific experience with Hello College. Our daughter’s counselor Dr. Raymond Gonzales exceeded all of our expectations. It was clear in our meetings with him that he had taken the time to really get to know our daughter, understand her strengths and interests, and help her craft the best college applications possible for her. Our daughter really respects and trusts Raymond’s experience level and opinions, and always sought out his advice when needed. She and we also found him very relational and supportive, while also being direct- which we really appreciated. We highly, highly recommend him!
Parent of Zuri
Jones College Prep High School
Northwestern University
I would definitely recommend HelloCollege, especially Raymond! He was such an amazing guide throughout my entire journey. I have worked with him since sophomore year and he was there for me every step of the way and I am certain largely contributed to my college results. He was always available to answer any of my questions, had the best advice for any possible situation, and made me feel prepared and ready for every part of the college process. I am now committed to Northwestern University and I have him to thank!
Student
Jones College Prep High School
Northwestern University
My son’s counselor, Raymond, was fantastic. Raymond provided college suggestions we would not have considered on our own and helped narrow down choices. He kept our son on track which alleviated our stress. We are deeply grateful for Raymond’s depth of knowledge, strong communication and sense of humor.
Parent of Peter
Wheaton Warrenville South High School
Indiana University Bloomington
I would definitely recommend HelloCollege, especially Raymond Gonzales. He went above and beyond throughout this process, even writing my counselor letter of recommendation because I was homeschooled. He was able to advise me a lot regarding how I should position different activities and transcripts as someone with an unusual background. Before HelloCollege, I was confused about applications and didn’t even think I had a good chance of getting into schools with a ~50% acceptance rate. However, because of Raymond and other HelloCollege members, I got into top schools across the nation. Moreover, the support did not end when I decided on my university; he advised me on how to prepare for grad school and said I could reach out to him regarding internships, clubs, jobs, ect. I am so grateful for everything!
Student
Homeschooled
California Institute of Technology
I am incredibly grateful for the support my son received from Raymond Gonzales at HelloCollege. Navigating the college admissions process can be overwhelming, but Raymond made it clear and focused. His expert guidance helped my son study schools, refine his essays, and present his strengths in the best light.
Beyond his deep knowledge of admissions, Raymond showed genuine care for my son’s success and well-being. He took the approach tailored to my son’s laid-back and careless attitude. He was always available to answer questions, provide encouragement, and offer personalized feedback. Thanks to his help, my son was accepted to a wonderful college that exceeded my expectation. I highly recommend Raymond Gonzales and HelloCollege to any family navigating this process.
Parent of Ethan
Glenbrook North High School
Denison University
With 11 years of experience in college counseling, Raymond Gonzales is a trusted guide for students navigating selective and elite admissions. A first-generation college grad, he holds a Master’s in Human Development with a concentration in Higher Education from Harvard, as well as Master’s degrees from UPenn and USC.
Raymond specializes in Ivy and elite admissions, BS/MD programs, liberal arts colleges, and nursing majors, and has guided students to acceptances at institutions including Brown, Duke, UPenn, Rice, UCLA, UC Berkeley, Barnard, Georgia Tech, and Notre Dame. Selected for the Common App Advisory Council, Raymond contributes to shaping best practices in the college application process.
Raymond’s professional background spans roles with Assist America, the United Nations, and the World Health Organization, giving him a global perspective on leadership, problem-solving, and youth advocacy. He frequently travels internationally and personally tours college campuses to support U.S. students interested in studying abroad.
Known for helping students build confidence, leadership skills, and a strategic approach to academics and extracurriculars, Raymond is recognized as an inspiring, supportive, and results-driven partner in college planning.
Location
Baton Rouge, LA
Area of Expertise
Raymond's Education and Certifications
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