



What we offer.
At East Coast Scholars, we know that the college admissions journey can feel overwhelming. Between choosing the right schools, preparing strong applications, and navigating financial aid, students and families often find themselves unsure of the next step. Our College Advising program is designed to provide clarity, confidence, and a personalized plan to help each student reach their full potential.
We take the time to understand each student’s academic background, extracurricular interests, and long-term goals. From there, we build a roadmap tailored to their strengths and aspirations. Whether a student is aiming for Ivy League admission, competitive state programs, or specialized fields, we provide expert advice to make their applications stand out.
List Development
We help students identify and refine a balanced list of target, reach, and safety schools that fit their academic profile and personal goals.
Application Strategy
We provide guidance on early decision vs. early action, timelines, and deadlines to maximize acceptance opportunities.
Essay Writing
We offer one-on-one support for crafting authentic, compelling personal statements and supplemental essays.
Interview Prep
We conduct mock interviews and coaching to help students showcase their strengths, empowering them with confidence.
Financial Aid
Assistance understanding FAFSA, CSS Profile, and strategies for identifying scholarship opportunities.
Athletic Recruitment
Expert advising tailored for student-athletes aspiring to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level.
Why Families Choose Us.
Proven Results – Our students gain admission to top universities and colleges across the country.
Holistic Support – We guide both students and families, reducing stress and ensuring everyone is aligned on the process.
Experienced Advising – Our advisors bring deep expertise in admissions, test prep, and youth development, creating a supportive and knowledgeable environment.
Meet Our College Advising Team
Our College Advising Team combines decades of experience in education, admissions, and mentorship — helping students gain acceptance to the world’s most competitive universities through personalized, authentic guidance.
Scott Hammer
Director of College AdvisingScott Hammer holds degrees in literature, education, and business from universities in Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia. His professional background combines experience teaching at top preparatory schools and serving as an academic advisor. Scott currently demonstrates strategic leadership as an executive at a prominent technology company, where he builds and manages high-performing teams that drive organizational growth.
Dr. Cole Malsky
Dean of WritingDr. Cole Malsky is a New York State public high school teacher with 12 years in education and prior faculty experience at Chaminade High School teaching AP courses and guiding students on college essays and applications. He combines deep classroom practice with strategic advising to help students find their voice and stand out in admissions. Dr. Malsky holds an advanced degree in Leadership and Administration and earned a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from St. John’s University.
Shavone Adams
College AdvisorShavone Adams is an experienced education leader with a strong background in college counseling, student success, and program management. With a Master’s in Education and a proven record of building partnerships, implementing student support initiatives, and driving academic achievement, she is passionate about helping students realize their full potential.
Dr. Kathryn Mederos Syssoyeva
College AdvisorDr. Kathryn Mederos Syssoyeva is an industry-leading Admissions Counselor and Educator with 20 years of experience guiding students worldwide to top university acceptances, including Stanford, MIT, and UCLA. A Stanford PhD, Fulbright and Mellon Fellow, and published scholar, she empowers students to craft authentic, compelling applications that reflect their strengths, passions, and unique stories.
Lawrence Alexander II
College AdvisorLawrence Alexander II has more than 20 years of experience in education, with 15 of those years spent as a college counselor and most recently as an admissions officer at Brown University. Alexander prides himself on fostering deep trust and imagination with the students he advises.