About Stand Out College Prep
Our Mission
At Stand Out College Prep, we guide students and families through the college admissions and financial aid process with clarity, confidence, and calm. Founded in 2012, we’ve helped students uncover their authentic stories and craft compelling applications that open doors to best-fit schools—and the scholarships to afford them—without the stress that traditionally defines this journey.
Our Vision
We envision a world where every student, regardless of background or resources, has access to high-quality admissions guidance. Through both free resources and personalized premium support, we help families replace anxiety with understanding, and confusion with structure. Our long-term goal is simple: ensure a family’s budget never limits a student’s potential.
How It Began
It Started With My Own Story
When I applied to the University of Chicago, I felt overwhelmed. Essays, deadlines, financial aid, strategy—none of it was clear. As a first-generation student, my parents wanted to help but didn’t know where to start. Our school counselor had 500+ students. We were left to figure it out on our own.
I made it to UChicago, but it was far harder than it needed to be. That experience sparked a belief that no family should have to navigate this process without expert guidance.
Why I Founded Stand Out College Prep
In 2012, I created Stand Out College Prep with one goal: to be the calm, strategic partner I needed when I was applying. I wanted to give families clarity, confidence, and a roadmap they could trust—especially those approaching the process for the first time or without well-resourced school support.
Since then, I’ve guided 2,500+ students to their best-fit schools and helped families secure more than $25 million in scholarships and financial aid. Through relationships with 27,000+ school counselors nationwide, I stay closely tuned to admissions trends and understand what colleges truly value.
More than anything, I’m committed to helping students discover their authentic voice—and giving parents the relief of finally feeling supported instead of stressed.
What We Care About
Every Student Has a Story Worth Telling
We don’t create “perfect applicants.” We help students uncover the experiences that shaped them and express those stories with honesty, depth, and clarity.
Meet Bethany Goldszer
Founder & Director of College Counseling
I bring 18+ years of experience as a college consultant, with a deep focus on helping students navigate the complexities of college admissions. As a first-generation graduate of the University of Chicago, I understand the challenges students and families face—and how to guide them through with clarity.
My approach goes beyond simply editing essays. I help students discover what they truly want to say, why it matters, and how to present their experiences with intellectual depth and authenticity.
I pair strong writing expertise with exceptional organizational systems to support every stage of the admissions journey—from college research and essay development to application packaging and decision-making.
My insights have been featured in The Wall Street Journal, HuffPost, Newsday, and Good Morning America. I hold a Master’s in Education and a second Master’s in Nonprofit Management, bringing a research-based, student-centered approach to every family I serve.
Our Track Record
Ready to Stand Out?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsure where to begin, or stretched thin managing deadlines, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Whether your student is just starting or deep into essays, I’ll meet you exactly where you are and guide you step by step.