Consultant Profile: Marie Todd

Over the past 25 years, I served in many capacities including Instructor, Mentor, Academic Advisor, Undergraduate Admissions Specialist, and Independent College Consultant. Throughout my professional experiences, I established dynamic relationships with prospective students and their families, faculty, post-baccalaureates, and undergraduates.

At least partially based on my interest in assisting others in gaining entry into higher education, I obtained a master’s degree in Educational Communications and Technology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. During my studies, I examined the use of digital portfolios to showcase students’ best work in various subject areas. As I grew more focused on the college admission process, I completed a certificate in College Counseling through the University of California at Los Angeles.

For five years prior to joining Accepted, I worked as an Undergraduate Application Review Specialist at the University of Michigan- Ann Arbor. As part of the initial evaluation team, I assessed applications for domestic and international undergraduate admission to programs at the University of Michigan. Program areas included: College of Literature, Science, and the Arts; College of Engineering; School of Kinesiology; School of Nursing; and Taubman College of Architecture. I understand in great detail all the pieces that go into a successful application -- from student essays and transcripts to letters of recommendation and extracurricular activities.

My professional training, in addition to my experience evaluating over 5,000 highly competitive applications, allows me to identify what stands out -- both positively and negatively -- in a competitive applicant pool. I witnessed firsthand the beneficial impact of well-articulated essay responses. 

Since joining Accepted in 2014, I have used my background to guide individual applicants like you or your child on their personal journeys to higher education and to gain admission to top tier institutions across the US, including the Ivies, Stanford, NYU, and Duke among others. 

The essay responses are your best opportunity to truly distinguish yourself from others. They provide a perspective that goes beyond the GPA and test scores, to give insight into your motivations, interests, and unique experiences. I look forward to helping you generate your strongest possible application!