Penny Stalia
Penny Stalia is a certified university admissions counselor with over a decade of experience helping students unlock their potential and reach world-class academic destinations. Since 2022, she has worked independently, guiding more than 900 students to successful admissions at leading institutions including Harvard, MIT, Caltech, Oxford, Cambridge, ETH Zurich, TU Delft, Bocconi, IE, and many others across the U.S., U.K., and Europe.
A lifelong learner and passionate mentor, Penny graduated as valedictorian from Deree College with a degree in English Literature. She went on to pursue a research-based master’s at the University of Sydney, specializing in Education, Creative Writing, Publishing, and Editing Manuscripts. Her commitment to college counseling took shape in 2015 and deepened in 2019 with a certification from NYU. That same year, she was honored with the University of Chicago’s Outstanding Educator Award.
Currently pursuing a joint PhD at Oxford and the University of Sydney, Penny blends rigorous academic research with a deep, personal commitment to student growth. Her background in publishing and advising allows her to take a holistic, narrative-driven approach—supporting students in crafting compelling stories, choosing the right academic paths, and stepping into their futures with purpose and confidence.
Markella Dimou
Markella Dimou brings a rich and diverse background to the field of college counseling, blending academic rigor, creative insight, and a deep commitment to helping students thrive. Currently pursuing a College Counseling Certificate at UCLA, she draws on years of experience across education, media, and mentorship to guide students with empathy, strategy, and care.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and Media from the University of Athens, a MSc in Political Sociology from the London School of Economics, and an MA in Public History. Before transitioning into college counseling, she worked as a copywriter in advertising, a political advisor, and later as the founder and editor-in-chief of Talc Magazine.
As a researcher and storyteller at heart, she excels in helping students uncover and express their authentic voices—whether in personal statements or life decisions. She is particularly passionate about mentoring teens, offering thoughtful guidance that meets both their aspirations and realities.
A mother of three herself, she believes every young person deserves the support and tools to pursue their dreams with confidence and clarity. Her mission is simple: to empower students to imagine boldly, plan wisely, and grow into their fullest potential.