Global college planning
When purpose leads, prestige follows.
About Us
An Intentional Path to Higher Education
At Paideia Prestige, we believe college admissions is more than a checklist—it’s a journey toward purpose. Rooted in the classical Greek concept of “paideia,” which signifies the holistic cultivation of mind, soul, and character, our work guides students toward meaningful academic and personal growth.
We partner with families to explore the full range of global higher education opportunities and uncover the best-fit pathways where their child will pursue a degree, continue nurturing their resilience, and compete at a global level.
COLLEGE PLANNING IN MOTION
Curated college visits that inspire clarity, confidence, and connection.
Paideia Immersion Tours transform traditional campus visits into intentional journeys of discovery. Each experience blends campus access, cultural exploration, and personalized coaching — helping your student engage with universities on a deeper level and see where they truly belong.
- 3–5 curated university visits aligned with your student’s goals, values, and profile
- Small-group (2-3 families) or private tours for a personalized experience
- On-site guidance to ask the right questions
- Beyond rankings: discover academic, cultural, and personal fit
- Expert Q&A to uncover insights what standard tours overlook
- Pre & post-visit coaching so every visit shapes your student’s admissions strategy
- You handle travel; we curate the experience. Limited spots available.
Why Paideia Prestige?
Founded on a commitment to intentionality, multicultural insight, and individualized guidance, our approach ensures each family receives unparalleled attention and expertise.
Personalized & Purposeful
We accept a limited number of families each year, ensuring each student receives highly individualized attention, a tailored admissions roadmap, and a strategy that reflects their unique strengths and ambitions.
Global & Grounded
With expertise in both U.S. and European admissions, we offer culturally attuned guidance for families navigating cross-cultural education. As a proud member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) we uphold the highest professional and ethical standards in every engagement.
Immersive Experiences
From curated college immersion tours to professional-grade planning tools, every touchpoint is designed to deepen your student’s self-awareness, refine their narrative, and align ambition with opportunity.
About The Founder
Susana Fernandez
Founder of Paideia Prestige
Certified by NACAC · Member of IECA
Recognized by
The Paideia Prestige Commitment
At Paideia Prestige, we work with a select number of families each year, offering comprehensive, all-in-one advising packages that are transparent in scope and free of hidden fees. Every investment reflects our hallmark: strategy, personalization, and cultural expertise. We do not guarantee admission or accept compensation from institutions—our guidance is fully independent and student-centered.
Our Programs:
- Foundations → Early guidance with curated check-ins for 9th–10th graders — a gentle, purposeful start.
- Roadmap → A 90-minute strategic blueprint for juniors and seniors.
- Pathways → A high-touch partnership through every stage of admissions.
- Immersion Tours → Curated educational experiences in the U.S. and Europe that reveal not just where your child could go, but where they can thrive.
The Paideia Prestige Commitment
At Paideia Prestige, we work with a select number of families each year, offering comprehensive, all-in-one advising packages that are transparent in scope and free of hidden fees. Every investment reflects our hallmark: strategy, personalization, and cultural expertise. We do not guarantee admission or accept compensation from institutions—our guidance is fully independent and student-centered.
Our Programs:
Foundations
Early guidance with curated check-ins for 9th–10th graders — a gentle, purposeful start.
Roadmap
A 90-minute strategic blueprint for juniors and seniors.
Pathways
A high-touch partnership through every stage of admissions.
Immersion Tours
Curated educational experiences in the U.S. and Europe that reveal not just where your child could go, but where they can thrive.
- Foundations → Early guidance with curated check-ins for 9th–10th graders — a gentle, purposeful start.
- Roadmap → A 90-minute strategic blueprint for juniors and seniors.
- Pathways → A high-touch partnership through every stage of admissions.
- Immersion Tours → Curated educational experiences in the U.S. and Europe that reveal not just where your child could go, but where they can thrive.
Colleges visited
Beyond the Brochure
Reviews
What our families say
The college tours were such a memorable and helpful experience. We visited Montclair State, Rutgers Newark, Rutgers New Brunswick, and Fordham’s Rose Hill campus, and each one gave me a totally different perspective—from Montclair’s big and welcoming campus to the energy of Rutgers Newark, to seeing Rutgers New Brunswick by bus. Even when it rained at Fordham, Susana made sure it was still memorable and meaningful. What I appreciated most was how she pushed us to ask better questions and even suggested ones based on our own interests that we hadn’t thought of. By the end, I felt more confident, more prepared, and like I could really picture myself in these environments. It wasn’t just a tour—it felt like the first real step toward my future.
“Ms. Fernandez has been both my teacher and mentor, and her support truly shaped my journey. From day one, she took the time to understand my goals and challenges, always pushing me to grow not just academically, but as a person. She guided me through every step of the college process, especially in crafting essays for the U.S. Naval Academy, scholarships, and my college applications. Her feedback was thoughtful and encouraging, helping me find my voice and write with purpose and authenticity. Thanks to her mentorship, I’m now at Hobart and William Smith Colleges, rowing at the Division I level and studying on both academic and civil work scholarships. The discipline, confidence, and resilience she helped me build continue to guide me every day—in the classroom and on the water. I feel incredibly fortunate to have worked with her. Ms. Fernandez goes above and beyond for her students, and I would absolutely recommend her to any family looking for meaningful, personalized guidance.”
“While touring Fordham University, one of the most meaningful moments happened during a sudden downpour. Almost everyone left, but Susana encouraged us to stay with the tour leader—and what could have felt awkward became an opportunity to connect more deeply and make a lasting impression. She wasn’t just there as a counselor—she guided me like a mentor, encouraging me to ask thoughtful questions, stay confident, and embrace the moment. She has a way of making you feel both prepared as a student and understood as a person, which made all the difference. That experience showed me how much she truly cares, and it’s something I’ll carry with me.”
“The college tours were such a memorable and helpful experience. We visited Montclair State, Rutgers Newark, Rutgers New Brunswick, and Fordham’s Rose Hill campus, and each one gave me a totally different perspective—from Montclair’s big and welcoming campus to the energy of Rutgers Newark, to seeing Rutgers New Brunswick by bus. Even when it rained at Fordham, Susana made sure it was still memorable and meaningful. What I appreciated most was how she pushed us to ask better questions and even suggested ones based on our own interests that we hadn’t thought of. By the end, I felt more confident, more prepared, and like I could really picture myself in these environments. It wasn’t just a tour—it felt like the first real step toward my future.”
“It is with great enthusiasm that we share our experience working with Susana Fernández during our son’s college application journey. She offered far more than academic guidance—bringing structure, motivation, and an unwavering commitment to his success. From the very beginning, she broke down the complex admissions process into manageable steps, creating a personalized schedule that kept him organized, focused, and confident. What impressed us most was Susana’s ability to connect not only as an advisor, but as a mentor. She was patient, encouraging, and incredibly thorough, often going above and beyond to provide thoughtful guidance and keep the process moving smoothly. Her support was instrumental in shaping essays, managing deadlines, and balancing the demands of academics and extracurriculars. Because of her guidance, our son was able to submit strong, timely applications to competitive colleges, approaching the process with clarity, discipline, and purpose. Her impact on his growth during this time was invaluable, and I am incredibly grateful for her dedication. We recommend Susana without reservation. Her professionalism, expertise, and genuine care for her students make her a truly exceptional mentor and partner for families navigating this important milestone.”
Still Have Questions? We’re Here to Help! Contact Us
Everything Your need to Know to plan your journey with us
When is the right time to begin working with Paideia Prestige?
Many families begin as early as 9th or 10th grade through our Paideia Foundations program, which provides structured, age-appropriate guidance. Others join during junior or senior year with Paideia Roadmap or Paideia Pathways. The earlier you begin, the more intentional and less stressful the process becomes.
How do we know which package is right for us?
What’s the difference between Paideia Pathways and Paideia Roadmap?
Pathways is our most comprehensive package, guiding students through every stage of the admissions journey with up to 20 personalized sessions. Roadmap is a one-time, 90-minute strategic session designed to give families clarity and an actionable plan.
How is Paideia Foundations different?
What makes Paideia Immersion Tours unique?
Our tours are not tourism. They are curated, educational experiences led by an independent educational consultant, designed to highlight culture, context, and admissions fit. Families gain insight through personalized itineraries, pre- and post-tour advising, and curated reflection tools. We are not campus tour guides — we are admissions professionals helping your child interpret what they see and experience.
Do you only work with students applying to U.S. colleges?
No. We serve globally minded families exploring both U.S. and international universities. Our bilingual and cross-cultural approach ensures families receive tailored guidance no matter their destination.
Do you work with international families?
Yes — international families are at the heart of Paideia Prestige. We regularly support students navigating U.S. admissions while considering universities in Europe and beyond.
How many families do you work with each year?
To ensure a boutique, high-touch experience, we partner with only a limited number of families annually. This exclusivity allows us to provide the depth of guidance each student deserves.
What makes Paideia Prestige different from other college consulting firms?
We combine strategic admissions expertise with a Paideia philosophy — developing the whole child: mind, body, and character. Our services are intentionally boutique, bilingual, and globally oriented, blending cultural awareness with academic strategy.
Why is “fit” more important than rankings?
Rankings can’t capture whether a student will thrive. Research shows that students who feel a sense of fit are more likely to stay enrolled and graduate on time. Our work helps students find a college where they belong — academically, socially, and personally.
Do you guarantee admissions to specific colleges?
No. As members of IECA, we follow strict ethical guidelines and do not guarantee admission. Instead, we empower families with strategy, insight, and preparation that maximizes opportunities while ensuring every student finds their best-fit environment.
How do sessions take place?
Most sessions are held virtually for flexibility, with in-person options during immersion tours or special arrangements.
What is included in the Planning Hub / College Companion?
A professional planning portal where your family can track deadlines, essays, recommendations, and tasks in one place — ensuring nothing is missed.
Can families enroll in a Paideia College Immersion Tour without a consulting package?
Yes. College tours are an independent service and during the introductory consultation call we will provide more details and answer your questions.
