Meet Tanya Mathis

CompassED College Advising

is a boutique college consulting firm  founded by Tanya Mathis. She supports ambitious students from surrounding Boston-area communities—from the high school level through the collegiate years, including students preparing for graduate school.  CompassED works with families locally and also provides virtual services with students anywhere in the U.S.


ABOUT US

With more than 20+ years of professional experience in marketing and leadership, Tanya brings a unique perspective to college advising – helping students identify their strengths, communicate their stories, and learn how to “sell” themselves authentically through essays, demonstrated interest, and applications. She understands strategy, positioning, and storytelling at the highest level. Today, she brings that expertise to a new mission: helping students confidently navigate the college admissions journey.


 

Her approach as an Independent Education Consultant (IEC) is collaborative and personalized. CompassED College Advising partners with — and enhances — school-provided counseling services rather than competing with them. Tanya works closely with students and families to create thoughtful strategies, develop compelling applications, and reduce the stress that often accompanies the process.

She believes the college journey is not just about gaining admission — it’s about discovering fit, purpose, and long-term success.



PHILOSOPHY
The admissions process has become increasingly complex. Students deserve individualized attention beyond what many school counseling offices can realistically provide.



What an  Independent Educational Consultant / (IEC) offers:

  • Broader institutional knowledge
  • Up-to-date admissions insights
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Objective, unbiased guidance

 


CompassED’s mission is to guide students toward finding their right-fit path college experience where they can thrive academically, socially, and personally.



Most of all, CompassED is known for providing a highly personalized experience where students feel supported, seen, and prioritized every step of the way. Having gone through the College Admissions process with her own son, Tanya finds it incredibly rewarding to help students grow through reflection and self-discovery—ultimately landing at a school where they feel at home and set up for long-term success.

TRAINING, CREDENTIALS & PROFESSIONAL AFFILITATIONS


Tanya maintains a strong commitment to ethical, student-centered advising and ongoing professional development. She is currently pursuing a graduate-level Certificate in College Counseling through UCLA Extension Program (expected Fall 2026) and has completed the IECA Summer Institute, a nationally recognized training program for independent educational consultants.


Demonstrating a commitment to staying current with evolving admissions trends and best practices:

  • Member, Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA)
  • Member, New England College Admissions Consultants (NECA)

Tanya regularly visits college campuses, studies evolving admissions trends, and partners closely with families to position each student with intention, clarity and strategic focus. 


LIST OF SCHOOLS TANYA HAS VISITED

Bentley University - Boston College - Boston University - Bowling Green State University - Brandeis University -  Carnegie Mellon University, Connecticut College - Dartmouth College - Florida State University - Harvard - Keene State College - Michigan State University - Middlebury College -  Northeastern University - Notre Dame University -  Penn State University - Providence College - Stonehill College -  Syracuse University -  The Ohio State University -  University of Cincinnati -  University of Connecticut - University of Delaware -  University of Florida - University of Maryland -  University of Massachusetts/Amherst -  University of Michigan -  University of New Hampshire -  University of Notre Dame -  University of Tampa


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LIST OF STUDENT ACCEPTANCES
Alabama University - Arizona State University -  Denison University  -  Florida State University  -  Louisiana State University - Ohio State University - University of Central Florida - University of Colorado, Boulder - University of Maryland - University of Massachusetts, Amherst/Isenberg School of Business -  University of South Carolina - University of Tampa - University of Tennessee 

What Our Parents Say...

Tanya’s structured, goal-oriented process will set your student up for success. She understands college admissions and how to bring out the best in your student. She went above & beyond with practical guidance, creative suggestions, and support. Her knowledge and availability really helped my daughter manage stress and stay focused. I highly recommend Tanya to anyone needing help with the college process.

-Jennifer A, Parent

Working with Tanya was an absolute game-changer for my daughter’s graduate school journey in forensic psychology. As she was exploring both international and domestic programs, the process felt incredibly daunting and complex. She provided the strategic expertise and personalized support. Tanya didn't just offer generic advice; she took the time to understand my daughter’s specific research interests. The in-depth knowledge of different universities, both in the U.S. and abroad, was impressive and helped us identify hidden gem programs I would have otherwise missed.

-Laura W, Parent

Working with Tanya was an unexpected blessing. I met her after my daughter had already written her college essay and begun the application process, yet she still offered valuable insights, suggested additional colleges that she felt would be a great fit, and was always available to answer questions and share helpful resources. Tanya was a pleasure to work with and provided a depth of knowledge that proved invaluable.

-Stephanie M, Parent