Ivy League Stories
Your Story. Your Power. Your Admission.
Work one-on-one with a Harvard graduate and top admissions counselor at Empowerly. Same strategy used by leading agencies, delivered personally and at affordable rates.
Beyond the essay process, Michael was an excellent college counsellor. He would always keep in touch and ask for updates on my acceptances. In the time that I worked with Michael, he went from a college counsellor to a mentor, and I would recommend his services to everyone
What stands out most is the intention behind everything he does. It is not just information, it is guidance that reaches students where they are and helps them believe in what is possible for their future.
I truly cannot recommend Michael enough. What felt like one of the most intimidating parts of the college application process became something I actually enjoyed.
He was probably more excited for me than I was when I got into UChicago. I truly see Michael as a friend and mentor, rather than just a college counsellor. Everything about my experience working with him was lovely.
I especially loved his effort in maintaining the "vibe" and goal of my original ideas; after all the revisions, my voice and intention were still preserved in the final product—just more digestible and expressive. Truly, I wouldn't wish anything different!
I ultimately submitted a personal statement that felt unique to me and truly reflected who I am. I believe having an essay that genuinely reflected who I am strengthened my applications and played a huge role in my successful admissions outcomes.
Students Admitted To
Your Story Can Be Your Strongest Advantage
Stand Out Beyond the Numbers
A great GPA and impressive test scores are only part of the equation. The most competitive colleges want to understand who you are, what drives you, and what makes your journey uniquely yours.
With personalized guidance from an experienced admissions counselor, we'll help you uncover your strongest stories, shape your application strategy, and present an authentic version of yourself that admissions officers remember.
From “qualified” to unforgettable.
Our Services
Everything You Need to Get In
From crafting standout personal statements to mastering the interview room, every service at Ivy League Stories is designed to give you a real edge in today’s competitive admissions landscape — at both the undergraduate and graduate level.
Our Results
Our Mission
At Ivy League Stories, our mission is to help students approach high school as a journey of self-discovery. The classes you take, the clubs you join, the ways you spend your summers, and the relationships you build along the way aren’t just resume line items — they are the experiences that shape who you become.
In today’s increasingly competitive admissions landscape, a perfect GPA and strong test scores are no longer enough to set you apart. What truly moves admissions officers is a compelling and authentic story.
We are dedicated to helping students live, recognize, and articulate those stories, so that when the moment comes to introduce yourself to the world, you are ready to leave a lasting impression.
Resources
FAQs
What is Ivy League Stories?
We are a boutique college admissions consulting service dedicated to helping high school students craft compelling narratives and strategic applications.
Who will be coaching my student?
Every student works directly with our founder, Michael Torto. We believe in providing truly personalized 1-on-1 coaching, which means there are no associates and no handoffs.
What is your approach to admissions consulting?
We focus on the "story" behind the application. We work with students to develop powerful essays, curate strategic extracurricular profiles, and ensure their unique voice is heard by admissions officers.
What kind of track record does Ivy League Stories have?
Our proven approach has helped over 50 students gain acceptance into the Ivy League and more than 240 students secure spots at T20 schools.
What kind of services do you provide?
Ivy League Stories offers personalized, one-on-one college admissions coaching built around your student’s unique story. From academic planning and extracurricular development in 9th grade to final essay polishes and interview prep in 12th grade, we work with students at every stage of the journey — at both the undergraduate and graduate level.
How do I get started?
You can book a time for a free 30-min profile review directly through the link on this page.
What happens after the call?
You'll have a clear picture of where your student stands and what to do next, whether or not we work together. If it's a fit and you'd like to keep going, I'll walk you through the options. If not, the plan is yours to run with.
Start Your Story
Your story is already being written — let’s make sure it’s one that gets you in. Whether you’re just starting high school or finalizing your college list, reach out today and take the first step toward the school you’ve always imagined.
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