Built by leaders in the profession. Guided by a belief that families deserve better.
College planning is one of the first major transitions families navigate together. It involves aspirations, expectations, financial realities, and important conversations about the future.
By starting early and including caregivers in the process, families gain the clarity and shared understanding needed to approach the college journey thoughtfully — rather than reactively.
We built SUM TOTAL because we saw — from inside university enrollment offices — that the families who started these conversations earlier arrived in a fundamentally different position. Not because they were wealthier or more connected, but because they were informed.
Our goal is to make that kind of informed, strategic preparation available to every family who seeks it — and to make the process feel like it belongs to the whole family, not just the student facing a deadline.
Agency is Built — Not Rushed
Starting early allows families to move from reactive participants to informed decision-makers.
Starting early isn't about accelerating childhood.
It's about giving families time, clarity, and choice.
Each year we meet families during the later stages of the college process who share a similar reflection: "We wish we had started this conversation sooner."
"We didn't realize how many decisions started before junior year. We felt behind the whole time — and we didn't need to."Parent testimonial placeholder
"Understanding the financial side earlier would have changed how we approached the search entirely. We would have had so many more options."Parent testimonial placeholder
30+ years of combined experience inside higher education admissions and financial aid. Former presidents of major regional college counseling organizations. We know how this works from the inside out.
Our founders have worked inside public universities, private colleges, and specialized programs. We understand how enrollment decisions are made — and how to position students effectively across a wide range of institutions.
NCAA athletic recruitment, visual and performing arts programs, conservatories, international applications, and specialized programs — we bring specific expertise to families navigating non-traditional pathways.
We intentionally include caregivers and the entire family in the process. College planning is a family decision — and our programs are built to reflect that. Every voice matters. Every concern is heard.
"Families often tell us their biggest relief is having a knowledgeable guide who understands both the admissions process and the family dynamics behind it."
Former Enrollment Leader · 30+ Years Admissions & Financial Aid Experience
Academic Strategy Expert · 20+ Years High School Counseling and Admissions Experience
Specialist in STEM pathways and academic profile development
Visual & Performing Arts and conservatory program specialist
NCAA athletic recruitment and Division I / II strategy specialist
Transfer and graduate application strategy specialist
Early Risers and Sophomore Launch program specialist
Scheduling, coordination, and client experience support
"From our very first conversation, we felt like they understood our family — not just our student's GPA. That changed everything."Parent testimonial placeholder
Start with a 20-minute intro conversation — no commitment, no pressure.
Schedule an Intro Conversation →