James Hayashi

James has been serving Colledge students for nearly a decade and combines that experience with his expertise in writing. He earned his Master of Professional Writing from the University of Southern California and applied his knowledge there as a thought-leader as he worked to establish USC’s writing advisement program within the Rossier School of Education.

As an Admissions Manager, James uses his uncanny instinct for understanding students to guide them toward building a unique list of colleges that is right for them. His tenure at USC as a coach and counselor gave James a profound understanding of college admissions, and of the self-discovery necessary to show one’s self on the page. At the admissions level, understanding of self is essential in crafting an authentic application that shows the student for who they truly are.

The college admissions experience is daunting for most kids and parents. A major part of James’ role on Colledge teams is building confidence and self-esteem in students who suffer from self-doubt and even imposter syndrome. He connects with them and motivates them, helping them first to believe in themselves as the precursor for helping others believe in them, too. James has the heart of a counselor and is inspired by each of his students in unique ways. He hears students’ stories that they’ve never shared, seeing it as an honor when students extend that level of trust.

James particularly values celebrating with students when they get their acceptance letters. “I love knowing that we’ve helped shepherd them through what can be stressful, major life-changing decisions for students and their families – and that we’re using knowledge, education, and counseling to do that.”