Hi, I’m Emma Wadiak.
Founder & Independent College Admissions Counselor at Connect College Counseling.
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​I believe every student deserves to feel confident and supported during the college application process. Applying to college is a major life milestone, and my goal is to make it less overwhelming—and even exciting—by empowering students to make informed, authentic choices.
Trust is at the heart of my work, so let me start by sharing a bit about my background.
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I began my career in higher education as Director of Admissions and Financial Aid for Santa Clara University’s School of Education and Counseling Psychology, where I guided hundreds of prospective students each year through the admissions process.
After relocating to Sacramento, I joined Sacramento State University as a Career Development Specialist, where I helped thousands of students and alumni explore career paths through one-on-one counseling sessions, classroom presentations, and co-hosting the university’s career podcast, The HirED!
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I hold a Master’s in Interdisciplinary Education (with an emphasis in Alternative and Correctional Education) and a Bachelor’s in Sociology, both from Santa Clara University, along with a College Counseling Certificate from UC San Diego Extension. I’m an active member of HECA (Higher Education Consultants Association) and WACAC (Western Association for College Admission Counseling).
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Since founding Connect College Counseling in 2018, I’ve helped hundreds of students find their best-fit colleges and confidently navigate the admissions process.
As the daughter of longtime Stanford Baseball Coach, Dean Stotz, I also bring a deep understanding of the college athletic recruiting process—especially for high school baseball players pursuing collegiate opportunities.
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Ultimately, my work is about helping students grow through one of life’s biggest transitions—with clarity, confidence, and care. I’d be honored to be part of your journey.
