Background

Payton was born in Abington, PA, but the majority of her childhood took place in a small town just outside of Jacksonville, FL before returning north to finish high school. After graduating from Weston High in 2018, Payton continued further north to Ithaca, New York, where she acquired a bachelor’s degree in Communication from Cornell University. Her background in educational psychology, communications research, and influential writing comes in very handy while helping students draft their applications

Payton now lives in Avon, CT with her family and her dog, Huckleberry.

Best Part of the Job

“The college application process can really take a toll on a student’s self-esteem. I enjoy helping students remember (or realize) what makes them special!”

Fun Fact

Payton has a divisional champion gold medal in competitive percussion.

Biggest Challenge

“I wish I had a magical acceptance wand for every student to attend the school of their dreams for free. And then a follow-up magical wand for dream careers.”

Advice to Students and Parents

“An expensive degree from a prestigious university is like a fancy sports car. It’s very fun to show off, but at the end of the day, all that matters is that you reach your final destination safely. Students are making life choices in college – not just education choices.”