Sara-Lee Ramsawak

Available Monday

Starting at 2:00 PM UTC

I offer flexible scheduling, including daytime, evening, and weekend appointments, to accommodate students' busy schedules and different time zones. My calendar reflects my most up-to-date availability, but if you don't see a time that works for you, feel free to reach out! I'm happy to explore alternative times when possible, especially during busy application periods and as deadlines approach.

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About

I believe the best coaching relationships are built on trust, honesty, and open communication. I'm friendly, approachable, and genuinely enjoy getting to know my students, their interests, their goals, and what makes them unique. I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. I take the time to listen, ask questions, and understand where you're coming from before helping you figure out the best path forward. With over 14 years of experience working with students in higher education, I've seen a lot, and I bring that experience into every coaching session. I love sharing real-world examples, offering practical advice, and helping students think through options they may not have considered. Whether we're brainstorming ideas, reviewing an application, or developing a long-term strategy, my goal is to make the process feel less overwhelming and more manageable. One thing you should know about me: I'm honest, and I can be pretty direct. I won't tell you what you want to hear just to make you feel better, and I don't believe in giving students false hope or making promises about admissions outcomes. If I think something needs improvement, I'll tell you, explain why, and help you figure out what to do about it. I believe in setting realistic expectations while still encouraging students to aim high. Being realistic doesn't mean limiting your ambitions; it means understanding what it takes to achieve them. At the end of the day, I want you to leave our sessions feeling heard, supported, and more confident about your next steps. I'll challenge you when needed, celebrate your progress, and help you put together an application that reflects who you really are, not who you think an admissions committee wants you to be.

Why do I coach?

One of the things I've always loved most about working in higher education is getting to know students, hearing their stories, and helping them figure out what's next. Over the past 14 years, I've worked with students from all kinds of backgrounds, with different interests, ambitions, and challenges. Some know exactly what they want to do but aren't sure how to get there, while others are still trying to figure out what they want their future to look like. I enjoy working with both. What draws me to coaching is the opportunity to work with students one-on-one and help them see possibilities they may not have considered for themselves. I've seen how overwhelming the college and professional school application processes can be, especially when students are trying to navigate conflicting advice, high expectations, and the pressure to stand out. I love being able to break things down, share what I've learned over the years, and help students develop a plan that actually makes sense for them. For me, the most rewarding moments are when a student gains confidence, starts recognizing their own strengths, or realizes they have more options than they initially thought. I don't believe there's only one path to success, and I enjoy helping students find the one that's right for them. Coaching gives me the chance to do more of what I find most meaningful about my work: building relationships, sharing knowledge, and helping students take the next step toward their goals.

Work Experience

Consultant - Senior Consultant

PathIvy

October 2025 - Present

Through my work with Pathivy, I review college applications and provide feedback to students preparing to apply to undergraduate programs. I evaluate applications holistically, considering academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, personal statements, and how effectively students communicate their interests, experiences, and goals. My role involves identifying areas for improvement and providing actionable feedback to help students strengthen their applications and present themselves authentically and competitively throughout the admissions process.

Assistant Dean

New York University

May 2024 - Present

Hiring Manager

As Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Academics and Global Engagement at the NYU Tandon School of Engineering, I oversee undergraduate academic programs, advising, student services, and initiatives that support student success. My work includes developing and expanding opportunities in undergraduate research, global education, academic enrichment, and professional development, while collaborating closely with faculty and university leadership on academic policies and strategic initiatives. I also chair the Prehealth Committee, advising students pursuing careers in medicine and other health professions and supporting them throughout the professional school application process. Through this role, I bring a broad understanding of the undergraduate experience, academic preparation, and the opportunities and challenges students encounter as they work toward their educational and career goals.

Senior Director

New York University

September 2022 - May 2024

Hiring Manager

Prior to becoming Assistant Dean, I held several leadership roles at NYU Tandon, including Senior Director of Undergraduate Academics, Programs, & Global Engagement, where I oversaw academic advising, student support services, and programs designed to enhance the undergraduate experience. Throughout these roles, I worked closely with students, faculty, and university leadership to strengthen academic programs, improve student services, and expand opportunities for student success. My responsibilities also included prehealth advising, academic program development, and supporting students as they prepared for graduate and professional education.

Consultant - Senior Consultant

Early Scholars

August 2020 - September 2026

Admissions Committee

During my time with Early Scholars Speech and Debate, I was involved in the admissions and enrollment process, helping assess prospective students and place them into classes based on their academic readiness, experience, and individual needs. I also helped develop curriculum and structure course offerings to support students at different skill levels. This experience gave me firsthand insight into student assessment, academic placement, and curriculum development, as well as the importance of creating learning environments that challenge students while setting them up for success.

Director

New York University

April 2018 - September 2022

Hiring Manager

Previous Positions at NYU Tandon School of Engineering: - Associate Director | 2013–2018 - Assistant Director | 2013–2018 - Manager | 2013–2018 - Coordinator | 2013–2018