Our Story
Learn about our mission, team, and the philosophy that drives us
CollegeIGo was founded in 2024 by Oliver Goldman, Henry Lien, Ryder Lariviere, and Kasra Panahi with a simple goal: to create a supportive space where high school students can connect with real college students for honest insights and guidance. Our mentors, who have recently navigated the college admissions process themselves, are hand-picked for their diverse experiences, passion for helping others, and commitment to lifting students up throughout their unique journeys.
At CollegeIGo, we believe that every student deserves personalized advice and encouragement as they explore their college options. By sharing firsthand knowledge, answering questions, and offering genuine mentorship, we aim to help students feel more confident, informed, and ready to take charge of their own paths—whether it's finding the right school, preparing for an interview, or simply understanding what life in college is really like.
Our mission is to empower students to believe in their potential and take on future challenges with confidence. We're here not as consultants, but as mentors, ready to support each student in making the college journey their own.
Executive Team
Oliver Goldman
Co-Founder
Cornell University
Ryder Lariviere
Co-Founder
Yale University
Kasra Panahi
Co-Founder
University of Pennsylvania
Henry Lien
Co-Founder
Stanford University
Our Philosophy
At CollegeIGo, we believe that the best guidance comes from those who have lived the experience. Our mentors are real college students who recently went through the college application process and understand firsthand the uncertainty, excitement, and challenges that high school students face. We are committed to creating a supportive environment where students feel empowered to explore their options and make choices that reflect their personal goals.
Our philosophy is grounded in three key values:
- Authentic Mentorship: We prioritize genuine connections between high school students and college mentors. By sharing personal stories, answering candid questions, and offering advice based on real experiences, our mentors provide valuable insights that students won't find in a brochure or online search.
- Confidence Through Exploration: We aim to inspire confidence by encouraging students to ask questions, seek clarity, and embrace their individuality. Our role is to guide, not dictate—helping students gain the clarity they need to chart their unique paths in the college process.
- Support for Every Journey: College looks different for everyone, and we respect that. Whether a student is aiming for a highly competitive school or exploring a broader range of options, we are here to offer encouragement and practical advice, ensuring they feel supported throughout their journey.
At CollegeIGo, we don't promise admissions results, but we do promise a mentor who believes in your potential, respects your ambitions, and is here to help you take the next step with confidence.