Our story

We believe every student deserves a real mentor

Luminao was founded on a simple idea: the best college essay advice doesn't come from expensive consultants โ€” it comes from students who just got in. We connect high schoolers with verified current college students for authentic, affordable guidance.

"Our mission is to make elite college guidance accessible to every student, regardless of background or zip code."

โ€” Luminao founding team

What we stand for

๐ŸŽ“

Access for everyone

Elite college counseling shouldn't be reserved for students who can afford $500/hr consultants. We democratize access to real student mentors.

๐Ÿค

Authentic guidance

Our mentors are current students who just went through the process โ€” they know what admissions officers actually want.

๐Ÿ”’

Safety first

Every mentor is verified through their .edu email. Sessions happen on our platform, never off-site.

โšก

Student-built

Luminao was built by college students, for college students. We know the process because we lived it.

The team

E

Evan Kong

Co-Founder & CEO

USC Marshall School of Business

Join us

Whether you're a student looking for guidance or a college student ready to share your journey โ€” there's a place for you on Luminao.