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 — it comes from students who just got in. We connect high schoolers with verified current college students for authentic, affordable guidance.
"I started Luminao because I watched friends pay thousands for counselors who barely knew them — while the best advice I got came from a sophomore who'd just been through the same process. That gap felt wrong. We're here to close it."
— Evan, Founder · USC Marshall
What we stand for
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.
Authentic guidance
Our mentors are current students who just went through the process — they know what admissions officers actually want.
Safety first
Every mentor is verified through their .edu email. Sessions happen on our platform, never off-site.
Student-built
Luminao was built by college students, for college students. We know the process because we lived it.
The team
Evan
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 — there's a place for you on Luminao.