Diane Bidna

I have 13 years of college counseling experience in schools and for private companies. After working with students from diverse backgrounds and cultures, I feel strongly about assisting students in finding the university that is the right fit for each one. Toward this end, I have visited over 100 universities to learn about academic programs and experience the campuses first-hand. As a member of NACAC, IACAC, and WACAC, I try to stay on top of developing trends in the university admissions world through professional development opportunities. I am originally from Southern California, where I obtained a B.S. in Business and Entrepreneurship from the University of Southern California and a College Counseling Certificate from the University of California, San Diego. Living and working with international students I have learned so much about different cultures and customs..

I have 13 years of experience and am currently the Associate Director of University & Academic Advising at EF Academy, an international IB school in New York. Over the years, I have worked in International Schools as well as private companies.  

Some of my responsibilities have included:

• Assisting students locally and abroad with their university applications to schools in the US, Canada, UK, Netherlands, Spain and many other countries. 
• Helping students with high school course selections, extra-curricular activities and summer opportunities.
• Planning college visits for students, families and other counselors.  
• Writing letters of recommendation
• Planning and executing essay workshops and application bootcamps
• Coordinating SAT and ACT tests
• Compiling and sending out IB predicted grades
• Planning and hosting college fairs with universities from around the world
• Meeting with local businesses to create internship opportunities
• Teaching high school college readiness classes 

In addition, I have worked as a summer camp director, as well as a meeting and event planner, which gives me a unique and diverse perspective when working with students. 

I have B.S. in Business and Entrepreneurship from the University of Southern California, a certification in College Counseling from the University of California, San Diego and am currently working on my International Counseling certificate through NACAC.