In this inspiring episode of The HAYVN Hubcast, host Nancy Sheed sits down with Kate Stone, founder of Kate Stone Prep, to trace the unconventional and intentional journey that led her from aspiring actress and world traveler to top-tier college admissions strategist.
Kate’s story is anything but linear, and that’s what makes it so powerful. What started as a dream of working in film and television evolved into international teaching, private tutoring across the globe, and ultimately building a business that helps students not only get into college but thrive once they're there.
Highlights of their conversation:
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From NYU to Bali: Kate shares how her time at NYU and a desire to experience the world led her to teach in Thailand and Bali, where she discovered her knack for helping students through tutoring then the college application process.
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The Acting Years: Commercial acting funded her freedom, and the performance skills she honed translated beautifully into storytelling, communication, and workshop facilitation — all essential in college admissions work.
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Finding Her Niche: A conversation with a former partner helped her pivot from general tutoring to the college application space, a decision that ultimately led to a thriving business supported by mentors and coaches.
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Beyond Admissions: It’s not just about getting in, it's about helping students discover who they are, what drives them, and how to communicate that powerfully. Kate emphasizes developing soft skills, self-awareness, and networks of support.
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Building a Business with Purpose: Kate and her husband, Zach, have grown Kate Stone Prep into a standout service by focusing on authenticity, implementation, and complete dedication to their clients.
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Giving Back: Kate’s commitment to accessibility shows up in her regular free Family College Night events and application workshops that equip students and families with actionable insights, no payment required.
This episode is a must-listen for parents, students, educators, and entrepreneurs as well. Listen to hear how nontraditional paths can lead to exceptional impact.
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