Phavy “PJ” Cunningham is a seasoned and compassionate college admissions consultant with over 20 years of diverse experience in the field of education, including working in schools as a professional counselor and Career and Technical Education (CTE) specialist. A native of Philadelphia, Phavy earned her Bachelor’s degree in Politics & International Relations with a minor in Psychology from Ursinus College, completed coursework in Education, and later earned her Masters in Education and Human Development from George Mason University. As a life-long multidisciplinary learner and motivated educational leader, Phavy subsequently completed a Post-Masters degree/Doctoral coursework in Higher Education Administration at The George Washington University while serving as an Education Program Specialist and Management and Program Analyst at the U.S. Department of Education.

Phavy’s expertise in leadership and project management, extensive practice, and advanced studies in education and counseling enable her to successfully advise and advocate for her clients. As a college admissions advisor, Phavy employs a holistic strengths-based and person-centered approach by assessing and addressing each client’s distinct interests, academic objectives, and personal goals. She provides strategic admissions guidance geared toward helping her students matriculate at a great-fit college or university, and combines her wealth of knowledge and experience in human development and psychology, to empower her students to achieve success.

Phavy’s college advising practice is inspired by the belief that you hold the keys to your own happiness and destiny, and “when you want something, all the universe conspires to help you achieve it” (Paulo Coelho). Phavy believes that academic and career success can be achieved with professional mentorship, purposeful goal-setting, and meaningful collaboration. As a college admissions consultant, she is dedicated to equipping young people with the tools to reach their higher-education goals, supporting them as they embark on their own personal development journey, and helping them unlock self-discovery and access their fullest potential.