US College Admissions Expert Devery Doran Tours Australia: Highlights and Insights

Devery Doran addresses an engaged audience at Melbourne Law School.

In September 2025, The Princeton Review Australia proudly welcomed Devery Doran, our Chief US College Admissions Counsellor, for an inspiring national seminar tour across Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide. A former Harvard admissions officer and UC Berkeley applications reader, Devery shared practical insights on building strong applications, writing standout personal essays, and understanding what US colleges really look for in students.

With the right support, students across Australia are turning interest into action, building pathways to leading US universities.

The response was remarkable. Sold-out auditoriums, school-hosted discussions, advisor sessions, and community events attracted families from across metropolitan and regional areas in each state, all seeking guidance on testing requirements, extracurriculars, and application timelines. The tour drew significant media attention, with coverage from The Sydney Morning Herald to The Advertiser, reflecting Australia's surging interest in US college opportunities.

The turnout confirmed what we've been seeing: Australian families are ready to turn interest into action. With the right support on finding the right college fit and meeting application deadlines, students across the country are building pathways to leading US universities.

Meet Our Chief US College Admissions Counsellor

Devery Doran brings unparalleled expertise to her role, combining insider knowledge from both sides of the admissions desk. As a former Harvard Admissions Officer and UC Berkeley Applications Reader, she has reviewed thousands of applications and understands precisely what top institutions look for in candidates. 

But Devery's insight goes even deeper than her professional experience. As a first-generation college student, she navigated the complex US admissions landscape without the advantage of family guidance or resources that many applicants take for granted. She fell so deeply in love with the admissions process that she read college guidebooks for fun, turning what intimidates many students into a passion.

I fell in love with the admissions process so deeply that I read college guidebooks for fun.

Devery applied to 10 top US colleges in total and was accepted to all 10, including several Ivy League schools. This perfect track record wasn't luck; it was the result of understanding how to craft compelling and authentic applications.

Today, Devery channels this combination of professional expertise and personal experience into guiding students and families through every stage of the US college admissions journey. Her approach demystifies the process while honouring each student's individual strengths, aspirations, and circumstances.

Sydney: A Sold-Out Beginning

The tour launched with tremendous energy at Pymble Ladies' College, where families packed the venue to capacity. Our Managing Director Harmonnia Junus, herself a proud Pymble alumna, joined Dr. Sarah Loch, Director of Pymble Institute, in welcoming attendees and setting the stage for an evening of  insights.

Our Managing Director, Harmonnia Junus, sharing her incredible talent as a violinist.

Harmonnia's opening remarks carried special weight as she shared her own journey from Pymble student to internationally acclaimed violinist, a testament to the power of pursuing educational opportunities that align with one's passions and potential. Her path from Pymble to earning Bachelor and Master of Music degrees from Mannes College, The New School for Music in New York, exemplifies the very "best-fit" philosophy that would anchor the evening's discussion. Her story resonated deeply with families contemplating their own children's educational journeys.

The concept of ‘best-fit’ admissions moves beyond rankings — it’s about finding where students will truly thrive.

Devery captivated the audience with her expert breakdown of the US college admissions landscape, clarifying the concept of "best-fit" admissions, a philosophy that moves beyond rankings to help students find institutions where they'll truly thrive. Her practical guidance on SATⓇ preparation and essay strategy sparked countless lightbulb moments throughout the room, leading to an exceptionally engaged Q&A session with strong audience participation.

An intimate Sunday session with Devery Doran at our Sydney CBD Clarence Street campus.

The demand proved so overwhelming that we added a second Sydney session on Sunday. In a particularly touching moment, numerous fathers chose to spend Father's Day at the seminar, demonstrating the profound commitment Australian families have to supporting their children's educational dreams.

Melbourne: Strategic Pathways Revealed

Devery Doran shares insights on essays and recommendations during her US college admissions talk at the University of Melbourne.

Our Melbourne session at Melbourne University uncovered a fascinating trend: significant interest from families considering US university transfers after completing one or two years of undergraduate study in Australia.

Transferring from an Australian university can be a strategic advantage, giving students time to strengthen their applications.

Devery highlighted how this pathway can actually serve as a strategic advantage offering students additional time to strengthen their applications while gaining valuable university level experience.

We also had postgraduate students join us, leaving with a clearer understanding of how Australian undergraduate degrees position them for competitive US graduate programs and the unique research opportunities available at American colleges. 

The Melbourne audience brought thoughtful questions about combining Australian and American educational experiences, demonstrating an appetite for global education pathways.

Adelaide: An Athlete's Inspiring Journey

Immanuel College, the Adelaide host for Devery Doran, is a co-educational day and boarding school for Years 7 to 12.

Adelaide brought its own special energy to the tour. We were honoured to hear from Immanuel College alumna Molly Coleman, who shared her compelling journey from US college athlete to physiotherapist. Her firsthand account of balancing competitive sports with rigorous academics sparked heartfelt conversations about the unique opportunities available through US college athletic programs.

Molly's story particularly resonated with families exploring pathways that combine academic excellence with athletic development, a hallmark of the American college experience that remains relatively unique in global higher education.

If you broke your leg tomorrow and couldn’t play your sport, what else can you bring to the table?
— Devery Doran, Chief US College Admissions Counsellor

Her presence set the stage for one of the evening's most memorable questions: "As someone whose entire life is pretty much sport, would you recommend delving into other extracurricular activities, and if so, what would you recommend?" 

Devery's response introduced what she calls the "broken leg test" a thought experiment that asks: if you broke your leg tomorrow and couldn't play your sport, what else can you bring to the table? While US colleges value athletic commitment, they also want to know that students have other passions and can contribute to campus life in diverse ways.

Personalised Guidance: One-on-One Counselling Sessions

Beyond the seminars, Devery conducted private counselling sessions with students at our Sydney CBD campus and in Adelaide. These 30-minute and one-hour consultations allowed students to discuss their college ambitions, application strategies, and individual concerns in depth, with tailored guidance based on each student's profile, interests, and goals.

Devery helped me see what top US universities really value, and how to find the ones that fit my goals and strengths. Her advice on showcasing my academics and activities was so practical and easy to follow.
— Year 12 Student, Pymble Ladies’ College

Common topics included SAT preparation: when to start, how to study effectively, and whether testing was necessary for their target schools. Students also sought advice on crafting personal narratives, selecting extracurriculars, and building application timelines that work with Australian school commitments.

One meaningful consultation was with 16-year-old Sydney student Samedh Chirravuri, who has been thinking about US colleges since primary school. His mother, Alison Barnard, is a US citizen who used The Princeton Review during her own college preparation and attended Presbyterian College in South Carolina and Syracuse University in New York.

Samedh Chirravuri says he appreciates that the US college application process looks beyond academic marks. Credit: Kate Geraghty

Samedh articulated what draws many Australian students to the US system: "It recognises everything you do, instead of just you being a mark and a number." He appreciated how admissions committees evaluate students' full range of interests, from academics to the water polo he plays competitively.

Alison emphasised the campus experience: "The on-campus experience of US universities is one of the most unique parts of the entire experience." This sentiment resonated throughout the tour as families sought educational experiences extending beyond the classroom.

Supporting Career Advisors: A Critical Mission

Career Advisors and educators gather at Knox Grammar School for the Academic Leadership and University Pathways session.

Beyond the public seminars, we conducted specialised sessions for career advisors across all three cities. These meetings proved illuminating, highlighting the significant support these dedicated professionals need to navigate US application timelines and requirements.

The sessions revealed several key challenges that Australian career advisors face when guiding students toward US universities. The complexity of the US system, with its early decision options, standardised testing, holistic admissions, and unique essay requirements, differs substantially from the straightforward ATAR-based Australian university admissions process. 

When we invest in training career advisors, we expand the number of students who can successfully navigate US admissions.

Career advisors expressed the need for better resources to explain the breadth of opportunities available in the US system. Beyond the handful of Ivy League schools that dominate public awareness, there are thousands of exceptional institutions offering unique programs, generous financial aid, and transformative experiences. Advisors want to guide students toward these hidden gems but often lack the detailed knowledge to do so confidently.

The holistic nature of US admissions presents another learning curve. Unlike the purely academic focus of Australian admissions, US colleges evaluate extracurricular involvement, leadership, personal essays, and letters of recommendation. Career advisors need frameworks to help students build compelling profiles over multiple years, not just achieve strong exam results.

We heard genuine enthusiasm from these educators about supporting their students' global aspirations, coupled with honest acknowledgment of the gaps in their own knowledge.

We're committed to empowering these vital partners in the educational journey, ensuring they have the confidence and knowledge to support students exploring US college pathways. Our conversations with educators reinforced that when we invest in training career advisors, we exponentially expand the number of students who can successfully navigate US admissions.

Every City, Its Own Energy

Each destination brought distinct perspectives and questions to the conversation. What remained consistent was the enthusiasm, curiosity, and ambition of Australian families seeking world-class educational opportunities for their children.

Devery Doran and The Princeton Review Australia team enjoying lunch at Max on Hardware in Melbourne.

The tour wasn't all work, of course. Devery embraced the opportunity to experience Australia, taking in Sydney’s spectacular sights, Melbourne’s renowned food and coffee culture (because no trip to Melbourne is complete without it), and the country’s unique flora and fauna at Adelaide Zoo.

Devery Doran enjoying a coffee break with The Princeton Review Australia team in Melbourne.

These experiences gave her a deeper appreciation of the Australian context and the families she supports. Each city offered a new perspective on Australian life and education, enriching her understanding of the diverse students and parents she guides through the US admissions process.

Your Top Questions Answered

Devery Doran answering questions from families during a Q&A session at our Sydney campus.

Throughout the tour, families raised thoughtful questions about every aspect of the US college admissions process. From understanding how to research and identify best-fit colleges, to navigating application timelines for Year 12 students, to knowing what top schools truly look for in applicants, Devery addressed each query with the expertise and insight that comes from years of guiding students to success.

We heard questions about course selection both inside and outside school, strategies for building compelling applications, and much more. Over the coming weeks, we'll be sharing video responses and detailed resources addressing these important topics, starting with a deep dive into one of the most common questions: Do I need to take the SATⓇ?

Stay tuned as we continue to unpack the insights from this remarkable tour.

Building Community: A Special Evening at The Collective

Devery Doran mingling with families and educators at our US College Admissions Social Night at The Collective.

Beyond the public seminars, we hosted an intimate US College Admissions Social Night at The Collective Suite in St Leonards, which offered a chance for families to connect in a more relaxed setting. Generously supported by TWT Property Group, the evening brought together teachers, counsellors, and parents over canapés and refreshments.

Guests enjoying conversations and canapés at The Collective, St Leonards.

The casual atmosphere allowed for meaningful one-on-one conversations with Devery, where families could dive deeper into their specific questions and concerns. The Princeton Review Australia teachers and counsellors mingled throughout the evening, creating an atmosphere of connection and community that extended well beyond formal presentations. It was an evening that reminded us that the college admissions journey is as much about building relationships and support networks as it is about applications and test scores.

Behind the Scenes: A Team Effort

An event of this scale and impact doesn't happen without extraordinary dedication behind the scenes. Our team worked tirelessly across three cities to ensure each event was a success.

The Princeton Review Australia team with CEO Teddy Hsiung and Chief US College Admissions Counsellor Devery Doran at The Collective, celebrating a successful tour.

We couldn't be prouder of the entire Princeton Review Australia team for their commitment to making this tour a resounding success. Special recognition goes to our CEO, Teddy Hsiung, whose vision and leadership made this tour possible. His unwavering belief in providing Australian families with world-class US college admissions guidance continues to drive everything we do.

Looking Ahead

Devery Doran addresses guests during The Princeton Review Australia’s US College Admissions Social Night at The Collective, St Leonards.

The success of this tour reflects a growing recognition among Australian families that US colleges offer extraordinary opportunities for academic growth, personal development, and career preparation. The American system's flexibility, emphasis on liberal arts education, and commitment to holistic student development resonate deeply with families seeking transformative educational experiences.

The conversations that began during Devery’s visit are just the beginning of meaningful partnerships with families across Australia.

Over the coming weeks, we'll be sharing key resources, answering additional questions from the tour, and providing ongoing insights to help you take the next step in your US college journey.

Whether you attended one of our sessions or are just beginning to explore US college admissions, we're here to support you every step of the way. The conversations that began during Devery's visit are just the beginning of what we hope will be meaningful partnerships with families across Australia.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, asked thoughtful questions, and shared your aspirations. Your enthusiasm and engagement made this tour truly special. Here's to the bright futures ahead for Australian students pursuing their dreams on American campuses.

Ready to explore your own US college pathway? Contact our admissions team today to book a consultation.