What are People Saying about Matt and Arant Academic Planning?
"Matt is a very experienced admissions professional. He truly understands the ins and outs of today's complicated U.S college admission landscape. His experience working with prospective student athletes at highly selective institutions makes him ideally suited to work with strong academic students that are about to dive into the athletic recruitment process at any level."
— Jimmie Foster, Jr., Vice President of Enrollment Planning, College of Charleston (SC)
“I worked with Matt in a selective college admission setting for nearly five years where Matt continuously elevated the work of our team and institution. When Matt took on the role of Athletics Liaison, he immediately forged relationships across the country with high school athletic directors, coaches, and continued to build relationships with college counselors. As a former college coach myself, Matt's knowledge of the college admission process, specifically for prospective student-athletes, is the strongest I have worked with.”
— Hillen Grason, Jr., Vice President for Enrollment Management - Admissions and Outreach, Drexel University (PA)
“Matt’s knowledge of the college admission and recruiting process, especially at the more highly selective colleges, is deft, nuanced, and deeply informed by his extensive experience working in the admission business. Whoever works with Matt is in good and capable hands.”
— Josh Bottomly, Associate Director of College Counseling, Casady School (OK)
"I worked with Matt at Franklin & Marshall for five years, and he helped establish a strong relationship between the athletic department and admissions. He understands the importance of transparent and consistent communication, and his knowledge of the college landscape is impressive. Through working with Matt, I was able to land some of my best recruits in program history."
— Mary Kate Salko, Head Women's Volleyball Coach and Senior Woman Administrator, Franklin & Marshall College (PA)
“Matt Arant is a leader in the college athletics recruiting space. He has extensive experience and knowledge in selective admissions and recruitment and this background helps him be an excellent resource for families going through college recruitment for the first time. The recruitment process can often seem confusing and daunting, so having Matt in your corner can make the entire process feel more manageable and successful.”
— David Rion, Director of College Guidance, The Loomis Chaffee School (CT)
"Many families at Prep look to me for wisdom on the athletic recruitment process, and when that happens, I look to Matt Arant! Matt's deep knowledge of the selective college admissions process—especially around DIII athletic recruitment— is an invaluable resource for students and families. Having known Matt since his time in the admission office at Franklin & Marshall, I can say with confidence that Matt is accessible, thoughtful, and strategic, guiding applicants through every step with professionalism and care."
— Hayley Burke, Co-Director of College Counseling, Santa Fe Preparatory School (NM)
"Matt possesses a wealth of knowledge and experience about the recruitment and admission process for student-athletes looking to compete at highly selective colleges and universities. From learning to effectively communicate with college coaches to putting together a compelling college application, Matt can provide expert guidance every step of the way. If you are looking to compete at the Division III level or in the Ivy/Patriot League, Matt is your guy!"
— Matt Essman, Director of College Counseling, Mary Institute and St. Louis Country Day School (MO)
I am extremely impressed with Matt Arant and his work to help high school students find the right college as they search top colleges for the right fit. Matt is an expert in understanding what college admissions offices are looking for. Having worked in college admissions, Matt is accurately able to match the needs of the student to the offerings of the college.
As a coach at a very selective school, I am happy that there are people like Matt, who can help guide high school students on a path to finding the right college of their choice. Any student is lucky to work with Matt.
—Martin Beatty, Head Men’s and Women’s Track & Field Coach, Middlebury College (VT)
Matthew collaborated with the Young Women's Preparatory Network as a vital partner in our students' journey toward selective college admissions and athletic recruitment.
Matthew's contributions were instrumental in empowering our students. He provided a series of insightful workshops that demystified the often-complex college application process. He also created an invaluable space where our students could directly engage with representatives from selective colleges, giving them a unique opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge and make meaningful connections.
Furthermore, Matthew shared his expertise on athletic recruitment, offering crucial guidance that helped our student-athletes navigate the path to competing at the collegiate level. His dedication and passion for student success were evident in every interaction. He not only shared his extensive knowledge but also built rapport and confidence with our students, making them feel supported and prepared.
Matthew Arant is a knowledgeable and dedicated professional who has a significant positive impact on the students he works with. We are incredibly grateful for his partnership and wholeheartedly recommend him.
— Jeremy Cortez, Executive Director of College Success, Young Women's Preparatory Network (TX)
If you are looking for someone who really gets how selective college admissions and athletic recruitment work, you’re in great hands with Matt. Matt brings a rare mix of up-to-date knowledge, strategic thinking, and real-world insight into a process that can feel overwhelming and high-stakes for families.
He doesn't just understand the admissions landscape— he knows how to help students stand out in it. His advice is clear, honest, and always grounded in what actually works—not just what sounds good on paper. For families trying to make smart, informed decisions about their future, Matt's guidance is a real game-changer.
—Mo Hirt, Head Women’s Basketball Coach, Denison University (OH)