I went to MIT, where the “Brass Rat” class ring became a symbol of pride and hard work—and Brass Tacks Advising is a nod to that tradition. I grew up in public schools and figured out a lot of this admissions process myself, plus a big dose of luck. Today, I’m a startup co-founder focused on AI, based in Tysons Corner, VA (just outside of Washington D.C.), and married to a fellow MIT grad. Brass Tacks is my way of leveling the playing field and giving students honest, straightforward advice that works. I like to think of myself as a disrupter—someone who’s here to shake up the admissions game and cut out the BS.

If you’re ready for real, no-nonsense guidance, let’s get to work. You can email me at sophialee@alum.mit.edu or use the form on the contact page.