Getting to know Joseph D. Korfmacher

From the Founder

Founder, Just Direct Knowledge
M.S. in School Counseling | 15+ years of experience | 2,000 families guided — and counting

I’ve spent the last 15+ years helping students and families figure out the college admissions process without losing their minds (or their life savings).

I hold a Master’s in School Counseling, and I spent over a decade working as a college counselor and eventually Director of College Counseling at two private high schools — including a top private school in Manhattan. I’ve worked with students from every background imaginable: first-gen to legacy, D3 to D1 athletes, Ivy-bound to still-figuring-it-out.

For the past six years, I was a college advisor at Collegewise, where I continued to refine what works — and what doesn’t — when it comes to helping students apply to college in today’s world. I also ran my own college application bootcamp for rising seniors for five years, helping hundreds of students knock out applications, essays, and strategy before senior year even started.

So far, I’ve personally visited over 350 colleges and worked 1:1 with over 2,000 students and families. And here’s what I’m most proud of: I’ve never lost a family along the way. People come in stressed, overwhelmed, and unsure — and they leave with a plan, a clear head, and real progress.

What I Believe:

• You don’t need to spend $15,000 to get great advice.

• The college process should be honest, not fear-based.

• Families deserve clear answers and a human who actually knows what they’re talking about.

• And students? They deserve to feel seen, supported, and set up for success.

If that sounds like the kind of support you’re looking for — welcome. Let’s get to work.