About

We believe every student deserves a pathway to success—one that reflects who they are, where they’re going, and what makes them shine.

At Degrees of Success Inc., we guide students and families through one of the most pivotal transitions of their lives: the journey from high school to college. Whether navigating applications, scholarships, or finding the right-fit school, we offer expert, personalized support rooted in real-life experience and hard-won insight.

We’re more than a college advising service—we’re a partner in transformation.

The story behind Degrees of Success is deeply personal. Our founder, Kafi Martin, graduated in the top 2% of her high school class, yet her college journey was far from linear. Despite beginning at a top-tier university, Kafi experienced overwhelming challenges that left her feeling lost, unsupported, and off-track. It took over a decade, multiple institutions, and relentless perseverance to finally earn her undergraduate degree—and later, graduate from Harvard University.

That hard-earned journey became the foundation of Degrees of Success.

Kafi knew that her experience wasn’t unique—but the support and guidance she wished she had was. That’s why she built this organization: to ensure that no student has to navigate college alone, uninformed, or unprepared.

We don’t just help students get into college—we help them thrive once they’re there. Through one-on-one advising, customized college preparation plans and leadership development programming, we guide high school students to:

• • Choose the right colleges based on academic, social, and financial fit
  • Craft powerful, authentic college essays and applications
  • Secure competitive financial aid and scholarship packages
  • Build self-awareness, confidence, and purpose for the road ahead
  • Prepare for a successful freshman year and beyond

We specialize in working with high-achieving students, first-generation college applicants, and families navigating the college admissions process for the first time.

Degrees of Success Inc. is powered by a small, passionate team of educators, strategists, and college admissions professionals who believe deeply in the potential of every student. While Kafi’s journey is the origin of our mission, our collective expertise spans Ivy League institutions, public universities, and everything in between.

Together, we bring over a decade of hands-on experience in college advising, youth leadership development, and educational coaching to every student we work with.

We know that college is more than just a destination—it’s a launchpad. Yet too many students end up in the wrong schools, overwhelmed by debt, or struggling without the right support. At Degrees of Success, we change that trajectory.

We help students and families make informed, empowered choices. And we’re with them every step of the way—from the first draft of an essay to the first day on campus.

To empower students to tell their stories with clarity, confidence, and strategy—so they can gain acceptance to the colleges that align with who they are and where they want to go.

We help students submit their best applications, unlock transformational opportunities, and develop the vision and voice needed to succeed in school—and in life.