With nearly two decades of experience in international and independent school counseling, Hillary has guided hundreds of students to the world’s top high schools and universities. She has served as Director of University Counseling at Yokohama International School in Japan and Léman Manhattan Preparatory School in New York, and as College Counselor at Shanghai American School and Hunter College High School. Across these roles, she has worked closely with admissions committees, giving her unique insight into what selective schools seek in their applicants.

Holding a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from New York University, Hillary brings both academic expertise and a counselor’s empathy to her work. She has developed essential-skills curricula used by international counseling platforms worldwide, and has conducted over 500 interviews for a platform used by top U.S. colleges—experience that shapes her ability to help students present themselves with confidence and authenticity.

Hillary believes the best education prepares students not only for success in school but for life beyond it. She empowers them to become adaptable, self-aware thinkers and doers through a balance of intellectual challenge and real-world learning in communication, leadership, and cultural agility.

Now based in Japan, Hillary continues to help Basso & Basso families navigate the global education landscape with clarity and care, ensuring each student finds the right environment to learn, grow, and thrive.