Higher Ed with Dr. D
Mentorship and Higher Education Guidance from U.S. University Professors
Drs. Aniruddha and Shruti Deshpande are a husband-wife team of U.S. university professors with firsthand insight into academic expectations and student success.They are passionate about helping international students strategically navigate applications, essays, interviews, and admissions to American universities.
Testimonials
Drs. Shruti & Anirudha Deshpande have been a wonderful source of guidance and encouragement throughout different phases of my academic and professional journey. As seniors who had already navigated the path of pursuing a PhD in the US and building careers in academia, their insights and willingness to share their experiences provided valuable perspective while I explored my own trajectory in higher education and research.
I have always appreciated how approachable, thoughtful, and generous they have been in offering support and guidance, and I’m grateful for the positive impact they’ve had on my journey.
-Dr. Ankita Bhutada
I have had the privilege of knowing Dr. Shruti and Dr. Aniruddha since my undergraduate years. As audiologists, educators, and mentors, they bring not only immense knowledge and expertise, but also genuine kindness and approachability that make them truly exceptional.
What I admire most about them is their clarity of vision, professionalism, and commitment to excellence. Their focused and thoughtful approach to both their careers naturally inspires those around them to grow with confidence and purpose. I have also always appreciated how practical and grounded their advice is - especially during my postdoctoral search in the US, when their guidance and perspective were incredibly valuable in helping me navigate important decisions with confidence.
Their guidance has helped me immensely over the years, both as a student and as a professional. I am confident that anyone seeking their mentorship and guidance will greatly benefit from their experience and insight.
-Dr. Vineetha Phillip
Ready to Apply to U.S. Universities Strategically?
Services:
Admissions Strategy
Personalized guidance to choose the right universities and build a strong application plan.Essay & SOP Support
Detailed feedback to strengthen your statement of purpose and essays.Interview Preparation
Practice interviews and coaching to help you present yourself confidently.PhD / Research Guidance
Support identifying research programs and reaching out to faculty.
Packages:
Initial Consultation - FREE (Click on 'Book Call')
Introductory consultation session to assess your profile and define next stepsApplication Support
Guidance on school selection, application strategy, and essaysFull Mentorship
Comprehensive support from planning through submission and interview preparation
Book a free initial consultation to determine the best option for your goals. Most students begin with a consultation before moving into a tailored support package.
Ready to Apply to U.S. Universities Strategically?
Who are we?
We are both audiologists and U.S. university professors with a combined experience of over three decades of mentoring students and navigating academic systems in the United States.
Why did we decide to offer consulting services?
We came to the US in our early 20s for graduate schooling. As international students ourselves, we understand the challenges of applying to and getting into U.S. universities. We started this service to assist international students overcome the fear and confusion they may feel about the U.S. admissions process.
Why choose us?
Unlike general admissions consultants, we bring an insider perspective shaped by real experience in higher education - both as students and as professors.
What is our approach?
We focus on strategy, clarity, and helping each student present their strongest possible application.
Please reach out to us via our social media handles below. We typically respond within 24-48 hours. We'd love to hear from you!
Interested in partnering with Higher Ed with Dr. D? Learn more about institutional partnerships here.
© 2026 Higher Ed with Dr. D
Ready to Apply to U.S. Universities Strategically?
Terms & DisclaimerHigher Ed with Dr. D provides educational consulting and admissions guidance services for students applying to U.S. universities.Our services are intended to provide strategic guidance, feedback, and mentorship throughout the application process. Admission decisions are made solely by universities and academic programs, and we do not guarantee admission, scholarships, funding, interviews, or any specific outcome.All guidance and recommendations are based on our professional experience and understanding of the admissions process at the time services are provided.Students are responsible for:* submitting accurate information
* meeting application deadlines
* completing applications independently
* ensuring all submitted materials are truthful and originalWe do not write essays, statements of purpose, or application materials on behalf of students. Our role is limited to guidance, feedback, and strategic support.By using this website or our services, you acknowledge that:* admissions outcomes are inherently uncertain
* educational consulting does not guarantee results
* all services are provided in good faith and for informational purposes onlyAll materials shared during consultations and mentorship sessions are confidential and intended solely for the student receiving services.We reserve the right to refuse service in cases involving academic dishonesty, plagiarism, misrepresentation, or inappropriate conduct.
Refund PolicyDue to the time-intensive and personalized nature of our services, consultation fees are non-refundable once a session has been completed.For scheduled consultations:* cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance may be rescheduled
* cancellations within 24 hours of the scheduled session are non-refundableFor mentorship and application support packages:* payments are generally non-refundable once work has begun
* partial refunds may be considered on a case-by-case basis at our discretionIf a student chooses not to continue after services have started, refunds will not be provided for work already completed.Our goal is to provide thoughtful, high-quality guidance, and we encourage students to ask questions about services before purchasing.
Higher Ed with Dr. D
Founded by Two U.S. University Professors Dedicated to Student Success Beyond AdmissionsMentorship • Higher Education Readiness • Student Development
Helping students navigate higher education with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose.
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About Us
Higher Ed with Dr. D was founded by Dr. Shruti Deshpande and Dr. Aniruddha Deshpande, two university professors with extensive experience mentoring students, teaching at leading U.S. institutions, conducting research, and supporting learners through critical academic and career decisions.We believe that students need more than application guidance. They need mentorship, perspective, and support as they navigate the increasingly complex journey from high school to higher education and beyond.Our mission is to help students develop the clarity, confidence, and self-awareness needed to make informed educational and career decisions while thriving personally and academically.
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Our Credentials
Dr. Shruti Deshpande
• Associate Professor, St. John's University (New York, USA)
• Director, Doctor of Audiology Program
• ASHA Innovator
• Member, ASHA Multicultural Issues Board
• Researcher, educator, and student mentor
• Extensive experience supporting students from diverse educational backgroundsDr. Aniruddha K. Deshpande
• Associate Professor, Hofstra University (New York, USA)
• Former Department Chair, Hofstra University
• Director, The Hear-Ring Lab
• Global Audiology Advisor, Northwell Health
• Published researcher, author, and educator
• Extensive experience mentoring undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral studentsCombined Experience
• 30+ years of teaching, mentoring, and research experience
• Hundreds of students mentored
• Extensive experience working with students from diverse cultural and educational backgrounds
• International academic and professional networks
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Workshop TopicsStudent Workshops
• The Hidden Emotional Side of College Admissions
Understanding stress, uncertainty, and self-worth during the admissions process.• Why High-Achieving Students Feel Lost
Exploring identity, purpose, and direction beyond grades and achievements.• Building Direction Before University
Helping students make thoughtful academic and career decisions.• What Students Wish They Knew Before College
Practical lessons for navigating higher education successfully.• Authenticity, Leadership, and Personal Growth
Developing qualities that contribute to long-term success.
Parent Workshops
• Supporting Students Without Increasing Pressure
• Helping Students Navigate Uncertainty
• Understanding the Modern Admissions Landscape
• Preparing Students for Success Beyond Admissions
Educator & Counselor Workshops
• Student Wellbeing in High-Pressure Academic Environments
• Building Student Resilience and Self-Awareness
• Supporting Students Through Educational Transitions
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Partnership Models
Student Workshops & Webinars
Co-branded virtual or in-person sessions for students, parents, and educators.Student Mentorship Programs
Structured mentorship opportunities focused on academic, personal, and professional development.Exclusive Student Benefits
Preferred access to Higher Ed With Dr. D services and resources for your students.Referral Partnerships
Collaborative partnerships that create value for students while supporting organizational growth.Custom Programs
Tailored workshops and initiatives designed around the unique needs of your students and community.
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Why Partner with Us?
✓ U.S.-based university professors
✓ Student-centered approach
✓ Focus on mentorship, growth, and well-being
✓ Complementary to admissions counseling and test preparation
✓ Flexible partnership opportunities
✓ Global perspective with strong understanding of student challenges
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Contact Information
Dr. Shruti Deshpande
Associate Professor, St. John's UniversityDr. Aniruddha K. Deshpande
Associate Professor, Hofstra University🌐 www.higheredwithdrd.com
📧 [email protected]