Arete Pathways was founded in Allen, Texas by recent Allen High School graduates Lydia Liao and Jimmy Zhang. Today, Arete works remotely with students and families across the United States.
Meet the founders
Recent experience. Thoughtful guidance.
Lydia and Jimmy recently completed the same admissions process their students are navigating. They bring current context, structured preparation, and a clear commitment to student-owned work.
Based in Allen, Texas. Serving families nationwide. · English and Mandarin
Meet the founders
Founder · Strategy Advisor
Lydia Liao
An incoming Economics student at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Lydia founded Arete Pathways and Metoche. Her recent applicant perspective is strengthened by tutoring 15+ students and building a nonprofit that has supported more than 50 North Texas families.
UW–Madison Economics
1440 SAT · AP Scholar with Distinction
50+ families supported through Metoche
Selected college admissions
New York UniversityUC BerkeleyUT AustinUniversity of Washington
Focus
Business, economics & pre-law
Financial-aid organization
English / Mandarin family support
Co-Founder · Student Experience Advisor
Jimmy Zhang
An incoming UC San Diego student with interests in psychology and cognitive science, Jimmy pairs strong academics with music, public speaking, and service leadership. He founded GYP Melody Bridge, qualified for All-Region Orchestra three years, and completed 250+ volunteer hours.
UC San Diego
1500 SAT · 4.32 weighted GPA
All-Region Orchestra · PVSA Gold
Selected college admissions
UC San DiegoNortheastern UniversityPurdue UniversityBoston University
Perspective
Psychology, cognitive science & STEM
Student activities and leadership
Presentation and interview confidence
School names identify admissions only; no university affiliation or endorsement is implied.
Arete standard
What families can expect
Clear scope, current research, practical next steps, and communication that respects both the student and the family.
Current context
Research and requirements are checked against current public information.
Student-owned work
Arete guides structure and decisions; students write every submitted word.
Defined support
Families receive a clear scope, documented next steps, and ethical boundaries.
