# About us

## Our story

The name ESAI (pronounced _“essay eye”_) is a nod to where it all began — helping students craft a stronger college **essay** by combining the power of **AI** with the heart of authentic storytelling.

What started as a college essay tool has grown into an adaptive experience that helps students discover their story, connect it to purpose, and navigate what’s next.

## Our growth

Today, ESAI goes beyond college admissions—supporting students from **college to career**. From discovering internships to preparing for interviews and first jobs, our tools help students translate their experiences into clear, confident next steps.

- College essays to applications
- Internships and career exploration
- Life beyond the classroom

## Our mission

We believe every student has a story worth telling—one that's authentically theirs. ESAI exists to help you articulate who you are and where you're headed, without compromise or imitation. **Authenticity > algorithms.**

## Your voice matters

## more than an algorithm

## The milestones that shaped us

From a moment to a movement reaching millions of students, ESAI's growth shows what happens when you build with purpose and listen to what students actually need.

[About Julia](/content/julia-dixon/index.html)

### 2018

Julia Dixon graduates from the University of Michigan where her passion for storytelling begins to take shape.
She turns a side gig into a full-time role as a college advisor.

### 2022

After 5 years advising students, Julia sees an opportunity.
ESAI is founded to democratize access to admissions guidance using ethical AI.

### 2023

First ESAI tools launch and quickly reach 100,000 students nationwide.
Massive TikTok growth helps ESAI reach millions across the country.

### 2024

ESAI expands from essay tools to a full college support platform.
New tools give students a more complete way to shape and strengthen their applications.

### 2025

Julia appears on Shark Tank and lands a deal with Mark Cuban.
ESAI surpasses 500,000 student users.

### Today

ESAI launches the Career Track expanding from college admissions to career readiness.
Brandi, its first AI voice agent, begins connecting students to internships and jobs.

## Meet the people behind ESAI

Building the future of student storytelling and opportunity

Julia Dixon  
Founder, CEO  
_Former College Advisor_

Mark Cuban  
Advisor  
_Shark, Consumer Legend_

Dr. Carol Langlois  
Chief Academic Advisor  
_Former Provost, Gen Z Psychologist_

Robert Cohen  
Advisor  
_Founder of Princeton Review_