High school students often find the prospect of writing their college essay daunting, mostly because they find it difficult to write about themselves. I ease their minds with two pieces of advice: have fun and be yourself. When they embrace their unique experiences and voice, writing the essay is often enjoyable and rewarding. I work 1-on-1 with students, in person or on zoom, to help their story bring out who they are and what matters to them.
Through brainstorming and lots of discussion, students find the story they want to tell, and, as they draft, I give feedback on content and structure, as well as guidance for effective revision and editing. Students will write essays that will touch the hearts of the admissions officers at their top-choice colleges. Along the way, they will also gain insight into themselves and feel rewarded by the process itself.
These short essays, which differ from college to college, can be challenging. I help students determine what the question is asking of them and how best to convey their unique interests and experiences to show a college what values, academic strengths and personal attributes they will contribute to the campus community.
My work also includes supporting students applying to private middle and high schools, as well as graduate programs.