It’s all about finding the right story
While applying to college can seem like a time-consuming and exhausting exercise, it is my experience that when students find an authentic story to tell that explains their beliefs, motivations and challenges, the writing is much easier, and they come away from the process with lasting insights about what makes them each unique.
The myth of what makes a story interesting (hint: it’s not necessarily hardship!)
Many students think they don’t have anything to say that is dramatic enough to stand out in a stack of college essays. But through the writing process, they discover that what’s happened to them matters less than the insights and self-awareness they’ve gained along the way. A well-written essay that captures a student’s genuine voice, feelings and perspective can be compelling and effective for college admissions, regardless of the topic.
Why an essay coach can help
It is extraordinarily difficult for anyone to stare at a blank page and tell his or her story, let alone a teenager worried about getting into college, so I aim to make it as easy as possible by being a sounding board and coach throughout the writing and editing process.
What makes my essay coaching process different
My first priority is to get to know my students and and what makes them “tick.” I do that by interviewing each student when we meet as a first step in beginning to identify the key elements that may go into his or her common app essay. If a student has written a first draft of an essay, I will want to see it before our first meeting, but I will spend most of our time just talking rather than giving any specific feedback on the draft. I will provide a written summary after our first meeting so students have a record of our conversation that may be helpful in finding topic/story ideas.
Following our first meeting, I will give next steps, such as brainstorming essay ideas, writing vignettes that could inform an essay, revising a current draft or creating a first draft. Each time I connect with my students, I will review my feedback and assign work to keep the process moving. We can meet in person, by phone or Google Hangouts to discuss feedback and problem solve next steps. In between meetings, I will provide written input and feedback on drafts using Google docs or MS Word.
A customized approach to helping each student capture his or her unique story
Each student will navigate this process differently, so there is no one approach that works for everyone. My commitment is to stay with my students for as long as needed. Some students will work with me to complete a solid draft of the common app essay and any supplemental essays and then do the ‘finish’ work on their own, while others will ask me to continue reviewing, proofing and polishing drafts up until final submission. I’ve had other students and parents reach out when a draft feels too flat or the writing process is just creating too much friction in the family (believe me, I get that!). I can jump in wherever a student is in the process and find a way to help him or her ‘land the plane.’ before the application deadline! Find out more about my essay coaching price structure here.
How I keep parent informed about progress
I keep parents informed about their students’ progress and highlight any challenges that may arise so we can problem solve as needed. Communication includes weekly email updates and bi-monthly phone check-ins.
Admitted colleges for college essay clients
