Work with Me

Build Your Story, Not a Brand:

College Application Essay Kick Off 


Saturday, May 18, 10 AM — 12:30 PM, Virtually on Zoom

Part 1: 10-11 AM, conversation and personalized tips for families & students

Part 2: 11 AM— 12:30 PM student-only writing workshop 

Cost: $45 for Part 1 Conversation only; $75 for Part 2 Workshop only; $120 for full session

In the quest for admission into a chosen college, many students are advised to find their personal brand, often to the detriment of authentic self-expression. In my fifteen years of coaching, I’ve discovered the best writing cannot be prepackaged. And, when it comes to application essays in particular, self reflection, strong storytelling, and a sprinkling of courage yield the best results. 

In this two-part College Application Essay Kick Off, we’ll discuss how college application essays fit into the overall picture of admissions, and I’ll share some sane and effective strategies for getting them written. Students will then have the chance to engage with meaningful writing exercises that put them on the path to authentic well-crafted essays.

Families are invited to take part in the first half; the second half will be reserved for students only with a 12-person limit.  In a small and supportive setting, college applicants can find their footing and grow more confident as they begin to build narratives that truly shine.

College Admissions Coaching Philosophy

In the race to succeed in an uncertain world, students may feel fear or dread when it comes time to apply to college. How can parents and counselors help?

The first answer is simple: we can listen more than we speak. With a personal and writing-based approach, I guide students to discover their deepest beliefs, honor their own stories, and hone self-presentation skills.

Thoughts About College Admission

Secondly, we all know that college admission is not a true indicator of self worth, so why not reframe the discussion? I provide tips and tools that support a balanced and meaningful approach to applying for college, helping students cultivate curiosity, appreciate their strengths, and put their best foot forward. I do not guarantee admission at select schools, but I do pledge to be in your court as you navigate this challenging time.

The College Application Essay

Lastly, we can help by encouraging students to embrace a key component of the application: the personal essay. As the novelist E.M. Forster once said, “How do I know what I think until I see what I say?” I believe that writing is a process of discovery and, as a poet, I am able to facilitate imagination: pointing out how young writers might hone their attention to detail and their understanding of organic structure, as well as cultivate empathy and imagination. These are keys to growing insights and writing skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

Mighty Writing Offerings

  • College Access Coaching

    College Path Exploration

    Sophomores and juniors gain understanding of their goals, beliefs, and academic interests through monthly meetings and generative writing exercises.

    College Search Tools

    With practical advice and research tips, we explore potential courses of study, dream up an ideal college community, and build balanced college lists.

    Resumes and Recommendations

    I also provide tips and guidance as students flesh out their resumes and obtain effective letters of recommendation.

  • Application Essay Support

    Topic Generation for College Application Essays

    A key component of the application is the personal essay, a ready-made vehicle for developing introspection and self-worth. Beginning with an in-depth consultation, each student finds their most compelling topics, and together we develop a strategic personalized essay writing plan.

    Individualized College Application Essay Advice

    While I offer tips from my writer’s toolbox, there is no boilerplate advice. The key to a successful essay is imaginative spark, and my goal is to help each student find it. Along the way, I provide professional editorial feedback helping students learn to shape their meaningful stories into polished essays .

  • College Readiness

    One-on-one Academic Writing Support

    For sophomores who want to get a head start with their writing skills or for seniors who need a boost before starting college, I offer instruction in active reading, critical thinking, and academic essays.

    Creative Writing Guidance

    For high schoolers who already love language, or want to gain a creative edge, I offer expert guidance in poetry writing, including close readings of poems, imaginative writing prompts, and personalized feedback as well as tips regarding summer programs and publication.

Class Visits and Writing Workshops

In conjunction with schools and educational nonprofits, I also offer hands-on college app essay writing workshops and advice sessions geared at first-gen and nontraditional students.

Collaborators

The Clemente Course in the Humanities

College Strategy

Girls with Pens 

Irena Smith, Ph.D.  College Admissions Consulting

San Juan Diego High School 

Sierra Admissions

Talent Search—Texas State University