Work with Me
Build Your Story, Not a Brand
Individualized Family Meetings
The Build Your Story, Not a Brand presentation & workshop was a hit! Since everyone who wanted to wasn’t able to attend, I’m scheduling hour-long sessions for individual families. I’ll share my college app essay presentation, offer generative writing practice, and answer questions.
Where: Virtually on Zoom
When: Email me for scheduling options; discounts for small groups
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 hour. After that, I’ll work one-on-one with the student to help them find their footing and grow more confident as they begin to build narratives that truly shine.
If you have questions or would like to schedule a session, please email me at laurie@lauriefilipelli.org
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
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 and Membership Organizations
Austin Public Library Foundation
Bancroft Admissions Advising
The Clemente Course in the Humanities
College Strategy
Girls with Pens
Irena Smith, Ph.D. College Admissions Consulting
National Association of College Counseling
Parents and Friends of The Liberal Arts and Science Academy, Austin
Talent Search—Texas State University
The Writers’ League of Texas