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Kitchen Table College App Writing Session
Like many parents of teenagers, I wrote my college application essay by hand at my kitchen table. Nowadays, college options and the essays required have expanded exponentially, creating both opportunity and anxiety. We ask more and more of our teens without always providing the kind of comfort that supports productive creativity. So….
Alongside acclaimed YA author Marit Weisenberg, I am excited to offer the first of what we hope will be several in-person college app essay sessions — aided by a large, welcoming kitchen table.
WHEN: 10 AM - 1 PM, Saturday, August 1
WHERE: South Austin location to be shared after registration
COST: $200 for newcomers, $150 for existing clients
Note: Session limited to 8 students; existing clients may opt to have cost deducted from retainer
What students can expect:
The opportunity to share a draft or two in advance and receive personalized, professional feedback.
Fun warm-up writing activities that can break open new insights.
Instruction on how to read like a writer, using high quality literature as a guide to improve.
One-on-one support during focused writing time.
A sense of relief!
What students need not worry about:
Sharing their writing with others in the group — not at all a requirement
Asking a dumb question. There are no dumb questions.
Having their path to college figured out; actually essay writing might help clarify this!
Understanding how the Common App works. For those who wish to have help, we can assist with setting up accounts and finding newly released supplemental essay prompts
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 & 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
The Clemente Course in the Humanities
Elyse Fenton, Writer and Editor
Irena Smith, Author and College Admissions Expert
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