Connecting Ideas to Words
I offer a comprehensive essay package, which includes the following:
ESSAY WORKSHOP
ESSAY WORKSHOP
During our initial one-hour meeting, I will review helpful tips and strategies for writing effective college application essays. Together, we will read actual student essays and discuss what tools they used to be able to write memorable, impactful personal statements. At the end of our workshop, I will provide our brainstorming questionnaire and describe our topic-generating process, which occurs during our second meeting.
ESSAY BRAINSTORM
ESSAY BRAINSTORM
During our second meeting, we discuss the student’s answers to the brainstorming questionnaire and generate ideas until an essay topic is agreed upon. Next, the student and I develop an outline together so he/she can write a first draft of their personal statement, which is typically due within a week to ten days. From that point on, I continue to provide guidance and feedback on subsequent drafts until the essay is complete and a solid reflection of the student’s voice and personality.
SUPPLEMENTAL ESSAYS
SUPPLEMENTAL ESSAYS
Organizational, brainstorming and editing help is also provided for up to six colleges with supplemental essays. If the student wants assistance with additional essays, we can discuss hourly or block pricing to address the added time.
ESSAY EDITING
ESSAY EDITING
I ensure that the personal statement as well as all supplemental essays are thoroughly edited for proper grammar, sentence construction, and spelling. I will never “over-edit,” meaning that I will not try to change a student’s writing style and word choices (unless of course an incorrect word is used).
COMMON APPLICATION ASSISTANCE
COMMON APPLICATION ASSISTANCE
Although the common application is fairly straightforward, the “Activities” section requires strong, concise writing because of the limited character count. I can teach students to describe their activities with noticeable impact. Also, when a student wants to explain an inconsistency in his/her application or describe an important activity or attribute that could not be included elsewhere, he/she should complete the “Additional Information” with thoughtful explanation. This is another written part of the application that we can discuss and where I can provide guidance.
RESUME ASSISTANCE
RESUME ASSISTANCE
Some colleges will require a resume as an attachment to the application. I review the proper format so that the student knows what to include and how to best present their accomplishments. I will also ensure the resume is thoroughly edited and error-free.
FOLLOW-UP LETTERS
FOLLOW-UP LETTERS
With today’s competitive admissions landscape, students are receiving deferral and wait-list decisions more and more each year. The good news is that a letter of continued interest can help push a student’s application into the “yes” pile. I can guide students on how to compose a letter that will showcase their strengths, update the admissions committees on any recent accomplishments, and reiterate why a particular school is their top choice.
SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION ESSAYS
SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION ESSAYS
For students applying for scholarship money, an essay is frequently required as part of the application. The prompts are usually specific, but the same process of topic brainstorming, building an outline and writing drafts is necessary.
I offer a flat rate for the comprehensive essay package. Block pricing in increments of six-hour blocks are also available as well as hourly rates for families looking for more limited essay support services. Please contact me at Emily@collegeessayconnection.com for specific pricing information.