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Imagine a coach who transforms the writing process into a journey of self-discovery and creative expression.
I turn the daunting college application process into a journey of self-discovery.
We showcase the whole student, intellect and personality.
With insider knowledge and a personal touch, I guide your child to their dream college,
blending strategy with compassion and humor.
What if your child felt more confident and more empowered
in their ability to present their academic story
that application readers immediately
see their value and intellectual curiosity?
What if instead of feeling stressed during the application process,
there was ease?
My research-based instruction works in just this way.
With a rich educational background,
including degrees from Smith College and Harvard University, and experience as a Fulbright Exchange teacher to England,
I bring a wealth of knowledge and
empathy to my coaching.
I help students gr. 9-12
design a cohesive application narrative,
from art school to the Ivy League,
incorporating academic goals,
personal values, and character traits.
Mentored by the former
director of admissions for Cornell,
my research-based process
empowers students,
and teaches how to craft life experiences
into a compelling application
while reducing stress.
I know what admissions readers look for.
No more procrastinating.
No more frustration.
No more pain.
For those who prefer more independence
or have an impending deadline,
I offer editing packages without face to face
or Zoom time.
These are intended to
polish essays before submission.
Fresh eyes.
Harvard, Princeton, Yale
Columbia, UPenn, MIT
Dartmouth, Brown
UK: Cambridge, Trinity
CalTech
Johns Hopkins, Rice
University of Michigan
Georgetown, Swarthmore
Smith, Wellesley
Carleton, Middlebury
Wesleyan, Emory
Tufts, USC, UVA
Macalester, Bucknell
UCONN, Colorado College
University of Florida
Georgia Tech, NYU
UMASS, Brandeis
Boston College, Clark
Boston University
Emerson, Fordham
George Washington, WPI
SUNY Stonybrook
SUNY New Paltz, Tulane
Northeastern, Penn State
Michigan State
Indiana University: Kelley School of Business,
Wheaton, Ole Miss, LSU
U Illinois Chicago
It's not just about getting the application done.
It's about empowerment.
It’s not just about getting the application done.
It's about setting them up for the future they want.
It's about empowering them throughout the college and
graduate school years and career beyond.
Having strong writing skills and an ease in communicating ideas
will give a competitive advantage.
And who doesn't want that?
To hear the rest of my 10 minute talk, go here:
Kristie approaches her students with a wonderful combination of respect, empathy, humor, and honesty. She sets a high bar which her students meet with great enthusiasm.
Truly the mark of a gifted educator.
I was so fortunate to have Kristie guide both of my daughters as they worked to create narratives that allowed them to get noticed. She took the time to learn each one's strengths not only as a student but as an individual. It was such a proud moment when their essays received compliments during
college interviews.
Verna, parent
What we’ll do together
From brainstorming to outlining, from choosing the right structure to multiple drafts that refine, I provide support, expertise, resources, and scheduled accountability.
Clients will:
Complete a series of brainstorming exercises designed to reveal
values, traits, and essential self. This prewriting makes choosing topics far easier and results in more engaging and compelling topics that stand out.
Identify the story to tell that showcases best and highlights authenticity
and genius.
Essay Coaching
1:1
I offer 1:1 consulting tailored to each student's needs in order to ensure that the Common App personal statement, list of activities, additional information, and all supplementals convey the unique attributes, skills, and insights a student offers a campus. We also can address resumes, scholarship, and continued interest or wait-list letters.
How It Works
Packages vary depending upon need and at what stage in the process a client is (what they have drafted or need developed).
Pacing is often determined by a combination of deadlines and student effort.
I offer a range of services from one-off reviews of written work to my most comprehensive service, a developmental, strategic, and longer term partnership.
The Ten Thousand Doors of January
by Alix E. Harrow.
"A gorgeous, aching love letter to stories, storytellers and the doors they lead us through . . ."
If you need to escape, this is the book.
In a sprawling mansion filled with peculiar treasures, January Scaller is a curiosity herself. As the ward of the wealthy Mr. Locke, she feels little different from the artifacts that decorate the halls: carefully maintained, largely ignored, and utterly out of place.
Then she finds a strange book. A book that carries the scent of other worlds, and tells a tale of secret doors, of love, adventure and danger.
Choosing a college is a big decision for both parents and their children. It can be an exciting time as students look forward to new experiences, new friends, and a new chapter in their lives. However, it is also a time for parents to carefully consider some serious issues that may affect their child's safety and well-being.
One important issue to consider is the need for both a Power of Attorney (POA) and a health proxy for your child. A POA allows a designated person to make decisions on behalf of the student, such as managing finances or signing legal documents, while the student is away at college. A health proxy allows the designated person to make medical decisions for the student in case of an emergency. Without it, the campus infirmary or hospital may legally not be allowed to speak to you. These documents can provide peace of mind for parents and ensure that your child's affairs are taken care of if the unexpected occurs. Check with your family lawyer.
As a parent, one of the biggest concerns you may have when sending your child off to college is safety. While many colleges have safety measures in place, such as campus police, emergency alert systems, shuttles and escort services for late night traveling, there are crimes on college campuses that may not be widely publicized or talked about including theft, drug use and possession, and alcohol-related incidents. Talk to your child about potential risks after doing your due diligence to find out actual statistics from the school. Encourage precautions such as walking with a friend at night, avoiding isolated areas, and reporting suspicious activity to campus security or law enforcement. By having open and honest conversations, parents can help their child make informed decisions.
One issue often not featured in the college brochure is sexual assault and harassment. Sadly, studies have shown that a significant number of college students experience sexual assault or harassment during their time in school. Crucial to consider is how sexual harassment and sexual assault are handled on different college campuses and in different states. The procedures and policies for reporting, investigating, and disciplining offenders can vary widely. Some campuses may have dedicated Title IX offices or campus police departments, while others may rely on local law enforcement or honor boards to address these issues. It is important for parents and students to research the policies and procedures of the colleges they are considering and to have open and honest conversations before making a final decision. I am always surprised by how many students have no knowledge of crime statistics, including sex related crimes, on the campus they are considering calling home for four years.
In light of the recent overturning of Roe v. Wade, it is also important for parents and students to be aware of the current and proposed abortion-related laws in the state where the college is located. Will Plan B be available if a pregnancy occurs? Can a student be prosecuted if they cross state lines to obtain an abortion? Can a rapist gain visitation rights in that state for a pregnancy resulting from his crime?
Violence against LGBTQ+ persons on college campuses is a serious issue that often goes unnoticed or unreported. According to the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP), there were 92 reported incidents of anti-LGBTQ+ violence on college campuses in 2019, including physical violence, harassment, and hate crimes. Additionally, a study by the Human Rights Campaign found that 25% of LGBTQ+ college students reported experiencing harassment or discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. These incidents can have a profound impact on the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ students who are already at increased risk of experiencing depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation when compared to their heterosexual peers. Parents can play a role in supporting their LGBTQ+ children by advocating for their safety on college campuses. By having open and honest conversations about the potential risks and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ students, parents can help their children make informed decisions and take steps to stay safe.
By working together, doing research, having open and honest conversations, and being aware of potential risks, parents can help ensure that their child has a positive and safe college experience. Be safe out there!
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