2) Outline and Draft

One of the hardest parts of writing is getting started, and one reason we don’t begin is that we feel like our writing has to be perfect. But professional writers know the power of outlining and writing a messy first draft. It’s exactly where we should all start. Because without some words on the page, there’s nothing to edit and improve.  

The best part? While your final essays will likely be very different from your first drafts, some gems from the drafting process always make it through to the end.

3) Revise

This is where the magic happens. We’ll take that messy, unformed first draft and rework/remove/reimagine until you have a story that hooks the reader while seamlessly showcasing what colleges need to know about you.

The process takes some work, but writing always does. And it’s worth it. When your essay is finished, it’ll be fun to see how it reflects your experiences, your voice, your values… you.

Can’t I just do this on my own?

Absolutely. But…

There are lots of benefits of working through this process with someone else. It’s easier and faster when you have expert guidance for everything from sifting through possible topics to reworking those all-important opening lines.

Working with an essay coach, you’ll get immediate feedback on which parts of your essays are working, which ones can be revised, and how best to get over the finish line.

Perhaps most importantly, you’ll have encouragement and guidance through every stage of the process. That helps you make progress fast.

How long does it take?

For the Common App Essay, it usually takes six sessions to go from brainstorming to a polished essay. Adding on supplemental essays and other application materials takes longer, but we’ll work in manageable chunks and make the best use of your time. The summer before your senior year is a great time to get started.

What’s your stance on AI?

AI is everywhere right now, and it’s moving fast. I’m staying up-to-date with the latest from colleagues and colleges, but one thing holds true – just as I would never write an essay for a student, I would never encourage a student to write their essays with AI.

Here’s why. First, colleges want essays to come from students, not AI. In the Common App guidelines, for instance, students certify that all information they submit is their own work. Pop a request into AI, and that essay is no longer your own.

Second, writing a college essay is an extremely valuable process. Yes, it’s hard, but it leads to deep insights and gives students new perspective. Using AI short-changes that process, and everyone misses out.

AI can be helpful for some tasks, such as researching specific colleges, building comparison charts or application calendars, or practicing for interviews. But when it comes to writing, that work needs to come from the student.

What if I have questions? Or am stuck?

Send me a quick email, and I’ll reply back with a few ideas for getting unstuck. I’m available to help, and I don’t want you to get bogged down when a quick writing tip or refocus could help you keep moving.

What other resources do you recommend?

College Essay Guy has fantastic materials, many of which are free! I’m trained in his counselor programs on the personal essay, college applications, and supplemental essays, and highly recommend his resources. Another great one is Harry Bauld’s book On Writing the College Application Essay. If you want to get started early, choose whatever draws you in and begin.