Essay Coaching

Welcome!

Hello! Thanks for dropping by. I’m glad you’re here. If you’re working on an application essay—whether for

professional programs
graduate school
undergraduate admissions
honors programs
highly competitive undergraduate majors
scholarships
internships
fellowships—

I’m here to help you tell your best story.

Why hire a writing coach?

Writing a personal statement can be intimidating. Applicants often land in one of two zones:

Zone 1: “There’s nothing at all interesting about me. I’m done.”

Zone 2: “OH. MY. WORD. Let me tell you everything. I was born in the year…”

The truth is that everyone is unique, but no application reader is out to learn the life story of every candidate. So, how do you find the perfect balance on the all-or-nothing spectrum to craft a compelling essay that intrigues the reader?

It takes a bit of work.

That’s where I come in.

A great essay isn’t just well-written; it’s well thought out. I help applicants

select authentic essay topics,

refine compelling narratives,

develop their writer’s voice, and

shape their story into a polished piece that fits the prompt’s structure and length requirements.

You don’t need to be the most impressive applicant. You just need to clearly communicate who you are and why you’re a great fit. That takes reflection, strategy, and support.

How it works

Essay coaching begins with a one-hour in-person or virtual brainstorming session. From there, clients typically go through the following steps:

Two rounds of feedback on content, structure, syntax, style, and mechanics.

A final round of proofing to catch any last issues before submission.

While I cannot guarantee admission or a scholarship, I can help you craft a thoughtful and authentic essay that highlights your strengths.

Cost

For 1-3 essay prompts

$100 for a one-hour brainstorming and planning session (up to three prompts)

$60 for each round of feedback (up to three prompts)

$60 for final proofing (up to three prompts)

More than 3 prompts

$40 per additional prompt for planning

$40 per additional prompt per round of feedback

$30 per additional prompt for final proofing

Note: If your essays overlap significantly, we may be able to consolidate some feedback and reduce costs. Let’s talk!

How to book

To schedule a session, please email Norma at AlwaysLearningHQ@gmail.com. I’ll follow up with scheduling options and payment info.

Payment options

Venmo and PayPal. Payment is due before each session, and full details will be included in your confirmation email.

A quick note for high school students applying to college

If you are already working with a private college admissions counselor, you may not need a separate essay coach. Many counselors include essay support as part of their services. My coaching is best for students who

know where they want to apply to college,

feel confident navigating the process, and

want focused writing support.

If you’re unsure whether essay coaching is the right fit, or if you need support with the entire admissions process, I’m happy to refer you to a trusted, experienced admissions counselor. Just reach out!