college ESSAYS & Personal statements
Our writing and admissions specialists implement a proven process that enables students to shine on their personal statements and admissions essays.
Admissions insights
Our brainstorming and storytelling process was ideated by a former Ivy League Admissions Director, and our tutors receive training on the types of stories and statements that appeal to college decision-makers.
live sessions
Students generally need 3-4 sessions for their first essay. In each session, they workshop drafts for content, tone, and language with their tutor. This ensures that stories are told in a student's voice while also ensuring their essays stand out in an admissions office.
structured brainstorm
Some students have overcome challenges they want to write about but struggle to tell their story. Other students assume they have no story, in which case we help them find one. Either way, the first session is a structured brainstorming session that results in a vetted idea for an initial draft.
Team feedback
Two heads are better than one, and for something as important as college essays, four heads can be better than two. Drafts are reviewed by a Marigold writing specialist and admissions specialist in addition to a student's tutor.
Deadlines & accountability
A student's first assignment is to draft their essay and send it to their tutor at an agreed-upon time before the next session. This trend continues throughout the program as we implement deadlines and proactive check-ins.
Ongoing support
An initial brainstorm can yield several stories, so we ensure students understand how to tell them for future essays. If a student chooses to continue tutoring for subsequent essays, they generally need fewer sessions.