I’ve always been passionate about written expression. I earned my first $100 at age of ten when I won a state-wide essay contest. Oddly, I don’t remember what my story was about, perhaps because words always flowed so naturally to me. I do remember clutching the certificate tightly to my chest and whispering, “First prize, first prize, first prize.” That was the moment that the world knew I was a writer; it was no longer my secret pastime. 

Years later, I graduated from college with a double major in English and secondary education, spending five years as an English teacher at a sprawling suburban high school. As a writing teacher, my primary goal was not in ensuring grammatical correctness or the inclusion of elaborate vocabulary, it was in helping my students find their voice. I longed for the moments of creativity and personal expression; the free writing, the open-ended prompts, the moments in which my students’ stories spilled onto paper. 

When I left the classroom to pursue college counseling, I immediately fell in love with the college essay, also known as the personal statement. Many of my students expressed feelings of stress about tackling this important piece of the college application process. “It’s so open-ended,” said one. “I kind of feel naked.” She’s not wrong. The personal statement is open-ended and is designed to reveal aspects of you that aren’t visible in other parts of your application. 

Your words are powerful. Your lived experiences are different from every other college applicant; you have a story to tell, and no one can tell it for you. 

Over the years, I’ve supported hundreds of students through the college essay process. I’m passionate about higher education, and I’ve dedicated my career to expanding access for students from all backgrounds. I believe that every student should have the chance to succeed in college, and the personal statement is a great place to start that journey.

These days, my approach to the college essay is twofold: I want students to better understand what admissions officers are looking for, and I want students to be empowered to find their voice. 

I look forward to taking this journey with you. Welcome to the Definitive College Essay course!