The Process
Brainstorm
We’ll start by doing a deep dive into the student: their personality, interests, and the overall impression they want to give in their application. We’ll move into idea generating, and end up with three or four essay topics they’re excited to pursue.
Write
Once the student picks the topic on which they want to write, and which makes sense for their application holistically, they’ll write the essay once, twice, three times, even four. I’ll be there with them as they type, to help them focus, and to help when they feel stuck… and to ensure it’s really getting done.
Edit
The best essays are the ones that actually help us better understand ourselves, because we’ve written honestly and edited for voice. When the essay has reached a place of impeccable grammar, outstanding imagery and most of all, authenticity, it’s time to submit!
Sarah holds a B.A. in English Literature from Stanford University and an M.Ed. in Secondary English Education from Columbia Teachers College. She has taught English in the public and private school settings, ranging grades six to eleven. She loves reading and writing, and has a special place in her heart for 20th Century American literature. Her favorite authors are John Steinbeck, Ernest Hemingway and Marilynne Robinson.
