Who It's For
This package is designed for students who want structured guidance as they develop one primary college application essay, typically the Common App personal statement. Through a focused, step-by-step process, students move from early brainstorming through drafting and thoughtful revision.
Students leave the session with a clear understanding of how to strengthen their essay’s structure, clarity, and impact.
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15-minute phone consultation
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(3) 60-minute individual conferences
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1.5 hours of instructor review and preparation between sessions
includes
writing Consultation
($500 3 Sessions)
how the process works
initial consultation
We begin with a brief phone conversation with the student and parents to discuss the student’s goals, timeline, and current stage in the writing process. This initial conversation allows us to clarify expectations, outline the scope of support, and ensure that the process is a good fit before scheduling the student’s first working session.
session one: Brainstorming & narrative focus
In the first session, we explore potential topics, identify meaningful experiences, and begin shaping a clear narrative direction for the essay. The meeting is typically structured in three parts. I begin with a brief conversation with parents to learn more about the student and hear their perspective on what strengths, experiences, or qualities may be important to highlight. I then spend time speaking directly with the student (parents are welcome to remain, but it is not required), getting to know them and learning more about their interests, activities, and goals. In the final portion of the session, we move into active brainstorming, identifying possible storylines and establishing clear next steps for developing the essay.
Session two: Draft review & targeted feedback
During the session, we review the student’s draft together. I offer targeted feedback and concrete revision strategies to strengthen the student’s ideas, organization, clarity, and voice. Parents are welcome to attend these sessions as well, and many find it helpful to hear the feedback directly so they can support the student’s revision process at home. Other families prefer that the student attend independently so they can pursue revision with greater ownership. I am comfortable with either approach. Students leave the session with clear priorities for revision and a stronger understanding of how to develop the essay.
session three: revision & refinement
During the session, we review the student’s revisions together and assess how effectively the essay communicates the student’s ideas and experiences. I offer targeted feedback to strengthen language, clarify ideas, and refine the overall structure so the narrative feels focused and cohesive. We also discuss final adjustments and strategies to polish the essay so the student feels confident in the finished piece.
Follow-Up sessions
Additional consultations are available as needed at $150 per session.
Already had an initial consultation with Shelley?
If you've already had a phone consultation, you can purchase a package and book your working session here.
Choose whether you would like to meet in person or virtually, and click the appropriate link below to schedule your session.
Follow-up sessions are booked separately and may be held virtually or in person.