Virtual College Tutoring

About Me:

I hold a master’s degree and PhD from Harvard University and a bachelor’s degree from Swarthmore College. I taught freshman seminars in writing and history for ten years at Princeton and Harvard College. At Harvard, I also directed a program to help high school students in the Boston Public Schools write their college essays. I currently teach and advise graduate students at the Harvard Extension School. I have written two books and several articles.

I have been awarded numerous Certificates of Teaching Excellence and other teaching commendations from Harvard University. In both my teaching and my own scholarship, I focus on:

·      crafting clear prose;

·      engaging readers;

·      using narrative to craft compelling stories.

Harvard Profile

The Importance of the College Essay

Today the personal essay is more important than ever as college admissions offices increasingly move away from standardized testing. It offers students a chance to stand out. A strong essay alone will not gain a student who lacks qualifications acceptance to a selective college, but it can make the difference in moving an application from a “maybe” to a “yes.”

The essay is also a wonderful opportunity to help students reflect about who they are now and who they want to be, and to share that vision with colleges.

My Approach

My approach is highly personalized, meeting students where they are and helping them to reach their own highest potential. I begin working with students through informal conversations, getting to know their backgrounds, interests, personalities, and aspirations. Together, we brainstorm ideas for the personal essay. I ask questions, and I listen to students. I know what appeals to admissions officers, and I encourage students to be authentic while also presenting themselves in the best possible light.

Discussion and reflection are essential to the process of revision. No first draft is perfect, and I offer targeted feedback to help students understand their strengths and areas that need improvement. I focus on the big picture and the small details. My goal is to help students develop their own voice so that they feel empowered and heard while also crafting a compelling narrative.