Building Momentum for College Applications

Services

I provide a student-centered approach to the college application process, guiding students through every step to ensure their unique stories shine. From brainstorming to polished drafts, I work closely with each student to help them present the best version of themselves.

By limiting my client base, I’m able to offer highly personalized attention tailored to each student’s needs. The ideal time to begin working together is in the spring of junior year. However, I can also work intensively with seniors who start by August to ensure they stay on track.

Free Initial Consult

E-mail me to schedule a free consultation to learn how I can support your college application journey. This initial meeting will allow us to get to know each other and create a personalized plan to help you achieve your goals.

Major Goals

Together, we’ll crafting your application package, focusing on key elements:

The Activities List
The Personal Statement
Institution-specific Short-answer Essays
Letters of Recommendation
A Balanced College List

Affordable Packages

I offer two flexible packages, which can be stacked or repeated based on your needs:

10-hour packages (best value!)
5-hour packages

These options allow for personalized support tailored to each family.

Your Guide

Kristen brings a unique perspective to the college application process, drawing from her experience as a reader for a highly selective educational institution. During the 2022 and 2023 decision cycles, she reviewed thousands of applications from students around the world.

As a credentialed English teacher with over 15 years of experience teaching middle and high school students in California, Kristen specializes in guiding students to produce meaningful and authentic writing that strengthens their applications. Her expertise in writing and critical thinking helps her clients gain clarity and a competitive edge.

Kristen earned her Bachelor’s degree in English and a Master’s degree in Education from the University of California, Davis. She takes pride in empowering students to present their best selves through compelling and polished applications.

Q: What advice would you give to students starting to write their essays?

Avoid trying to impress Admissions Officers with big words—they can already see your English grades. Instead, focus on telling a story that impacted you emotionally. Incorporating your unique quirks will make your writing more memorable and authentic than an overly expansive vocabulary.

Writing about yourself can be challenging, but I can help you identify meaningful moments from your life that will translate into a compelling and heartfelt story.

Q: What is the latest with the SAT and ACT testing?

A: Some colleges and universities are remaining "test-optional," while others are asking students to provide scores. The good news is that the new digital SAT format is more student-friendly in several ways. I have tips to discuss, but in the meantime, create an account at https://www.collegeboard.org/ to register for practice exams.

Q: I make too much money to receive help from FAFSA, why should I bother filling it out?

A: Please, please make sure you complete the FAFSA form.

Federal loans typically have far better interest rates than private loans, and the FAFSA has the potential to offer some to the parent AND student. Also, many schools base their own scholarships off of the need demonstrated on the FAFSA, which students cannot collect without having completed.

Q: I am not sure how my student should be spending their summer. What would you suggest?

There are countless possibilities for how students can spend their time meaningfully! Colleges are especially interested in seeing how students engage with their interests. One top suggestion is job shadowing—it not only gives students insight into what they enjoy (and don’t enjoy) but also provides excellent material for writing compelling supplemental essays.