The personal narrative is like no other piece of writing and it has the potential to be powerful because we all have a natural desire to tell a story. In our work together, I guide my students toward a style of writing referred to as creative non-fiction so that each essay grabs the reader while revealing the student’s authentic voice. I discourage my students from trying too hard to be unique compared to others because it's too much pressure and it's inauthentic.  Instead, I encourage my students to be thoughtful, revealing and relatable. Think “personal perspective” instead of “personal statement”. The ability to reflect on where you've been is valuable to this process but where you want to go with what you have learned and with what you have yet to learn is the goal and journey. When approached in this way, the reader discovers a genuine uniqueness. 

In the beginning, I evaluate each student’s academic record and extracurricular activities along with the expected profiles and evaluations submitted by teachers and guidance counselors; this gives me a sense of what the entire picture will look like once the essays are added to the application. Reviewing supplemental prompts comes next so that every essay chosen provides an opportunity to share a fresh perspective or idea. As I develop a sense of who the student is, we are ready to begin and I will nudge them towards the uncomfortable: being reflective and humble while expressing themselves verbally.  Once comfortable talking about themselves, I help with the transfer of thoughts and perspectives into the written word by encouraging the use of authenticity and reflection.

I have spoken with countless parents and students who have wrestled with the idea of using an essay coach and I appreciate the reasons why.  One student shared that they believed in the process and that if their first choice college didn’t want them, with their own work, they would happily attend the college that did. I was pleased to hear this because I too believe in the process and am proud that the work that I do doesn’t change the student’s voice. What it does change is how they use it.  I am a sounding board, stenographer and cheerleader, gently leading the student on a journey of discovery. 

Each student I work with will be expected to arrive with edits and an open mind for creativity in their writing because when this happens, the light turns on and the journey becomes enjoyable.  I remind my students that when they enjoy writing, the reader will enjoy reading.