College Essays

College essay and personal statement writing are part of a profound process. Seniors often come into it feeling the pressure that high-stakes writing brings. On top of that, college essays require vulnerability and courage as students reveal and showcase their unique identity with authenticity. I feel privileged to support teens as they explore who they are, their values, their accomplishments, and their future goals and dreams.

The admissions writing process begins as a “requirement,” but by the conclusion of the journey, students have completed a profound, written, reflective record that reveals who they are, not only to the admissions committees, but to the writers themselves. As teens prepare to cross through the threshold into young adulthood, the process of crafting college essays both facilitates their college entrance and provides a strong foundation of self-awareness and self-appreciation to build upon as they embark on their college journey.

Recommendations:

Ivy was immeasurably helpful in getting my son into six of the eight colleges to which he applied. She made the experience an empowering one for him by putting him at ease, treating him with respect, and asked the right questions to strengthen his essays.  She also was a great help with the time management piece, making up a calendar for when they would work on the rough drafts and when they would do polishing work. I think he left the experience with a stronger sense of himself and more self-trust in his writing abilities. I can’t recommend her highly enough.   ~ B.D., parent

Dear Ivy, thank you for assisting M. in writing a beautiful college essay. Her emotional growth is quite evident. It’s remarkable, what lovely, intimate relationships you build with your students. It takes a village, and you’ve been a consistent presence in all three of our kids’ lives. We are grateful. ~ T.L.L., parent

Hi Ivy, R. got into her dream school.  Thank you so much for your effort in the application process. ~ M.W., parent

A. just gave me her brag letter. I was really taken with her introspection, how well she knows herself, and that she was able to get this down on paper. Thanks for getting her there. It’s been a journey! ~ A.S., parent

Thank you, Ivy. And thank you for all of your help. You were such a big supporter of my process. ~ L.D., high school senior