Hi, future alum.

Are you struggling with writer’s block or overwhelm when you think about your college essays? I can help. Using a proven step-by-step process, I will help you move from a blank page to a final essay in just a few weeks.

I can help you shine.

In 2024 alone, my students received hundreds of thousands in scholarships to attend their top choice institutions.

Since 2006, I have taught writing around the world – from college writing centers to the Harpswell Foundation in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Following my time as an admissions counselor for Agnes Scott College, I developed a specialty in college admissions essays. I have helped students from Georgia to Italy to Hong Kong gain admission to undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs, as well as secure funding for competitive scholarships and programs abroad.

A graduate from Georgia College with an MFA in Creative Nonfiction, I was the recipient of the Flannery O'Connor Award from the college and was selected as a finalist for Ruminate Magazine's VanderMey Nonfiction Prize. I have received support from the Bread Loaf Environmental Writers' Conference, Martha's Vineyard Institute of Creative Writing, The Hambidge Center, Wildacres Retreat, and In Cahoots in Petaluma, California, among others. 

  • Wow-Certified Coach

    Trained in the highly-effective Wow Writing Workshop Method

  • Former Admissions Counselor

    At a liberal arts college

  • Student Advocate

    For life-long learning

Thank you for your help with my Common App essay! I got into Brown , Cornell, Penn, Tufts, and UMich. I know my essay was a big component. 

S., High school senior

Testimonials

I wanted to thank you for the time you put into my essays and also let you know that I got into my ED school, Boston University! I am so excited and grateful for your help. 

Z., High school senior

I decided to go to Auburn which was my first choice! I also got into Ole Miss, Alabama, Tennessee, and Boulder. 

N., High school senior

I wanted to let you know that I got into Boston College for ED2 tonight! I am so excited to attend in the fall and am so grateful for all of your help with writing. 

K., High school senior

Oh my God Shannon I got into law school! I'm going to cry. Thank you for your endless patience and help!!! 

J., Law school applicant

I got into NYU, College of Charleston, and University of Virginia! So two insanely good schools…Thank you for all the work you put into the applications with me–it really paid off.

P., PhD applicant

Personal Essay Package

  • Before a program begins and payment is accepted, we will have a short introduction call to review expectations and ensure my approach is a good fit for your student. 

    Book that call here.

  • Packages include coaching from brainstorming to final polish until the Common App essay is ready to submit. I recommend reserving 4-6 weeks to complete the full process. Students do NOT need to write a draft prior to meeting with me. All sessions are virtual through Google Meet or Zoom and I can accommodate most time zones.

    Supplemental essays are an additional charge ($100/hour). 

  • $1250 for the 650-word Common App personal statement. This fee includes coaching from brainstorming to final polish.

    **Note: For the month of MAY, receive $200 off the personal statement package.

    $100/hour for supplemental essay support.

    If the prices above are a barrier or if you'd like to donate a Common App package to a student in need, please contact me.

Tell me about yourself and let’s get started!