You are your own subject-matter expert. Conveying your experience, background, and story to an unknown audience can be a challenge. In 20 years of editing, 98% of the of applicants I’ve worked with have gotten the call, the interview, the offer, or advanced to the next stage of the application process.

Am I ready to work with an editor?

• If you have at least a first draft of your application materials and a list of programs or positions you are thinking of applying to, you are ready—let’s get started!

• To meet your application deadlines, ideally we start the editing process at least 4 weeks before you need to submit materials. Different types of applications require different amounts of time, numbers of drafts, and levels of editing.

How will we work together?

• We’ll start with a friendly Zoom or phone conversation. I love learning about people and I listen with a sense of wonder, ask questions, and take detailed notes.

• I can suggest how to gather information about where you are applying and look at the words schools and jobs use on their websites and application materials.

• I’ll review your draft materials. I will focus on two main questions: Are you expressing your goals clearly and completely? Do the words you are using show an alignment with the places you are applying?

• We’ll discuss opportunities to strengthen the alignment between your words and the words of the places you are applying and shift the focus of this process to how words match or don’t match. This can help the writing process feel less judgmental and more neutral.

• We’ll become champions of and advocates for your words so they can express who you are, tell a story that is genuine, and show how you are a good fit and a strong candidate.

• As we work together, I use a combination of written feedback and follow-up phone calls until all materials are ready for submission.

What don’t you do?

I do not write or rewrite your materials, research, analyze, or advise on your choice of school, job position, or the college or graduate admission process. I do not offer a guarantee on the outcome of your applications.

What do you charge?

I offer a complimentary 20-minute phone call to discuss your goals and learn about where you are in the process. I charge hourly and can provide a detailed estimate after our initial call.