Some parents and students ask, when concerned about plagiarism: what is the line between editing and writing a student's essay? What does academically honest editing by a tutor look like? As a long-time teacher, I teach the principles of academic honesty, and I live by them in my … [Read more...] about How Much Should Essay Tutors Edit?
college application
May and June for Juniors: College Essay Prep
I know: who in the world wants to be writing huge essays when you're trying to wrap up junior year? For that reason I say, it's time for LISTS. Lists of your Marquee Moments and Action Verbs. No essays necessary right now: just lots of listing and brainstorming. (Unless, … [Read more...] about May and June for Juniors: College Essay Prep
Hang in There
It's the most wonderful and most horrible time of year. From all over the U.S,. I'm getting emails and texts, spanning the range of every emotion possible: I GOT IN I GOT A SCHOLARSHIP She's deferred. They rejected him. To Those Celebrating To those whose … [Read more...] about Hang in There
Futurecasting: Go Ahead, Speculate!
I get it. You see a college essay prompt asking you about a future you haven't lived yet, and it feels like a lie to say you already know what it will be. Because who really knows, right? Life happens. Pandemics happen. People change their minds! But colleges are asking and … [Read more...] about Futurecasting: Go Ahead, Speculate!
What We Can Do in a Draft Review!
Do you need someone to take a look at a few college application essays? Do you have a short amount of time? The Draft Review plan is for students who are strong writers and committed to revision. You might also be seeking a low-cost, high-engagement, short-term editorial … [Read more...] about What We Can Do in a Draft Review!
“You can’t write about that.” Actually, you can.
Students and parents come to me with big worries started by well-meaning comments from various experts. Students and parents are worried that the topic they've chosen for an important college essay is somehow boring, typical, or wrong. Here's what they've heard: "Don't … [Read more...] about “You can’t write about that.” Actually, you can.