I'm writing this for all the exhausted educators out there who needed ChatGPT's release like they need a burst pipe or an icy road. I write this for teachers wondering whether essay prompts they've worked hard to design--are designing right now on their holiday break--have a … [Read more...] about What ChatGPT means for us non-machines
essay writing
Follow Your Heart in the College Essay
If ever go looking for my heart's desire again, I won't look any further than my own backyard... - Dorothy, The Wizard of Oz The college essay has more in common with The Wizard of Oz than the traditional academic essay. That's because a great personal statement is … [Read more...] about Follow Your Heart in the College Essay
What Dads Can Teach Us About the College Essay
This is my wonderful dad, Steve Fairchild. He is 81. He is energy, curiosity, and exploration incarnate. So he loves the full-coverage Australian walking hat my sister got him for Father's Day. It's a key accessory for his daily strides around the neighborhood. My dad … [Read more...] about What Dads Can Teach Us About the College Essay
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.
What’s Different About Success Story?
Encouragement Is Key When I see a certain skill strength, we capitalize on that, and we note that this skill set works. I know how essential encouragement is. I learned this from years of coaching high school students, years of receiving feedback from literary agents, … [Read more...] about What’s Different About Success Story?