"Member, New Jersey Association for College Admission Counseling (NJACAC).

I am a professional writer with a New York Times background. I taught writing for 9 years at Drew University in New Jersey. I have become schooled in the intricacies of the college selection and application process, as well as the financial aid labyrinth, and have helped numerous students and parents over the past several years in these challenging and time-consuming areas, making the process less daunting for them.

Sadly, most high school guidance departments aren't able to shepherd students through the process of college application essay writing. My experience as a writer with editing and structural skills makes me uniquely qualified to assist students in this vital area, which is often the only opportunity they have to "personalize" their applications.

In addition to my professional experience, I have 2 sons (one in college at University of Virginia) who are both excellent students; having gone through the elementary and secondary school progression with them, I have a personal understanding of the pressures and demands that today's students face, as well as a cultivated sense of what today's teachers, tests, and admissions deans are looking for, and how best to present it.

I typically meet with students either at their home or a nearby library. I also only charge for the actual time we're together; if 45 minutes is all a session requires, you only pay 75% of the hourly rate. Likewise, if more time is needed/desired, I don't book myself so tight that we can't go longer than the baseline hour, again at proportionate pricing. I'm also available by phone between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. daily to answer any quick questions or concerns at no extra charge.

I am happy to provide references from former students and parents upon request. My primary goal is to bring focus to the process and to make it an enjoyable rather than an overwhelming one for both students and parents." less...