COLLEGE ESSAY COACHING · LONDON & ONLINE
A story only they can tell.
One-to-one essay coaching for US college applications and UCAS personal statements, from an American-born professional writer based in London.
Why the essay matters
Admissions readers aren't looking for the award or the community service trip itself. They want the grit, courage, curiosity, loyalty, triumphs and failures that came from those experiences, and a sense of the student they'd be proud to have on campus. The essay is the only place they hear who your student really is.
Most students don't struggle with writing. They struggle with knowing what to say. They pick the "impressive" topic over the true one, or write about what they think readers want instead of what they actually think.
My job is to help them find their real story and tell it clearly, in their own voice.
Hi, I'm Tess.
I grew up in Connecticut and London (ASL alum!), studied at Boston University, spent a decade in New York City, and now live in North London with my husband. For the past six years I've been a professional copywriter and creative strategist, helping brands across the UK, Europe and the US find their voice and tell their story (sometimes in very few words).
Admissions essays need the same skills: finding the story that matters, cutting everything that doesn't, and making every sentence sound like a person, not a template.
I work with students applying to US colleges, UK universities, or both, and I know how differently the two systems read an application.
What I help with
US college applications
- Common App personal statement (650 words)
- Supplemental essays, including "Why us?", community and activity essays
- Activities list and additional information section
- Early (ED/EA) and Regular Decision timelines
UK applications (UCAS)
- The UCAS personal statement in its new three-question format
- Showing subject passion and readiness without clichés
Students applying to both
- One core story, adapted for two very different readers
How it works
1. Discover. We start with a guided conversation, not a blank page. I ask the questions that draw out stories students didn't realise were worth telling.
2. Shape. Together we choose the strongest idea and build a structure that shows growth, reflection and voice.
3. Draft. The student writes. I give detailed, specific feedback on each draft: what's working, what's missing and what to cut.
4. Polish. Final line-by-line refinement until the essay is clear, sharp, within the word limit and unmistakably theirs.
My promise: their words, always
I coach; students write. I never write essays for students or rewrite them in my voice. Colleges ask applicants to confirm their work is their own, and admissions readers can tell when it isn't. Students leave with a stronger essay and a skill they'll keep using.
Packages
Essay Review: from £150
One essay, detailed written feedback and a 45-minute call to talk through revisions. Ideal for students with a draft who want an expert second read.
Personal Statement Intensive: from £750
The full process for one personal statement (Common App or UCAS), from first brainstorm to final draft. Includes four one-to-one sessions plus written feedback on every draft.
Full Application Package: from £1,800
The personal statement plus supplemental essays for up to six colleges, with planning across schools and deadlines. Ideal for Early and Regular Decision applicants.
All sessions run online, or in person in North London by arrangement.
Founding students, 2026–27 cycle: I'm taking a small number of students at a reduced rate this application season. Ask about availability on your free call.
Questions parents ask
When should we start?
Ideally in the summer before senior year (Year 13 in the UK). But many students start in autumn for Regular Decision (deadlines in early January) and still write excellent essays. It's not too late.
Do you work with students outside London?
Yes. Sessions run on video, so I work with students anywhere.
Do you guarantee admission?
No one honestly can. I guarantee a clear process, honest feedback and an essay that represents your student at their best.
Do you use AI?
I don't write essays with AI, and I help students understand where AI tools cross the line under college policies.
What do parents get?
A short update after key milestones, so you know where things stand without having to hover.
Let's find their story.
Book a free 20-minute call to talk about your student, their timeline and whether we're a good fit.