Craft Compelling Admissions Essays That Tell Your Story
Great college essays don't require extraordinary experiences, they require genuine self-reflection and sharp storytelling. That's exactly what I help you develop.
About Me
I'm a professional college admissions essay coach based in San Francisco. I draw on my experience winning one of the most competitive graduate scholarship programs in the world (Schwarzman Scholars) and my 9 years as a product management leader in the tech industry at companies like Lyft and Intuit.
These experiences honed my ability to communicate complex concepts succinctly, influence senior executives, and sway large audiences through compelling storytelling. But more importantly, they taught me something crucial about what makes a winning admissions essay: clean and well organized writing is not enough. In my coaching practice, I've seen that the best essays are those written from a place of authentic self-understanding. I guide students through this difficult and deep work of genuine reflection, because that's what transforms a good essay into one that gets you admitted.
My Approach
A personalized, supportive process to help you tell your unique story
Great college essays don't always require extraordinary experiences. They require honest reflection and a willingness to share what genuinely matters to you. I help you discover those stories and bring them to life.
Even if you're not the strongest writer, I help coach you on the style that suits you best, and fits with your strengths, skills and abilities.
Writing about yourself is vulnerable work. I create a supportive environment where you can take risks, receive honest feedback, and develop genuine confidence in your voice and your story.
What Students Say
Hear from students who achieved their college dreams
"Of everyone I sought help from, James gave the best coaching. Other people just improved my writing. James actually coached me on how to express something that felt real, which consequently led to a really good essay. He helped me reframe my experiences and uncover insights I'm not sure I could have accessed on my own."
"I was totally stuck trying to connect different parts of my story. James asked questions that helped me find the thread running through everything. Once I had that, the whole essay came together."
"James made this so much easier than I thought it would be. I knew I wanted to write about my time living in Mexico City but had no clue how to talk about that without sounding unoriginal. He helped me find an angle that actually felt authentic to me, not like I was trying too hard. Super grateful for his help!"
"I thought my essay was already pretty good when I came to James. He showed me how to go deeper, identifying specific moments and details that strengthened my narrative in ways I hadn't considered. His feedback was precise and actionable."
Free Resources
Helpful guides and tips to get you started on your essay journey
Why Your Essay Feels Fake (And Why You're Stuck)
Writer's block is frustrating, especially on high-stakes college essays. Learn three practical techniques to break through common roadblocks and write authentically.
Read Article →Ready to Start Your Essay Journey?
Schedule a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your goals and learn how I can help you craft an essay that truly represents who you are.
Get in Touch
Have questions? Ready to start your college essay journey? Reach out directly.