I work with a select group of students yearly to develop strategic and authentic college essays to apply to their dream schools with confidence. Now booking for the 2025-2026 application cycle.
✎ Book a Free Consultation
I’m a college essay coach, an award-winning former English teacher, and two-time graduate of Stanford University with a B.A. in Creative Writing and an M.A. in Education.
For nine years, I've helped high school students transform college essay writing from a source of stress into an empowering process of self-discovery. Curious about the essay that got me into Stanford? Here it is.
“You turned something I was dreading into a process that was rewarding and fun, and I learned things about myself along the way.”
Write beyond the generic
“Mr. Michelson reviewed my essays with great care. His coaching helped me move beyond generic writing and steered me towards using words more economically and powerfully to bring my unique story to life.
By the time I finished writing, I felt confident my essays reflected the best of me, and I submitted them with peace and pride.”
—Kristen C.
Student admitted to Johns Hopkins
Maximize your time
“In our essay coaching session, Mr. Michelson gave me valuable advice for all of my MIT essays, two of my UC PIQ's, and my CommonApp personal statement in the span of an hour (super fast and helpful!).
With Mr. Michelson, my essays improved in direction and clarity, but never at the expense of my personal ideas and style. Overall, he made the challenge of college essays so much more approachable.”
—Daniel L.
Admitted to Johns Hopkins
Apply with your authentic voice
“Mr. Michelson didn't just help me grow as a writer—he helped me gain confidence in my ideas. While I've heard friends say their college counselors gave them little hope for their writing, Mr. Michelson made me feel like my words have power.
His thoughtful guidance not only improved my writing but also strengthened my belief in my own voice. I highly recommend working with him, for his insights, support, and belief in his students all made a difference in my own life.”
—Lily S.
Admitted to Johns Hopkins
I help students trust themselves; their authentic voice and story are their strengths.
I provide structure that breaks the process into manageable pieces.
I give guidance to help students write strategic, impactful essays.
Here are two approaches that tend to work and give you a sense of the scope of our work together. However, if you’re not seeing what you want, I can also design a unique plan based on your goals.
$2,500
Comprehensive support with Personal Statement, 2-3 supplements, or UC Personal Insight Questions
$4,000
Comprehensive support with a combination of Personal Statement, 3-5 supplements, and/or UC Personal Insight Questions
Let's meet for a free consultation to discuss your application goals. We'll come out of this time with a clear plan for you.
“Instructions for living a life.
Pay attention.
Be astonished.
Tell about it.”
―Mary Oliver