The Written Word College Essay Consulting
Terri Yablonsky Stat, M.A.
I help students craft original narratives for the Common App, supplemental, and graduate school admissions.
About Me.
The college essay is one of the best ways to showcase who you are beyond a GPA or test score. It’s a chance to flex your creative muscle and “wow” an admissions committee by sharing your passions, experiences, and aspirations. If you’re like many students, the essay writing process can be intimidating. Maybe you’re having trouble finding a topic that feels right and comes from the heart. Or maybe you’re struggling to tell your story in a clear, organized, and insightful way.
I’m a professional writer with a master’s degree in journalism and extensive experience writing for the Chicago Tribune as well as corporations, universities, medical societies, and publishers. For the past decade, I’ve been helping students write compelling college essays that convey their strengths, core values, and personal growth. I’ve worked as an essay coach for several leading Chicago educational consultants. Many of my students have earned admission to their college of choice – including top-tier schools.
I work with students one-on-one to brainstorm a topic, shape an idea, and bring it to life in a reflective and insightful way – all while staying on deadline and limiting stress.
Every student has a story to tell, and through coaching and direction, I can help you find your voice and convey who you are to admissions committees.
Dartmouth College
Cornell University
University of Michigan
Northwestern University
Northeastern University
Boston University
Georgia Tech
Villanova University
Texas Christian University
UCLA
Santa Clara University
Lehigh University
Emory University
Tulane University
Johns Hopkins
University of Wisconsin
University of Illinois
Purdue University
Notre Dame
Case Western Reserve University
William & Mary
Washington University in St Louis
University of Virginia
Rochester Institute of Technology
Tufts University
UNC – Chapel Hill
Ithaca College
Vanderbilt University
University of Miami
Bowdoin College
Pepperdine University
Syracuse University
Fordham University
Loyola Marymount University
Frequently Asked Questions
My goal is to make this a smooth, stress-free experience. Here are some guidelines to make our time together as productive and efficient as possible.
My Philosophy
It’s important to understand that I don’t write your essays for you. I “coach” you to share your story, in your own words. While it’s a great idea to run your essay by others who know you well after it’s completed, I discourage you from allowing “too many cooks in the kitchen” during the actual writing process. That goes for parents/friends/teachers who find their way onto the Google Doc!
We’ll meet in person or via FaceTime. In person can be at your home, at the public library, or another quiet location.
The entire process is highly dependent on your schedule and effort put forth. I encourage all my students to aim to complete their personal statement over the summer before senior year begins. If you have summer camp/travel plans, we can work around that!
Most often I meet with a student face-to-face 2-3 times. We’ll brainstorm ideas until you’ve found the perfect topic. Then, we’ll discuss how to structure your essay, and we may create an outline. I’ll also share sample essays from previous students (anonymously) for inspiration. Next, you’ll write a first draft (over-write on this one, don’t worry about length) and share it with me through Google Docs. We’ll work back and forth on revisions until it’s refined and polished. On average, we may work through 4-5 drafts. I provide lots of feedback within the draft to prompt your thinking. Before each meeting and draft due date, I’ll text you a reminder. If at any time you need a face-to-face meeting to talk through edits, I’m here!
Your parents know you best. They often have insights and recollections that you may not have considered. While I’m always open to hearing their input, I prefer to meet with you one-on-one to really help you dig deep and take ownership of the process. This is your opportunity to reflect on who you are and who you want to be.
Of course! Sometimes, during the process, you may find that another, better idea comes to mind. That’s a normal part of the essay development process. If that happens, we can shift gears to ensure you focus on the topic that’s most meaningful to you. Your first idea may not be your last.
Yes, I do. During our brainstorming for your personal statement, we often come across wonderful ideas for your supplemental essays. Depending on the number of schools you’re applying to, I can offer you a package deal for supplements.
How do you bill?
I bill for our time together (in person or via FaceTime) as well as my individual editing time. Most often, the entire process of writing a personal statement — from brainstorming, outlining, writing, and revising until it’s perfectly polished — requires approximately 5 hours on my end. Of course, this time frame can take more or less time depending on your comfort level in writing and dedication to the process.
I charge a flat fee for completion of the personal statement. This includes brainstorming, outlining, multiple revisions, and polishing/proofreading until the essay is in tip-top shape and ready for submission. I ask for 1/2 of this payment upfront, and 1/2 at completion.
This fee is based on the following conditions:
- The student attends all meetings (unless otherwise notified in advance).
- The student meets deadlines and responds to my texts.
- The student puts forth a good faith effort.
If a student does not meet these conditions, I will charge my hourly rate for each additional hour beyond 6 hours.
If you need to cancel a meeting, please give me a day’s notice so another student can take your time slot. If you give me less than 3 hours notice, you will be charged 1/2 my hourly fee.
*If a student is experiencing financial hardship, I can offer a flexible pricing structure.
What if I already have a topic in mind? or What if I’ve already written a draft?
I’m happy to step in at any point in the process – whether it’s helping you structure your essay, offering editorial review/detailed feedback, or simply polishing/proofreading. In this case, my hourly rate applies.
Supplementary essays
I offer packages that include brainstorming, detailed feedback, and unlimited looks.
I accept Venmo and Zelle.