About

I bring thirty years of wordsmithing experience to my work with students. After getting my BA in English from UC Davis and my masters in English Literature from San Francisco State University, I began my career in college textbook publishing. I worked in all aspects of production from management and development to copyediting and proofreading. I understand not only the mechanics of good writing but how to work with writers to craft clear and concise prose that retains their unique voice.

Along the way, I was approached by friends and then friends of friends to edit their high schoolers’ college application essays. It was fun for me to help students polish off the rough edges or rough up the academic style of writing so that their true voice came through. I enjoy the challenge of helping students create a complete, honest picture of themselves and their accomplishments.

When my own sons started high school and I had a little more skin in the game and a lot more lead time, I researched everything I could about college application essays and what schools were looking for. I found out that it wasn’t as much fun helping stressed teens who were living in my home, but it was still very rewarding to see them create applications that truly reflected who they are. My oldest graduated from UC Davis and my youngest graduated from UCLA and is currently a first year law student at Georgetown Law.

Since creating Standout Application Essays, I have helped many throughout the essay-writing process, and I continue to learn as much as I can about the latest requirements and trends, and to collect tips and advice that I can pass on to my clients.