Kelly Chan

Cornell & Apple Alum | Transfers, Low GPA, &Non-Traditional Candidates

Johns Hopkins University
Apple
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As a Bay Area native with over 10 years of experience at companies like Apple, Adobe, and Goldman Sachs, I understand exactly what top tier industry recruiters and admissions committees are looking for. My own journey was non-linear: I navigated the complex transfer process to graduate from Cornell University (B.S. Industrial & Labor Relations) and am currently completing my M.S. in Systems Engineering at Johns Hopkins University. I used my non-technical background to launch a career in multiple engineering organizations. I specialize in helping non-traditional candidates find their lane. Whether you are a transfer student, coming from a startup background, or worried that a lower GPA might hold you back, I help candidates pivot from unqualified to unforgettable by highlighting their unique narratives and strengths.

Kelly also coaches for Technical Program Management, Master’s Programs, Product Operations, and Project Management. View all.

Work with Kelly

Get Into Your Dream College — Complete Package
20h+ of coaching · Starting at $9,000
Write Powerful College Essays
5h+ of coaching · Starting at $400
Complete UC Application Support
10h+ of coaching · Starting at $3,750
Nail Your College Admissions Interview
3h+ of coaching · Starting at $240

Protected by the Leland Experience Guarantee

Kelly’s College Qualifications

60+ people coached for College

Kelly has helped clients get into these schools:

Hello and welcome to my profile! With a B.S. in Industrial & Labor Relations from Cornell University and an upcoming M.S. in Systems Engineering from Johns Hopkins University, I bring a strong academic foundation to my coaching. My professional journey includes roles at top companies like Apple and Adobe, where I honed my skills in engineering program management and strategic planning. Over the years, I've successfully coached 62 students to gain admission to Columbia University, University of Pennsylvania, Cornell University, University of Southern California, Vanderbilt University, and more, helping them navigate the college admissions process with confidence and clarity. I specialize in transfer student applications and also candidates with lower GPAs. Whether you're crafting your personal statement or selecting the right schools, I'm here to provide personalized guidance and support. Let's work together to make your college dreams a reality!

Why do I coach?

I became a coach because navigating the transfer process and breaking into engineering organizations without a traditional STEM background was a significant challenge. While online resources helped, I realized the immense value of having an advisor to provide step by step guidance through such a complex transition. I now dedicate my work to being that guide for students with non-traditional backgrounds or lower GPAs, helping them strategically reframe their stories to become top-tier candidates. My coaching methodology has helped students gain admission to elite institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania, Cornell, Columbia, Johns Hopkins, USC, and Vanderbilt. On the professional side, I have guided candidates to land roles at world-class firms including Apple, Meta, Goldman Sachs, Adobe, Accenture, Oliver Wyman, and Blackrock. I focus on showing applicants how to leverage their unique histories as a competitive advantage. By focusing on narrative and strategy, I help my students bridge the gap between where they are and the competitive schools and companies they want to reach.