Skip to main content

Get Into Your Dream PhD Program — Getting Started Package

Get Into Your Dream PhD Program — Getting Started Package

Offered by Kelly K.

Grad consulting from real scholars | UCLA faculty and leadership experience

University of Washington Logo

Studied at University of Washington

UCLA Logo

Admissions Committee at UCLA

Description

This package is designed for aspiring researchers and scholars who want to build a strong, strategic foundation for their PhD applications—without diving into a full-cycle engagement right away. Whether you’re early in the process or still clarifying your goals, this flexible package helps you focus on what matters most. You’ll work with an experienced Leland coach to assess your profile, identify research alignment, and begin shaping a compelling application strategy. From evaluating your academic trajectory to refining your research interests, this is the launchpad to a focused and intentional PhD application journey. Common coaching activities in this package include, but are not limited to: - Kickoff & Planning Session: Review your academic background, research experience, and long-term goals to create a personalized PhD application roadmap. - Profile Evaluation: Receive candid, expert feedback on your academic record, research preparedness, and overall competitiveness. - Program & Advisor Targeting: Build a strategic list of programs and faculty advisors aligned with your interests and goals. - Research Statement/Proposal Brainstorming: Explore ways to articulate your research questions, hypotheses, and fit with prospective advisors. - Statement of Purpose (SOP) Strategy: Start developing a narrative that connects your background, motivations, and future plans. - Academic CV Review: Tailor your CV to highlight research contributions, publications, and relevant academic milestones. - Recommender Strategy: Identify the strongest faculty mentors to write your letters and ensure they’re equipped to advocate on your behalf.


What you'll get from this package

A customized plan and timeline to navigate the PhD admissions process confidently

Clarity on your academic and research positioning—and how to strengthen it

A thoughtfully curated program list tailored to your research goals

A compelling, well-structured research statement or SOP outline

A strong, polished academic CV that reflects your potential as a scholar


Additional details

Coaching delivered via live sessions and .

Refund Policy

Additional expectations or terms of engagement may be provided by coaches (e.g. expected response times, etc.).

Services included:

School Selection

Application Strategy

Dissertation Proposal

Essays

Resume

Letters of Recommendation

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Editing


Kelly K.

Offered by Kelly K.

Joined March 2026

Grad consulting from real scholars | UCLA faculty and leadership experience

With a Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Washington and extensive experience as a faculty member, academic administrator, writing advisor, and program director at UCLA and the University of Washington, I have a deep understanding of the academic landscape and the skills needed to get offers and succeed in graduate programs. Through my work with AnotherDegree.com, I assist graduate students and grad and professional school applicants to get the personalized mentorship they need to support their academic ambitions. I have directed competitive academic programs and created experiential learning courses that prepared thousands of students for graduate and professional school degrees. I received a Faculty Mentor Award through UCLA. Through my career I have taught and mentored 1000s of students to achieve their academic goals and attain funding and scholarships. As an independent business consultant and appointee to numerous selection committees, steering committees, and advisory groups for higher ed organizations, my knowledge of graduate school admissions practices is not limited to how things have been done, but how they are evolving. This gives me insights into what admissions committees are looking for in the next generation of scholars. My interdisciplinary academic background spans sociology, history, science and technology studies, and education studies. I’ve won several competitive fellowships, including awards from DAAD and FLAS, and bring extensive experience in archival research, comparative case studies, survey design, interviews, statistical analysis, and holistic program assessment. My approach is comprehensive, focusing on research skill-building, values reflection, professional development, and strategic application planning for getting you into the programs where you will thrive. In all my work, I’m committed to providing guidance that makes the “hidden curriculum” visible, democratizes access to knowledge production, and empowers diverse learners to navigate academic and non‑academic career pathways with clarity and confidence.

Coaches professionally

100+ people coached for PhD Programs

Starting at $712.50

5h+ of coaching