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This package is designed for PhD candidates who want to develop a persuasive, well-structured research proposal that effectively communicates the significance of their research and methodology. It includes expert guidance to maximize your chances of securing admission to top PhD programs. This package offers the following, with flexibility to adapt based on your needs and goals: - Initial kickoff and planning session: Start with an in-depth session to discuss your research goals, academic background, and target programs. Your coach will help you build a plan for creating a strong research proposal. - Research proposal brainstorming: Work with your coach to refine your research questions, identify key contributions to your field, and develop a focused and compelling research narrative. - Research proposal drafting: Collaborate with your coach to draft a structured research proposal that clearly outlines your objectives, methods, and expected impact, aligning with the expectations of your target programs. - Proposal editing and feedback: Receive expert feedback through multiple rounds of edits to improve clarity, coherence, and academic rigor in your proposal. Your coach will help you refine your argument and present a polished, professional document. - Final review: Your coach will conduct a thorough review of your final proposal to ensure it meets the highest academic standards and is ready for submission. To summarize, this package connects you with an expert coach who will guide you through every stage of creating a standout research proposal. They will provide personalized, constructive feedback to help you clearly present your research goals and methodology while strengthening your chances of acceptance to competitive PhD programs.
A compelling research proposal that is differentiated, personalized, and thoughtful
A deeper understanding of your motivations, experiences, and aspirations, and how they align with your goal of pursing your PhD
Confidence that your research proposal will standout to top PhD programs
Coaching delivered via live sessions and .
Additional expectations or terms of engagement may be provided by coaches (e.g. expected response times, etc.).
Services included:
Research
Essays
Editing
Schedule a call with a Leland team member who can help you explore your options.
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Get help with Interviews, Research, and .

Joined September 2025
5.0
You Belong in Graduate School. Let's Build the Application that Proves It.
Supporting graduate students is my full-time career. As Director of Graduate Student Success at Michigan State University, I work every day at the intersection of admissions and student success across the natural sciences. I partner with faculty on admissions decisions, advise students on program fit, review applications, and build strategic plans that help students not just get in but thrive once they're there. I see the entire arc of a graduate student's journey, from recruitment to graduation. That means when you work with me, you're not getting advice based on memory. You're getting real-time, inside knowledge of what graduate programs are looking for right now. Before stepping into this role, I earned my own PhD in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics from MSU, navigating the process as a first-generation student without a roadmap. I then founded GRIT, an equity-focused admissions and recruitment program that I ran across multiple PhD departments, reviewing real applications and training others to do the same. I've sat on admissions committees. I know what a compelling application looks like from the inside. I also know the researcher's path firsthand, from an accidental start washing lab dishes to leading my own project and publishing a first-author paper. When you're trying to articulate your research experience or scholarly identity, I can help you do it with precision and confidence. Schedule a free intro call today! -------- Summer Head Start: 20% off through July Right now, I'm offering 20% off all sessions booked through July 31st for applicants who are ready to get ahead of the process and start shaping your story before the pressure hits. Schedule an intro session to receive a discount this summer.
8h+ of coaching