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Get Into Your Dream PhD Program — Getting Started Package
Get Into Your Dream PhD Program — Getting Started Package
Offered by Laurisa A.
5.0
You Belong in Graduate School. Let's Build the Application that Proves It.
Studied at Michigan State University
Admissions Committee at Michigan State University
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 .
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
Talk to a team member
Schedule a call with a Leland team member who can help you explore your options.
Schedule a call
More packages from Laurisa
Custom hourly · $129/hr
Get help with Interviews, Research, and .
Offered by Laurisa A.
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.
Starting at $612.75
5h+ of coaching