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Package Description:
This package is designed for motivated Master’s applicants who want to build a strong application foundation with expert support—without committing to a full, end-to-end engagement. Whether you're just starting your Master’s journey or looking to clarify your direction, this flexible option helps you focus on what matters most, right now. You’ll partner with a Leland coach to strategically tackle the parts of the process that will have the greatest impact. Your coach will help you prioritize your time, identify key areas of opportunity, and build momentum toward your target programs. Common coaching activities in this package include, but are not limited to: - Initial kickoff and planning session: Dive into your background, goals, and timeline to co-create a personalized game plan. - Profile evaluation: Get honest, strategic feedback on your strengths, gaps, and overall competitiveness for your target programs. - Program selection: Curate a list of Master’s programs that align with your academic interests, professional goals, and personal preferences. - Application strategy: Define the key differentiators in your story and map how they’ll come through across your materials. - Essay brainstorming & editing: Explore pivotal experiences and uncover strong thematic angles to anchor your narrative. - Resume review: Reframe your resume to highlight academic achievements, research, leadership, or professional experience—tailored to Master’s admissions. - Recommender strategy and prep: Select the best combination of recommenders and equip them with thoughtful prep documents. This package is ideal for applicants who want high-leverage support early in the process. It’s your launchpad to a compelling, well-positioned Master’s application that helps you stand out.
What you'll get from this package
A clear application timeline and plan, to ensure you stay on track and hit Master's program application deadlines
Compelling personal statement that is differentiated, personalized, and thoughtful
Expertly articulated extracurriculars and activities in the Experiences section of your Master's program application
Clarity on who to select as recommenders and how to prepare them
Unique and interesting supplemental essays — tailored to each program you decide to apply to
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:
Interviews
Waitlist Strategy
School Selection
Secondary Review
Application Strategy
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 Sarah
Custom hourly · $225/hr
Get help with Interviews, Waitlist Strategy, and .
Offered by Sarah E.
Joined December 2025
Authentic Narrative Coach | 15+ Years Experience | USC Admissions
As a former Associate Director of Recruitment and Admission at the USC Price School of Public Policy with 15 years of experience, I know what competitive programs are actually looking for: someone who knows their why, can articulate their direction, and brings a unique perspective. I offer a rare, holistic approach that goes beyond strategy. That means taking the time to truly understand who you are — academically, professionally, and personally — so the support I offer is specific to your path and helps you move forward with clarity and purpose. My expertise spans a wide range of graduate programs, including Public Policy, Public Administration, Health Policy and Management, Urban Planning and Real Estate Development, Data Science, and other policy-focused and social impact programs. My work is designed for students who: ✨ Have real professional experience but struggle to translate it into a clear, cohesive narrative — you have done meaningful work and are ready to articulate why it matters and where you want to take it 🌱 Feel like their draft sounds polished but hollow — something is missing, and you want support finding the anchor that makes your application feel genuinely yours 🔄 Are navigating a non-linear career transition — you have an unconventional path and want help framing it as a strength, not a liability 🎓 Are first-generation, LGBTQ+, students of color, or from historically underrepresented communities — and want a coach who will meet you with cultural attunement, not a one-size-fits-all approach ⚖️ Are applying to joint or concurrent degree programs — MPP/MBA, JD/MPP, and similar combinations — and need help positioning yourself cohesively across disciplines 🌍 Are purpose-driven applicants who want to influence systems, shift policy, or lead change — and want your application to reflect the depth and clarity of that commitment Through my work, I’ve learned that the strongest graduate applications aren’t just the most accomplished or credential-heavy—they’re clear and grounded in real direction. They show more than requirements: meaningful professional experiences, focused interests, a research question, or a passion project you’ve chosen to pursue. That combination is what sets you apart. And that’s what I’ll help you build. An application that’s not just impressive, but genuine.
Starting at $1,068.75
5h+ of coaching