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Package Description:
A strong graduate application begins with knowing yourself, your values, and what you actually need from a program, not just what looks impressive on paper. This package (2 x 90 minute sessions) is designed for prospective applicants exploring graduate programs in public policy and related fields who want thoughtful, intentional guidance from the very beginning of the process. Together, we'll move past rankings and surface-level research to take a values-based approach, one that helps you identify programs that genuinely align with who you are, what you care about, and where you want to go. You'll leave with a clear, intentional school list and a solid foundation for the rest of your application journey. This is ideal for you if: 🌿 You're just beginning to explore graduate programs and feel overwhelmed by where to start 🌿 You want support identifying programs that align with your values, not just your GPA 🌿 You're drawn to public policy or adjacent fields but need help narrowing your focus 🌿 You want a structured, spacious process that doesn't feel rushed or transactional 🌿 You're a first-generation applicant or someone without insider access to this process 🌿 You want your application to genuinely feel like you, not performative Alongside our exploration work, we'll begin laying the foundation for your application narrative, including the key themes and a starting point for your statement of purpose. This creates a natural bridge into deeper essay work, and if you choose to continue with additional support, you'll receive a discount toward future packages.
What you'll get from this package
Carefully curated and well-balanced school list
Clear articulation of policy interests that align with each school
A customized application timeline with clear next steps
Early positioning for personal statement and narrative development
Additional details
Coaching delivered via live sessions and .
My coaching philosophy blends clear admissions strategy with empathy and values. I help applicants slow down, reflect, and articulate who they truly are, while staying intentional about positioning and what selective programs are looking for. Through thoughtful questions and genuine conversation, we'll uncover the themes and lived experiences that make your application unique, and shape them into essays that feel both compelling and authentic.
Services included:
School Selection
Application Strategy
General Exploration
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 · $175/hr
Get help with Letters of Recommendation, Essays, and .
Offered by Sarah E.
Joined December 2025
5.0
Public Policy Admissions Expert | 15+ Years Experience | USC Admissions
I’ve spent over a decade working in higher education and admissions, including serving as an Associate Director of Admission at the USC Price School of Public Policy, where I reviewed thousands of applications and worked closely with students during meaningful moments of transition. Through that experience, I developed a deep understanding of what competitive graduate programs look for, particularly those grounded in public service, civic leadership, and social impact. My background encompasses a wide range of graduate programs including: ◎ Public Administration ◎ Health Policy & Management ◎ Urban Planning & Development ◎ Public Policy ◎ Data Science ◎ and other policy focused programs While working in admissions, my role often extended beyond the review process. I found myself helping students navigate important questions like: 🌟 What kind of impact do I want to have? 🌟 What systems do I want to influence? 🌟 Is this the right path for me? I believe strong graduate applications are built on clarity, authenticity, and intentional strategy. The most compelling applicants are those who understand their motivations, can articulate their interests with intentionality, and are passionate about the work they want to do in the world. My work aligns with: 🎓 Highly capable applicants who need support shaping their experiences into a clear, cohesive narrative 🌟Purpose-driven individuals seeking grounded, thoughtful guidance during an important career transition 📚Applicants whose academic metrics don’t fully capture their strengths and want help presenting their potential in context 👥 First-generation, LGBTQ+, students of color, and other historically underrepresented applicants looking for culturally attuned support ⚖️ Joint or concurrent degree applicants navigating how to position themselves across disciplines (MPP/MBA, JD/MPP, etc.) My approach is strategic and direct, but always rooted in empathy. Every applicant brings a distinct lens to public service. If you want a strategic partner who will help you translate that perspective into essays that feel authentic and focused, while elevating their clarity and impact, we’ll make a great team!
$499
3h of coaching