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Package Description:
This 60-minute session is designed to offer you intentional, grounded direction on your path to top public policy programs. Whether you're just beginning to explore your options or actively preparing to apply, we'll work together to assess where you are, clarify what you're working toward, and map out an admissions strategy that feels aligned. We'll start by getting to know your story: your academic background, professional experience, policy interests, and long-term vision. From there, we'll look honestly at how admissions committees are likely to see your profile and where you stand right now. From there, we'll move into program fit and positioning: Which public policy programs genuinely align with your interests and goals? Where are you competitive today, and what would help you become a stronger applicant for more selective programs? We'll also look at how to bring every piece of your application into alignment with your vision. That means shaping a narrative that feels both authentic and strategic, getting clear on your policy focus, and making sure your experiences, goals, and materials tell a cohesive, compelling story together. By the end of our time together, you'll walk away with a clear, personalized roadmap and the confidence to move forward with intention. This session is ideal for: 🌿 Prospective applicants who feel overwhelmed by the admissions process and want a clear, grounded place to start 🌿 Career changers with meaningful experience who aren't sure how to frame their background for policy programs 🌿 Early-stage explorers who are curious about public policy but haven't committed to a specific direction yet 🌿 Motivated applicants who want their application to feel cohesive and true to who they are, not just competitive on paper 🌿 Anyone who wants to approach this process with intention and self-awareness, not pressure
What you'll get from this package
An honest assessment of your competitiveness for public policy programs
Tailored program recommendations based on your goals and background
Strategic guidance on positioning your story and policy interests
Specific, actionable steps to strengthen your profile
A clear timeline and next steps for your application journey
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 yours, and shape them into essays that feel both compelling and authentic.
Services included:
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!
$175
1h of coaching