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Package Description:
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.
What you'll get from this package
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
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:
Editing
Research
Essays
Talk to a team member
Schedule a call with a Leland team member who can help you explore your options.
Schedule a call
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Joined February 2026
5.0
PhD Student in Sociology, Harvard University
PhD admissions is not a numbers game. There’s no magic GPA or standardized test score you need that will guarantee success. That means it is hard to predict how you’ll do—and that if you know what admissions committees are looking for, you can build a winning application. I am a PhD Student in sociology at Harvard University, in addition to having a JD from Harvard Law School, and a BA from Bard College. I know first-hand how stressful the PhD application process is, and how to successfully navigate it. I know what admissions committees look for. And I know how to present your credentials—and build them—the way successful applicants do. Sociologists analyze the "hidden curriculum," but too often only whisper networks give applicants the insights they need to make a successful application. I hope to change that. My approach is bottom-up. If you’re at the beginning of your application process, let's start by assessing your goals, generating a list of programs from there, and then thinking strategically about how to maximize your chances of admission at each program you apply to. If you’re further along, let’s look at your materials and work them into top shape. If you have interviews scheduled, we’ll practice them so you can start off on the right foot with potential mentors. Wherever you are in the application process, let’s connect and work together to further your academic goals.
Starting at $950
8h+ of coaching