Schedule a call with a Leland team member who can help you explore your options.
Schedule a call
This package is designed for PhD applicants who want targeted, high-value support—without a full end-to-end engagement. Whether you’re just getting started or polishing your materials for submission, this package gives you the flexibility to focus on your highest-priority areas. You’ll partner with an expert coach to refine your research proposal, sharpen your written materials, and prep for interviews or faculty outreach. Every session is focused on driving real progress and elevating your candidacy. Common coaching activities in this package include, but are not limited to: - Application Strategy: Align your academic background, research experience, and long-term goals into a cohesive story. - Program & Faculty Fit: Refine your target list based on research alignment, funding, and mentorship opportunities. - Research Statement/SOP Editing: Get structured, detailed feedback to help you articulate your research goals and demonstrate strong fit. - Academic CV Optimization: Highlight research contributions, presentations, awards, and relevant experience in a polished CV format. - Recommender Guidance: Strategize on who to ask, what they should emphasize, and how to prepare them for a strong letter. - Interview Prep: Practice articulating your research interests, background, and goals with confidence and clarity. - Final Application Review: Ensure your application is polished, cohesive, and ready to submit.
A strategic application plan tailored to your academic and research background
A research statement and/or SOP that tells a compelling, well-organized story
A polished academic CV that showcases your strengths as a future scholar
Mock interviews to build confidence in your academic and professional communication
A ready-to-submit application package you can feel proud of
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
Application Strategy
Essays
Resume
Letters of Recommendation
Schedule a call with a Leland team member who can help you explore your options.
Schedule a call
Create a compelling academic resume that highlights your research potential
Starting at $1402h+ of coaching
Craft winning personal statements through expert coaching.
Starting at $332.505h+ of coaching
Ensure your PhD application is polished and submission-ready
Starting at $203.703h+ of coaching
Get help with Letters of Recommendation, Essays, and .

Joined October 2025
4.7
Current Columbia University Ph.D. student perfect for aspiring Ph.Ds
Welcome to my profile! As a current PhD candidate in Mechanical Engineering at Columbia University, I bring a deep understanding of the academic journey and the challenges faced by aspiring doctoral students. My experience as a ROOTS Mentor with Black Ivy has equipped me with the skills to guide high school students through the undergraduate application process, providing personalized advice and feedback. Additionally, my research experience at Stanford University, where I worked on cutting-edge technology in solar cell efficiency, has honed my ability to tackle complex problems and innovate solutions. I am passionate about helping others navigate their academic paths and achieve their goals. If you're looking for guidance on your PhD applications or research endeavors, feel free to reach out!
2h+ of coaching