Leland+ for College

Stanford/MIT Essays: Examples & Analysis

An in-depth breakdown of successful application essays for Stanford and MIT, with a focus on what makes them compelling and how to apply those strategies to your own writing.

Supplemental Essays: An Overview

A comprehensive guide to understanding supplemental essays, with tips on why they're important, how to approach them, and how to make them stand out.

Personal Statement 3: Example & Analysis

A detailed breakdown and analysis of a third successful personal statement, with a focus on its compelling narrative structure and powerful conclusion.

"Tell Me About a Time...": Situational Question Guide

A comprehensive guide to answering behavioral and situational interview questions with the STAR method, with examples and tips for crafting compelling stories.

Optimizing for Success

Learn how to optimize your application for success with strategies for showcasing your unique strengths, crafting a memorable narrative, and making the best possible impression on admissions officers.

Longer Essay: Harvard Examples Walkthrough

A detailed breakdown and analysis of successful "longer essays" for Harvard, with strategies for crafting your own and showcasing your intellectual curiosity.

Letter of Continued Interest: What to Write

Learn how to craft a powerful Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) by focusing on key components like reaffirming your commitment, providing meaningful updates, and showcasing why you are a perfect fit for the college.

How to Set Better Goals

Learn how to set more effective and achievable goals with a proven framework that will keep you motivated and on track to success.

Key Interview Question Styles

An in-depth guide to the different styles of interview questions, with tips on how to identify them and craft effective, tailored responses for each.

Letter of Continued Interest: How to Submit

Learn how to write and submit a compelling Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) to a college after being deferred or waitlisted, including what to include, common mistakes to avoid, and where to send it.

Informative Essay: UPenn & Caltech Examples

A detailed breakdown and analysis of successful "informative" essays for UPenn and Caltech, with strategies for crafting your own and showcasing your intellectual curiosity.

Interviews: Storytelling & Tone

Learn how to master the art of storytelling in your interviews, using a confident and engaging tone to make a lasting impression.

How to Craft a Strong Narrative

Learn how to tell your personal story in a compelling and authentic way that captures the attention of admissions officers and makes your application unforgettable.

How to Prepare for Interviews

A comprehensive guide to preparing for interviews, with tips on researching the company, practicing common questions, and making a lasting impression.

How to Prioritize Content for the Additional Info Essay

Learn how to strategically use the optional "additional information" essay to address weaknesses, provide context for unique circumstances, and strengthen your overall application.

How to Stand Out in Your Application

Learn how to differentiate your application from the competition with strategies for crafting a compelling narrative, showcasing your unique skills, and making a lasting impression.

Awards & Honors: Example & Analysis

A detailed breakdown and analysis of a successful awards and honors list, with tips for showcasing your achievements and making a strong impression on admissions committees.

How to Ask the Interviewer the Right Questions

Learn how to ask strategic, insightful questions during your interview that demonstrate your interest and help you determine if the company is the right fit for you.

Extracurriculars: Best Practices

Learn the best practices for showcasing your extracurriculars on your application, with tips for formatting, context, and standing out from the crowd.

Gap Year: Is It Right for You?

A comprehensive guide to the pros and cons of taking a gap year, with key questions to consider before making your decision.