Leland+ for College

Crafting a Winning Narrative: A Former Admissions Officer and Stanford Graduate Break Down Elite College Admissions

Elite college admissions are driven by story, not just stats, and knowing how admissions officers read applications can transform how you present yourself. In this session, a former admissions officer and Stanford graduate will break down how top schools evaluate candidates, what makes a narrative feel authentic and compelling, and how to connect your experiences, values, and goals into a cohesive story across essays, activities, and recommendations. You’ll learn how to avoid common pitfalls, highlight impact and growth, and position yourself in a way that resonates with highly selective admissions committees.

The "Why?" Essay

A guide to mastering the "Why this school?" or "Why this major?" essay, with strategies for showcasing genuine interest, specific research, and a compelling connection between you and the institution.

International Students & US Master's Admissions

Learn what Admissions Committees in the US look for in your graduate application.

Business and Engineering Cover Letter Template

Need to submit a cover letter for your application? This one earned offers at huge aerospace & business firms!

The Informative Essay

An in-depth guide to writing an informative essay, with strategies for providing essential context, highlighting unique experiences, and showcasing your authentic self to admissions committees.

Mastering the Verbal SAT: Key Techniques for Every Question Type

​Struggling with tricky SAT verbal questions? Want to boost your Reading and Writing scores with proven strategies? In this session, expert coach Jessica F. will walk you through the exact techniques top scorers use to approach every question type with confidence. ​By the end, you’ll have a toolkit of practical strategies to tackle the Verbal SAT section with clarity and confidence—no matter your starting score.

Driver or Passenger? Taking Control of the College Admissions Process 

The college admissions process can be daunting, but adopting a driver's mindset can make the difference between your dreams and disappointment. In this session, Harvard educated college admissions advisor Jessica F. discusses how to cultivate the essential qualities of leadership, curiosity, character and impact by moving from the passenger seat into the driver's seat. Did you join the debate club or start a debate program for middle-schoolers in underserved areas? Are you choosing colleges because they're prestigious or because you've found your matches? Are you taking classes you should or love? Do your essays use passive or active language? From a high level to specific details, this session will give you valuable tools to help you successfully navigate the college application process to achieve your dreams. Jessica F. has been holistically guiding students through the college application process for thirty years. She's helped students earn perfect scores, write brilliant essays, craft winning narratives and gain admission to the likes of Harvard, Stanford, Brown, Dartmouth, Yale and many more top colleges. She'd love to support you too!

Frequently Asked Questions About Resume Writing

Many people have asked me a set of questions frequently. These questions will answer some of your questions quickly!

Application Timeline Tracker Template

I created this template to help you use your time effectively while applying to college! Check out a video I made explaining how to use it here: https://www.joinleland.com/content/item/urn:contentEntry:6946127756b5b2f63a8db7f6?fromName=College

Application Timeline Walkthrough & Example

In this video I will be walking you through a customizable college application timeline tracker template that I created for you. Check it out and good luck on your applications! Link: https://www.joinleland.com/content/item/urn:contentEntry:694612235b381540d85002f6?fromName=College

Strategies for Crushing the New HBS Essays

​The Harvard Business School essays have changed—and so has the strategy you’ll need to stand out. In this workshop, Leland coach Andy P. will walk you through proven approaches for tackling the new prompts with clarity and impact. ​You’ll learn how to identify the stories that best showcase your leadership, values, and potential, while avoiding common pitfalls that weaken otherwise strong applications. Andy will also share practical tips for structuring your essays, weaving a cohesive narrative across your application, and highlighting the qualities HBS is really looking for. Whether you’re just getting started or refining a draft, this session will equip you with actionable strategies to make your essays rise to the top.

From Strong to Unforgettable: Crafting Essays That Break Into the Ivies

Applying to college can feel overwhelming—but with the right strategy, your application can truly stand out. In this workshop, Abigail L.—a Harvard-educated admissions consultant who has guided 600+ students to top schools including Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Stanford, and MIT—will share what sets successful applicants apart.

Honors List for the Common App [Prep Template]

Use the sheet (or the Google Sheets version) to draft your honors descriptions. Check your character count & list order before you paste to the app!

Example of a Complete Vanderbilt Application

Learn how to craft a winning application for Vanderbilt University. This guide covers essays, letters of recommendation, and more to get you accepted.

FAFSA 101

​Leland is excited to partner with CareerVillage to host this free event on navigating FAFSA! Paying for college or graduate school starts with understanding financial aid—and that means knowing how to navigate the FAFSA. In this session, Leland coach Loubna B., who has years of experience guiding students through competitive admissions and funding opportunities, will walk you through the FAFSA process step by step. ​You’ll learn how to complete the application accurately, avoid common mistakes, and maximize your eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing your FAFSA, this session will give you the clarity and confidence you need to take control of your financial aid journey.

New SAT: Angles Question

A review of alternate-interior angles for the SAT.

How to Stand Out as a Computer Science Major

Learn why Computer Science has become one of the toughest majors to enter, and get actionable strategies to make your application rise above the crowd

New SAT: Functions Question

A review of how functions work for the SAT.

AFOQT Math Formulas Sheet

You don’t need to memorize hundreds of formulas — you need to understand when and why to use each one.

MBA Recommender Packets

A step-by-step playbook for setting up recommenders for success and turning your recommenders into your strongest advocates.