Leland+ for College

Supplemental Essays: What Not To Do

Avoid the most common mistakes on your supplemental essays and learn how to write a compelling narrative that is specific to the school and prompt.

Cracking the Common App: A College Admissions Panel

The Common App can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to tackle it alone. ​Join this session with Isamar V., former Assistant Director of Admissions at Stanford University, and Raina M., a Cornell University student. We’ll break down key parts of the application, offer guidance on how to approach each section strategically, and share insights to help your application stand out. ​From personal statements to activity lists and supplemental essays, this panel will offer practical tips, common pitfalls to avoid, and advice to help you move forward with confidence, wherever you are in the process.

Networking Follow-Up Strategies

The following tool is designed to offer ideas on how to follow-up with networking contacts after initial conversation to maintain relationship.

Stanford University Admit: Excited to Learn Essay Example

Read a short essay that got me into Stanford based on this 2024 prompt: The Stanford community is deeply curious and driven to learn in and out of the classroom. Reflect on an idea or experience that makes you genuinely excited about learning.

Best Practices for Supplemental Essays

Master the art of supplemental essays with expert tips and strategies for crafting compelling, authentic responses that strengthen your application.

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.

Oxford Personal Statement Example

A deep dive into an impactful Oxford personal statement. Learn how to craft a compelling narrative that showcases your personal experiences and analytical skills.

Blank Page to Clear Outline: Get Unstuck on Your Personal Essay

​Feeling stuck on your personal essay? You're not alone. Trust, you are not the only senior who keeps putting off writing their application essay. You're sure you'll be able to finish once you start. You just need to put something - anything - on the page, but going from 0 to 1 feels harder than going from 1 to 100. And advice like "just start!", "show who you are," "brainstorm some ideas," isn't working, right? ​Join Isamar V., a former Stanford admissions officer and college application coach, in this workshop where she will guide you as you complete 3 exercises to go from a blank page to a clear essay outline in 1 hour. Get your pen and paper (or laptop) ready because this isn't just a lecture. You are going to put in the work in this workshop. ​If you have no idea what you want to write about --> You'll leave with several ideas, topics, and stories to choose from If you have an idea or story but don't know if it's good --> You'll leave with personal reflections to make it good If you have a story that you're excited about, but just haven't sat down to write --> You'll leave with an outline If you already have an outline, but just no written draft --> You'll have a dedicated hour to write ​You'll also get some tips for how to go from outline to a first written draft. Whether you're just starting or need a fresh perspective, the goal for you is to feel unstuck and excited to write your story.

Activity List for the Common App [Prep Template]

Activity List for the Common App [Prep Template]

Stanford University Admit: Letter to Rommate Example

Read a short essay that got me into Stanford based on this 2024 prompt: Virtually all of Stanford's undergraduates live on campus. Write a note to your future roommate that reveals something about you or that will help your roommate – and us – get to know you better.

Extracurricular List 1: Example & Analysis

A detailed breakdown and analysis of a successful extracurricular list, with tips for showcasing your unique experiences and achievements.

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.

Why is the Extracurricular Section Important?

An overview of why the extracurricular section is a vital part of your application, with a focus on how it showcases your passions, time management skills, and potential contributions to the campus community.

Awards & Honors: An Overview

Learn how to effectively showcase your achievements on your application, with tips for formatting, context, and standing out.

BYU Activities Example Essay - Piano

An essay responding to BYU application prompt about extracurricular activities, detailing a long-term commitment to piano and the lessons it taught about perseverance.

Additional Info Application Example: Turning Your Passions into a Resume

Learn how to transform your passions and accomplishments into a powerful 'additional information' document that makes your application unforgettable.

Ask a Former Adcom: How to Get Into BYU

A former BYU admissions officer breaks down the holistic review process and shares what they're really looking for in applications.

Stanford University Admit: Distinctive Contribution Example

Read a short essay that got me into Stanford based on this 2024 prompt: Please describe what aspects of your life experiences, interests and character would help you make a distinctive contribution as an undergraduate to Stanford University.

Application Power Hour: Standout Resume, Essay, & Recommendation Tips

Applying to college or graduate school can feel overwhelming - but with the right approach, you can make every part of your application shine. In this power-packed hour, you’ll learn how to: - Build a resume that shows who you are and what you’ve accomplished. - Write an essay that’s authentic and memorable. - Secure letters of recommendation that strengthen your story. Whether you’re just getting started or polishing your final draft, this session will give you the tools and confidence to submit your strongest application.

"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.