Leland+ for College

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 Create A Competitive College Application

​College admissions are more competitive than ever, and standing out requires more than just good grades and test scores. In this session, Kirsten S. (Admissions Committee @ Princeton), William F. (Director of Graduate Admissions @ UPenn), and Skyler A. (Assistant Director of Admissions @ Northwestern) will break down how to craft a cohesive, authentic application that highlights your unique strengths and story. ​You’ll learn how to approach your essays, choose the right recommenders, showcase your extracurriculars, and tie everything together into a compelling narrative that resonates with admissions officers. Whether you’re just getting started or finalizing your materials, this event will give you practical strategies and insider insights to put forward your strongest possible college 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.

Best Career Paths To Pay Off Student Loans Fast

Student debt doesn’t have to define your financial future. In this workshop, Ben L. —a Stanford GSB alum, McKinsey consultant, and startup advisor—will share how to strategically choose and navigate career paths that maximize income, equity potential, and long-term financial freedom. Drawing on his experience across consulting, private equity, venture capital, startups, and public policy, Ben will break down which industries, roles, and career strategies offer the fastest routes to paying off loans while still aligning with your values and lifestyle goals. Whether you’re graduating soon, pursuing your MBA, or looking to pivot into a higher-paying path, this session will help you think critically about how to leverage your skills for both impact and financial independence. Space is limited, so RSVP to secure your spot. We’re excited to be on the career journey with you! And don’t forget to sign up for a free Leland account to stay in the loop for more free events, discounts, and career resources.

Before You Hit Submit: Tips to Make Your College App Shine

As deadlines approach, this workshop will walk you through the final steps that take a college application from good to unforgettable. Our expert panel will cover how to polish your essays, strengthen your storytelling, and make strategic last-minute tweaks that help you stand out in competitive pools. Meet Your Coaches: Jessica F. — Harvard alum with 30 years of experience helping students get into top schools through expert essay and application guidance. Liz C. — Duke MBA and storytelling specialist with an almost 100% BYU admit rate, known for elevating nontraditional and healthcare-focused applicants. Luzy G. — Harvard graduate with 4+ years of consulting experience whose students have been admitted to top universities—and who earned full-ride scholarships herself.

The Waitlist Strategy

A step-by-step guide on what to do after being waitlisted by a college, with strategies for writing a compelling Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) and maximizing your chances of admission.

Accepted Stanford Common Application Essay

This was my personal statement that got be accepted to Stanford

What is an Extracurricular List?

An overview of the extracurricular list, explaining its purpose in the application process and how it is used to showcase your unique passions, skills, and personal growth outside of the classroom.

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

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.

What You NEED to Know Before Submitting Your BYU App (From a Former Admissions Officer)

Get an inside look at how BYU evaluates applications from someone who used to help make the decisions. In this session, expert Leland coach and former BYU’s Admissions Committee Christian H. will break down what truly matters in your essays, activities, and recommendations—and what applicants often misunderstand. You’ll learn how to present your story with authenticity, avoid common red flags, and highlight the qualities BYU values most. Perfect for anyone who wants to maximize their chances before hitting “submit.”

Why is the Additional Info Essay Important?

An overview of why the optional "additional information" essay is a critical part of your application, with a focus on how to use it to provide context, explain special circumstances, and showcase your achievements.

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.

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: 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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.