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.

BYU Activities Example Essay - Leadership through United Sound

An essay responding to the BYU applicatino prompt about extracurricular activities, detailing participation in United Sound and how it developed leadership and communication skills.

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.

BYU "Tell Us Your Story" Example Essay - Listening

An essay responding to the prompt to "tell us your story," focusing on the importance of listening and understanding diverse perspectives to contribute to the community.

The Amy Approach: A Real Talk Guide to Picking the Right College

A step-by-step guide to picking the right college.

Unlocking Your Story for BYU Essay #4

This worksheet will help you turn your “ordinary” experiences into powerful stories and give you 2–3 solid essay ideas.

Developing a Winning College Application

​In this session, join Christine B. (former admissions officer with 25+ years experience) as she discusses key elements that make a college application sing. From developing your personal story, determining your essay topic, highlighting your achievements and community engagement, and getting the most out of your recommender. We will discuss the pillars of what schools are looking for in their students, and how to differentiate yourself from the competitive applicant pool.

Planning for and Succeeding in the College Scholarship Process

Learn how to find, apply for, and win college scholarships. We break down the entire process to help you get the funding you need for school.

BYU "Tell Us Your Story" Example Essay: Physical Difference

An essay responding to the BYU application prompt to "tell us your story," sharing a personal experience of growing up with a physical difference and what it taught about self-acceptance.

"Why BYU?" Example Essay - Camp Experience

An essay responding to the prompt about why the student wants to learn at BYU, connecting a transformative camp experience to the university's spiritually strengthening environment.

BYU "Significant Needs in the Community" Example Essay - Coaching

An essay responding to the BYU application prompt about significant needs in the community, detailing how the student coached a youth basketball team to help improve local sports.

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.

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.

UC Berkeley Essay: Crafting a Personal Narrative

A deep dive into a successful UC Berkeley essay. Learn how to craft a compelling personal narrative that highlights your experiences and gets you accepted.

The Stanford Essays That Got Me Accepted

A deep dive into the essays that earned a spot at Stanford. Learn how to craft a compelling narrative that stands out to admissions committees.

UC Essay Examples

A deep dive into the essays that earned a spot at a top UC school. Learn how to craft a compelling narrative that stands out to admissions committees.

Ask Me Anything with a Former Stanford Admissions Officer

Join me for an Ask Me Anything (AMA) session to get answers to your college admissions questions. I'm Isamar, a former Stanford Admissions Officer, a Harvard grad, proud first-generation college graduate, and an experienced college admissions coach. With years working with students from all backgrounds, including US-based, international, and first-generation applicants, I'm here to help you navigate the college admissions process. My goal is to provide thoughtful, empathetic, and strategic guidance. Whether you're a high school student or parent, don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from a seasoned professional.

What To Think About When Thinking About College

These questions will help guide you in thinking about your college(s) "Fit." It's important to think about what matters to you outside the classroom, too, because most of your time at college is spent there.

High School Resume Example for Top CS College Apps

Sample resume for high school student

Proven Brainstorming Q's to Ace Your College Essay

Effective questions to help you create a college admissions essay that will open doors for you.