PhD Admissions Consultants, Events, & Resources

I’m Laurisa, a PhD admissions coach with hands-on experience guiding students through the PhD application process. Having successfully navigated graduate school myself and coached students through every stage of application preparation, I know what it takes to stand out in a competitive pool. I specialize in helping applicants leverage their unique strengths, craft compelling statements, build polished CVs, and strategically select programs and faculty. If you want to submit confident, competitive applications that maximize your chances of acceptance, my coaching will give you the structure, clarity, and insider strategies you need to succeed. Working with me means you’re not just submitting applications, you’re presenting a cohesive, standout story that admissions committees can’t ignore. Let’s turn your applications into acceptances and get you into grad school!

Welcome to my profile! With a PhD in Experimental Surgery from McGill University (CIHR-Vanier Scholar) and a diverse educational background from prestigious institutions like Harvard and Imperial College London, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to my coaching. I hold a Masters of Science in Health Policy and Management from Harvard University (Harvard University and Aga Khan Foundation Scholarships), Graduate Diploma in Business Administration from Concordia University, Master of Public Health from Imperial College London (Chevening Scholarship) and a Medical degree from Ain Shams University. As the founder and CEO of Qalam Health Solutions, and with professional stints at Harvard Medical School and the World Health Organization, I have a deep understanding of the academic and research landscapes. Over the years, I've successfully coached 101 individuals, helping them navigate the complexities of PhD applications and research careers. Whether you need guidance on your research proposal, interview preparation, or overall application strategy, I'm here to help you achieve your academic goals. Let's connect and craft a plan for your success!

With a PhD in Developmental Psychology from Boston University and extensive research experience at institutions like Boston University, Princeton University, and Gallup, I bring a wealth of knowledge about developing research skills, applying these skills to real-world problems and scientific discovery, and building a successful research portfolio. Over the years, I have successfully guided 18 individuals through the rigorous PhD application process, helping them secure spots at top-tier programs and following up with them to advise on difficult problems during their PhD programs. My expertise spans experimental design in psychology, data analysis, and scientific writing, ensuring you present a compelling and well-rounded application if you are applying for PhD programs. If you are already in a PhD program and need guidance, I can help you too! I look forward to mentoring you to achieve your goals. Relying on my personal experiences, I especially enjoy working with first-generation students, international students, and students from a low income background.

I have a PhD from MIT in AI/ML and am currently a Banting Postdoctoral Fellow at Mila - Quebec AI Institute and Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard. I have won over $400,000 in fellowships and helped over 50 students get admitted into top universities (MIT, Stanford, Harvard, Caltech) while obtaining prestigious fellowships (Rhodes, Knight-Hennessy, etc.).

With a PhD from Stanford University focused on renewable energy and a postdoctoral research position at Columbia University, I bring a wealth of experience in academia and research to my coaching. Prior to these roles, I earned my MS at Stanford University and BS at Cornell University in environmental engineering. I have successfully mentored students through the PhD application process, research skills, and academic milestones, leveraging my extensive experience studying and working at top universities. If you're looking to navigate the PhD journey with expert guidance, feel free to reach out!

My own research into retention disparities for African American and Latino undergraduates cemented my commitment to equitable access and rigorous scholarship. I’ve served on admissions committees across master’s and doctoral programs, reviewed grant and scholarship applications, and presented retention methodologies at a UC system conference. That insider perspective helps me guide you through every facet of your PhD journey—from articulating novel research questions to securing funding. Having coached clients into PhD programs at top-tier institutions (including Oxford), I blend data-driven strategy with personalized narrative development. Together we’ll craft a cohesive application package, research proposal, CV, personal statement and interview prep, that highlights your intellectual promise and aligns with program expectations. With Morphy Strategy & Co’s proven framework and my hands-on experience, you’ll approach the process with confidence and clarity.

As a PhD candidate in chemistry at Stanford University, I know what it takes to gain admission to PhD programs and would love to help you achieve your academic goals. Only a few years ago, I was in your shoes. I entered my PhD application cycle unsure how I would stack up against my peers and ended the process with offers of admission from eight top-ranked chemistry PhD programs. This wasn't a solo effort -- I benefitted from an incredible support system of mentors and friends who helped me strategically frame my experiences to develop a compelling story. Since then, I have sought to do the same, coaching my friends and colleagues through the PhD admission process. I love helping aspiring scientists craft their narrative, highlight their strengths, and hone their application materials. Whether you need a guide to help you get started, a trained eye to read your statements, or something in between, I am excited to work with you!

Welcome to my profile! As a current MD/PhD candidate at Baylor College of Medicine, I bring a wealth of firsthand experience and knowledge to the PhD admissions process. My academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Genome Sciences/Genomics from Duke University, and I've since been deeply involved in research, including analyzing complex RNA-seq data in neurodegenerative disease models. In addition to my research background, I have extensive experience as an MCAT tutor with both Inspira Education and Manhattan Prep, where I've honed my skills in guiding students to achieve their academic goals. Whether you're looking to strengthen your application or need strategic advice on navigating the PhD admissions landscape, I'm here to help you succeed. Let's connect and craft a plan tailored to your aspirations!

As a current MD-PhD candidate at Stanford University School of Medicine, I bring a wealth of experience in both medical and scientific research. My journey includes co-founding SynaptoBoost, where I am actively involved in developing innovative therapeutics for Drug-Resistant Epilepsy. With a strong foundation in research from prestigious institutions like MIT and Stanford, I have honed my skills in identifying and analyzing complex biological interactions. I am passionate about guiding aspiring PhD candidates through the intricate application process, leveraging my firsthand experience and insights. Let's work together to craft a compelling application that showcases your unique strengths and potential. Reach out to start your journey towards a successful PhD application!

Greetings! I'm Dr. Tray Stuckey and I'm excited to your graduate/professional school and career success coach! With a Doctorate of Education from Northern Illinois University, over a decade of experience on the faculty at The Ohio State University, and 25 years of diverse higher education career experience in total, I bring a wealth of knowledge in navigating graduate education and education career development. I also have deep knowledge in my areas of focus: educational psychology, research methods, instructional design & technology and online teaching and learning. I have years of experience as a hiring manager in education and I have been actively involved in admissions decisions for graduate programs, providing me with a deep understanding of what academic institutions are looking for in graduate school applicants and career professional candidates. My experience includes mentoring new and advanced doctoral and master's students and helping them navigate the complexities of graduate school applications, program matriculation, academic coursework success, and thesis/dissertation completion. I also provide guidance with professional and personal goal-setting, self-regulation and time management, navigating complex interpersonal relationships (such as with advisors/committee), and securing employment in academic and non-academic settings. My experience as a working mother while completing my own graduate degrees, eight years of online teaching/remote work, and guiding "working professional" online graduate students gives me a unique perspective on balancing family, school, and work while also practicing self-care. Whether you need guidance on crafting a compelling research proposal, how to manage a difficult thesis/dissertation committee, or advice on interview preparation, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Let's work together to achieve your academic and career goals!