Chemistry Admissions Coaches

I'm Abby, an expert PhD coach, specializing in STEM applications and programs including: Engineering, Math, Computer Science, Psychology, Natural Sciences and more. I have had success with over 50 applicants landing at top schools such as: Stanford, Harvard, Berkley, UMD, UCLA, Columbia, and more. I combine this insider knowledge with my extensive experience in both academia and industry to help applicants craft compelling narratives, highlight their strengths, and position themselves strategically for success. Whether you’re refining your statement of purpose, shaping your research direction, or preparing for interviews, I’ll guide you through every step with personalized, results-driven support.

Over the last six years, I have coached hundreds of students at a large R1 institution, guiding them as they prepare for graduate and medical school applications. I work with applicants from personal statement ideation all the way through decision making and I can't wait to do the same with you. Whether you're applying for the first time or reapplying and need a fresh take on your application, I'm confident that my coaching experience will be an asset to you. My approach centers around making meaning of your experiences, helping you to find the connections to your future goals, and translating those in a way that will resonate with the admissions committee. Let's work together to help you achieve your goals!

Welcome to my profile! With over a decade of experience in graduate admissions at Stanford University, including roles in the School of Engineering and School of Education, I bring a wealth of knowledge to help you navigate the PhD application process. As a former Director of Graduate Admissions, I have reviewed thousands of applications and understand what top programs are looking for. Since 2013, I have been an independent consultant, successfully guiding 200+ clients to prestigious programs across the US, Canada, and the UK. My personalized approach ensures that your application stands out. Let's work together to craft a compelling application that showcases your unique strengths and aspirations. Reach out to start your journey towards a successful PhD application!

Welcome to my profile! With a PhD in German from Harvard University and decades of working with young adults seeking admission to graduate programs, I bring a wealth of academic and advisory experience to my coaching. As the Associate Dean for Fellowships and Research at a top-tier college, I have advised application processes for nationally competitive fellowships and graduate programs, helping students navigate the complexities of MA and PhD applications. My extensive background in academia, including teaching and administrative roles, equips me with the insights needed to guide you through your graduate admissions journey. Whether you need help with application strategy, research proposals, or interview preparation, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Let's connect and make your aspirations a reality!

Welcome to my profile! I'm a Stanford postdoc and a UW-Madison PhD student with a passion for chemistry research and teaching. I'm always mentoring in the lab as well as in formal mentoring programs throughout my undergrad, PhD, and postdoc experiences, and with my own experience being admitted to 10 top tier PhD programs I bring a wealth of experience to my coaching practice. Whether you need assistance with personal statements, research proposals, or interview prep, I'm here to help you succeed. Let's connect and chart a path to your academic goals!

I'm one of the very few STEM-focused college and graduate school admission counselors with a bona fide STEM PhD and career of my own. Because I've accomplished what my students are seeking, my students tend to respect and listen to my advice. I understand STEM students far better than any generic coach. I know the application and application review process inside-out and I'm an award-winning writer who makes my students' personal and statement of purpose essays shine with authentic, attention-grabbing narratives. My additional "unfair advantage" is my massive network of STEM professionals, including professors, hiring managers, scientists and engineers of all stripes. I have over 900 first-degree connections in LinkedIn. Most are people I've actually worked with. I frequently leverage my network to enhance my coaching. I make introductions for students and get my colleagues' perspectives and opinions about what makes the most sense for my students in their specific circumstances.

I help you navigate competitive research and graduate admissions with the strategy of a former MIT Dean—drawing on 20+ years of experience at MIT, Harvard, and beyond. I’ve reviewed thousands of applications, led national summer programs like MIT’s MSRP, and managed multi-million dollar fellowship portfolios. My clients come for the insider insight—but stay for the clear, structured, and trauma-informed support I provide through every high-stakes step. What I help with: • School & Program Lists: Targeting REUs and PhD programs with strong faculty fit, research alignment, and funding potential. • Competitive Statements: Crafting personal and research essays that show you’re a peer-in-training—not just a promising student. • Securing Offers: Strategy for landing top-tier REUs (MSRP, Amgen, Big Ten/Ivy+) and fully funded doctoral programs. • Interviews & Outreach: Preparing for faculty conversations with confidence and self-advocacy. • Sustainable Success: Managing imposter syndrome, burnout, and lab politics—so you can thrive once you’re in. The proof? I’ve been cited in over 20 doctoral dissertations for coaching that helped students not just persist, but succeed on their own terms. Whether you’re applying to your first REU or pursuing a PhD with purpose, I’ll help you take your next step with clarity, strategy, and care.

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!

I've been tutoring students from K-10, college, masters, and doctoral programs for the past decade. I provide writing and analytical support services, providing expertise with college admissions essays and resumes.

I hold an MBA and a Master of Engineering Management, have worked in corporate strategy, proposals, and program execution, and am actively pursuing a PhD in systems engineering. That combination allows me to evaluate doctoral paths with the same rigor applied to business decisions. I understand admissions, research fit, advisor selection, funding structures, and publication expectations, and I can translate those requirements into language familiar to professionals accustomed to performance reviews, deliverables, and promotion criteria. This is based on direct experience aligning corporate skills, prior credentials, and research agendas into a doctoral trajectory.