Engineering Admissions Coaches

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!

I have a passion for mentoring aspiring PhD candidates, helping them navigate the complexities of the application process and secure positions at top institutions. Whether you need guidance on crafting a compelling research proposal or advice on interview preparation, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Having gone through the recent admissions process, I am well-versed in achieving successful applications to graduate programs in both the US and UK. I am aware how to structure applicant's experiences to provide clarity to admissions readers, how to curate dedicated PhD research proposals, and how to deduce which of your experiences will best distinguish your candidacy. On top of essay and proposal refinement, I will also offer my expertise in curating your academic CV and drafting emails to your recommenders to optimise your chances of success.

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 a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Michigan and extensive experience in medical education, I am well-equipped to guide you through the Ph.D. application process. As a Medical School Admissions Advisor at MedSchoolCoach, I have honed my skills in application strategy, essay editing, and interview preparation, helping numerous students achieve their academic goals. My background as an Acting Assistant Professor at the University of Washington and an Instructor at Stanford University School of Medicine further enriches my ability to provide insightful and personalized coaching. Whether you're looking to refine your application or need comprehensive support, I'm here to help you succeed. Let's connect and craft a plan tailored to your aspirations!

Welcome to my profile! With a Master's degree from Stanford University and experience as an Alumni Interviewer, I have a deep understanding of what top-tier institutions are looking for in PhD candidates. My professional journey includes serving as a Global HR Business Partner and Chief of Staff, where I honed my skills in strategic planning and leadership. I am passionate about helping aspiring PhD candidates craft compelling applications that highlight their unique strengths and research potential. Whether you need guidance on your statement of purpose, research proposal, or interview preparation, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Let's connect and work together to achieve 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.

Welcome to my profile! As a current PhD candidate in Mechanical Engineering at Columbia University, I bring a deep understanding of the academic journey and the challenges faced by aspiring doctoral students. My experience as a ROOTS Mentor with Black Ivy has equipped me with the skills to guide high school students through the undergraduate application process, providing personalized advice and feedback. Additionally, my research experience at Stanford University, where I worked on cutting-edge technology in solar cell efficiency, has honed my ability to tackle complex problems and innovate solutions. I am passionate about helping others navigate their academic paths and achieve their goals. If you're looking for guidance on your PhD applications or research endeavors, feel free to reach out!

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.

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.).