Physics Admissions Experts

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.

Welcome to my profile! With over 20 years of experience in higher education, I specialize in guiding students through the intricacies of graduate program applications. I help students craft compelling applications that highlight their unique strengths and goals. My background includes roles at Stanford University, where I coordinated programs for current and prospective graduate students and led diversity initiatives, giving me a deep understanding of what top programs look for in candidates. Whether you're just starting your application journey or need targeted advice, I'm here to help you succeed. I’d love to support your journey. Book a session today to see how I can help you reach your 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.

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!

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.

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!

With a Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Washington and extensive experience as a faculty member, academic administrator, writing advisor, and program director at UCLA and the University of Washington, I have a deep understanding of the academic landscape and the skills needed to get offers and succeed in graduate programs. Through my work with AnotherDegree.com, I assist graduate students and grad and professional school applicants to get the personalized mentorship they need to support their academic ambitions. I have directed competitive academic programs and created experiential learning courses that prepared thousands of students for graduate and professional school degrees. I received a Faculty Mentor Award through UCLA. Through my career I have taught and mentored 1000s of students to achieve their academic goals and attain funding and scholarships. As an independent business consultant and appointee to numerous selection committees, steering committees, and advisory groups for higher ed organizations, my knowledge of graduate school admissions practices is not limited to how things have been done, but how they are evolving. This gives me insights into what admissions committees are looking for in the next generation of scholars. My interdisciplinary academic background spans sociology, history, science and technology studies, and education studies. I’ve won several competitive fellowships, including awards from DAAD and FLAS, and bring extensive experience in archival research, comparative case studies, survey design, interviews, statistical analysis, and holistic program assessment. My approach is comprehensive, focusing on research skill-building, values reflection, professional development, and strategic application planning for getting you into the programs where you will thrive. In all my work, I’m committed to providing guidance that makes the “hidden curriculum” visible, democratizes access to knowledge production, and empowers diverse learners to navigate academic and non‑academic career pathways with clarity and confidence.

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 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.