Get College Essay Coaching
A college essay answers a big question: who are you? As a former philosophy instructor and professional writer, I can help your student answer with confidence. My goal is to ensure your student stands out, especially when applying to selective schools. From brainstorming ideas to revising a final draft, I guide your student through the process of writing a genuine and compelling personal statement. My big-picture approach helps students find their voice, empowering them to write something unique, eye-catching, and memorable—just what you need to wow admissions readers.
$250 per session
Background
Michael Lodato
Michael is a Brooklyn-based edutainment writer, private tutor, and award-winning philosophy instructor. His advice on college admissions has been featured by Crash Course and Level All. He is passionate about using humor to teach big ideas, contributing social commentary to YouTube channels like Wisecrack. His comedy has appeared in McSweeney’s, The American Bystander, and Current Affairs. Michael earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy with a minor in physics from Holy Cross and a master’s degree in philosophy from Indiana University - Bloomington.
College Admissions Services
College Essay Coaching
College essays have become an even more essential part of the college application in recent years. They are often the deciding factor in an application's acceptance because of their unique ability to set the student apart from other talented applicants. A weak essay is a major missed opportunity. The college essay is likely the first time that your student is writing about themselves professionally. That's why we provide a structured 5-step process that shows students exactly what they need to do each week, until they have a polished competitive essay they can be proud of.
Recommendation: 6 to 10 sessions to take an essay from brainstorming to final draft
Other Services
Gap Year Consulting
Gap years and college alternatives are becoming popular choices for high school grads. But how can you make sure your student has a productive year that sets them up for future success? That’s where we come in. With a gap year consultant, you can give your child the freedom to explore their interests under the umbrella of an organized project. In a year, they’ll walk away with not only real-world experience, but a tangible asset, like an op-ed, portfolio, or website.
Rate: $150 per session
Recommendation: 3 to 5 planning sessions followed by biweekly coaching through the year
Math Confidence Coaching
You’ve heard it before: “My kid’s just not a math person.” Not so. We believe any student can excel at math—it just requires patient coaching and expert support. Whether your student is preparing for the SAT, getting ready for finals, or just needs to hone their math skills, we can boost both their confidence and their ability in just a few sessions. I work with middle and high school as well as adut professionals looking to pivot careers or develop their mathematical thinking skills. Customers have referred to this service “office hours for people who want a deeper understanding of math” and “basically a form of math therapy.”
Rate: $120 per session
Recommendation: Weekly or more depending on your needs