Case Studies
Emma Rose
Walnut Creek, CA
3.73 GPA
ACCEPTED
UC Davis School of Pharmacy
UCSF PharmD Program
USC School of Pharmacy
KEY BREAKTHROUGH
Emma Rose learned to trust her instincts over external expectations, giving her confidence to apply to programs where she saw herself thriving.
Laser-focused on pharmacy tech - a booming field. Backed by hands-on experience: a CVS internship, ample hospital volunteer work, and more.
IMPROVEMENT AREAS
Perfectionism bordering on paralysis. Too focused on pleasing authority figures.
APPROACH
We spotlighted her piano journey - not just the dedication, but the wisdom to let go. This narrative revealed Emma's depth and adaptability.
Ella
San Mateo, CA
GPA: 3.76
From a family of STEM nerds, Ella emerged an artistic rebel with a gaming obsession.
ACCEPTED
Ringling
SCAD
Otis College of Art and Design
and more.
KEY BREAKTHROUGH
Ella learned to trust her instincts over external expectations, giving her confidence to apply to programs where she saw herself thriving.
GREATEST STRENGTHS
Split between Silicon Valley's pulse and Normandy's shores, Ella leveraged her . Her essays wove California's bold innovation with France's rich history.
GREATEST WEAKNESS
Initially hesitant to claim her spotlight, Ella struggled to own her narrative.
APPROACH
Once unleashed, Ella's creativity exploded. Between a reworked portfolio and a host of inspiring essays:
- UCLA: A meditation on how coming in last on a family skiing trip catalyzed Ella to understand the secret superpower of being the youngest sibling.
- COMMON APP ESSAY: Reflecting on how gaming became a core family ritual, Ella charts her growth from spectator to master player, and narrates the complexities of her siblings leaving the nest before her.