Video Transcript

When I was applying for residency, I asked my chair to review my personal statement. He handed it back to me and said, “This will not distinguish you from the competition.” I worked on his feedback, and when he saw my final version, his eyes lit up and he said, this is perfect. Submit this.

I ended up being recruited by some of the top residency programs in the country and I matched at my dream program at Stanford Anesthesia.

An outstanding personal statement will push your application to stand out and be memorable to the selection committee.

Now the question is how?

As your essay coach, I focus on building human connection through effective storytelling so that the relationship shifts from interview/applicant to creating a human bond. 

In addition, as an academic physician, I know what characteristics and personality traits I want in a trainee. I will work with you to identify which of your stories are most effective in highlighting your promise for success in your desired field.

As a writer, I can coach you to inspire emotion using your unique voice.

One of my essays was published in JAMA’s creative writing section, A Piece of My Mind. JAMA’s editor in chief said he had never read an essay like mine, and after its publication, I received emails and letters from readers around the world on how my essay had touched them.

Let me give you examples of how I work with my students. For the vast majority of students, their first draft looks a lot like my first draft. It’s not enough to distinguish them from their peers.

In these cases, I’m looking for their most compelling story. I ask personal questions, I look through the CV, and when we find that story, it’s fireworks. As I edit the story, I’m also looking for opportunities for my students to add details and secondary stories that improve the flow, cohesiveness, and emotional impact of the essay.

It is a privilege to support my students, knowing that a high impact personal statement will get them one step closer to their dream. The feedback I received on my personal statement completely changed the trajectory of my life. And I want to do the same for you.