USC PhD Candidate | College and Grad School Personal Statement tutor

Angela Z.

Hello! I am Angela. I graduated from UCLA with a B.S. in Mathematics and Computer Science. Currently, I'm a third year PhD student in Public Health / Epidemiology at the University of Southern California.

I have been accepted to many selective bachelor’s and graduate programs in Mathematics/Computer Science, Public Health and Epidemiology (Grad - John’s Hopkins, Grad - Columbia, Grad - USC, Undergrad - UCLA, Undergrad - UCSB Regents, Undergrad - UCSD). Applying to these schools made me realize that colleges do not expect you to be perfect in every aspect, but rather look for clear reasoning for why you've selected your chosen area. In addition to demonstrating your academic strengths, essays should show that you are a mature, thoughtful, and responsible individual.

As a tutor, I strive to work with each student as an individual: getting to know their strengths and weaknesses and helping them position themselves in the best possible light. It is my belief that each student has something unique to offer whether it be their academic strengths, their unique hobbies, their bold personality, or their strong moral character. To me, the college application process is simply about uncovering the characteristics that make you special and developing a clear, compelling narrative around them.

In terms of my qualifications, I previously mentored three undergraduate students in college essay writing with acceptances to USC (Biology), UCI, UCR, and CSUF (Occupational Therapy). Additionally, I have reviewed two graduate school applications which ultimately led to acceptances at UC Berkeley (EECS PhD) & MIT and a funded German LL.M. degree.

I am also experienced in academic writing and have published 6 peer-reviewed articles in academic journals.

I look forward to getting to know you and all the incredible things that make you, you!