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Shelley L.

Job and School Interview Coach - In just one hour, you'll be prepared!

Job and School Interview Coach - In just one hour, you'll be prepared!

$75/hour

4.9 (136 ratings)

  • 753 hours tutoring

  • Santa Monica Santa Monica, CA 90403

"Great Tutor!"

Janet, 6 lessons with Shelley

See Shelley L.’s schedule

Response time: 6 hours

About Shelley

Bio

Over the years I've been successful in preparing adults and teens for job and school interviews. Every adult I've prepped has gotten the job, and many of my students have gained admission to the schools of their dreams.

If you're worried about your interview, you are not alone. Since Americans are more afraid of public speaking than they are of dying, it's likely that almost everyone is uncomfortable and somewhat lost facing an interview. In fact, many highly qualified candidates can't...

Over the years I've been successful in preparing adults and teens for job and school interviews. Every adult I've prepped has gotten the job, and many of my students have gained admission to the schools of their dreams.

If you're worried about your interview, you are not alone. Since Americans are more afraid of public speaking than they are of dying, it's likely that almost everyone is uncomfortable and somewhat lost facing an interview. In fact, many highly qualified candidates can't get past the interview stage; I can help you to get to that next step. I prepare you for what you'll face and how to deal with it. We'll "rehearse" the interview. I'll give you many tips as to what to expect and what you need to do to ace this important meeting.

My other coaching specialty is working with graduate and undergraduate students, particularly when writing the essays for applications to schools, for scholarships and for special programs. (Please check the testimonials below.)

Also, I love editing and proofreading, be it a college paper, an application to a special program, a proposal, a dissertation, a screeenplay, or your college admission personal statement. When I review a draft, you'll receive a red-lined and a clean copy back to you. They'll include writing tips, questions and suggestions. An added plus when we work together is that you'll come away with simple yet helpful writing tips. Today it's a given that the most important skill for success in college and in your career, is the quality of your writing.

As a college essay tutor, I'm proud to say my students have gone on to Berkeley, Colorado College, Johns Hopkins, NYU, Oberlin, Pratt Institute, Santa Clara, Sarah Lawrence, Stanford (early action), UCLA, UC San Diego, University of Virginia, University Honors College at the University of Pittsburgh, University of Texas at Austin, University of Puget Sound, Yale (early action) and many other wonderful schools.

I've taught Advanced Screenwriting at USC, Business and Personal Writing at DeVry University, high school English, and Public Speaking and Acting for adults. I lead college essay writing workshops as well as memoir writing workshops. As a member of the Writers Guild of America, East, I consult with professional writers as well. I hold two Master's degrees, an MFA in Directing and an MS in Communication Arts and Sciences, and an Academy Award for Best Live Action Short which I wrote, directed and produced.

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Education

Queens College, City University of New York
Communication Arts
Queens College, City University of New York
Masters
American Film Institute Conservatory, Los Angeles, CA
Masters

Policies

  • Hourly rate: $75
  • Rate details: Group rates available. Rising seniors - this summer, get friends together for a College Essay Writing group so personal statements and supplemental essays are completed before the fall semester.
  • Tutor’s lessons: In-person and online
  • Travel policy: Within 30 miles of Santa Monica, CA 90403
  • Lesson cancellation: 5 hours notice required

  • Background check passed on 11/9/2014

  • Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Schedule

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Subjects

Art

Film,

Film

I am a member of the Writers Guild of America, Directors Guild of America and Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Happily, I received an M.F.A from The American Film Institute, and managed to win the Academy Award for Best Live Action Short for my AFI film. I've taught acting in various New York schools and Advanced Screenwriting at USC. Often I prepare applicants for film schools by coaching them through their essays and helping them ace their interviews through "rehearsals." Needless to say, it's a joy for me pay forward all the instruction and support I've received.
Theater

Theater

I have written and directed plays as well as directed episodic television. I have won major awards in the entertainment industry.

Business

Career Development,

Career Development

As a speech coach and an Oscar winning director, I have "rehearsed" many adults before they face job interviews, school interviews and auditions. I have been astounded every time I coach someone at how quickly their presentation improves. In addition, I've also found that even the most talented and brightest of applicants is often unaware of what interviewers look for, appreciate and expect. That is why I find this work incredibly rewarding and stimulating.
Public Speaking

Public Speaking

I have a Bachelor and Master's degree in Speech and have taught public speaking to adults (businessmen and politicians) as well as to high school students. I have personally spoken at very large gatherings where I feel very comfortable.

Corporate Training

Career Development,

Career Development

As a speech coach and an Oscar winning director, I have "rehearsed" many adults before they face job interviews, school interviews and auditions. I have been astounded every time I coach someone at how quickly their presentation improves. In addition, I've also found that even the most talented and brightest of applicants is often unaware of what interviewers look for, appreciate and expect. That is why I find this work incredibly rewarding and stimulating.
Proofreading,

Proofreading

Having taught English at the high school and college level, and as a member of the Writers Guild of America, proofreading comes very easily to me. The novelist James Michener said, "I am not a very good writer but I am an excellent rewriter." I totally get that; it is only with editing that I am able to write well. What is more, I think this is true for everyone. This is why I find proofreading satisfying. I also act as consultant to professors and professional writers.
Public Speaking

Public Speaking

I have a Bachelor and Master's degree in Speech and have taught public speaking to adults (businessmen and politicians) as well as to high school students. I have personally spoken at very large gatherings where I feel very comfortable.

Elementary Education

Vocabulary

English

English,

English

I guess I've spent my entire career teaching English in some capacity. For fourteen years, I was a high school English teacher who taught not only the required courses but many electives such as Journalism, Film and Television, and Speech. I moved on from there to teach Advanced Screenwriting at USC and Personal and Business Writing at DeVry University. For the past few years, I've conducted writing workshops; Memoir Writing for adults and College Essay Writing for high school seniors. Also, I act as consultant to professional writers and am a member of the Writers Guild of America. I suppose my greatest strength as a teacher is that I never repeat a lesson. I am able to create the right example, the perfect assignment and the most authentic critique on the spot -- this is how my mind works. That is why I find my work so exciting and still a lot of fun.
Proofreading,

Proofreading

Having taught English at the high school and college level, and as a member of the Writers Guild of America, proofreading comes very easily to me. The novelist James Michener said, "I am not a very good writer but I am an excellent rewriter." I totally get that; it is only with editing that I am able to write well. What is more, I think this is true for everyone. This is why I find proofreading satisfying. I also act as consultant to professors and professional writers.
Public Speaking,

Public Speaking

I have a Bachelor and Master's degree in Speech and have taught public speaking to adults (businessmen and politicians) as well as to high school students. I have personally spoken at very large gatherings where I feel very comfortable.
Writing,

Writing

Years as a high school Speech, Film and Drama teacher, followed by work as a college Screenwriting and Essay Writing instructor, taught me how to teach writing, but my next career as a writer/director gave me the gift of editing, the key to exceptional writing. I'm pleased to add that I'm a member of the Writers Guild of America, East, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Directors Guild of America, and the winner of the Academy Award for Best Live Action Short, which I wrote, directed and produced. With all that experience, I've passed onto my students simple techniques to improve their writing skills, often marveling at how fast their work transforms. Since performance in college and beyond is dependent on the quality of one's writing, I know my work, and that of my colleagues, is important.
Vocabulary

Homeschool

English,

English

I guess I've spent my entire career teaching English in some capacity. For fourteen years, I was a high school English teacher who taught not only the required courses but many electives such as Journalism, Film and Television, and Speech. I moved on from there to teach Advanced Screenwriting at USC and Personal and Business Writing at DeVry University. For the past few years, I've conducted writing workshops; Memoir Writing for adults and College Essay Writing for high school seniors. Also, I act as consultant to professional writers and am a member of the Writers Guild of America. I suppose my greatest strength as a teacher is that I never repeat a lesson. I am able to create the right example, the perfect assignment and the most authentic critique on the spot -- this is how my mind works. That is why I find my work so exciting and still a lot of fun.
Writing

Writing

Years as a high school Speech, Film and Drama teacher, followed by work as a college Screenwriting and Essay Writing instructor, taught me how to teach writing, but my next career as a writer/director gave me the gift of editing, the key to exceptional writing. I'm pleased to add that I'm a member of the Writers Guild of America, East, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Directors Guild of America, and the winner of the Academy Award for Best Live Action Short, which I wrote, directed and produced. With all that experience, I've passed onto my students simple techniques to improve their writing skills, often marveling at how fast their work transforms. Since performance in college and beyond is dependent on the quality of one's writing, I know my work, and that of my colleagues, is important.

Most Popular

English,

English

I guess I've spent my entire career teaching English in some capacity. For fourteen years, I was a high school English teacher who taught not only the required courses but many electives such as Journalism, Film and Television, and Speech. I moved on from there to teach Advanced Screenwriting at USC and Personal and Business Writing at DeVry University. For the past few years, I've conducted writing workshops; Memoir Writing for adults and College Essay Writing for high school seniors. Also, I act as consultant to professional writers and am a member of the Writers Guild of America. I suppose my greatest strength as a teacher is that I never repeat a lesson. I am able to create the right example, the perfect assignment and the most authentic critique on the spot -- this is how my mind works. That is why I find my work so exciting and still a lot of fun.
Writing

Writing

Years as a high school Speech, Film and Drama teacher, followed by work as a college Screenwriting and Essay Writing instructor, taught me how to teach writing, but my next career as a writer/director gave me the gift of editing, the key to exceptional writing. I'm pleased to add that I'm a member of the Writers Guild of America, East, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Directors Guild of America, and the winner of the Academy Award for Best Live Action Short, which I wrote, directed and produced. With all that experience, I've passed onto my students simple techniques to improve their writing skills, often marveling at how fast their work transforms. Since performance in college and beyond is dependent on the quality of one's writing, I know my work, and that of my colleagues, is important.

Other

College Counseling

College Counseling

First, you will want to know that my students have gone on to Berkeley, Colorado College, Johns Hopkins, NYU, Oberlin, Pepperdine, Pratt Institute, Santa Clara, Sarah Lawrence, Stanford (early action), UCLA, University of Oxford, UC San Diego, University of Virginia, University Honors College at the University of Pittsburgh, University of Puget Sound, University of Wisconsin, Yale (early action) and many other wonderful schools. When I work with you on your college application essays, my goal is to help you write attention-getting, authentic and meaningful essays. Ultimately, we are looking for a result that makes clear what your contribution to the college will be. Are you an out-of-the-box thinker, a humanitarian, a problem solver, an ethicist, an entrepreneur? The challenge you face is to show and not tell the admissions officer what your gift is; this is where I am best able to help you. We need to find that one specific story that clearly demonstrates who you are. A challenging task but well worth the effort! When possible, I urge you to spend time on the supplemental essays as well. They too must be well-written, otherwise the admissions officer thinks you may have received too much outside help if the quality of the writing varies. My students have been successful because my prompts inevitably produce original work, and my numerous and simple tips for writing insure quick and impressive results. . Finally, I urge rising seniors to consider working on the personal statements and supplementals during the summer since the fall semester requires you to focus on good grades, SAT scores, obtaining recommendations, completing volunteer hours and of course, applying to colleges! If you can remove one important task from the list, it will help you. And quality time spent on the essays often pays off down the line. Also, the sooner you get in your applications, the better your chances for admission. Note: Though I work one-on-one with applicants, I have found that a group of friends working together is just as successful, more fun and less expensive.

Science

Psychology

Special Needs

Speech

Speech

I majored in Speech in undergraduate and graduate schools and therefore hold two degrees in the subject. I taught Public Speaking at the high school level and also at a professional school for adults interested in improving their public speaking abilities. We worked with politicians and business people for the most part.

Summer

Writing

Writing

Years as a high school Speech, Film and Drama teacher, followed by work as a college Screenwriting and Essay Writing instructor, taught me how to teach writing, but my next career as a writer/director gave me the gift of editing, the key to exceptional writing. I'm pleased to add that I'm a member of the Writers Guild of America, East, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Directors Guild of America, and the winner of the Academy Award for Best Live Action Short, which I wrote, directed and produced. With all that experience, I've passed onto my students simple techniques to improve their writing skills, often marveling at how fast their work transforms. Since performance in college and beyond is dependent on the quality of one's writing, I know my work, and that of my colleagues, is important.

Test Preparation

Career Development,

Career Development

As a speech coach and an Oscar winning director, I have "rehearsed" many adults before they face job interviews, school interviews and auditions. I have been astounded every time I coach someone at how quickly their presentation improves. In addition, I've also found that even the most talented and brightest of applicants is often unaware of what interviewers look for, appreciate and expect. That is why I find this work incredibly rewarding and stimulating.
College Counseling

College Counseling

First, you will want to know that my students have gone on to Berkeley, Colorado College, Johns Hopkins, NYU, Oberlin, Pepperdine, Pratt Institute, Santa Clara, Sarah Lawrence, Stanford (early action), UCLA, University of Oxford, UC San Diego, University of Virginia, University Honors College at the University of Pittsburgh, University of Puget Sound, University of Wisconsin, Yale (early action) and many other wonderful schools. When I work with you on your college application essays, my goal is to help you write attention-getting, authentic and meaningful essays. Ultimately, we are looking for a result that makes clear what your contribution to the college will be. Are you an out-of-the-box thinker, a humanitarian, a problem solver, an ethicist, an entrepreneur? The challenge you face is to show and not tell the admissions officer what your gift is; this is where I am best able to help you. We need to find that one specific story that clearly demonstrates who you are. A challenging task but well worth the effort! When possible, I urge you to spend time on the supplemental essays as well. They too must be well-written, otherwise the admissions officer thinks you may have received too much outside help if the quality of the writing varies. My students have been successful because my prompts inevitably produce original work, and my numerous and simple tips for writing insure quick and impressive results. . Finally, I urge rising seniors to consider working on the personal statements and supplementals during the summer since the fall semester requires you to focus on good grades, SAT scores, obtaining recommendations, completing volunteer hours and of course, applying to colleges! If you can remove one important task from the list, it will help you. And quality time spent on the essays often pays off down the line. Also, the sooner you get in your applications, the better your chances for admission. Note: Though I work one-on-one with applicants, I have found that a group of friends working together is just as successful, more fun and less expensive.

Ratings and Reviews

Rating

4.9 (136 ratings)
5 star
(126)
4 star
(9)
3 star
(1)
2 star
(0)
1 star
(0)

Reviews

Show reviews that mention

All reviews interesting creative knowledgeable ideas excellent

Featured review

Great Tutor!

Shelley helped my son with his college essays. When we contacted her, he had already written 5 essays. We were not sure what the colleges were looking for. Shelley was very knowledgeable about the application process and kept that in mind when she proofread his essays. She gave him very good criticisms and ideas and guided him in improving his essays. The end result was excellent. This past December 13, he got early admission into Stanford University!

Janet, 6 lessons with Shelley

Extremely patient, personable and all around great tutor

Shelley helped me write my personal statement essay for graduate school, and couldn’t have been more helpful. She provided me with the tools I needed to write a great paper. I couldn’t have done it without her!

Ivy, 6 lessons with Shelley
Tutor responded:

Thanks so much for your comment; it's really helpful. I love working with you.

Excellent tutor!!!

Shelley provided me a very concentrated writing lesson which immensely altered my writing style. I instantly understood the crucial points in excellent writing skills. I wrote three essays for a graduate teaching program at USC, and I just got accepted! The admissions faculty commented that my essays were very strong and interesting to read. As Shelley said, "Show, do not tell," my essays truly showed who I am and why I wanted to be a great teacher. I absolutely would recommend Shelley for friends and family and whoever who needs helps for any writing. Thank you!

Tserenchuluun, 2 lessons with Shelley

Very Helpful!

Shelley was there for me when I was frantic about completing all of my college essays. I gave her a packet of prompts, and she helped me to come up with ideas of what to write about, and how to manipulate them to fit for multiple other universities. She saw in me what I didn't realize for many years; she was a tutor and a therapist as she helped hash through my essays. Now I feel confident to send my personal statement out to prestigious universities, and I have them done early!!

Chloe , 10 lessons with Shelley

More than expected

Shelley such an amazing tutor. She helped me with admission essay for the University. Shelley is very insightful. She knew exactly what I wanted and invested every minute into asking effective questions to extract the important information which improved my essay. Actually, the time was flying while talking and explaining to her; I enjoyed it so much. In fact, I'm a very bad speller and type slow, but she was very patient and helped me to write everything correctly. The thing which I can't forget is her motivation. The night when I took the class was an unforgettable night. I went home full of ambition and inspiration. The moment when someone feels confused and pressed since the deadline is coming soon and a lot of things haven't done yet, there is nothing better than a person who not only can help to finish these things but also gives that feeling of confidence and reassurance. Just a successful tutor who can instill these meanings in their students' heart such as Shelley. Thanks Shelley for this opportunity, I'm very glad to know you.

Hajar, 2 lessons with Shelley

An experienced educator

She is a very helpful tutor, she not only wants to help in the particular problem but helps assist your ability in the long run. Also, she is a truly great presence to have around as she can assist with her wisdom and patience. Only great things to say about this educator!

Ahmed Zack, 17 lessons with Shelley

Very patient!

Such a brilliant tutor Shelley is! She is warm, patient and easygoing! She is creative, energetic and experienced! She is not only a professional tutor who can teach you technique and knowledge but also a great spiritual mentor who can lead you to a broader world beyond class. Our son enjoys every moment of the whole journey together with Shelley. She deserves the full respect from our whole family. I can't wait to recommend her to all my friends who is looking for a wonderful tutor for their kids!

Judy, 28 lessons with Shelley

EXTRAORDINARY TUTOR!!!!

Shelly is an extraordinary tutor and helped me in my time of need. She has never let me down and was very flexible which is what makes her a very unique tutor. Thank you so much for helping me and overall uplifting my spirit.

Sandra, 10 lessons with Shelley

My first choice for a proofreader!! From a repeat customer

I am a happy repeat customer with Shelley for proofreading. With the first proofreading, her work was quick, clean, and clear. I am really impressed. So, when I needed another proofreading, I did not look any further, Shelley was my first choice and she did not disappoint me at all.

Sue, 3 lessons with Shelley

No Fear Shelley S. is here!

If you are looking for a knowledgeable, helpful, patient tutor to help with editing or writing Shelley S. is the one! Shelley has helped me to give life to a lot of my papers while making it fun and interesting to learn. Shelley makes it easy to understand and comprehend the subject at hand. I would recommend Shelley to anyone who needs some extra help with any type of writing assignment!

Schauna, 7 lessons with Shelley

$75/hour

Shelley L.

$75/hour

  • No subscriptions or upfront payments

  • Only pay for the time you need

  • Find the right fit, or your first hour is free

Contact Shelley

Response time: 6 hours