Expert College and Medical School Application Writing Coach

Cecilia V.

I’m a 2023 graduate of the University of Notre Dame, where I earned a 3.7 GPA studying History, Pre-Med, and Entrepreneurship. My academic work spans both the humanities and the sciences, and I have been published in two peer-reviewed cardiovascular research journals. In addition to my research background, I received two competitive grants from Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business to pursue social entrepreneurship work in Kalongo, Uganda, partnering with an all-girls school, St. Bakhita’s. I now serve as an advisor to that initiative, the Powerful Means Initiative, continuing to support student-led, mission-driven work abroad.

I have been a writing tutor for over seven years, working with both high school and college students to develop a strong narrative voice across academic writing, Common App essays, supplemental college essays, and personal statements. My approach emphasizes clarity, authenticity, and storytelling, helping students move beyond “what they did” to articulate why it matters and who they are becoming. I specialize in guiding students through the reflective and often overwhelming process of turning experiences into compelling, personalized, polished essays that retain their creative voice.

Alongside tutoring, I spent three years working as a life sciences consultant while studying for the MCAT, scoring in the 80th percentile, and navigating the medical school application process myself. I received offers from 5+ medical schools and will be starting my M1 year this fall. Having lived the balancing act of rigorous academics, standardized testing, professional work, and applications, I bring both strategic insight and genuine empathy to my advising. My goal is to help students present their strongest, most honest stories, whether they’re applying to college or pursuing a career in medicine.