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Critically Acclaimed Novelist | Creative Writing & Essay Coach
Charlene T.

5.0 (20 ratings)

31 hours tutoring

Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee
Hourly Rate: $85
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Response time: 2 minutes

About Charlene

Bio

**Winter Introductory Rate — $85/hr (limited availability). As my coaching availability opens this winter, I’m offering a reduced rate for a small number of new Wyzant families.

Hi! I’m Charlene — a three-time published author with Penguin Random House and Scholastic, and a creative writing instructor with training from the University of Cambridge. I’m also a former National Novel Silver medalist and recent juror for the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, and I regularly mentor students...

**Winter Introductory Rate — $85/hr (limited availability). As my coaching availability opens this winter, I’m offering a reduced rate for a small number of new Wyzant families.

Hi! I’m Charlene — a three-time published author with Penguin Random House and Scholastic, and a creative writing instructor with training from the University of Cambridge. I’m also a former National Novel Silver medalist and recent juror for the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, and I regularly mentor students preparing submissions for competitive programs and contests.

I support teen and adult writers through every stage of the process—from early brainstorming to polished final drafts—with a special focus on creative writing, personal essays, admissions essays, and longer-form projects. My sessions are highly personalized, interactive, and goal-driven.

I hold a minor in creative writing from North Carolina State University and have spent years as a mentor and leading workshops for goal-oriented writers. I guide writers through everything from application processes to publishing aspirations. Beginning in 2026, I’ll also be teaching creative writing remotely for a top-25 university’s continuing education program.

Areas of specialization include: Fiction writing (literary, commercial, light speculative), personal essays & admissions essays, manuscript development & revision (up to 10 double-spaced pages per session), writing program & MFA applications, writing awards and competition submissions

I love supporting writers over time—helping them build skill, confidence, and momentum from one milestone to the next. As your coach, collaborator, and advocate, your goals become mine.

I’d love to hear what you’re working on and see if we’re a good fit.

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Education

North Carolina State University
Communication, Creative Writing
Emory University
MBA
University of Cambridge
Other

Policies

  • Hourly Rate: $85
  • Rate details: I request 12 hours' notice for cancellations/reschedules to avoid a full-session fee of $85--this allows me to best support as many students as possible. Thank you for your understanding!
  • Lesson cancellation: 12 hours notice required

  • Background check passed on 10/16/2025

  • Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Schedule

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Approved Subjects

Creative Writing

Creative Writing

I’m the author of three acclaimed novels published by Penguin Random House and Scholastic Press, with more books forthcoming. With a minor in creative writing from North Carolina State University, and a certificate in teaching creative writing from the University of Cambridge, I help students pursue both academic and publishing goals. As a writing coach, I’ve supported writers through everything from brainstorming and overcoming writer’s block to revising structure and pitching to agents and editors. I primarily work one-on-one with adults and graduate students, and also lead creative writing workshops for teens.
English

English

I’m the author of three acclaimed novels published by Penguin Random House and Scholastic Press, with more books forthcoming. My background in English and creative writing (including a certificate in teaching creative writing from the University of Cambridge) allows me to help students confidently strengthen their reading comprehension, critical analysis, and writing skills. I support learners with essay organization, grammar and syntax, and interpreting different literary works. I primarily work with high school, college, and adult students seeking to improve both their academic writing and overall command of the English language.
Essay Writing

Essay Writing

I’m the author of three acclaimed novels published by Penguin Random House and Scholastic Press, with more books forthcoming. With a minor in creative writing from North Carolina State University and a certificate in teaching creative writing from the University of Cambridge, I help students uncover the heart of their story and craft compelling personal essays that stand out to admissions teams. As a writing coach, I’ve guided writers through brainstorming, overcoming writer’s block, refining structure, and polishing prose. My own essays earned me admission to North Carolina State University, Emory University, and the University of Cambridge, giving me firsthand insight into what makes an application essay resonate.
Fiction Writing

Fiction Writing

I’m the author of three acclaimed novels published by Penguin Random House and Scholastic Press, with more books forthcoming. Drawing from my experience as a novelist and my certificate in teaching creative writing from the University of Cambridge, I help writers craft compelling plots, authentic characters, and strong narrative voices. I guide students through story development, revision, and preparation for publication or submission, and review up to ten double-spaced pages per session so my feedback can be detailed and actionable. I primarily work with adult and graduate-level writers but also enjoy mentoring emerging teen authors.
Proofreading

Proofreading

I’m the author of three acclaimed novels published by Penguin Random House and Scholastic Press, with more books forthcoming. My background in English and creative writing—including a certificate in teaching creative writing from the University of Cambridge—enable me to help students and professionals refine their writing for clarity and accuracy. I specialize in proofreading academic papers, essays, creative manuscripts, and professional materials for grammar, syntax, flow, and tone. My approach is thorough yet collaborative, ensuring that every edit strengthens the writer’s unique voice while meeting the highest standards of precision and readability.
Writing

Writing

I’m the author of three acclaimed novels published by Penguin Random House and Scholastic Press, with more books forthcoming. My background in English and creative writing—including a certificate in teaching creative writing from the University of Cambridge—enable me to help students and professionals strengthen their structure, style, and intention across a wide range of written forms (including essays, personal statements, novels, short stories, and more). I guide learners through all stages of the writing process--from brainstorming, to drafting, to revising, to submission or publication. My approach combines technical precision with a deep respect for each writer’s unique voice, helping students communicate with confidence and impact.
Charlene T.'s Photo

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Ratings and Reviews

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5.0 (20 ratings)
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Reviews

Exceptional First Session — Insightful, Professional, and Encouraging

Charlene was outstanding in our first session. She immediately connected with my daughter, listened carefully to her goals, and created a thoughtful plan to guide her over the next couple of months. Her feedback was insightful and constructive, striking the perfect balance between encouragement and challenge. She understands both the creative and developmental sides of young writers. We left the session feeling inspired and confident about the path ahead. I’m very impressed and grateful we found her!

Jacob, 12 lessons with Charlene

She is amazing

I love Charlene. She is an amazing person. She has a lot of patience and is very good at explaining things to me carefully. I definitely suggest having her as a tutor

Daniela, 9 lessons with Charlene
Hourly Rate: $85
Response time: 2 minutes
Contact Charlene