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Leigh W.'s Photo Leigh W.'s Photo

Harvard Educated Writing and Essay Coach
Leigh W.

4.9 (162 ratings)

512 hours tutoring

Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee
Hourly Rate: $60
Contact Leigh
Response time: 3 minutes

About Leigh

Bio

Hi! I’m Leigh (Lee), and I’m here to help you thrive in all your writing needs. I bring a rich academic background from institutions like Harvard, Temple University, and George Mason University, where I graduated at the top of my class in English and literature. I’m currently immersed in PhD-level research exploring how stories shape us—and how we shape them in return.
As both an educator and a writer, I’ve worked as an editor for literary journals, published academic and creative works, and...

Hi! I’m Leigh (Lee), and I’m here to help you thrive in all your writing needs. I bring a rich academic background from institutions like Harvard, Temple University, and George Mason University, where I graduated at the top of my class in English and literature. I’m currently immersed in PhD-level research exploring how stories shape us—and how we shape them in return.
As both an educator and a writer, I’ve worked as an editor for literary journals, published academic and creative works, and guided students toward powerful, polished writing across disciplines. I’m also a novelist and short story writer, deeply familiar with the joys and challenges of the creative process. I’m currently working on a novel and have spent years navigating the publishing world—experience I draw from when mentoring aspiring writers and editing manuscripts.
As your tutor, I can help you craft a personal, authentic college essay that stands out. From brainstorming to final polish, I’ll guide you with purpose and encouragement to help you land your dream school. I also work with students on classroom and course essays. Though I specialize in literature and English, I offer critical insight to help students engage deeply with texts, develop strong analytical essays, and navigate coursework with confidence in any subject involving a heavy writing load. For creative writers, I offer editing services—whether you’re writing a short story or a full manuscript, I provide detailed, supportive feedback to help you elevate your work. Our sessions take place over Microsoft Teams or Google Meet, offering a flexible and comfortable space to learn and grow. If you’re looking for someone who meets you where you are, honors your voice, and helps you level up with purpose, I’d love to work with you. Let’s get started—your story deserves to be told well.

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Education

Temple University
English
George Mason
Masters
Harvard Extension School
Masters

Policies

  • Hourly Rate: $60
  • Rate details: I charge full session fee if students fail to cancel fewer than 3 hours in advance or are no-shows
  • Lesson cancellation: 3 hours notice required

  • Background check passed on 6/15/2023

  • Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Schedule

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Approved Subjects

Adobe InDesign

Adobe InDesign

While earning my BA at Temple University, I took specialized classes in journalism and worked as an editor for the yearbook, gaining years of hands-on experience with InDesign. I created graphics, layouts, and prints for both digital and print media. As an author, I use both InDesign and Illustrator to design book layouts and website materials for my professional portfolio.
Adobe Lightroom

Adobe Lightroom

I took a gap year between my BA and MA, during which I studied photography and built foundational skills using Lightroom and other photography-based programs. I entered several contests and placed in the top categories with every submission. My focus was on capturing the natural elements of raw images while using subtle adjustments in Lightroom to enhance their emotional depth.
Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Photoshop

My experience with Photoshop began over 20 years ago, creating original digital art pieces. I sharpened my craft and entered my work into contests, placing in the top five in nearly every competition and winning first place in more than half. Since then, I’ve expanded my experience with the program through photography, digital editing, and original artwork.
Anthropology

Anthropology

Short-term research trip to rural Ireland where I collected primary research on the community during a New Year's cold water swim celebration. I spent three weeks among the community during this time performing ethnographic and historical collections. The trip resulted in a long-form (multi-year) research grant for my colleague for continued studies. The trip concluded with a trip to the archives at Dublin University where my own research contributed to their growing collection focusing on living culture in Ireland today.
Art History

Art History

I was enrolled in the art history program at the University Of Chicago working towards the doctorate. Before that I took art history classes at Harvard and got a masters degree at George Mason University, focusing on visual culture and folklore. My specialty is the examination not just of technique, but of the ethos and affect theory That a painting can have on a person. I’ve worked with art students before examining the subject and composition of their work and finding ways to push them to take their natural skills to the next level. My methods involve examining the work and having deep critical analytical conversations with the artist to discover their motivations And push them to see their work not just with the artist eye, but through the audience is gaze and really connect the message to reach the viewer.
College Counseling

College Counseling

I have worked with students in high school, undergraduate and, post-graduate levels to help craft and polish essays for college admissions through college prep programs at my university, as well as, external (not university-affiliated) companies, and private tutoring. On top of working with students on college essays, I worked for two years as a graduate teaching assistant working with students on crafting strong argument-driven essays focused on concise critical thinking. I worked with students to help them find their unique voice and stand out through their writing. My favorite part of college consulting is helping students find their confidence and guiding them as they apply to their dream universities.
Creative Writing

Creative Writing

As a writer with over twenty years of experience, I have worked to sharpen my craft through extensive coursework and dedication. I earned a BA in English with a minor in Creative Writing from Temple University. Since then, I’ve worked at three different literary journals, serving as Editor-in-Chief for their digital submissions. I’ve also supported both high school and adult learners at writing centers, helping them build confidence and skill in their writing. Currently, I’m pursuing a second MA in Literature and Creative Writing at Harvard Extension School. I’m also working on publishing my novel and have a collection of short stories and a vignette slated for release by year’s end.
English

English

With over two decades of experience studying, writing, and teaching in the field of English, I bring both academic rigor and creative insight to my work as a tutor and mentor. I hold a BA in English with a minor in Creative Writing from Temple University, and have since earned advanced degrees with a continued focus on literature, writing, and cultural analysis. My academic journey has taken me through literary theory, close reading, comparative literature, folklore, and modern narrative studies. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in writing centers, served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, and supported students at every stage—from mastering basic grammar and composition to analyzing complex texts and crafting university-level research papers. I’ve also published academic and creative work, served as a peer reviewer for journals, and coached students through high-stakes projects like theses, literary analyses, and application essays. Whether you’re looking for help interpreting a novel, developing your analytical voice, or strengthening your writing skills for classroom success, I offer patient, insightful, and practical support. My approach is personalized, intellectually engaging, and always focused on helping you become a more confident, capable communicator.
Essay Writing

Essay Writing

As a student of the humanities with over 20 years of experience, I have developed a strong foundation in essay writing. Throughout my undergraduate and master’s studies, I worked in both the writing center and as a GTA, helping students develop their writing skills in both long- and short-form essays across various subjects. I have published academic articles in national and international journals and served as a peer reviewer for multiple academic publications. Additionally, I’ve worked with students on college application essays, specializing in Ivy League and top-tier universities with 1% acceptance rates. I’ve never had a student fail to gain admission to their chosen university.
Fiction Writing

Fiction Writing

As a Harvard educated fiction writer with over 20 years of experience, I specialize in helping writers bring their stories to life with clarity, emotion, and purpose. My academic background includes a BA in English and Creative Writing from Temple University, an MA in Folklore and Narrative Studies from George Mason University, and a current MA in Creative Writing and Literature at Harvard Extension School. I’m also in the process of publishing my novel and have written numerous short stories, vignettes, and narrative essays across genres.
Literature

Literature

My life is literature. I entered Temple University to earn my BA in Literature and English Studies, where I focused on various forms of literary theory and writing practices—including essay writing, journalism, and creative writing. After graduating, I took a short break before pursuing my first MA in English Literature at George Mason University, specializing in folklore and folk narrative. Currently, I’m completing my second MA at the Harvard Extension School in Creative Writing and Literature, building a strong foundation in Gothic feminist texts and theory. Beyond my academic work, I have written extensively on literary theory and analysis, covering subjects such as medieval literature, Victorian literature, American and European Gothic literature, Japanese contemporary literature, and feminist theory and texts.
Microsoft 365

Microsoft 365

With over five years of professional experience using Microsoft 365 in academic and institutional settings—including roles at the Smithsonian and multiple universities—I bring both technical proficiency and practical insight to the table. I’ve used Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneDrive, and Teams in real-world environments where precision, collaboration, and organization were key to success.
Microsoft Project

Microsoft Project

With years of experience managing complex projects in academic and institutional settings, I bring practical, real-world knowledge to Microsoft Project. From my work at the Smithsonian to roles within university research departments, I’ve used Microsoft Project to organize large-scale initiatives, manage timelines, assign resources, and track deliverables with precision. I specialize in helping students, professionals, and teams get comfortable with Microsoft Project’s robust tools—whether you’re brand new to project management or looking to sharpen your workflow. I can walk you through setting up Gantt charts, defining task dependencies, managing budgets, and customizing views that make sense for your goals. What sets my teaching apart is my ability to demystify the software and help you build confidence. I focus on how to use Microsoft Project as a real tool, not just a spreadsheet with fancy charts—how to plan smarter, communicate more clearly, and actually see your progress unfold. If you’re looking for someone who understands both the logic of project management and the learning curve of the software, I’d be excited to work with you.
Photography

Photography

Between my undergraduate and graduate studies, I took a focused break to explore my passions for photography and art history. During this time, I enrolled in courses that deepened my understanding of visual composition, cultural aesthetics, and the historical significance of art and architecture. I also specialized in photography projects centered on architecture and animals, developing a strong eye for form, light, and detail. My work was recognized in multiple photography contests, where I consistently placed among the top finalists and won several first-place awards. I honed my post-processing skills using both Photoshop and Lightroom, learning how to enhance natural beauty while maintaining the emotional integrity of the raw image. This hands-on experience not only strengthened my creative portfolio, but also gave me a deep appreciation for the technical and artistic dimensions of visual storytelling.
Project Management

Project Management

Through my years in academic institutions, writing centers, and working at the Smithsonian I gained a strong background in managing multi-faceted projects across academic, nonprofit, and creative sectors, I bring hands-on experience and strategic thinking to every project I lead. I’ve served as a project manager in various roles, where I coordinated cross-functional teams, oversaw timelines and deliverables, and ensured that complex initiatives stayed on track and aligned with organizational goals. My approach to project management blends structure with flexibility—I believe in building clear systems that support collaboration, communication, and adaptability. I’ve worked on everything from research initiatives and grant-funded programs to publishing pipelines and digital media rollouts, often balancing creative vision with logistical precision. Whether you’re looking to understand project workflows, learn scheduling tools like Microsoft Project, or gain real-world insight into team coordination, goal setting, and milestone tracking, I can help. I offer a supportive and approachable teaching style that makes project management not just doable, but empowering.
Proofreading

Proofreading

Since my years at Temple University earning my BA, I have worked in writing centers, as a writing tutor, and in the publishing industry. I’ve held positions as a GTA, helping students polish and fine-tune their essays from start to finish, as well as worked as a private creative writing coach, guiding students to completed manuscripts ready for publication. I’ve worked at three literary magazines, holding positions as a copy editor, proofreader, and department editor. For the past three years, I’ve also worked as a college essay coach, helping students with everything from line edits to developmental and structural edits—building strong, Ivy-worthy essays.
Religion

Religion

As an academic writer and coach with a deep background in the humanities, I specialize in helping students explore complex ideas and express them with clarity, depth, and originality. Much of my scholarly work has focused on how religion and religious narratives shape cultural norms, identities, and social structures. I’ve spent years studying diverse belief systems and analyzing their long-term influence on everything from literature and law to gender roles and power dynamics. This interdisciplinary foundation allows me to support students working on essays, research papers, and projects in religious studies, cultural studies, philosophy, and the broader humanities. Whether you’re unpacking sacred texts, examining the intersection of religion and politics, or analyzing how myth and belief inform modern identity, I can help you develop strong, thoughtful arguments and communicate them effectively. As a former writing tutor, peer reviewer, and published academic, I bring both critical insight and approachable guidance to the table. My goal is to help you build not just a stronger paper—but a stronger voice.
Writing

Writing

Since earning my BA from Temple University, I’ve built a career rooted in writing. I’ve worked as a writer, editor, tutor, and coach—honing my craft across publishing, academia, and one-on-one mentorship. My roles have included serving as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, where I guided students through every stage of the writing process, and working as a private creative writing coach, helping aspiring authors develop and complete manuscripts ready for publication. I’ve held editorial positions at three literary magazines, including work as a copy editor, proofreader, and department editor, giving me a sharp eye for detail and narrative structure. For the past three years, I’ve also specialized in college essay coaching, offering everything from line edits to in-depth developmental support to help students craft compelling, Ivy-worthy applications.
Art Theory
Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft Word
Study Skills

Examples of Expertise

Leigh has provided examples of their subject expertise by answering 2 questions submitted by students on Wyzant’s Ask an Expert.

See all of Leigh ’s answers ›
Leigh W.'s Photo

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Ratings and Reviews

Rating

4.9 (162 ratings)
5 star
(155)
4 star
(3)
3 star
(1)
2 star
(2)
1 star
(1)

Reviews

Very helpful

Leigh helped me add to and strengthen my college admissions essay. Her insights were very valuable and I feel much better about my essay!

Eleanor, 2 lessons with Leigh

Knowledgeable and professional

She is Knowledgeable and professional .. My son was struggling with the college essay, so she helped him arrange it.Thank you so much for making this easier for him . I will definitely recommend …….

Ahouf, 1 lesson with Leigh

Knowledge and great teacher

Knowledge and great teacher. Reviewed essay and provided valuable feedback. Leigh is an expert and has lot of experience. Rating 5 out of 5 stars. Knowledge and great teacher. Reviewed essay and provided valuable feedback. Leigh is an expert and has lot of experience. Rating 5 out of 5 stars.

Swami, 19 lessons with Leigh

Such a relief

I can't express how helpful Leigh has been to my son's college essay writing progress. My husband and I feel very fortunate to have found her through Wyzant. I look forward to reading the final draft inthe weeks to come.

Lynsey, 2 lessons with Leigh

Great writing tutor

Leigh helped me with many suggestions for an last minute appeal essay I was writing for my school. Her suggestions gave me much clarity, and I feel very confident handing in my essay. She really took the time to help me. Thank you!

Anthony, 1 lesson with Leigh

Application essay for summer program

I was frustrated after failing some competitive summer programs. But she taught me basic structure of application essay and guided me to write well. I am finally accepted to Cornell Precollege Studies program. Thank you so much!

Raehyun, 2 lessons with Leigh

Very helpful & patient

Leigh is helping my daughters with their college essay. She has them talking and brain storming. The first day we had technical difficulties logging on but we kept in communication and finally was able to start our session after 45 mins of trying. They meet every Monday night and she has been very helpful.

Mimi, 4 lessons with Leigh

Loved her!

Loved her! Explained everything in a way my daughter understood the lesson! She gives a 100 percent! I would highly recommend her to anybody looking for extra help.

Devon, 8 lessons with Leigh

Very knowledgeable and patient

Ms. Leigh has been helping me with my critical thinking course and every session with her is an amazing one! Very delightful to work with. I have a hard time retaining information so she breaks down and explains my coursework assignments in a way I can understand. She's understanding and doesn't mind repeating information over. I've had multiple lessons with her and haven't been disappointed yet! Overall just amazing to work with.

Sierra , 8 lessons with Leigh

Leigh helped me a lot with editing my stories

I've been working with Leigh for about 2 months now. We've been working on my short stories. She helped me a lot with general grammar and the structure of my stories. I also feel more confident now and understand better my strong points and weaknesses as a writer.

Eliza, 9 lessons with Leigh
Hourly Rate: $60
Response time: 3 minutes
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