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Harvard Educated Writing and Essay Coach
Leigh W.

555 hours tutoring

Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Hourly Rate: $60

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, 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.


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

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.
Marketing

Marketing

Over the past 11 years, I have worked as a freelance marketing lead for multiple real estate agents and companies, developing websites, managing social media campaigns, and creating marketing strategies that increased lead generation by as much as 30%. I have experience with social media marketing, branding, campaign planning, copywriting, SEO, analytics, and digital content strategy across platforms including Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Squarespace. In addition to my freelance work, I served as the head marketer for three animal rescue nonprofits where I built their online presence from the ground up and assisted with grant writing and outreach campaigns. I have also taught marketing concepts through seminars for realtors and worked as a GTA in a marketing and writing course at George Mason University.
Personal Statements

Personal Statements

Over the past three years on Wyzant, I have worked with more than 150 students on personal statements, Common App essays, supplemental essays, scholarship essays, and graduate school application materials. I previously worked in a university writing center and have extensive experience helping students with brainstorming, outlining, storytelling, structure, editing, and interview preparation for highly competitive academic programs. Many of the students I have worked with were accepted into Ivy League, top 25, and highly competitive specialty programs, including students with ADHD, dyslexia, anxiety, PTSD, and other learning challenges. In addition to my admissions essay work, I hold advanced degrees in English, worked as a GTA teaching writing courses, and have over five years of freelance editing experience.
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.
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.
Microsoft Word

Examples of Expertise


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

Leigh W.'s Photo

Questions? Contact Leigh before you book.

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Ratings and Reviews


Rating

4.9 (182 ratings)
5 star
(175)
4 star
(3)
3 star
(1)
2 star
(2)
1 star
(1)

Reviews

Outstanding and compassionate tutor

Leigh is an excellent tutor, very kind, warm, and professional. My daughter is very happy with her guidance and support. We truly appreciate her dedication and highly recommend her.

Gerardo , 9 lessons with Leigh

Personal Essay Composition

Leigh did a great job helping me construct my personal statement. By the second meeting, she’s helped me draft an essay and helped me feel confident in my writing. Leigh offers strong, honest feedback and constructive advice.

Sumaira, 10 lessons with Leigh

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
Hourly Rate: $60
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