Optimize. Achieve. Succeed.
Maximize your chances of getting admitted into your chosen universities by learning how to write original, impactful essays and elevating your SAT and ACT scores.
Where Students Can Gain the Greatest Advantage
While grades and course rigor are established over several years, there are three parts of an application where students can make significant improvements in just a few months.
1) Personal Statements
A memorable personal statement can transform an application. Admissions officers read hundreds of essays each season, and many blur together because they tell similar stories in similar ways. We help students uncover authentic experiences, develop compelling narratives, and write essays that reflect who they are rather than what they think colleges want to hear.
2) Supplemental Essays
Supplemental essays give colleges an opportunity to evaluate a student's fit with their institution. Strong responses demonstrate genuine interest, thoughtful reflection, and a clear understanding of how a student will contribute to the campus community. We help students craft school-specific essays that are authentic, persuasive, and tailored to each university.
3) SAT & ACT Scores
Standardized test scores remain an important factor at many colleges and universities. Although numerous institutions have adopted test-optional policies, the overwhelming majority still consider submitted scores as part of the admissions process. For students who choose to test, stronger SAT or ACT scores can significantly strengthen an application and expand scholarship opportunities.
"I’ve probably texted Craig three times, telling him that we definitely chose the best coach. We’re so lucky we found him. We just read our daughter’s personal statement, and it’s brilliant. With essays, no one had ever told our daughter about yield rates, algorithms, and part-time readers. Craig gave our daughter a peek behind the curtain and explained each box on the Admissions Officers’ checklists. Our summer has been much less stressful since working with Craig!”
- Priscilla M, New York, NY
Testimonials From Happy Parents and Students
“I am a professional writer, but I was too emotionally invested to critique my son’s essays fairly. After being deferred from his top choice during the Early Decision round, we hired Craig. His knowledge and ability to interpret exactly what was being asked by the schools gave my son clear direction. On Ivy Day, I heard my son scream, ‘I got it!’ He was one of 74 out of 4,204 admitted into Brown University PLME (8-year undergraduate and medical school program).”
- Hannah C, North Charleston, SC
"With the SAT three weeks away, I needed to improve my super score by 70 points to qualify for the Bright Futures award. I didn't know how I’d find those points between English and Math. With just six tutoring sessions over 12 days, Craig helped me increase my English score by 80 points. I didn't even need the Math tutoring. I qualified for the scholarship and got accepted into my dream school!”
- Zach A, St. Augustine, FL
“We really sprung one on Craig, but our daughter insisted on getting additional tutoring for her ACT English and Reading sections one month before the August 3, 2024, exam--despite the fact that we had a six-day family vacation planned during that month. Craig worked around Sarah's schedule and immediately diagnosed her deficiencies. After about 10 sessions of tutoring and practice tests over a 25-day period, she went from a:
29E, 30R, 29 Total to a:
33E, 34R, 34 Total
Choosing Craig to tutor Sarah was the best move we could have made. She is now looking at an entirely different tier of colleges. Thank you so much, Craig.
- Eryn F, Fort Worth, TX
Pre-application text:
“Thank you, Craig. I know I didn't give you much notice, but I am delighted you were able to edit my personal statement. Your insightful suggestions helped me make some excellent modifications!”
Text after acceptance to first-choice university:
“I got into Pitzer! Thank you so much; I couldn't be more thrilled! I'm so grateful for your assistance. I know the essay was decent when I sent it to you, but your insights and pointers helped transform it into a masterpiece! Thanks again!”
- Jani B, Tustin, CA
Contact Us
Phone
info@optimalprep.com
305-788-6880