Craft of the College Essay

Learn to nail your college essay anecdote, show up boldly, and gain admission to college.

SERVICES

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SERVICES •

  • The Online Course

    Learn the Craft of the College Essay framework at home and at your own pace.

    Start The Course

  • 1:1 Essay Consulting

    Individual consulting sessions on your college essay.

    Reach out to craftofthecollegeessay@gmail.com
    for more information

    Book a Session

  • In Person Workshops

    In-person workshop teaching the Craft of the College Essay framework. Reach out to CraftoftheCollegeEsssay to book for your school or club.

    Plan a Workshop

Hi, I’m Ann

After a decade as a trial attorney, I decided to pursue a career in education, believing I couldn’t lobby for schools without firsthand classroom experience. What started as a three-year plan turned into a 22-year passion for teaching.

I’ve had the joy of teaching AP Language and AP Literature to hundreds of students and coaching the nationally ranked Pinecrest Speech and Debate Team. Along the way, I was honored to receive the Golden Apple Award, be named Moore County Teacher of the Year, and serve as a semifinalist for North Carolina State Teacher of the Year. Helping students find their voices—especially in their college essays—has always been a passion. To that end, I’ve studied with Nancie Atwell in Maine and Mary Ehrenworth with Harvard University to deepen that work.

Beyond the classroom, I’ve been committed to my community, serving as Chairman of the Friend to Friend Board, President of the Friends of the Southern Pines Library, and a volunteer for the Boys and Girls Club and Habitat for Humanity. Today, I’m proud to serve on the Southern Pines Town Council.

I have two grown daughters, Katie and Jennie Cunningham, who “trained” me well in guiding students. I spend my spare time wrangling two unruly, spoiled golden retrievers—and baking a mean gluten-free oatmeal chocolate chip cookie.

You can always reach out with any questions at craftofthecollegeessay.com. I look forward to working with you!

THE COURSE

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THE COURSE •

What You’ll Get:

  • ✺

    Learn what the college essay is (including authentic examples that have been successful) and how you can effectively write yours.

  • ✺

    Learn how to select your essay topic.

  • ✺

    Learn common editing pitfalls and how to avoid them.

  • ✺

    Learn how to approach responding to specific supplemental prompts. 

  • ✺

    Learn how to request your college recommendation letter.

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    Learn helpful tips for parents/guardians on how to best support your student through the college application process.

Enjoy the Intro module of the Online Course:

Craft of the College Essay Online Course
$159.00
One time

  • "Working with Ann made the crucial difference in my son’s college application process and ultimate acceptance at his top school, Columbia University in New York City. Max had done everything he could to set himself up for success – high grades, AP and honors classes, terrific test scores, strong recommendations, and unique extracurricular activities fed by his passions – but he needed support crafting memorable essays that told his story and resonated with his chosen schools. That’s where Ann was invaluable. She got to know Max, understand what was important to him, and helped him learn to convey who he is in a way that answered each school’s questions and showed them what he would bring to their community. She also kept Max to deadlines so he and I didn’t have to have those struggles. Applying to colleges is miserable, but Ann demystifies the essay process and provides the support needed to get through – in our case with great success. I can’t recommend her highly enough!"

    Julia Latham, Mother of a Columbia University Student

  • "Ms. Petersen helped me to discover my unique story and turn it into a compelling college essay. Her creativity and love for writing was so inspiring. She encouraged and guided me through every step of the college application process. I am now at my dream school and could not be more thankful for Ms. Petersen."

    Sophia Pandich, Student admitted to UNC-Chapel Hill

  • "I had the pleasure of having Ann on the staff at Pinecrest where I served as principal. During the early fall, she would assist more than 100 students as they worked through the college essay experience. I remember her college admissions workshops in the school media center where she would involve members of the community working with all of her students. She is a teacher of impact, and I have watched countless times as she has helped each student find his or her voice.

    Bob Christina, Former Pinecrest High School Principal

✺ Frequently asked questions ✺

  • The actual run time for the course is around two hours but the course will take

     longer to complete if you start and stop to undertake suggested exercises. There are five modules (and the intro) that will guide you on your journey. The longest module is just over half an hour. The shortest one is closer to a quarter of an hour. A module a day is not a bad way to approach this journey. 

  • The optimal time to start this course would be the summer before you start 12th grade. It could be beneficial during the school year, but senior year is so busy. I recommend you dive in during the summer. The common application opens in the summer. Do yourself a favor and get a jump on the process before school starts. 

  • Yes, there may be portions you’ll want to return to over and over. That's fine!

  • Refunds on the course are not available. 

  • No, but I have recommendations for others who do a great job in this arena. My plate is pretty full and I like to stay in my wheelhouse.

  • Yes, they are authentic and were all submitted with the common application. The essays were generously shared by five young people who have gone on to professional careers as a Manhattan high profile business person, an LA producer/director, a professional writer, an environmental engineer and an attorney. (Without using social media, can you match the essay to the profession?)

  • You may contact me via email through the website. Generally, I answer all emails within 24 hours. My hourly rate is $75. If I have openings, I'll schedule an appointment with you . If not, I know and admire a few retired teachers who I can suggest you contact. 

  • The answer is a solid "sometimes!" Yes, I have helped students with their medical school and dental school application essays in the past. If you need help in another arena, let me know and we'll see what can be done.

1:1 Essay Consulting

•

1:1 Essay Consulting •

1:1 Essay Consulting

I work with students individually, both in person and virtually, on their college essay at $75/hr.

To book time on my calendar, please reach out to craftofthecollegeessay@gmail.com.

In-Person Workshops

I present the Craft of the College Essay framework to schools, clubs, communities and more. To book an In-Person workshop, please reach out to craftofthecollegeessay@gmail.com.

Recommended Resources

Conquering the College Admissions Essay in 10 Steps
by Alan Gelb

Fiske Guide to Colleges
by Edward B. Fiske

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