Graduate Admissions Coaching

Clear, experienced guidance through competitive graduate admissions

Applying to graduate or PhD programs can feel opaque and overwhelming, especially when expectations are high and feedback is limited. Graduate Admissions Coaching with BIVI Consulting is designed to give you clear, honest, and experienced guidance at every stage of the process.

My background includes many years supporting PhD admissions at University of California, Berkeley, followed by work in a joint University of California, Berkeley–University of California, San Francisco doctoral program. I’ve worked closely with faculty admissions committees and reviewed hundreds of applications, which means my feedback is grounded in how decisions are actually made.

This is not essay editing in isolation. It’s strategic, thoughtful coaching built around your goals and the realities of competitive admissions.

A woman with long brown hair, smiling, sitting at a wooden table holding a tablet in her hands, in a room with dark textured wall.

    • Application strategy and planning
      Clarifying your goals, program list, and overall approach to the admissions cycle.

    • Statement of Purpose and research statement review
      Detailed, constructive feedback focused on clarity, fit, and positioning rather than generic edits.

    • Academic CV review and refinement
      Guidance on structure, emphasis, and presentation of research, academic, and professional experience.

    • Program and faculty fit guidance
      Support identifying alignment between your interests and specific programs or faculty.

    • Mock interviews and interview preparation
      Practice sessions and feedback to help you communicate your work confidently and thoughtfully.

    • Timeline management and decision support
      Help organizing deadlines, next steps, and offers as decisions arrive.

    • Short-notice and same-day support (when available)
      Responsive coaching during peak deadlines or interview periods.

  • Do you help high school or transfer students applying to college?

    I mainly help graduate applicants but I sometimes assist undergraduates. A few spots are available each year.

    Do you guarantee admissions outcomes?

    No. Admissions decisions are made by institutions, and outcomes can’t be guaranteed. My role is to help you prepare thoughtfully, present your experience clearly, and navigate the process with confidence and support.

    How is your coaching different from generic admissions advice or essay editing?

    My coaching is grounded in years of experience supporting real admissions processes. I work closely with you to understand your goals, the programs and labs you’re considering, and how you want to position your academic path. Drawing on my experience working alongside admissions committees, I offer guidance on how programs typically assess candidates, what they look for beyond grades and test scores, and how to communicate fit clearly and authentically. The focus is on strategy, clarity, and preparation — not templates or formulas — so your application reflects both who you are and how you align with the programs you’re applying to.

    Will you write or edit my application materials for me?

    I don’t write application materials for applicants. Instead, I provide detailed feedback, guidance, and structure to help you develop your own strongest application while staying true to your voice and goals.

    • Prospective master’s or PhD applicants

    • Applicants applying to research-focused or competitive programs

    • Students seeking experienced, realistic feedback rather than guarantees

    • Applicants who want a collaborative, supportive approach

  • Coaching is offered on an individual basis and tailored to your needs. Sessions may be one-time or ongoing, depending on where you are in the process. All coaching is provided remotely and handled with discretion and care.

    This service is not intended for applicants seeking guaranteed outcomes, ghostwriting, or last-minute edits without time for revision. Our focus is on ethical, thoughtful applications that truly reflect who you are and where you’re headed. You won’t be navigating this process alone — I’m here to help you build and submit your strongest application, step by step.

  • Graduate Admissions Coaching is offered on a flexible basis to meet you where you are in the process.

    Most clients work with me through:

    • One-time strategy or review sessions

    • Short-term support around deadlines or interviews

    • Ongoing coaching across an admissions cycle

    Pricing varies based on scope, timing, and level of support needed. All services are discussed upfront so there are no surprises.

    If you’re unsure what level of support makes sense, a brief conversation can help clarify next steps.

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