How we work
First, we get
to know you.
We keep our client load small so we can give your plans sustained attention. Whether you’re exploring an interest or preparing an application, we start by understanding you.
The process
A conversation.
A plan. Work together.
Get to know you
We discuss your education, interests, experience, and plans for what comes next. We read the materials you already have and ask about the things a transcript or draft cannot explain.
Agree on priorities
We identify the decisions and writing that need attention. For admissions, this becomes a written application plan; for mentoring, a plan for the term.
Work through the details
Meetings give you room to discuss ideas and ask questions. Written feedback explains what to develop, clarify, or reconsider. You revise with those notes in hand.
Review your progress
For applications, we review the complete materials before submission and identify the final changes. In mentorship, we reflect on what you’ve learned, review your projects, and agree on the next steps.
In practice
Useful feedback
gets specific.
“Be more personal” is hard to act on. A question about a particular moment can give you somewhere to start.
For example, if a draft says you learned to lead a team, we might ask: What decision did you make? Who disagreed? What changed as a result? Your answers help you decide which details belong in the essay.
We apply the same attention to program choices, research interests, and academic projects. The aim is for you to understand the advice and know what to do with it.
Our commitments
Your work.
Our guidance.
- A small client load, so your advisor has time to know your work.
- Regular conversations and specific written feedback.
- A plan shaped around your goals, starting point, and deadlines.
- Guidance that helps you develop your own ideas and voice.
- Clear next steps and an agreed schedule for the work ahead.
Begin with Ivy Star
Tell us what you’re
working toward.
Meet with an advisor to discuss your ambitions, your timeline, and the right scope of support.