In this episode, Lisa and Amanda discuss:

• A holistic admissions review that looks beyond grades and test scores
• Writing authentic, personal essays that reflect a student’s true identity
• Strategically crafting supplemental essays to show university fit and motivation
• Preparing for campus visits to gather insights for stronger applications

Key Takeaways: 

• Application readers carefully evaluate every part of a submission, typically spending 5 to 30 minutes depending on the depth, creativity, and authenticity demonstrated.
• Essays generated by AI are often easily recognized by admissions professionals; they tend to be generic and impersonal, lacking the student’s genuine voice and lived experience.
• Strong supplemental essays require in-depth research into a university’s distinctive programs, faculty, and opportunities—showing a thoughtful and specific connection beyond surface-level familiarity.
• Capturing impressions immediately after a campus visit—including personal reflections, standout moments, and detailed program insights—provides rich, authentic content for compelling “Why Us?” essays.

“Have fun with [the college essays]. Be creative. It truly is the creative ones that are fun.” – Amanda Leszczuk

About Amanda Leszczuk:

Amanda Leszczuk recently retired from Mariemont High School after 19 years as Director of College and Career Counseling, where she created their college and career program. Over her 35-year education career, she has helped thousands of students across districts with the college application process, including essays. Involved in organizations like the Ohio Association for College Admissions Counseling and serving on admissions boards at four universities, she has contributed to her field and presented at conferences. Now an independent educational consultant, she also teaches the Post-Secondary Career Planning and College Advising course at the University of Cincinnati, helping aspiring counselors set up their college programs. Amanda has read many college essays, including evaluating university applications, and provides students with tips to improve their essays.

Episode References:

• How to Find College Supplemental Essays: https://flourishcoachingco.com/find-essays

• Common App Essay Prompts: https://www.commonapp.org/apply/essay-prompts

Get Lisa’s Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career…(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret). 

flourishcoachingco.com/video 

Connect with Amanda:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-d-leszczuk-a9152454

Email: amandaleszczuk@gmail.com

Connect with Lisa:

Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingco

Pinterest: https://pin.it/kiMCm5Dwl

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

Access the episode transcript here