William & Mary: Katie

How College Solutions Helped

When Katie started her college search, she was both excited and overwhelmed by all the options. Her counselor helped her step back, narrowing down her list to schools where she would find like-minded peers and programs that would support both her academic and creative goals. Katie’s counselor helped her find opportunities that highlighted her strengths, such as a creative writing summer intensive at Duke. “I participated in so many things I never would have known about without my counselor,” Katie recalls.

More than guiding her towards programs, Katie’s counselor made a real effort to get to know her as a person. “I really looked forward to meeting with my counselor and updating her on my life–I deeply appreciated the genuine interest she had in me, and I knew she would always be one of my biggest cheerleaders.” 

One of Katie’s favorite things about working with her counselor was brainstorming her essays, as she loved discussing topics and having someone to bounce ideas off of. Her counselor and writing coach encouraged her to lean into her creativity, helping her portray herself authentically in her essays: “I remember writing my personal statement on the web-series I made about mermaids at 10 years old–I had so much fun reflecting on how that project shaped me. As I brainstormed and worked with my writing coach, I felt like I learned so much about not only myself, but who I wanted to become and what I wanted to pursue in college.” 

Through working with her writing coach, Katie not only expanded her love for writing, but realized that she had a passion for editing, too–a passion that would shape her college career and professional goals. Even after her applications were submitted, Katie kept in touch with her counselor, updating her on her latest pursuits. For Katie, working with College Solutions was about more than just application support–it was about making connections, finding her passion, and refining her voice.

Result

Katie ultimately committed to William & Mary, drawn to its eccentric and welcoming student body as well as its robust English program. She thrived in W&M’s close-knit community and pursued numerous writing opportunities–many inspired by her work with College Solutions. “I applied to work in my school’s Writing Center because of how much I enjoyed working on writing with my coach. College Solutions taught me how to find and take advantage of opportunities like that.”

After graduation, Katie came full circle: she now works as a writing coach herself at College Solutions. “Even years later, I was still inspired by the work that College Solutions does. I was so excited to become a member of the team myself–I hope that I can pass along the same dedicated guidance that I once received.” 

what Katie Had to Say

“More than anything, working with my counselor and my writing coach made me believe in myself. The college application process can feel so intimidating and scary, but working with College Solutions made me believe that I had something important to say, and that I would succeed in the future. While the expertise of the College Solutions team was endlessly helpful, in my opinion, the most special thing about College Solutions is the team’s passion, enthusiasm, and care for students. It felt so validating and empowering to have them in my corner.”

what Her Counselor Had to Say

“Katie is one of those students who is once in a lifetime.  She is an authentic person who never brags about herself or her skills.  I was thrilled to help her toot her own horn and highlight her strengths to her colleges.  Katie is conscientious–she listens, thinks, and responds with intention.  She loves to learn and only her kindness outshines her sense of curiosity.”