COLLEGE ESSAY CLINIC (2025)
Ideal for: Rising 12th graders applying to college in the fall.
Summary: Over the past ten years, we’ve built one of the leading college essay programs in the country—helping students turn their experiences and values into powerful personal statements. Our guidance has supported hundreds of students in gaining admission to highly selective colleges.
We’ve designed our four-part College Essay Clinic as a resource for students beginning their Common Application personal statement. Through peer interviews, structured writing exercises, and expert instruction in storytelling, students craft essays that forge a human connection with admissions officers. The course culminates in a private college counseling session with City Smarts co-owner Brett Moses—a chance for each student and their parent(s) to review their narrative with a seasoned admissions expert.
Session Details: This year, we’re offering two sessions. Each one is designed to help students ideate, shape, and develop a compelling first draft of their college essay.
SESSIONS
SESSION 1
Instructor: Priyanka Shetty
Schedule: Saturdays, 2:30–4:00 PM
Dates: May 17, May 24, June 7, June 14
Length: Four 90-minute sessions
Location: 11 Hanover Sq., Suite 500, New York, NY 10005
Consultation: Includes a 30-minute private consultation, scheduled directly with families
Cost: $475
A Brown graduate and NYU Law student, Priya is an expert college essay guide.
Brett Moses has been providing expert guidance to families since 2011.
SESSION 2
Instructor: Greg Taubman
Schedule: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4:00–5:30 PM
Dates: July 22, July 24, July 29, July 31
Length: Four 90-minute sessions
Location: 11 Hanover Sq., Suite 500, New York, NY 10005
Consultation: Includes a 30-minute private consultation, scheduled directly with families
Cost: $475
Holding degrees from Princeton and Columbia, Greg Taubman is a master storyteller and essay coach.
Brett Moses has been providing expert guidance to families since 2011.
THE CLASSROOM
We’re hosting this 6-student essay clinic at our brand new classroom, a light-filled space in a historical financial district building just steps from Hanover Square.
