COLLEGE ESSAY CLINIC (2026)
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: Coral Ortiz
Schedule: Sundays, 4:00-5:30 PM
Dates: May 31, June 7, June 14, June 21
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
SESSION 2
Instructor: Coral Ortiz
Schedule: Tuesdays & Thursdays , 10:30AM–12PM
Dates: July 21, July 23, July 28, July 30
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 Yale University graduate with a degree in American Studies and a concentration in creative writing, Coral brings both scholarly rigor and genuine warmth to her college essay coaching.
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.
