Main Essay & SAQs Combo Lab (for Class of '25)

**Exclusively for Access College America scholars.

Crafting a competitive Main Essay (aka: the personal statement) is arguably one of the hardest parts of the college application experience. The stakes are high as this essay will be read by every single college you apply to. Ideas should be mapped out strategically and with intention.

Short-Answer Questions are specific and unique to each college you apply to. These questions vary in terms of the topic and categories. Understanding your audience, the role of the short answer question and how to layer your experience can help you achieve success in a competitive writing world.

This lab provides insight into what colleges are looking for in a main essay as well as in short answer questions. Presenters will guide all scholars through exercises designed for self-reflection which is vital to the writing experience. A discussion on the four cornerstones to a great college essay will be conducted and attendees are expected to show up with all pre-requisites completed. The scholar should leave this lab with their Topic and an Outline of their Main Essay.

Presenters will also help scholars craft answers to the most frequently asked short answer questions.

Needed:

• Completed College Reasonings
• Revised Scholar Vitae & Resume
• Completed Exercises from the Main Essay Lab
• 2 Pens, highlighter(s), notebook for taking notes, 3-to-5 blank sheets of paper.

Be Advised:

• This is a hands-on working lab with camera & audio on. Participation is required for all attendees.
• We suggest water & snacks readily available.
• Plan to be in a quiet location suitable for brainstorming activities and writing.
• You MUST be at a desk and in front of a computer (no phones allowed).

Presenters:

Bonnie Kleffman, MEd, GCDF

Managing Director of Advising

Access College America

Bonnie is a globally certified Career Development Facilitator who holds a Masters in Education and English. She has worked with students of all ages and backgrounds, and has a passion for helping students find careers that they love and the educational paths to get them there. She is the Managing Director of Advising for Access College America, a national provider for guidance with college planning based in Austin, Texas.

Alesha Walker, M.L.A.

Director of Scholar Support

Access College America

Alesha was hired in 2019 as the Executive Assistant for the Founder & Owner of Access College America. After exceeding expectations, she was promoted to Manager of Operations in December 2020. In January 2022, she was promoted to Manager of Scholar Support for her exceptional attention to detail, high level of service, and expertise in essay preparation. As the Manager of Scholar Support, she assists the consultants with daily tasks to meet our objective of excellence in customer service. She coordinates all labs, webinars, and parent forums and serves as a panelist for various college planning events in the community. Alesha meets with rising seniors for essay brainstorming, prep, and revisions during the busy season. Her extensive background in essay writing and scholarship prep makes her a valuable resource for our scholars.