Session Types
The content and advice given during working sessions are determined by the needs of the applicant. While sessions are dedicated time between student and mentor intended to focus on a particular area of the college application process (e.g. essay writing, compiling a list of schools, or campus culture), it is up to the student and mentor to agree on what support is needed and how best to use the session time.
Please note that PeerEdvice does not monitor session conversations.
Essay Editing
This type of 1-on-1 working sessions can be used to seek and provide guidance and in areas such as
Brainstorming compelling essay topics that showcase the applicant's personality and experiences
Guidance with developing a strong narrative structure and voice
Creating student stories to make essays stand out
Review and provide feedback on essay drafts, focusing on content, clarity, grammar, and style
Drafting effective supplemental essays that address specific prompts from each university. Learn from mentors the specific details and values about each university.
Guidance on how to effectively leverage extracurricular skills and interests in the essays and in the applications
General Counseling
This type of session can cover guidance and support in areas such as
Create a customized timeline for each student, taking into account their specific deadlines, extracurricular commitments, and academic schedule
Reminders and support to keep students on track
Guide students in compiling a list of ~8-10 schools, categorized into reach, target, and safety options based on an applicant’s academic profile, interests, values, and goals
Advice and information about school-specific merit scholarships information and/or FAFSA process
Advice and information about international application process
Perspective and insight from a recently admitted student
Information about college culture, campus life, Greek life, social clubs
Guiding students on how to request strong letters of recommendation from teachers and counselors
Advising on how to effectively showcase extracurricular involvement in the application
School-specific Insights & Information
○ Specific and unique “insider” information about a school to stand out in your “Why this school?”
Specific and unique “insider” information about a school to stand out in your “Why this school?” essays
Insights about campus life, selecting a major, selecting courses, Study abroad opportunities, internship programs, Greek life and social clubs
Insight into school-specific opportunities and possible outcomes and paths after graduating
Advice and information about school-specific scholarships
Clarity into if the school is the right fit for you – firsthand account on what the school is really like
Connecting students with resources and mentors in their areas of interest
Major Selection and Area of Study
Sharing and providing insights to students interested in exploring different academic majors, minors, research and career paths
Researching colleges based on major, minor and area of study
Connecting students with resources and mentors in their areas of interest
Interview Preparation
Conducting mock interviews to help students practice their communication skills and prepare for common interview questions
Providing feedback on interview performance, including body language, tone, and content
Trade School Counseling
Get a deeper understanding of alternate options post-high school and connect with individuals who have pursued that path
Insight into school-specific opportunities and possible outcomes and paths after graduating
Application Filling & Review
Assisting with the accuracy and thorough completion of the Common Application, Coalition Application, or individual university applications.
Reviewing the entire application for errors, inconsistencies, and areas for improvement.
Learning Style
No Commitment, Full Flexibility
- Support creating an organized and detailed weekly plan with specific tasks to complete.
- Consistent check-ins and reminders to keep applicants on track.
- Suggested for students that are unsure about what their session goals are, and/or are less familiar with the college process and seeking longer-term guidance
Collaborative Brainstorming
- A more open discussion based approach and hands-off mentorship style
- Suggested for students that are more clear on what their session goals are and are looking for a second opinion, sounding board, or just general discussion