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sharon@SJCallahancoaching.com
Sharon J. Callahan Coaching

Sharon J. Callahan Coaching

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly do you help students with?

I specialize exclusively in college essay coaching, including personal statements and supplemental essays. I guide students through reflection, brainstorming, drafting, and revision — helping them clarify what they want to say and how to say it in their own voice.

Do you help with the full college admissions process?

If a student has questions about other parts of the college admissions process while I am working with them, I am happy to draw from my experience and provide advice. However, my primary focus is currently on the personal statement and supplemental essays. I can refer students to trusted full-service college consultants if they need more in-depth advice in other areas.

What grades or ages do you typically work with?

I primarily work with high school juniors and seniors, although I occasionally support sophomores who want to begin the reflection process earlier.

Do you work with students outside of New Jersey?

Yes. I work virtually with students across the U.S. All sessions are held by video, allowing for flexibility and consistency no matter where students live.

How does the essay coaching process work?

The process includes guided reflection and conversation, brainstorming and topic exploration, drafting, thoughtful revision, and polishing for clarity, voice, and flow. The pace is always shaped around the student’s timeline.

How many sessions does a student usually need?

There’s no single answer. Some students need just a few focused sessions, while others prefer ongoing support through the full application season. We decide together after an initial consultation.

Do you ever write or edit essays for students?

No. All writing is done by the student. My role is to coach, guide, question, and refine so the final work is authentic, ethical, and truly the student’s own.

What makes your coaching approach different?

My approach is warm and relationship-based, rooted in reflection and identity, structured but never rigid, and focused as much on confidence as on content.

Do you offer packages?

Yes. I offer both single-session coaching and multi-session packages. Schedule a consultation and we can discuss your student’s needed level of support through the essay process. This will allow me to estimate how much time it will probably take working with me, to achieve their goals (based on the average student). I can provide pricing at that time as well.

How do we get started?

You can begin by scheduling a free consultation. We’ll talk through goals, timeline, and next steps.

Do you work with students who feel stuck or overwhelmed?

Yes. Many students come to me feeling unsure or afraid of “getting it wrong.” One of the first things I remind them is that this is their unique story — which means it’s impossible to get it wrong. There is no single right topic, only an honest one.

How involved are parents in the process?

Parents are welcome to provide support and encouragement, but the essay itself belongs to the student. Because it’s written by the student, it should sound like the voice of a 17 year old. It is up to the student to decide if they would like to share their work with their parents.

How far in advance should we reach out?

Earlier is helpful, especially for summer work, but fall deadlines are also supported when space allows.

Have more questions? I’d be happy to chat.

Contact Sharon for a Free Consultation

Guiding students through authentic, personalized coaching.

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sharon@SJCallahancoaching.com

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