Why do I coach?

UCLA was the first university I toured as a high school freshman and from the moment I stood in front of Royce Hall’s iconic entry, I knew I had to be a Bruin. For three years, I dreamt in blue and gold. But this dream quickly became a challenge almost too daunting to attempt when application season came. There were thousands of excellent students also vying for a place at this prestigious school, so what made me special? As a university that regularly receives more applicants than any other school in the nation, why should I be selected? Every element of the application demanded painstaking detail. From calculating my GPA to selecting the right major, I agonized over each element with painstaking detail. I would spend hours staring at my computer screen, brainstorming how to somehow unlock a formula that would guarantee my acceptance. I wrote and rewrote my personal statement essay again and again (and again). Yet, it still felt contrived, as if I was writing what I thought admissions counselors wanted to hear. After multiple iterations, I finally sat down and got honest. I told the story that was only mine to tell. When the acceptance letters were sent, I was less than excited to open mine. Even though I was a high-achieving student, I questioned if my application conveyed everything that I had worked so hard for. “Dear Tatum, we are pleased to offer you…” were the only words I read before bursting into tears of joy. UCLA accepted my application and I went on to spend some of the greatest years of my life on that campus. I’ve since worked with hundreds of students with similar aspirations and facing the same tough questions that discouraged me at first. There has been no greater reward than watching their worries melt away as I help them find the answers. I understand how overwhelming the application process can be. It’s not just about crafting the perfect personal statement or selecting the right major–it’s also all those nuanced little details that can feel absolutely paralyzing. This is where I come in. I know the application strategies that work and can provide concrete, tailored guidance to help you achieve your collegiate dreams. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it. Head to my profile and message me to get started!

Work Experience

Admissions Counselor

Solomon Admissions

March 2022 - Present

With a team of over 50 top-tier former college admissions officers and a highly skilled editing team, Solomon has made its name as a go-to firm in the industry. Its high college acceptance rates, particularly at top U.S. universities, make it stand out in a deeply competitive industry. As an Admission Counselor for Solomon, Tatum Pollard helps students and families achieve their collegiate goals through a comprehensive coaching program. Tatum has led clients through their admission strategies for competitive universities such as UCLA, UC Berkeley, Stanford, Brown, Cornell, USC, Pepperdine, and others.

Director of Brand

EnterpriseDB

2022 - Present

Tatum Pollard lead's EDB's Brand Marketing division, inclusive of its Global Public Relations Program and strategic Analyst Relations Program. She is a dynamic, creative leader responsible for executing global brand marketing campaigns globally. Her responsibilities and achievements include: - Manage global PR firms and guide strategic media coverage - Develop corporate messaging guidelines for internal teams and external facing campaigns - Build a holistic and integrated view of brand expansion across all lines of business and regions - Develop clear and compelling brand guidelines and ensure that they are bold and engaging - Track, analyze and report program results to ensure strategies are driving business outcomes

Admission Officer

UCLA

2015 - 2017

Provided informative presentations to perspective students, families, and counselors, for audiences ranging of 20-1200 people. Served as Vice Director of Campus Tours Program, assisting in its functioning through communication with the Vice Chancellor and international counselors. Represented UCLA by attending in and out-of-state college fairs. Participated in research of programs within and outside of the university to further staff knowledge and development. Reviewed applications and decided admission status.

Education

University of California, Los Angeles

Bachelor of Arts, English, minor in Digital Media

Graduated Magna Cum Laude Honors, 3.89 GPA

Tatum was also personally admitted to

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  University of California, Davis

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  University of California, Irvine

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  University of California, San Diego

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  University of California, Santa Barbara