I hold a PhD in Psychology, which has equipped me with a deep understanding of the intricacies of academic research and writing. My expertise includes proficiency in APA format, ensuring that all documents adhere to the highest standards of academic writing and formatting. With extensive experience in crafting problem statements, I help students clearly define their research focus and objectives. My background also encompasses the rigorous process of sampling, essential for credible and reliable research outcomes. In my role as a mentor, I guide students through various sampling techniques, including random sampling, stratified sampling, cluster sampling, and systematic sampling. I provide insights into selecting appropriate samples, executing the sampling process, and analyzing the results to produce valid conclusions. My familiarity with the demands of academic journals ensures that students' research meets publication standards, enhancing their academic and professional success.

I pursued my PhD at the University of Cambridge as a Gates Cambridge Scholar. Studying for a PhD is a very personal and rewarding journey and I have helped students realize their dream of studying at Cambridge and Oxford.

Kimberly employs a tailored one-on-one approach, drawing on more than ten years of project management, leadership, STEM outreach, and mentorship experience in academia, government, nonprofits, and entrepreneurship. Here are a few words from her clients: "Once I started PhD coaching with Dr. Duong, she immediately helped me make adjustments to create the optimal plan." "PhD coaching is great because it’s really targeted for PhD students who feel stuck in their programs." "Dr. Duong never downplayed my personal responsibilities in order to push me towards my professional commitment." "Dr. Duong’s insight and coaching has completely changed the way I look at procrastination, which has been hugely helpful in making progress."

Stanford PhD - Department of Management Science and Engineering

Welcome to my profile! I hold a PhD from Cornell University and a Bachelor of Arts from Columbia University. With my extensive academic background, I have a deep understanding of the challenges and intricacies of the PhD admissions process, which can be confusing and difficult. Together, I help you with school selection, hone your story and research ideas, and sell yourself so that you can feel confident submitting applications! As a coach, I have successfully guided over 5 clients in their journey towards securing admission to top PhD programs in their fields. My experience as a Communications Manager at Compass Family Services has honed my ability to effectively communicate and support individuals in achieving their goals. If you're looking for personalized guidance and expertise to navigate the PhD application process, I'm here to help. Let's connect and work together to make your dreams a reality!

Having pivoted during medical school to pursue additional training as a PhD student in Biomedical Engineering, I had to learn on-the-fly how to prepare and succeed in the world of academia and research. Now, as I complete my PhD training, I strive to bolster the incoming generation of scientists and scholars to help promote diversity and inclusion at every level. Balancing multiple degree programs has taught me to manage my time, energy, and focus in meaningful ways, which I would love to pass on to any prospective students.

With a PhD in Developmental Psychology from Boston University and extensive research experience at institutions like Boston University, Princeton University, and Gallup, I bring a wealth of knowledge about developing research skills, applying these skills to real-world problems and scientific discovery, and building a successful research portfolio. Over the years, I have successfully guided 18 individuals through the rigorous PhD application process, helping them secure spots at top-tier programs and following up with them to advise on difficult problems during their PhD programs. My expertise spans experimental design in psychology, data analysis, and scientific writing, ensuring you present a compelling and well-rounded application if you are applying for PhD programs. If you are already in a PhD program and need guidance, I can help you too! I look forward to mentoring you to achieve your goals. Relying on my personal experiences, I especially enjoy working with first-generation students, international students, and students from a low income background.

The graduate application process is stressful at best and crippling at worst. Having served as a Dean and the Director of UC Berkeley's Psychology Post Baccalaureate Program for over 9 years, I have mentored nearly 200 students in their psychology graduate school application journey. I have also taught The Graduate School Application Process course for UC Berkeley Extension for the last two years. From identifying potential programs and labs to drafting a CV and statement of purpose, I am well equipped to lead you through this process.

Over the last four years, I have coached hundreds of students at a large R1 institution, guiding them as they prepare for graduate and medical school applications. I work with applicants from personal statement ideation all the way through decision making and I can't wait to do the same with you. Whether you're applying for the first time or reapplying and need a fresh take on your application, I'm confident that my coaching experience will be an asset to you. My approach centers around making meaning of your experiences, helping you to find the connections to your future goals, and translating those in a way that will resonate with the admissions committee. Let's work together to help you achieve your goals!

Welcome! As a PhD student at Stanford and a Knight Hennessy Scholar, being successfully admitted to diverse PhD programs, I have firsthand experience navigating the admissions process, interviews, and decision-making. I've supported applicants from different disciplines and had the immense pleasure to help them find and get into the best PhD program to elevate their scholarly, professional, and personal goals. The application process to a research oriented program is completely different from other ones, and it's exactly where my growing academic skillset can help me help you make your way in. We will work together to make sure that YOU stand out in the competitive admissions landscape.