Economics Admissions Coaches

I'm Abby, an expert PhD coach, specializing in STEM applications and programs including: Engineering, Math, Computer Science, Psychology, Natural Sciences and more. I have had success with over 50 applicants landing at top schools such as: Stanford, Harvard, Berkley, UMD, UCLA, Columbia, and more. I combine this insider knowledge with my extensive experience in both academia and industry to help applicants craft compelling narratives, highlight their strengths, and position themselves strategically for success. Whether you’re refining your statement of purpose, shaping your research direction, or preparing for interviews, I’ll guide you through every step with personalized, results-driven support.

Welcome to my profile! With a strong academic background from Columbia University and Brigham Young University Hawaii, I bring a wealth of experience in research and data analysis to my coaching. As a Research Manager at the Columbia AI Alignment Club, I have guided multiple projects and mentored undergraduate fellows, honing my skills in providing detailed feedback and fostering academic growth. My experience as a Research Assistant at Columbia Business School and Columbia University has equipped me with a deep understanding of the research process, from conducting interviews to data visualization and manuscript development. I am passionate about helping aspiring PhD candidates navigate the complexities of the application process and develop compelling research proposals. Let's work together to craft a standout application that showcases your unique strengths and potential. Feel free to reach out to discuss how I can support your journey to a top PhD program!

During my time as Assistant Director of the PhD Program at Harvard Business School, I had the privilege of advising and supporting more than 130 doctoral students each year. In this role, I guided students through every stage of their academic journey—helping them navigate program requirements, prepare for milestones, and balance the challenges of rigorous research with personal growth. Working so closely with such a large and diverse group of scholars gave me a deep understanding of the demands of top-tier doctoral programs and the skills needed to thrive in them. That experience continues to shape the way I mentor aspiring PhD candidates today—combining empathy, structure, and insight to help them put their strongest foot forward.

I help you navigate competitive research and graduate admissions with the strategy of a former MIT Dean—drawing on 20+ years of experience at MIT, Harvard, and beyond. I’ve reviewed thousands of applications, led national summer programs like MIT’s MSRP, and managed multi-million dollar fellowship portfolios. My clients come for the insider insight—but stay for the clear, structured, and trauma-informed support I provide through every high-stakes step. What I help with: • School & Program Lists: Targeting REUs and PhD programs with strong faculty fit, research alignment, and funding potential. • Competitive Statements: Crafting personal and research essays that show you’re a peer-in-training—not just a promising student. • Securing Offers: Strategy for landing top-tier REUs (MSRP, Amgen, Big Ten/Ivy+) and fully funded doctoral programs. • Interviews & Outreach: Preparing for faculty conversations with confidence and self-advocacy. • Sustainable Success: Managing imposter syndrome, burnout, and lab politics—so you can thrive once you’re in. The proof? I’ve been cited in over 20 doctoral dissertations for coaching that helped students not just persist, but succeed on their own terms. Whether you’re applying to your first REU or pursuing a PhD with purpose, I’ll help you take your next step with clarity, strategy, and care.

I've been tutoring students from K-10, college, masters, and doctoral programs for the past decade. I provide writing and analytical support services, providing expertise with college admissions essays and resumes.

PhD admissions is not a numbers game. There’s no magic GPA or standardized test score you need that will guarantee success. That means it is hard to predict how you’ll do—and that if you know what admissions committees are looking for, you can build a winning application. I am a PhD Student in sociology at Harvard University, in addition to having a JD from Harvard Law School, and a BA from Bard College. I know first-hand how stressful the PhD application process is, and how to successfully navigate it. I know what admissions committees look for. And I know how to present your credentials—and build them—the way successful applicants do. Sociologists analyze the "hidden curriculum," but too often only whisper networks give applicants the insights they need to make a successful application. I hope to change that. My approach is bottom-up. If you’re at the beginning of your application process, let's start by assessing your goals, generating a list of programs from there, and then thinking strategically about how to maximize your chances of admission at each program you apply to. If you’re further along, let’s look at your materials and work them into top shape. If you have interviews scheduled, we’ll practice them so you can start off on the right foot with potential mentors. Wherever you are in the application process, let’s connect and work together to further your academic goals.