Expert Advice from the Wow Team

Tips and resources for college essay writing

Here’s some insight from David Bersell, who has been with us for more than seven years, has worked with hundreds of students, trained countless IECs and school counselors, and supervises training for our team of coaches.
Get a Taste of the College Essay Experience - Find out why CEE is our best college essay training ever. Wow CEO Susan Knoppow will answer your questions about essay coaching, tell you about CEE, and guide you through one of Wow's signature writing exercises.

Photo and text taken from Link for Counselors Publication June 2025. Turn Worried Parents Into College Essay Allies How many times has a parent called you, worried or angry, after reading their child’s college essay? The essay you worked hard on together. The essay the student is proud of. The essay that reflects that student’s […]

A standout college essay isn’t about shocking drama or the “perfect” story—it’s about theme. Your theme gives your essay focus, purpose, and power. It’s what turns a simple story into a meaningful statement that captures who you are.

🎧 New Podcast Episode: Putting the Wow in Your College Essay Writing college essays is one of the most challenging—and often overwhelming—parts of the college application process. Where should students even begin? In this episode of the College Bound Mentor podcast, special guest Susan Knoppow, Co-Founder and CEO of Wow Writing Workshop, helps answer that […]

How to Help Without Highjacking: College Essay Tips from Wow Writing Workshop & Applerouth Writing college essays can feel overwhelming—for students and their parents. Below is a short recap of the insightful and practical webinar with Susan Knoppow, CEO of Wow Writing Workshop, in partnership with Applerouth. In this session, Susan shared Wow’s straightforward 10-step […]

Do you ever catch yourself saying these things after reading a student’s essay? - He could have … - If she would only … - I saw such potential … At Wow, we find ourselves there too, but we quickly recover. Here's what we do to get back on track.
Crafting a standout college essay can feel like a daunting task—but it doesn’t have to be. In a recent educational webinar co-hosted by Susan Knoppow from Wow Writing Workshop and Applerouth Education, students and families gained insider knowledge on the dos and don’ts of college essay writing.
Staring at a blank document and wondering how to start your college essay? You’re not alone. The personal statement can feel like the most intimidating part of the application—but it doesn’t have to be. Before you dive into writing, take this quick 3-question quiz to see if you’re actually ready.

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