hi there!

My name is Olivia Gaughran, and I’m excited you’re here.

University applications are meant to provide a holistic view of who you are - what you do, where you want to be, and why you want to be there. However, the most important question remains to be answered: Who are you? I believe that a meaningful admissions essay should answer that question.

As a writing tutor, I have worked one-on-one with undergraduate and graduate students on a variety of writing projects, from one-time personal reflection essays to extended periods on senior projects, master’s theses, and doctoral dissertations. Coursework in Writing for Tutoring fine-tuned my extraordinary attention to grammar, format, and editing. It also taught me how to engage with writers in authentic, clear discourse. Essays are vulnerable things to write, which is why my feedback is honest, kind, and personal.

My comments will work with you to make sure the admissions team comes away with a deep sense of who you are and why you belong in their community. We will work together to answer some deep questions and end up with an essay that truly tells your story.

In 2022, I received a master’s degree with honors from the University of Cambridge. Previously, I studied at Seattle University in their undergraduate Social Work and Interdisciplinary Liberal Studies programs. I feel I truly developed my passion for robust qualitative research throughout my experience in higher education. My report, briefing, analysis, research, and draft writing skills will help your final essay become articulate, cohesive, and meaningful.

My body of work as a writer is extensive. The Olly Project, a personal website dedicated to reflection & exploratory writing, is where you’ll find many examples of my personal work. I was also published in the premiere issue of Subjectiv, an independent online journal that promotes the visual and literary arts in the Pacific Northwest. The reviews from the many students I have worked with make it clear: you can trust me with your story. I will trust you with mine.