Work With Me

Every student has a story.

Finding it is my job.

Sarah Aller
Owner, Use Your Words Writing
M.A. Journalism, Northwestern

About Sarah

As a former journalist and PR + marketing professional, I spent over two decades shaping messages that connect. From small community campaigns to national brand launches, I’ve seen the impact a well-told narrative can have.

Today, I help high school students clearly articulate who they are and what matters to them. Together, we create essays and applications that show purpose + personality — and that stay with admissions officers long after they’ve finished reading.

Let's Get Started

Why A Coach Matters

Writing great college essays takes more than strong grammar. It requires reflection, clarity, and the ability to communicate insight + personal growth. These are skills that most students haven’t been taught in school.

Which is why, when it comes to writing about themselves, even the strongest students often feel stuck. That’s where I come in.

I help students find their voice + express it clearly and confidently. With structure, thoughtful feedback, and encouragement, the process becomes far less overwhelming (and much more productive).

And while the college application journey can be stressful + intimidating for students, yours won’t have to navigate it alone. I’ll be there to support them every step of the way.

Because a strong application doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built over time + with intention.

My Approach

Strong stats get you to the table. Clear positioning gets you admitted.

Great grades + test scores may open the door, but a compelling application is what makes you memorable.

I take a strategic approach to the application process. We talk about what you want an admissions officer to remember most about you. We identify your strengths, your core values, and the patterns that show up across your life. Then we choose the right stories to highlight them and write your story, chapter by chapter.

A personal statement that sets the stage

Activities that put your strengths in the spotlight

Supplemental essays that add new scenes + perspectives

Because this isn’t only about telling a cohesive story — it’s about telling it with clarity, intention, and impact.

My Goal

My goal is to help students become stronger writers while making the college application process feel more manageable (and yes, less stressful) for students + families.

I bring structure, transparency, and a sense of calm to what can often feel like an overwhelming and confusing process, helping students push forward with clarity
+ confidence. While college admissions may be unpredictable, a student’s approach to the process doesn’t have to be.

Along this way, students build essential life skills that extend far beyond their applications: critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and effective communication. They get to know themselves better, become more articulate about what they care about, and grow more confident in their own voice.

To me, what matters most is not just where students get in, but who they become in this process.