Sarah Aller
Owner, Use Your Words Writing
M.A. Journalism, Northwestern
Hi, I'm Sarah!
As a former journalist + PR professional, I spent more than 20 years asking thoughtful questions, listening closely, and looking beyond the obvious. I learned that the best stories often come from genuine conversation.
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Today, I use the same reporting methods to uncover what makes your student memorable. I help them communicate who they are with greater clarity + confidence. Along the way, they gain a deeper appreciation for the people + moments that have shaped them.
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One of the most rewarding parts of this work is helping students recognize that their voices + perspectives matter.
Every student has a story.
Finding it is my job.
Why work with a coach?
Writing a great college essay takes more than strong grammar. It requires reflection, insight, and the ability to communicate personal growth. These are skills few students have been taught in school.​ That’s why, when it comes to writing about themselves, even the brightest students feel stuck.
That’s where I come in.
You don’t need a perfect transcript or a perfect story. You just need honesty, self-awareness, and a clear sense of who you are.​ I help students move beyond what they've done to understand why it matters.
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From there, we focus on finding their voice and communicating it clearly + confidently. With structure, thoughtful feedback, and encouragement, the process becomes far less intimidating + far more productive.
And while the college application process is stressful at times, my students never have to navigate it alone.
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My approach
Your stats get you to the table.
Your story sets you apart.
It all starts with a conversation. An in-person, no-cell-phone-allowed conversation. I ask thoughtful questions + dig deeper to understand each student. I pay close attention to how they naturally speak because that's the voice we ultimately want to capture.
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From there, we identify unique traits, core values, and meaningful experiences through brainstorming + freewriting. We shape those ideas into a clear, compelling narrative and build the application chapter by chapter.
A personal statement that tells a unique + inspiring story
Supplemental essays that add depth + perspective
Activities + Letters of Rec that reinforce character, initiative, and impact.
This is about more than sharing your best story.
It's about helping colleges understand who you really are.
My goal
My goal is to help students become stronger writers while making the college prep journey more manageable + less stressful.
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I bring structure, transparency, and a sense of calm to what can often feel like an overwhelming process, helping students move forward with clarity + confidence. While college admissions may be unpredictable, a student’s approach to the process doesn’t have to be.
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Along the way, teens build essential life skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication. They become more confident writers and gain a deeper understanding of themselves + what they care most about.
To me, what matters most is not just where students get in.
It's who they become in this process.
What parents can expect
Trust me, students aren't the only ones who feel overwhelmed during the college application process! Between financial aid discussions, college visits, deadlines, and trying to find the right balance between helping + stepping back, there’s a lot for parents to manage too.
When your child works with me, know that I’ll be there to answer questions + provide guidance to your family throughout the process.​
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Honest, thoughtful feedback while preserving your student’s voice
Structured timelines + manageable steps for your student
Less stress at home, knowing your student is supported at every step of their college prep journey!
