The Science of the College Essay: What a Former Admissions Officer Learned Through PhD Research
Monday, June 15, 2026 · 7:00 p.m.
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Central Time (US & Canada) (GMT -5:00)
About this Webinar
The Science of the College Essay with Dr. Aya Waller-Bey
What a Former Admissions Officer Learned Through PhD Research
Wondering what admissions officers actually look for in a personal statement?
Join Dr. Aya Waller-Bey, former Georgetown Admissions Officer and higher education sociologist, as she moves beyond generic essay advice to reveal the actual science behind a standout application. Drawing from her decade of advising experience and her groundbreaking PhD research, Dr. Waller-Bey provides an unparalleled look at how essays are truly evaluated.
In this webinar, you will learn:
- How admissions committees actually read and process your essay behind closed doors.
- How to authentically write about your identity and experiences to showcase your true worth, rather than what you think colleges want to hear.
- Research-backed, actionable strategies to highlight your unique voice and stand out in a shifting admissions landscape.
Agenda
The Science of the College Essay Presentation
Live Q&A
Aya Waller-Bey
Former Admissions Officer
I am a proud first-generation college student passionate about college admissions and higher education, hailing from Detroit, MI. I earned my B.A. in Sociology from Georgetown University and joined the Office of Undergraduate Admissions shortly after. I then earned my MPhil in Education at the University of Cambridge as a recipient of the Gates Cambridge Scholarship. I have over eight years of college admissions, advising, and college interview experience. Currently, I am researching college admissions as a doctoral candidate at the University of Michigan!