STARTING SOMETHING NEW
Make it stand out
Transitions are scary and challenging. I get it. After more than two decades running programs, teaching, and advising students at the University of Washington, I decided to start GradSnapApp to help people navigate transitions. I started my own transition to business owner with reflection on my goals and values. What do I value in life? What do I want from this transition? Then I got down to the nuts and bolts — what would it take to achieve my goals? This is the same approach I use with clients.
I work with a variety of people, at different life stages. I often work with high school and college students to put them on track for college and post-graduate futures. I also coach professionals seeking re-assessment of career strategy and folks of all ages who need to game-plan their next step.
My approach is individual and values-centered. Reflective writing activities allow clients to explore their passions and values while developing their personal statements for applications. Starting with their values helps guide clients throughout the process, from developing a college list to ultimately selecting which program to attend.
I also focus on nuts and bolts. I work with clients to understand the deadlines for their program, and make a schedule to meet them. We break it down into manageable steps with “homework” assignments that will meet their goals. We troubleshoot how to overcome barriers or gaps and create a compelling narrative throughout their application materials.
Starting something new: college applications, going to college, starting a business is challenging — for me and for my clients. Looking back on my first few years as a business owner, I have really enjoyed seeing clients taking the first steps, overcoming hurdles, and ultimately meeting their goals.
My 2025 clients are settling into their new lives as college and graduate students. Several at UW and other state schools like Seattle U, Gonzaga, and Whitman. Others are a bit further afield (Santa Clara, UC Berkeley, UC Davis, Cal Poly, USC) and others across the country (University of Michigan, Northeastern, Fordham, Boston University, Cornell, Tufts, University of South Carolina, University of Georgia, NYU, Vassar) and still others have ventured outside of the U.S. (University of British Columbia, McGill). I’m excited to see how college is already helping them connect their interests and nurture an open and exploratory mindset, so important in their future careers.
While I wrap up the work with my 2026 seniors, I am welcoming my new sophomores and juniors. With support, the college admissions process, and those scary transitions, are not as daunting as they seem!
Contact me for a spot on my roster. I look forward to hearing from you!