Get Into Your Dream PhD Program — Getting Started Package

Get Into Your Dream PhD Program — Getting Started Package

5.0

Offered by Dr. Tray S.

5.0

()

PhD Success Coach | 25+ Years in Higher Ed | Ohio State Univ Faculty

Northern Illinois University Logo

Admissions Committee at Northern Illinois University

The Ohio State University Logo

Hiring Manager at The Ohio State University

Package Description:

This package is designed for aspiring researchers and scholars who want to build a strong, strategic foundation for their PhD applications—without diving into a full-cycle engagement right away. Whether you’re early in the process or still clarifying your goals, this flexible package helps you focus on what matters most. You’ll work with an experienced Leland coach to assess your profile, identify research alignment, and begin shaping a compelling application strategy. From evaluating your academic trajectory to refining your research interests, this is the launchpad to a focused and intentional PhD application journey. Common coaching activities in this package include, but are not limited to: - Kickoff & Planning Session: Review your academic background, research experience, and long-term goals to create a personalized PhD application roadmap. - Profile Evaluation: Receive candid, expert feedback on your academic record, research preparedness, and overall competitiveness. - Program & Advisor Targeting: Build a strategic list of programs and faculty advisors aligned with your interests and goals. - Research Statement/Proposal Brainstorming: Explore ways to articulate your research questions, hypotheses, and fit with prospective advisors. - Statement of Purpose (SOP) Strategy: Start developing a narrative that connects your background, motivations, and future plans. - Academic CV Review: Tailor your CV to highlight research contributions, publications, and relevant academic milestones. - Recommender Strategy: Identify the strongest faculty mentors to write your letters and ensure they’re equipped to advocate on your behalf.


What you'll get from this package

A customized plan and timeline to navigate the PhD admissions process confidently

Clarity on your academic and research positioning—and how to strengthen it

A thoughtfully curated program list tailored to your research goals

A compelling, well-structured research statement or SOP outline

A strong, polished academic CV that reflects your potential as a scholar


Additional details

Coaching delivered via live sessions and .

Refund Policy

Additional expectations or terms of engagement may be provided by coaches (e.g. expected response times, etc.).

Services included:

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Editing

School Selection

Application Strategy

Dissertation Proposal

Essays

Resume

Letters of Recommendation


Dr. Tray S.

Offered by Dr. Tray S.

Joined March 2025

5.0

PhD Success Coach | 25+ Years in Higher Ed | Ohio State Univ Faculty

Greetings! I'm Dr. Tray Stuckey and I'm excited to your graduate/professional school and career success coach! With a Doctorate of Education from Northern Illinois University, over a decade of experience on the faculty at The Ohio State University, and 25 years of diverse higher education career experience in total, I bring a wealth of knowledge in navigating graduate education and education career development. I also have deep knowledge in my areas of focus: educational psychology, research methods, instructional design & technology and online teaching and learning. I have years of experience as a hiring manager in education and I have been actively involved in admissions decisions for graduate programs, providing me with a deep understanding of what academic institutions are looking for in graduate school applicants and career professional candidates. My experience includes mentoring new and advanced doctoral and master's students and helping them navigate the complexities of graduate school applications, program matriculation, academic coursework success, and thesis/dissertation completion. I also provide guidance with professional and personal goal-setting, self-regulation and time management, navigating complex interpersonal relationships (such as with advisors/committee), and securing employment in academic and non-academic settings. My experience as a working mother while completing my own graduate degrees, eight years of online teaching/remote work, and guiding "working professional" online graduate students gives me a unique perspective on balancing family, school, and work while also practicing self-care. Whether you need guidance on crafting a compelling research proposal, how to manage a difficult thesis/dissertation committee, or advice on interview preparation, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Let's work together to achieve your academic and career goals!

Coaches professionally

60+ people coached for PhD Programs

Starting at $612

5h+ of coaching

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