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5.0
5.0
PhD Success Coach | 25+ Years in Higher Ed | Ohio State Univ Faculty
Admissions Committee at Northern Illinois University
Hiring Manager at The Ohio State University
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.
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
Coaching delivered via live sessions and .
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
Schedule a call with a Leland team member who can help you explore your options.
Schedule a call
Craft winning personal statements through expert coaching.
Starting at $6125h+ of coaching
Create a compelling academic resume that highlights your research potential
Starting at $2522h+ of coaching
Ensure your PhD application is polished and submission-ready
Starting at $3753h+ of coaching
Get help with Defense Preparation, Editing, and .
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!
5h+ of coaching