Welcome to my profile! With over a decade of experience in graduate admissions at Stanford University, including roles in the School of Engineering and School of Education, I bring a wealth of knowledge to help you navigate the PhD application process. As a former Director of Graduate Admissions, I have reviewed thousands of applications and understand what top programs are looking for. Since 2013, I have been an independent consultant, successfully guiding 100+ clients to prestigious programs across the US, Canada, and the UK. My personalized approach ensures that your application stands out. Let's work together to craft a compelling application that showcases your unique strengths and aspirations. Reach out to start your journey towards a successful PhD application!

With a PhD in Developmental Psychology from Boston University and extensive research experience at institutions like Boston University, Princeton University, and Gallup, I bring a wealth of knowledge about developing research skills, applying these skills to real-world problems and scientific discovery, and building a successful research portfolio. Over the years, I have successfully guided 18 individuals through the rigorous PhD application process, helping them secure spots at top-tier programs and following up with them to advise on difficult problems during their PhD programs. My expertise spans experimental design in psychology, data analysis, and scientific writing, ensuring you present a compelling and well-rounded application if you are applying for PhD programs. If you are already in a PhD program and need guidance, I can help you too! I look forward to mentoring you to achieve your goals. Relying on my personal experiences, I especially enjoy working with first-generation students, international students, and students from a low income background.

With a Ph.D. in Cultural Anthropology from Harvard University, I bring a unique interdisciplinary approach to Ph.D. admissions coaching, blending insights from anthropology, economics, and business. My experience as a Teaching Fellow at Harvard, where I led discussions and contributed to course development, has honed my ability to guide students through complex academic landscapes. As an Admissions Consultant with Admitify and The Ivy Institute, I have successfully mentored numerous students in crafting compelling applications that stand out. Whether you're navigating the intricacies of research proposals or personal statements, I'm here to provide tailored support to help you achieve your academic goals. Let's connect and strategize your path to success!

Kimberly employs a tailored one-on-one approach, drawing on more than ten years of project management, leadership, STEM outreach, and mentorship experience in academia, government, nonprofits, and entrepreneurship. Here are a few words from her clients: "Once I started PhD coaching with Dr. Duong, she immediately helped me make adjustments to create the optimal plan." "PhD coaching is great because it’s really targeted for PhD students who feel stuck in their programs." "Dr. Duong never downplayed my personal responsibilities in order to push me towards my professional commitment." "Dr. Duong’s insight and coaching has completely changed the way I look at procrastination, which has been hugely helpful in making progress."

I’ve helped clients gain acceptance to top-tier universities, including Cornell, NYU, Brown, UChicago, UPenn, Harvard Business, Claremont McKenna, Amherst, Tufts, Middlebury, Bard, and others. Applying to schools can be overwhelming, but, with the right mentorship, there are ways of making this experience as rewarding as possible. It is, after all, an opportunity to master oneself through writing, all the while becoming better at it.

Over the last four years, I have coached hundreds of students at a large R1 institution, guiding them as they prepare for graduate and medical school applications. I work with applicants from personal statement ideation all the way through decision making and I can't wait to do the same with you. Whether you're applying for the first time or reapplying and need a fresh take on your application, I'm confident that my coaching experience will be an asset to you. My approach centers around making meaning of your experiences, helping you to find the connections to your future goals, and translating those in a way that will resonate with the admissions committee. Let's work together to help you achieve your goals!

Having pivoted during medical school to pursue additional training as a PhD student in Biomedical Engineering, I had to learn on-the-fly how to prepare and succeed in the world of academia and research. Now, as I complete my PhD training, I strive to bolster the incoming generation of scientists and scholars to help promote diversity and inclusion at every level. Balancing multiple degree programs has taught me to manage my time, energy, and focus in meaningful ways, which I would love to pass on to any prospective students.

Welcome to my profile! I hold a PhD from Cornell University and a Bachelor of Arts from Columbia University. With my extensive academic background, I have a deep understanding of the challenges and intricacies of the PhD admissions process, which can be confusing and difficult. Together, I help you with school selection, hone your story and research ideas, and sell yourself so that you can feel confident submitting applications! As a coach, I have successfully guided over 5 clients in their journey towards securing admission to top PhD programs in their fields. My experience as a Communications Manager at Compass Family Services has honed my ability to effectively communicate and support individuals in achieving their goals. If you're looking for personalized guidance and expertise to navigate the PhD application process, I'm here to help. Let's connect and work together to make your dreams a reality!

The graduate application process is stressful at best and crippling at worst. Having served as a Dean and the Director of UC Berkeley's Psychology Post Baccalaureate Program for over 9 years, I have mentored nearly 200 students in their psychology graduate school application journey. I have also taught The Graduate School Application Process course for UC Berkeley Extension for the last two years. From identifying potential programs and labs to drafting a CV and statement of purpose, I am well equipped to lead you through this process.

I pursued my PhD at the University of Cambridge as a Gates Cambridge Scholar. Studying for a PhD is a very personal and rewarding journey and I have helped students realize their dream of studying at Cambridge and Oxford.