Dr. Iris Cushing

After completing a Master's Degree at Columbia University, I earned my doctorate in English at the CUNY Graduate Center in 2021, and a Certificate in College Counseling from UC San Diego in 2024. As an Independent Educational Consultant, I am a proud Associate member of the Independent Educational Consultant’s Association (IECA).

Writing coaching is my first love, and I bring 14 years of experience as a writing teacher and consultant working with young people as they discover their voices, reflect on their past experiences and envision their futures through language. I am also a literary scholar, editor and poet, and have published work in multiple disciplines.

I consider essay writing a central element in the college application process, and work closely with teens to ensure their stories shine on the page. 

I use my knowledge of the current college admissions landscape to help you make the best decisions possible for your child. I enjoy working with families to make the college application process low-stress, insightful and fun; covering all elements of application preparation, from meeting deadlines to planning meaningful summer activities to building a college list uniquely suited to your student. Getting to know your child holistically, I serve as an encouraging presence, providing accountability and support for your child as they go through this incredible threshold.