Parents often ask me if I do private tutoring for the college essay.

The answer is yes, I tutor students throughout the summer and into the fall. I love meeting with students one-on-one and they benefit greatly from that individual attention.

But most of my students also benefit from the small group workshops I offer entitled, “Brainstorm Your College Essay.”

Here’s why. When the students begin to relax in the room and get to know each other, there’s a synergy that develops and a creative atmosphere that connects them. One student will come up with a rock solid topic and the other students will begin to ruminate about their own lives and their own stories.

The energy in the room can be infectious.

Once we begin the writing exercises, the students start to think deeply and some experiment with their writing style and let go of their inhibitions. It can be liberating to write about yourself and inspirational to hear what other’s write about themselves.

I’m an award-winning journalist with a deep love of writing. I try to impart that love to my students.

I was the editor of the Westford Eagle and Littleton Independent. Today I’m the news director for a local community access TV station. I write everyday.

If you’d like your rising high school senior to experience what I can teach, please REGISTER HERE.

The workshop is limited to just six students. It takes place on Wednesday, June 27 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. in Westford, Massachusetts. Your student will leave with an essay topic and the first paragraph written. I’ll edit the first draft if delivered by a mutually agreed upon deadline.

I’ll also give you my college essay guide — a $4.99 value — free of charge.

Questions? Email me at winningcollegeessay@gmail.com.