Education:

University of Chicago (Creative Writing, B.A.)

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Counseling Experience:

With B2A, Ali counsels students in the Steps and Gateway programs, co-hosts Gateway Writing Workshops, develops curriculum for Steps, and stays up-to-date on the newest changes in college news by leading the College Spotlight posts for the B2A blog. She has experience counseling students interested in a wide variety of majors and uses a holistic approach to find unique ways to help each individual stand out. In her work with STEM-focused applicants, Ali draws out stronger, personal stories through in-depth discussion for those students who need their application essays to be more unique than ever. With humanities students, Ali enjoys encouraging them to fine-tune their creative instincts and draw interdisciplinary connections to their interests.

 

Counseling Philosophy:

“Admissions officers want to be able to feel your personality come through in every section of your application. Through our work together, I will encourage you to identify and promote your outstanding character traits and channel those through the materials we work on together. The path to college can seem daunting, but I am here to help you charm your readers at each school you apply to.”

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Education Experience:

Ali worked as a College Core Writing Tutor at The University of Chicago, where she edited numerous students’ creative and academic essays by providing both syntactical edits and large picture suggestions. She also volunteered with Southside Scribblers at UChicago, creating lesson plans and teaching younger students about the joys of creative writing. At B2A, Ali teaches English courses and edits curriculums in a variety of fields, including social studies.​

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Education Philosophy:

“I prioritize encouraging students to think critically and analyze material with the goal of discovering new questions and perspectives. I always look forward to getting to know each student as an individual so that we can identify their weaknesses and build on their strengths.”

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Interesting Fact:

Ali grew up on a dairy farm in rural Illinois and spent the summer of the pandemic raising bottle calves.