Applicants should never underestimate the impact of an effective essay on the decision of an admissions committee! Having served as Assistant Dean for Admissions, then as Associate Dean for Students, at Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Ellen had the opportunity to view the admissions process from both the student's and committee member's perspective. As a result, she knows how to recognize the value of a powerful essay and can help you create a personal statement that will enable you to stand out among countless applicants.
With ten years of experience directing the admissions program at Harvard, Ellen gained tremendous insight into the application process as well as the ability to identify desirable applicants for admission. Her work in this role included reviewing applications, screening candidates for interview, conducting welcome sessions and interviews, and managing and directing the entire admissions committee process. As a result, she has an insider's understanding of specific attributes that the committee members are seeking when they review your file.
At Harvard, she also had the chance to view the application process from the student's perspective. As Associate Dean for Students, Ellen was responsible for advising students on program selection and the creation of essays and resumes for their post-doctoral program applications. Over 95% of her students were admitted to specialty programs or general practice residencies, and the vast majority of these students were accepted to the program of their first choice. She can provide this same level of expertise for you in the medical school and dental school application process.
Ellen is a graduate of Cornell University with a BA in Biology and Art. After college, she attended Harvard School of Dental Medicine, where she earned a D.M.D., magna cum laude, graduating at the top of her class. Remaining at Harvard for specialty training, she was awarded certification in period ontology as well as an M.M.Sc. in oral biology. Upon completion of her training, Ellen served as Assistant Dean for Admissions and then Associate Dean for Students at the School of Dental Medicine for ten years. Currently, she teaches a required first-year course at Harvard Medical School, called "Patient-Doctor Relationships," and works for Kaplan as a medical school admissions consultant.