Margo Bartsch founded College Essay Coach to apply her marketing and brand development expertise in assisting students develop exceptional college application essays and prepare for the SAT/ACT essay section. Margo's writing philosophy is that whether in marketing or in essay writing, the story must have a compelling theme and organizational structure. This big idea differentiates the student (or brand) and connects with the reader (or consumer). She works one-on-one with students either at her office in Shelburne, Vermont or with out-of-state clients on conference calls.

Margo has extensive experience as both a marketing professional and as a college educator. She is an Adjunct Professor in Business Administration at Champlain College in Burlington, VT, where she teaches three classes in advertising, marketing, and brand management. As a marketer, Margo's career spans 15 years in New York, Connecticut, Washington, D.C., and Vermont, focusing on the technology field.

She held high-level positions, including Chief Marketing Officer at Iris Wireless text messaging, Vice President of Marketing Communications, Advertising and Public Relations at Prodigy Internet, and in international marketing at MCI (prior to the merger with WorldCom) on Friends & Family Worldwide and the launch of 10-10-321, and at AT&T on Reach Out World.

Currently, Margo provides marketing consulting services in the communications field including: advertising, direct marketing, website design, brand development, strategic planning, market research and analysis, product introductions, sales strategies, internal communications, executive presentations, and business plan development.

Margo graduated from Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, where she earned her B.A. in economics and her M.S.J from the Medill School of Journalism. Margo has won national awards for her work in advertising, such as the Silver Effie for integrated advertising campaigns from the American Marketing Association (AMA) and an Echo Leader Award from the Direct Marketing Association (DMA). Margo has worked in Japan and has extensive travel experience throughout Asia, the South Pacific, Mexico, Latin America, the Middle East, and Europe.

Margo resides with her husband and daughter in Shelburne, VT. Her office is conveniently located in the Shelburne Creamery. She can be reached at (802) 985-3770.

The Chronicle of Higher Education: Admissions and Student Aid, Washington, DC (April 27, 2007)

The Rise of the Essay Coach

"While applying to a master's degree in clinical psychology at Columbia University, the initial draft was to focus on the future, rather than the past. 'Margo helped me understand that you can't walk away from your experiences and who you are.' Ms. Bartsch starts out by getting her clients to talk about well-known brands like Kodak and Google. She wants to drive home the point that feelings about brands can be just as important as product quality. Then she relates those lessons to the application essay. Margo explains, 'In writing good stories about yourself, it's not about the four tires and the engine. It's about your experiences in life, and what you've learned from them. Admissions counselors want to hear how you feel.'" See full story at: http://chronicle.com/weekly/v53/i34/34b01101.htm

Daily Herald, Arlington Heights, IL (November 23, 2007)

Want to Get into a Top College?

"'If you're thinking your younger child has a year or two to get with the program, guess again,' says Margo Bartsch, a Glenbrook South High School graduate and now an essay coach with a master's degree in journalism from Northwestern University, has a word of advice for students: Start thinking about getting into college during your sophomore year. 'Junior year is almost too late,' she says. 'By the time they get to crunch time for applications, it'll be much easier. It's a pretty big investment, where you should think of it more than two or three months ahead of time.'" See full story at: http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=82867.

Shelburne News, Shelburne, VT (December 2011)

Last week's Republican debate in Iowa did not get much press coverage on issues or solutions; rather, the buzz was on Mitt Romney's $10,000 bet to Rick Perry. Although Romney would have won the bet (Perry was inaccurate), it did not matter. Romney's choice of ideas (a bet), language (a BIG bet), and his tone (over-confidence) all painted a picture that he was disconnected from the average American. This is the power of words: college essays have this potential. See the full story at:  http://www.shelburnenews.com/news/article/current/2011/12/15/102758/the-10000-bet-how-words-have-an-impact

Shelburne News, Shelburne, VT (March 2011)

Charlotte News, Charlotte, VT (March 2011)

College Road Trips: Four Buzzwords

"With February break behind us, and spring forging ahead, this is the season for college road trips. Families who have visited colleges have noticed four buzzwords that colleges are looking for: engagement, community service, global and rigor. Noticeably, athletics did not make the list. Thus, being well rounded is more important than ever. See the full story at: http://www.shelburnenews.com/news/article/current/2011/03/16/101382/college-road-trips-four-buzzwords and at:

http://www.thecharlottenews.org/pages/collegeroadtripsfourbuzzwords.html

Rice Memorial High School News, Burlington, VT (March 30, 2009)

Father Bernie's Weekly Review

"It is always reassuring to receive good news about Rice alumni, especially recent alumni who are now in college.  Margo Bartsch, an adjunct professor of marketing and advertising at Champlain College, has this to say about Rice: 'In working with Rice students as a college essay coach to prepare them for the writing portions of standardized tests and the college application essays, I have seen how the values of Rice provide a compass in how a student respects authority, makes decisions, accepts accountability for their choices, and engages within their local environment.  Consistently, Rice students not only learn their academic lessons, but they have a greater sense of purpose beyond the walls of the school.' She further states, 'I have seen how Rice students rise above their peers . . . they share how the values of Rice trickle into their academics, activities, and social responsibility.  Community is not something extra; it is part of the overall Rice experience.  Community is the compass that guides them.'"  See full story at: http://ricehs.org/riceweb/vinconews/news_view.asp?ID=2094

Shelburne News, Shelburne, VT (2007, 2008)

High School Juniors, Get Your Pencil's Ready … SAT Writing Section Opens the Exam

"The writing section is the first part of the test, and can boost the student's confidence for the remainder of the test or get the student off on the wrong foot. College applications help fill in the blanks of what scores, rankings and GPA do not tell. Margo says, 'As both a marketing professional and as a writer, there are similarities in developing great ad campaigns and memorable essays, where people remember how you make them 'feel,' instead of what is literally 'said.'"

Shelburne News, Shelburne, VT (2008)

Connecting Athletics to the College Application Process

"Most parents think that sports success will be rewarded with a much-coveted scholarship. However, the reality is that most athletes need more than just a good sports resume to bring home the gold (or thick envelope).  The skills an athlete learns are valuable, but the lessons they teach have staying power beyond the score on the field.  The college application essays are a chance to incorporate how athletic experiences define the student and can influence their success in college.  Athletics is a way to share the athlete's personal story -- even beyond the coveted sports scholarship."

Northwestern University Luminaries, Evanston, IL (January 10, 2008).

"As admissions to top colleges become more competitive, students are looking for ways to stand above the crowd in the admissions process. NU alum Margo Bartsch founded a company called College Essay Coach, which helps prospective students develop their personal essays for college admissions. 'There are many similarities between marketing oneself and marketing a product. It's all about the emotions that the brand's story evokes.'"

See full story at: http://nuluminaries.blogspot.com/.

Shelburne News, Shelburne, VT (2008)

Charlotte News, Charlotte, VT (2008)

Three Trends in the College Application Process

"This past April 2008, there were record numbers of applications to colleges . . . and rejections.  Princeton University is in a lawsuit where an applicant was rejected even after having perfect SAT scores and achieving the highest scores on the SAT-II tests and AP exams.  Princeton responded that it admitted only half of its applicants with perfect SATs.  'We treat each applicant differently . . . and seek to enroll classes that are diverse by a wide variety of measures.'  Thus, the three trends that impact the college application process include: (1) increasing usage of the Common Application; (2) increasing the wait list of candidates; and (3) fewer schools requiring the SAT.  These trends show that the college application process has become more than a dreaded chore.  It is the only chance for the student's story to come to life."

Shelburne News, Shelburne, VT (2009)

How SAT and ACT Scores Influence the College Application Process

"There are noticeable similarities between athletics and academics: effort, commitment, sportsmanship, and, of course, the score.  The score represents how well the athlete or student performed individually and against the competition.  The SAT and ACT scores are the national comparison of students as to how they rank against their peers. Each college has specific admissions requirements to create a similar level of competition within the classroom."

Shelburne News, Shelburne, VT (2009)

Everyone Loves a Good Story

"This year's Kentucky Derby contains a lesson for all students applying to college.  And it is not that a little luck will take you a long way.  Rather, it's that we all remember the story behind the horses, even if we don't remember who placed second or third . . .  Although the other horses had the scores to qualify for the race, few captured our imagination.  Admittedly, we rally behind those who are most interesting.  Similarly, strong college applicants will have sparked an interest in the Admissions Committee.  College application essays ignite that spark by highlighting stories that are distinctive to them."

Shelburne News, Shelburne, VT and The Charlotte News, Charlotte VT (2011)

Standardized Test Scores Affecting College Admissions

Today there is more student loan debt than household credit card debt.  This October, 2011 figure reports that this year more than $1 trillion will be owned by students, while their job prospects continue to diminish.  Science and technology professions continue to grow, but our students are not necessarily prepared for those industries....  Regardless of the student's academic interests, it is important to start early with the college application process to make imrovement on overall test scores.  The scores are a benchmark in evaluating the overall learning environment and in seeking out a range of schools that represent the studnet's capabililties and interests.

http://www.shelburnenews.com/news/article/current/2011/11/17/102624/standardized-test-scores-affect-college-applications

"I am e-mailing to tell you I GOT INTO WASHU!  So we don't have to meet after Christmas anymore. I just wanted to thank you so much for everything you did for me, I could not have done it without you!!  See you soon!"

Student, St. Paul's School, Concord, NH

"I just got my Colorado College acceptance letter in the mail!!! Best present I will get this year!  Thank you so much for working with me and enjoy the holidays!!

Student, Champalin Valley Union High School, Hinesburg, VT

"Just letting you know that I was accepted to Bucknell ED-II, and I couldn't be happier with the results!Thanks for all your help!  You made everything easier for me!"

Student, Mt. Mansfield Union High School, Jericho, VT

"Great mtg!  U r great at what u do!!"

Parent, Holderness School, Plymouth, NH

"Congratulations for the successes you are experiencing in your business!!!  Your track record is remarkable, and I hope we are able to add our daughter to your list!"

Parent, Champlain Valley Union High School, Hinesburg, VT

"Guess What?! I just got accepted to Wake ED!  With all those essays, I could not have done it without you!"

Student, Rice Memorial High School, Burlington, VT

"Thank you for all your help!  Your guidance evey step of the way was invaluable and your "It's yours to win" attitude kept us all on-track, upbeat, and positive!"

Parent, Champlain Valley Union High School, Hinesburg, VT

"I read the essays, and I know it is my son."

Parent, Weston, MA

"You never told me how good it would feel to submit the earlies!"

Parent, Charlotte, VT

"Love the themes... it plays to his strengths!  We would be in trouble without you."

Parent, Buckingham, Browne & Nichols, Cambridge, MA

"Your writing process is a stroke of genius!  Your framing of his recent expriences and suggestions on how to mold them into a broader essay were great.  Introspection is not the hallmark of many 17 year olds.  Thank you for making him a better writer!"

Parent, Mt. Mansfield Uniion High School, Jericho, VT

"The math teacher already sent her recommendation-- the first one on the list!  What a sigh of relief to have completed all the essays this summer.  There is no way she could have worked on this during senior year with all the work she has.  Now, we're getting ready for the interview for Early Decision. Thanks!"

Parent, St. Paul's School, Concord, NH

"I am loving everything about Wake so far!  It is a wonderful place I can tell already, and I owe much gratitude to you for making my time here possible. I have never had so much work before in my life, but I know it is worth it. Thank you!"

Student, Wake Forest University, NC

"This really is more of a marketing challenge to fit all the pieces together in a memorable and compelling story. I know he will become a better writer by going through this process of theme and structure. Even his mock interview with you made him more confident and prepared on his campus tours."

Parent, Massachusetts Academy of Math and Sciences, Worcester, MA

"I wanted to let you know that I was accepted at Duke! I am going to visit the campus again on Blue Devil Days in April. Thanks for all your support."

Student, Rice High School, Burlington, VT

"Well, I got my letter back from Brown, and I'm IN!!! And, best of all, the stress in gone. Completely. Gone. Thank you for all the work you put into the essays with me. I really appreciate it. I'm into college!"

Student, Brookline High School, Brookline, MA

"I have good news . . . today I got into Wake Forest, even earlier than the ED notification date!. Thank you so much!"

Student, Rice High School, Burlington, VT

"I continue to sing your praises around town!!

Parent, Westminster School, Simsbury, CT

"The deposit is in at UVM and he is THRILLED! We cannot thank you ENOUGH for helping him navigate these Class 5 rapids of the college application process."

Parent, Rice High School, Burlington, VT

"I did overnights at lots of colleges, but Middlebury took the lead. I was accepted yesterday ! !  Thank you for all your help, I honestly couldn't have done it without you! Keep up the good work."

Student, Champlain Valley Union High School, Hinesburg, VT

"Thank you SOOO much for being part of the test-prep process--  your assistance, knowledge and presence has undoubtedly pushed and inspired my son to move forward.  You have given credibility to my years of nagging :-)!  Last night he put all his ACT stuff on the dining table, #2 pencils, sharpener, calculator, etc.... including a granola, walnut, chocolate mix in a plastic bag labeled "Brain Food" with a sharpie.   Lights out at 9:30 to prepare for his big test day tomorrow."

Parent, Champlain Valley Union High School, Hinesburg, VT

"Wanted you to be the first to know that she sent her early decision application just minutes ago. It was very exciting; thank you for all of your help and patience! We are now looking forward to December 15."

Parent, Rice High School, Burlington, VT

"Wow, Mom! She really knows her stuff!"

Student, Rice High School, Burlington, VT

"You'll be the first for me to call . . . On my admissions letters, they handwrote 'Really enjoyed your essay!' I can't wait to go to Colgate.'"

Student, Madeira School, Mclean, VA

"Thanks so much. There is a reason you do what you do!!!! Amazing stuff there Margo!"

Parent, Champlain Valley Union High School, Hinesburg, VT

"Thank you Margo! I do not know how I would handle this process without your help! Essays look great."

Parent, Rice High School, Burlington, VT

"My daughter came home from the SAT telling me that she never could have done well on the writing section without your help."

Parent, Rice High School, Burlington, VT

"Your college overview helped us plan how to best round out our daughter's activities in preparation for her junior year."

Parent, St. Paul's High School, Concord, NH

"What a great rally and a big feeling of relief to have it done."

PhD Candidate, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada

"Thank you so very much for your help and guidance in this process.  From a parental perspective, your services were invaluable.  We will keep you posted!!!  Fingers crossed . . ."

"He just got into Vanderbilt ED2 (Early Decision 2), and we are thrilled! Thank you for all your help -- it really made a difference!"

Parent, Friends Central High School, Wynnewood, PA

"Thanks so much for all your help! I know it was incredibly productive! We are so proud of him for getting this all done."

Parent, Rice High School, Burlington, VT

"Thank you for making the entire application process a wonderful experience!"

Parent, Mamaroneck High School, Larchmont, NY

"For early applications, he has received admits from all schools -- so far, no rejections or wait lists. The college counseling office is another story . . . what a disaster!  Thank goodness we were timely in working with you this summer and got a lot of his applications in way before the deadlines."

Parent, Northfield Mount Hermon School, Mount Hermon, MA

"You are great!  Thank you for all you did."

Parent, Champlain Valley Union High School, Hinesburg, VT

"What a big relief to have finished everything this summer. My friends are totally freaking!"

Student, Rice High School, Burlington, VT

"My time with you has really put a lot of my own talent and thoughts into a productive context.  I couldn't be more thankful."

Student, Vermont Commons School, South Burlington, VT

"I just wanted to let you know that I got accepted early to Bentley!  Thank you very much for everything."

Student, Champlain Valley Union High School, Hinesburg, VT

"Thanks!  I never would have gotten this all done on my own."

Student, Northfield Mount Hermon School, Mount Hermon, MA

"It was a pleasure to work with you again on this daunting college essay process.  You had a way of inspiring my second son to reveal much of himself and do his best.  It is a great relief for both of us to have completed the process."

Returning Parent, Champlain Valley Union High School, Hinesburg, VT

"Thank you for all the valuable guidance, anxiety-free direction and concrete solutions in working with you."

Parent, Dickinson College

"Thank you so much for all of your help and support in making my college process the smoothest!  I couldn't have done it without you!"

Student, St. Lawrence University

"Thanks for wearing a few different "hats" while coaching with the essays. You were an essay coach/therapist/teacher/business woman and mother, which make the perfect fit."

Parent, Skidmore College

"It was how everything pulled together that made the difference in being accepted to Boston College."

Parent, The Ethel Walker School, Simsbury, CT

"Thank you!! How wonderful to have worked with you—a great experience for all of us."

Parent, University of Vermont

"Thanks for your help, you saved me!"

Student, Rice High School, Burlington, VT

"Applying early decision to Middlebury was definitely the way to go."

Parent, Carrabassett Valley Academy, Carrabassett Valley, ME

"Thanks—most importantly, he got an 11 out of 12 on the [SAT] essay! Awesome!"

Parent, Champlain Valley Union High School, Hinesburg, VT

"I really appreciate your kindness. You have truly helped me throughout this college process."

Student, Champlain Valley Union High School, Hinesburg, VT

"You really came highly recommended, and now I know why."

Student, South Burlington High School, South Burlington, VT

"Words can not express how deep our gratitude is for all your great work! Not only did you help get him on track with the essays, but you inspired him by giving an insight into college life. Thank you!!"

Parent, Vermont Commons School, South Burlington, VT

"I know that the essays helped him through admissions. The competition is fierce and his SATs were so average. I wanted to be sure that the school knew he was serious. We are thrilled!"

Parent, Rice High School, Burlington, VT

"Thank you for working with the SAT essay. Your sessions were a tremendous help and gave him confidence during the writing piece. He could tell he was 'nailing it' and 'developing his points well.'"

Parent, St. Paul's High School, Concord, NH