Should I hire someone to help with my college application essays?

A lot of students feel overwhelmed when they first start on college essays, so you're definitely not alone in considering whether to bring in extra help. Hiring someone to assist can be beneficial—but it’s important to understand what you’re signing up for and what’s considered ethical.

Professional essay advisors can be helpful in providing brainstorming support, helping you find a compelling narrative, and giving detailed editing feedback. If you have trouble organizing thoughts or finding a unique angle, a coach can offer valuable structure and feedback. For example, an advisor might help you realize the most memorable story to share isn’t necessarily your biggest achievement, but maybe a small moment that reveals your personality or values—something you might not have picked up on by yourself.

That said, your English teacher is absolutely right that the core ideas and writing need to be yours. Admissions officers want to hear your voice and authentic perspective. Over-editing or letting someone else rewrite your essay can blur your individuality and, in the worst cases, risk crossing an ethical line. Schools have gotten better at detecting essays that are overly polished or written by someone else, and that can hurt your application.

Many students have positive experiences working with advisors who act as supportive editors—offering suggestions, helping with clarity, and pushing for deeper reflection—but the best editors never rewrite essays for you. For example, one student I know hired a coach who acted more like a structured writing partner: talking through ideas, suggesting places to clarify details, and flagging clichés, while always making sure the student's voice was front and center. The process kept her accountable and made her more confident in her own writing.

On the other hand, some people get equally strong feedback from teachers, counselors, or family members who know them personally and can spot when something doesn’t sound authentic. These resources are often free, and sometimes one teacher is enough to help polish the essay until it shines.

Ultimately, hiring help can make a difference—especially if you struggle with writing—but it's not a necessity for a strong application. The real key is to seek out feedback from people who support your voice, whether that’s a trusted teacher or a professional editor, and remember the goal is to help you express your own story in the best way possible.