In this honest episode of Success Unlocked, Dr. Adrienne Shnier chats with the talented Sarah Baughan, an artist at heart who once thought her creative side didn’t belong in the world of law. (Spoiler: it does. And it got her in.)

Sarah walks us through her journey from feeling completely directionless to landing multiple law school acceptances. She shares the exact mindset shifts that helped her stop hiding the parts of herself she thought didn’t “fit,” and how early preparation, and a whole lot of self-reflection, turned everything around.

This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt like they don’t belong in the room, like they have to trade their passions for professionalism, or like law school is only for a certain “type” of student. Sarah proves that your background isn’t baggage, it’s your edge.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why your non-traditional background can set you apart
• How to stop editing yourself out of your own story
• Why authenticity in applications = actual results
• The power of a five-year vision (and seeing yourself in it)
• What it looks like to go from unsure to unstoppable
• How to use writing as a confidence-building tool
• Why early prep changes everything, especially your mindset

Timestamps:
 00:00 – Introduction to Sarah's Journey
 02:50 – Navigating the Law School Application Process
 06:03 – Embracing Authenticity in Applications
 08:59 – The Power of Self-Discovery
 12:09 – Celebrating Acceptances and Achievements
 15:02 – Building Confidence Through Writing
 17:56 – The Impact of Arts on Legal Aspirations
 21:04 – The Importance of Early Preparation
 23:49 – Reflecting on the Journey and Future Goals

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

In this solo episode of Success Unlocked, Dr. Adrienne Shnier is pulling back the curtain on one of the biggest application mistakes out there: being too polished and not personal enough. If your application reads like a LinkedIn post from 2016, it’s time for a rewrite.

Adrienne walks you through how to write with authenticity, purpose, and actual strategy because generic won’t get you in. From turning real-life experiences into compelling narratives to using language that makes your story come alive, this episode is your no-BS guide to standing out on paper and owning your path forward.

Whether you’re struggling with your personal statement, second-guessing your story, or just don’t know where to start, consider this your permission slip to get real, get reflective, and get RESULTS.

 What You’ll Learn (and actually use):

• Why authenticity > perfection every single time
• How to write like a human, not a robot
• What admissions committees really want to see in your personal statement
• How to link your experiences to your mission (and future goals)
• Why active, specific language shows leadership
• What makes a letter of recommendation unforgettable
• The mindset shift that changes your entire application game
  
  

Timestamps:

 00:00 – Unlocking Authenticity in Applications
 03:01 – The Importance of Personal Connection
 05:49 – Crafting Your Unique Narrative
 08:59 – Demonstrating Passion and Impact
 11:55 – Mindset and Strategy for Success

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

In this real-talk episode of Success Unlocked, Dr. Adrienne Shnier sits down with the brilliant (and now Osgoode Law School–bound) Veronica D’Ambrosio to talk about everything the highlight reel doesn’t show. Spoiler: getting into Osgoode isn’t just about a perfect LSAT score; it’s about mindset, accountability, and doing the inner work no one tells you about.

Veronica opens up about what it takes to get in - from managing the anxiety of “the unknown,” to resisting the urge to compare yourself to every other overachiever online. She shares how travel became self-care, why she stopped chasing gold stars, and how the Apply Yourself Global program gave her structure, clarity, and a whole new kind of confidence.

This episode is your reminder that you don’t need to be perfect; you just need to be honest, consistent, and strategic. And yes, you can do hard things (like getting into one of the top law schools in the country) without burning out.

If you're in the thick of applications, this one’s your permission slip to stop spiraling and start owning your story.

 What You’ll Learn:

• Why starting early isn’t just smart - it’s your secret weapon
• How to stop making everything feel like punishment and start using rewards as motivation
• Why authenticity > copy-paste personal statements (every single time)
• What to do when comparison kicks in and your confidence tanks
• The underrated power of having actual support instead of relying on Reddit threads
• How to lean into structure and coaching calls so you don’t lose steam
• Why your “why” matters more than your scores
• The truth: You don’t need to do this alone, and you shouldn’t

Timestamps:
 00:00 – Veronica’s Journey: Real, raw, and unfiltered
 02:35 – Why Travel Is More Than Just a Break
 06:43 – Reward vs. Necessity: The Mindset Shift That Changed Everything
 07:45 – The Anxiety of the Unknown (and how to stop spiraling)
 11:15 – Starting Early: Not Optional
 15:37 – Inside the Program: Structure That Actually Works
 20:53 – Building a Community That Gets It
 23:59 – Accountability Calls: Yes, You Need Them
 25:09 – Reflections That Change Your Trajectory
 25:56 – Finding Your Why (and owning it)
32:03 – No One Cares About Perfect—Be Authentic
37:10 – Stop Comparing. Start Owning.
43:29 – The Power of S

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

Whether you live in a house, apartment, or dorm, a cluttered space can impact your focus. How do you create an environment that supports your studying goals and lets you get your very best results?

Decluttering Your Home and Life With Intention   

In this thoughtful episode of Success Unlocked, I’m honoured to sit down with Brittnei Gaudio, a professional organizer, decluttering coach, and owner of Wellnested Living, to talk about her no-stress approach to organizing, simplifying, and streamlining. 

During our conversation, Brittnei shares her expert tips for keeping your study space neat and well-organized — and the trick to transforming a post-exam disaster zone into an ideal study area in just 15 minutes a day! Press play to discover how outer order can create inner calm and learn how to get intentional about tidying your space.

In this episode, we explore:

• How to reclaim control of your space after a busy exam period without overwhelm, so you’re ready for what comes next 
• Why utility trumps tradition when figuring out where your things should go
• How to set expectations when sharing a space with another person
• The mindset shift that will help you stop feeling guilty about mess and start preventing clutter from building up in your home

Follow and subscribe to never miss an episode!

Guest bio: As the owner and head nester of Wellnested Living, Brittnei Gaudio helps busy families and professionals create spaces that feel right for their lives. 

Timestamps:‌ ‌

01:46  Meet Brittnei Gaudio

03:14  Importance of decluttering

04:45  Reorganizing after exams

07:09  1-minute rule & ‘increase’

11:43  Tradition v. utility

15:10  Shared space

17:27  Brittnei’s journey

20:07  Case study

27:00  Indoor spaces

30:15  Outdoor spaces & odd items

33:15  Impact & maintenance

36:00  Final tips & workshop

Links mentioned:‌ ‌

Brittnei Gaudio

wellnestedliving.ca

Facebook: Wellnested Living  

Instagram: @well.nested.living 

Pinterest: wellnestedliving 

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

The world around you doesn’t pause while you’re preparing for grad school! As new responsibilities, transitions, and life events come up, how do you ensure that your application or exam prep schedule remains consistent?

Finding Your Rhythm: Creating Consistency in Chaos

While consistency is key, your study schedule should never be set in stone. Calendars are iterative and need to adapt based on what is happening in your life. In this highly practical episode of Success Unlocked, I reveal everything you need to know about planning (and revising) your calendar during a hectic or transitional period, whether preparing for the LSAT or working on your grad school application. Discover how to build an effective, burnout-free schedule that truly works for you and keeps you on track — no matter what else may be going on in your life!

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why you should avoid relying too heavily on AI-assisted schedules (no matter how convenient they may seem!) 
• How to identify your priorities, flexibilities, and non-negotiables, so that your calendar fits your needs  
• What you need to consider when creating your calendar — and how to customize your study schedule and strategy
• How one of our amazing Apply Yourself clients enjoyed a glorious ten-day vacation in Italy without derailing her application process (and the #1 thing she did right!) 

Follow and subscribe to never miss an episode!

Timestamps:‌ ‌

01:46  Intro

03:12  Calendars in transitional periods

05:49  Prioritizing & building consistency

07:26  Taking time off

13:39  Developing long-term schedules

15:52  Customizing your calendar

19:02  Why we change things

20:40  Recap & outro

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

At Apply Yourself Global, we pride ourselves on delivering real results while revolutionizing admission preparation and success-based programs. How do we ensure our clients get the support and resources they need to achieve their highest goals?

Discovering the Habits & Mindset That Work For You

My guest for this episode of Success Unlocked is Emily Caruso, one of our accomplished clients and fellows. Emily received acceptance letters from 100% of her chosen schools — including extremely early acceptance to her dream school! Press play to discover the individualized support that helped her thrive throughout her application journey, how the process has caused her to show up differently in her life and relationships, and why you must remember to trust your brain!

In this episode, we explore:

• The personalized process that helped Emily increase her LSAT score by 11 points (and why her study schedule was so easy to stick to)
• The moment that flipped the switch in terms of Emily’s mindset — and how this shift transformed her approach to practice tests  
• Whether you should include pre-undergrad experiences in your law school application (and Emily’s unique and effective strategy!) 
• Emily’s experience in juggling LSAT coaching with our Mastering Academic Applications program 

 Follow and subscribe to never miss an episode!

Guest bio: Emily Caruso is in her fourth year of the Justice, Political Law, and Philosophy program at McMaster and will be starting as an L1 student at Osgoode Hall Law School in September.

Timestamps:‌ ‌

01:47  Meet Emily Caruso

04:25  Emily’s path to Apply Yourself

06:23  Two layers of support

09:56  Mixing programs & coaching 

13:04  Pre-undergrad experiences

15:01  Early acceptance & support 

19:40  Fellowship

21:40  Mindset shifts

26:11  Showing up differently

27:44  Experience-based support

34:03  Growth & care

36:37  Final thoughts & outro

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

When an application process feels like a labyrinth, taking your first step can feel impossible — but an experienced Coach can help you map out a personalized route to success.

Step by Step: Getting Clear on Your Unique Journey

In this episode of Success Unlocked, I’m honoured to sit down with Meera, an amazing Apply Yourself client and fellow who began working with us during her second year at McMaster University. Our thoughtful conversation explores the big feelings students experience when opening an application package for the first time — and how overwhelm can derail the process before they even begin.

Listen now to learn how our Coaches help students cut a path through the confusion, get clear on each step they need to take, optimize their study habits, and refine their materials while feeling safe and supported!

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• How Meera’s experience with Apply Yourself compares to her time working with a tutor before coming to AYG (and the #1 thing that made a difference)
• Common fears that come up early in the application process, and how our non-competitive community builds students’ confidence and sets them up for success 
• Why processing your experiences is important for knowing what to share (and how to share it) in your personal statement
• Why Meera still attends our weekly Coaching calls — even though she’s submitted her application! 

Follow and subscribe to never miss an episode!

Guest bio: Meera is a fourth-year student at McMaster University who will graduate in April with an Honours in Political Science.

Timestamps:‌ ‌

01:46  Meet Meera

02:39  Finding Apply Yourself

04:35  Cutting through the fog

07:14  Tutor v. Apply Yourself

09:59  Working 1:1 with a Coach

11:59  Weekly calls & group vibe

16:30  Writing & processing

20:32  Identifying goals & worth

23:59  Fellowship & relationships

30:51  Meera’s advice

33:05  Outro

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

Apply Yourself Global saw a record number of early admissions last year, thanks to the hard work and determination of our students and coaches. While each client story is unique and inspiring, I’d like to share one that truly showcases the Apply Yourself difference!

Optimize Your Progress By Unlocking Your Success Mindset

Mastering the LSAT is about so much more than standardized testing. In this episode, I share an uplifting story about one of our amazing LSAT prep students and the mindset journey that led her to succeed far beyond her wildest dreams. Press play to discover how our individualized coaching, nurturing strategy, and supportive community empowered our client to progress from a diagnostic starting score of 138 to a jaw-dropping 161.

In this episode, I explore:

• Two major shifts our client experienced as she worked with us, and how they enabled her exceed her goals
• How we help our clients cultivate a genuine belief in their abilities (and why I do NOT believe in trying to “fake it till you make it”)
• Why we emphasize consistency over cramming, and community over competition 
• How we’ve built integrity and support into each of our powerful signature programs — and why this is so important!

Follow and subscribe to never miss an episode!

Timestamps:‌ ‌

01:47  Intro

03:31  Score progression

06:39  Seeking help & self-belief

10:31  More than just showing up

13:06  Work with us!

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

Large admissions prep companies and independent tutors promise students big results, but don’t always deliver. What sets Apply Yourself Global apart from the crowd — and how do we consistently outperform our big box competitors? 

Taking an Individualized and Nurturing Approach to Advancement

By cultivating a supportive and 100% non-competitive environment, Apply Yourself Global has carved out a revolutionary space not only in the advancement world, but the academic world in general. Where other success-based programs rely on fear and competition to sell themselves and motivate their clients, we’ve built a nourishing community that uplifts one another, led by compassionate coaches who understand that advancement strategies are not one-size-fits-all.

In this episode, you’ll learn about Apply Yourself’s unexpected origin story, how our unique approach has shaped our signature programs, and why you should consider reaching out to us regardless of your grades!

You’ll discover:

• How a series of study sessions at a Starbucks led to the unplanned creation of Apply Yourself Global 
• A common mistake students make when putting together their applications, and why your written materials are more important than you think!
• Why each component of your application should fit together like a harmonious puzzle
• How our coaches cater to your learning style, rather than relying on a standardized approach
• Horror stories from big box exam prep programs (and why their promises are unethical!)

Follow and subscribe to never miss an episode!

Timestamps:‌ ‌

01:47  Intro

04:35  Apply Yourself origin story

09:59  Interconnected materials

11:00  Big box promises

13:16  Individualized curriculum

15:37  Growing Apply Yourself

20:45  Our difference

25:35  Open to all

30:28  Outro

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

The post-secondary landscape has undergone an incredible transformation, and today’s students have access to a huge range of resources and values-based communities. How do they get the most benefit from these powerful opportunities?

Finding the Right Guidance to Help You Reach Your Goals

This episode of Success Unlocked was recorded on location at UCLA and is the conclusion of a two-part conversation with Apply Yourself’s Client Success Coordinator, Vanessa Caco. Join us as we dig into juicy insights gained through attending an event hosted by LeGal, an undergrad organization specializing in women's empowerment in the political and legal fields.

In this episode, we explore:

• How undergraduate events and organizations have shifted in aim and scope over the past decade 
• Why people with high grades may not be accepted (and what schools are really interested in)
• The options available to you when a class is dragging down your GPA
• Why students should avoid relying on social media for information about the application process — and where to find detailed, accurate guidance
• The rise in first-year students proactively seeking resources and support  
• The key values that Apply Yourself looks for when sponsoring student groups 

Follow and subscribe to never miss an episode!

Guest bio: Vanessa Caco is the Client Success Coordinator for Apply Yourself, where she plays a pivotal role in fostering client success. In addition to this role, she is a Paralegal at Shnier Mackenzie Law in Toronto and has been working in the legal field since 2014.

Timestamps:‌ ‌

01:47  LeGal event 

03:12  Student groups & events

04:58  Sponsoring & social media

06:37  Accessing resources

08:47  Apply Yourself Masterclass

11:23  Written materials & improving your GPA

14:58  Median scores & expectations

17:51  Connection & commitment 

20:09  Our early acceptances 

23:10  Swag & outro

Links mentioned:‌ ‌

LeGal at UCLA

Sponsorship Form

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

Apply Yourself provides valuable journeys not only to our clients, but also our team. As we help our students stretch their ambitions and strengthen their skills, we find ourselves growing alongside them! 

Achieving New Heights Through Consistency, Commitment & Community 

This week’s episode of Success Unlocked was recorded on the beautiful UCLA campus. I’m joined by the wonderful Vanessa Caco, our Client Success Coordinator at Apply Yourself Global. Vanessa finds tremendous fulfillment in helping students master new tools and maximize their opportunities. Listen now as we discuss the inspiration she draws from our amazing clients, the unexpected text message that brought her a surprising opportunity (while on her honeymoon!), and how our key values of transparency and integrity have been vital to Apply Yourself’s organic success.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• The important steps Vanessa and I took to ensure we’d be a good fit to work together
• How working with our clients has challenged and guided Vanessa to new growth and understanding    
• What sets Apply Yourself apart from big box admission services companies — and what our students must bring to the process to see their very best results
• What Vanessa has observed about our coaching calls and community (and how doing mindset work with students has helped shift her own!)  

Follow and subscribe to never miss an episode!

Guest bio: Vanessa Caco is the Client Success Coordinator for Apply Yourself, where she plays a pivotal role in fostering client success. In addition to this role, she is a Paralegal at Shnier Mackenzie Law in Toronto and has been working in the legal field since 2014.

Timestamps:‌ ‌

01:48  Meet Vanessa Caco

02:59  Vanessa’s career path

06:45  Finding a good fit

08:05  Challenges & growth 

10:41  Organic success

11:56  Committing to the process

14:27  Coaching & community

16:35  UCLA panel & outro

Links mentioned:‌ ‌

Shnier Mackenzie Law

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

Lessons From My Broken Ankle
At the time of recording this episode, I am joining you not from the office or my usual desk space, but from my bed where I have been sitting and recovering from a broken ankle.  My initial thought as this accident happened was, “There is something to be learned from this," and I today explore this lesson with you.   

Letting Yourself Process and Keeping a Positive Mindset
The main lesson I bring to you today is this: Allow yourself to process and seek out the lessons you can learn from challenges. This mindset shift allows us to take challenges in stride and have deeper insight into what is going on around us. Personally, I am still processing and I want to bring you along this journey with me. Here are some key takeaways from this episode: 

• There's no rush when it comes to processing events that happen to you. Being able to process freely and openly is a skill that takes years to master, so let the processing happen and welcome the thinking that comes with it. 
• We don’t see progress in one day. It takes consistency and showing up for yourself and others in order to succeed. I continue to show up each day, even while in a cast for my ankle, because I truly believe in the work we are doing and I love being a part of my clients’ journeys. 
• We do the work that we do in order to serve our clients to the best of our abilities, and to build a life beyond our wildest dreams. 
• I am so grateful to you for showing up to the podcast each week and allowing me to let you into my life.
•  We just brought on 10 LSAT and MCAT coaches for our Mastering Test Prep program, and we continue to work with all of our teams to bring our programs to you and support your advancement journey. I am so thankful and proud of all of the people we have brought onto the team and everyone we work with under the mission of Apply Yourself. 

Follow and subscribe to never miss an episode! 

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

New Years “Resolutions” - Do They Align with You?
Today, I discuss why I personally skip New Years “resolutions.” When we think about what's happening outside of the formal institutions where we learn, work, and play, treating the winter like a period of starting anew seems out of alignment with the natural environment and hibernation cycles, perhaps even ourselves. And if New Year's resolutions work for you, go for it! However, for many members of our Apply Yourself community, their goals didn’t just start in January. They've spent weeks, months, or even years working on their advancement and applications to their dream programs or jobs.

3 Strategies to Reframe Resolutions
Rather than setting new goals at the start of the year, I propose 3 strategies to remain productive and committed to ourselves while making incremental, thoughtful steps towards our advancement and our goals at any time of the year: 

1. Re-centering and re-aligning ourselves to what feels right for us - This means to come back to what’s most in alignment with your goals and the kind of life you want to build for yourself. This involves using visualization to critically and thoughtfully analyze your choices and next best steps. 
2. Committing to what’s in alignment with ourselves  - Once you identify what feels in alignment with you, commit. At any point in time, you need to set your goals with thoughtfulness and intentionality behind them in order for them to pan out as planned. We have to remain accountable to ourselves, take ourselves seriously, identify the tools we’re using that serve our productivity, and seek out support when needed. 
3. Remain consistent to build up the skills of focus and discipline  - Discipline is not a prison, but rather a tool that helps us to create, come back to where we left off, and show up for ourselves. Consistency helps you to build up these skills and work towards your goals. 

Subscribe to never miss an episode!

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

Life at Apply Yourself is never boring! While we’ve refined our support, coaching, and strategy over many years of helping students secure admission to their dream programs, master their LSAT and MCAT prep, and flourish in their professional lives, each client has their own unique journey through the process — and their own powerful story to tell.

Striking the Right Balance: Communicating Trauma in Your Written Materials

In our last episode, I shared a few of the top lessons and takeaways gleaned from Apply Yourself’s latest application cycle. In this thoughtful episode, I explore the valuable strategies I use to help my clients write about their challenging life experiences in a way that strikes a chord with committees while protecting their peace. 

This episode explores:

• How to best approach traumatic experiences and difficult circumstances within written application materials (and the key to being effective and not excessive) 
• Why I encourage students to communicate their challenging experiences in their written materials — and how their inclusion will strengthen their application
• The difference between writing for discovery and writing for communication
• How the process of writing productively about trauma can shift your perspective, and the compassionate support Apply Yourself offers along the way! 

Follow and subscribe to never miss an episode!

Timestamps:‌ ‌

01:46  Intro 

02:00  Communicating traumatic experiences

07:36  Why include trauma?

09:53  Reading from the place of the scar 

13:21  Outro

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

Helping our inspiring students receive admission to prestigious schools around the world is immensely fulfilling work — and as the Apply Yourself team helps our clients develop important new skills and perspectives, we often discover new things alongside them!

The Apply Yourself Method: Reducing Time, Stress, and Worry 

As Apply Yourself wraps up our busiest application cycle ever, I’m excited to take a moment to reflect on this memorable journey. Over the last few months, our students have broken records, overcome serious hurdles, and introduced us to wild holiday trends. Listen now to discover the thoughtful lessons, key takeaways, and new discoveries this outstanding application cycle has generated!

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• Why it’s crucial to order two copies of your transcript — and why this task is definitely non-negotiable!
• How we will help you reduce the time required to create your written application materials by up to 70%
• The incredible feedback that one of our students received from her dream law school (and why it’s such a historic win!) 
• Why so many parents feel comfortable leaving for spa weekends during key periods in their child’s application process  

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Timestamps:‌ ‌

01:46  Intro

03:58  Boo baskets

06:32  Cutting down application time

07:59  Historic feedback & spa trips

10:35  Ordering your transcript

13:10  Worst transcript screw-up

14:50  Recap & outro

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

The LSAT is known to be challenging, and much of its difficulty lies in its multiple question types requiring different skill sets. Which skills should you focus on while preparing for the LSAT, and which strategies will help you see your best results?

A New Approach to LSAT Prep: Revolutionizing the Student Experience 

In this thoughtful episode of Success Unlocked, I’m grateful to have the opportunity to sit down with Cindy Miao, one of our exceptional Apply Yourself LSAT coaches! Cindy has held numerous teaching roles since her undergrad and is passionate about helping others unlock their full potential.

Press play to discover how Cindy’s academic background gave her unique insight into highly effective LSAT preparation, and how she has integrated these valuable lessons into her coaching approach.

We explore:

• The major reason why Cindy’s scores improved as she was preparing for the test — and how this has influenced her coaching strategy 
• The role of formal logic in the LSAT and why so many test prep companies miss the mark when preparing their students for the exam
• Why successful LSAT prep can be surprisingly unintuitive (and the score-boosting skills that Cindy teaches her students)   
• Cindy’s softer, human-centred approach to LSAT coaching — and why it works so well!

Follow and subscribe to never miss an episode!

Guest bio: Cindy Miao is a valued LSAT coach at Apply Yourself and a second-year student at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law. Her undergraduate background is in philosophy and mathematics, and she earned her Bachelor of Arts from McMaster University.

Timestamps:‌ ‌

01:47  Meet Cindy Miao

04:18  Cindy’s LSAT experience

06:08  Cindy’s LSAT results & strategy

09:33  Revolutionizing LSAT prep

13:45  Student experience

17:31  Cindy’s human-centred approach

22:30  Working with Cindy

23:26  Cindy’s #1 tip

26:12  Outro

Links mentioned:‌ ‌

Work with Cindy Miao

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

Application and test prep is a large and growing industry, with companies big and small promising successful outcomes. While aspiring students today have a wealth of options, not all prep companies are created equal! What sets Apply Yourself apart from the crowd?

Building Authentic Connections That Nurture Lifelong Success

Since 2015, we’ve strived to ensure that Apply Yourself offers the right programs and resources to help you fully prepare for your next steps. Our non-competitive membership communities provide support and accountability, while our 1:1 coaching cultivates an application process that is highly personalized, meaningful, and authentic. 

In this episode of Success Unlocked, you’ll discover why our process is unique in the world of application prep, the key elements that set us apart from our big-box competitors, and the important reason why I sometimes discourage my clients from submitting their applications!  

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How the Apply Yourself system fosters authentic, long-term connections and remarkable ongoing success 
• How we work to create a comfortable and supportive environment that allows our clients to achieve strong focus and see their best results
• How Apply Yourself can support you beyond graduate school through our executive coaching program

Timestamps:‌ ‌

01:18  Intro

03:18  When you should NOT submit

04:32  Mother story

08:19  Comfortable environment

10:02  What we do is different

12:44  Outro

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

Many variables can impact your efficacy when preparing for the MCAT, including when you choose to take it. What is the best time to write the MCAT — and how can you optimize your prep?

Timing is Everything: Creating a Balanced & Aligned MCAT Study Plan 

In this episode of Success Unlocked, I was pleased to sit down for a conversation with one of our wonderful MCAT coaches, Rachel Waldman. Rachel is a fourth-year biology student at the University of Victoria who took the MCAT after her second year, opting for a short but intense study schedule. Our thoughtful discussion is full of valuable insights about what this experience taught her — and what you need to know before making a similar decision on your own journey. 

We explore:

• Why Rachel chose to write the MCAT early and how her course schedule supported that decision
• What you should consider when deciding when to take the MCAT and how to ensure that you have the bandwidth
• How the MCAT differs from the LSAT (and Rachel’s favourite MCAT study strategies)  
• Why devoting all of your time to test preparation may cause more harm than good
• The importance of having a social circle that understands your MCAT prep stress — and will celebrate your wins! 

Guest bio: Rachel Waldman is a fourth-year biology student specializing in neurobiology at the University of Victoria in British Columbia. 

Timestamps:‌ ‌

01:47  Meet Rachel Waldman

03:07  Writing the MCAT early

05:51  Deciding when to write it

08:58  Have something apart from studying

10:37  Support systems

12:29  MCAT v. LSAT

14:08  Study strategies

18:31  Rachel’s relationship with her score

21:14  Coaching v. tutoring

23:17  First step

24:38  Outro

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

The Power of Mindset in LSAT Prep with Clement

The LSAT is widely known as one of the most challenging standardized tests, with high scores requiring the mastery of several different skills. What are the key ingredients for successful preparation, and how do Apply Yourself coaches help students maximize their study skills and confidence?

Courage, Community & Coaching: Unlocking Your Peak LSAT Score

My guest for this episode is Clement, one of our amazing LSAT coaches. After being inspired by the in-depth discussions around personal freedom sparked by the Covid pandemic, Clement moved to Canada from China to pursue a career in law and is in his third year of study at Osgoode Hall Law School. In this conversation, he shares why he was drawn to the Apply Yourself philosophy, how his experience in the program enriched his LSAT preparation, and the key insights he loves to share with the students he coaches. 

You’ll discover:

• The importance of fostering nurturing communities that allow students to flourish as they work toward their goals 
• The fundamental meaning and value of the LSAT — and how to improve your chances of success in just 2 months
• Whether or not you should search for LSAT information online (and why you should be wary of free resources!)
• What happens when you compare yourself to others rather than focusing on your progress — and the role that courage plays in LSAT preparation

Guest bio: Clement is a 3L student at Osgoode Hall Law School at York University. He decided to go to law school because he saw law as having the power to advocate for the disadvantaged, and is pursuing a legal career in the public interest.

Timestamps:‌ ‌

01:46  Meet Clement

03:06  Why Apply Yourself resonated

04:31  Choosing to study law

07:12  Impact of community

08:41  What is the LSAT?

12:33  Courage & mindset

16:03  Online resources

19:12  Comparison

21:11  Final takeaway

23:51  Outro

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

This episode of The Advancement Spot is the second of a two-part conversation with the amazing Kevin P Murphy, host of The Reflect-On Podcast. Kevin is a passionate and insightful advocate for the power of honest and vulnerable conversation to help improve lives and grow actionable potential.

Building Healthier Schedules and Deeper Trust in a Complex Modern World

Our meaningful conversation builds upon the honest reflections shared in episode #112 — I highly recommend that you start there if you missed it! If you’re ready to continue with the second instalment of this beautiful and thoughtful discussion, press play to discover how to set yourself up for success through managing your time (and expectations), embracing flexibility, and choosing to believe in yourself.

In this episode, we explore:

• The many different types of time that play a role in our lives, and the importance of managing it in a way that honours your energy and desires
• What we must consider when deciding whether to instil trust in an institution, government, or corporation
• Three simple but valuable “wisdom bites” to live by — and three powerful questions that will help you open the door to deeper reflection

Guest bio: As a Financial Planner and host of The Reflect-On Podcast, Kevin P Murphy has learned that reflection, attention, and emotionality are perhaps the biggest catalysts for betterment that we possess in our modern world. He is on a mission to grow a platform that highlights unique stories and inspiring messages from all walks of life to empower reflection, foster creativity, and spark more joy.

Timestamps:‌

01:35  Intro

02:25  Time management

09:59  Identify what you can control

17:33  Losing trust

22:05  Earning trust

26:52  Wisdom bites

30:46  The 3 Rs

34:59  Outro

Links mentioned:‌ ‌

Kevin P Murphy

podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-reflect-on-podcast/id1715393227

Instagram: @kevin.p.murphy

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

This episode of The Advancement Spot is a little bit different — I was honoured to sit in the guest seat as the incredible Kevin P Murphy stepped into the host role to lead our candid and inspiring discussion! 

As the host of The Reflect-On Podcast, Kevin explores inspiring stories, traumas, lessons, and reflections on fears, feelings, and what truly matters. In this episode, he guides us through a beautiful conversation that touches on Apply Yourself’s holistic vision, why we shouldn’t ignore the immense benefits of in-person learning, and how we can nurture and nourish our drive to succeed.

You’ll discover:

• How to embrace the moments of reflection and surrender that will help us reach our goals
• How education will likely shift in the future and how to maximize its benefits
• Why the idea of work-life balance is a lie (and what we should actually strive for!)
• How to avoid letting toxicity seep into your professional or academic life
• The power of using your privilege for good — and how it can help you build a beautiful legacy  

This no-limits conversation is the first of a two-part series. Be sure to tune into next week’s episode to experience our full journey!

Guest bio: Kevin P Murphy is an advocate for the power of honest and vulnerable conversation to help improve lives and grow actionable potential. As a Financial Planner and host of The Reflect-On Podcast, Kevin has learned that reflection, attention, and emotionality are perhaps the biggest catalysts for betterment we possess in our modern world. 

Timestamps:‌ ‌

01:35  Meet Kevin P. Murphy

02:16  About Adrienne

04:19  About Kevin

06:47  Being vulnerable on your path

08:51  Adrienne’s journey

15:08  Moments of surrender

21:20  Future of education

29:45  Holistic success

35:24  Privilege & legacy

38:29  Toxicity

44:14  Outro

Links:‌ ‌

Kevin P Murphy

Instagram: @kevin.p.murphy 

The Reflect-On Podcast

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

Many grad school applicants find writing their personal statement to be the trickiest part of the application process. While a student may excel at academic writing, crafting a clear and vibrant personal statement requires a different skill set and strategy!

Writing From the Inside: Centring Yourself in Your Own Experiences

When you’re writing an academic essay, you need to be thorough, balanced, critical, and objective. The most powerful personal statements, on the other hand, are energetic, distinctive, and full of spirit. After spending years being trained in academic writing, writing about your own experiences — and what they meant to you, emotionally or spiritually — can feel a little strange! In this episode, you’ll find tips and insights that will help you write an effective personal statement that feels like so much more than just a glorified CV.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• The differences between academic and personal writing, and why these skills are not fully transferable 
• The mindset shift that will change the way that you approach your personal statement and allow you to reflect more easefully
• Why you should start writing your personal statement long before you think you need to
• The role that Starbucks played in the birth of Apply Yourself — and how the business was built almost accidentally! 

Timestamps:‌ ‌

00:46  Intro

01:56  Academic writing

03:26  Client example

04:50  Starbucks dissertation story

10:56  Be the centre

14:40  Outro

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

The reading comprehension section of the LSAT contains a variety of different types of passages. Students may encounter passages relating to knowledge areas for which they don’t have a strong background. How do you effectively prepare for a test notorious for its diversity and unpredictability?

Substance Over Jargon: Focusing on the Bigger Picture

Since most law school applicants come from the humanities and social sciences, many have a tough time with passages in the LSAT relating to STEM areas such as chemistry, biology, and technology. If you find yourself struggling, don’t panic! You do not need to know all the big science words in a passage in order to understand its overall meaning — in fact, some of them may be there in order to distract you!

The truth is that every LSAT question contains the information you need to solve it, no matter your background knowledge. In this episode, you’ll discover powerful strategies that will help you approach reading comprehension passages holistically, analytically, and strategically, so you can achieve your best possible results.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• How to pinpoint the types of questions you should be targeting during your study sessions
• How to identify which words are “make-or-break” and which are inconsequential, so you can prioritize your focus
• Why it’s important to pay attention to the layout pattern of a reading comprehension passage
• A simple daily exercise that will help you become far more comfortable with scientific writing

Links mentioned:

1,000 Inventions and Discoveries by Roger Bridgman

Timestamps:‌ ‌

00:46  Intro

03:00  Identify your struggles

04:32  Prioritize your focus

09:51  Become more familiar with scientific writing

12:41  Daily reading exercise

14:29  Outro

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

With so many physical and electronic study tools available, students preparing for the LSAT today have a wealth of options. Even the test itself may be taken online or in person, written digitally or by hand. How can students identify the strategies and resources that will help them achieve their best results?

Creating Healthy, Sustainable, and Effective Study Strategies in a Digital World

For nearly a decade, we’ve helped our incredible clients learn how to study for the LSAT correctly and efficiently, with personalized coaching that maximizes their learning potential. This solo episode of The Advancement Spot reveals some of our most valuable and actionable strategies for confidently mastering your test prep without burning yourself out. Press play to discover how to set yourself up for success during your LSAT journey, from choosing the right tools to adopting the right mindset.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why it’s crucial to maintain an emotional distance from your practice scores, why so many students find their raw scores confusing, and how to interpret your numbers
• What to consider when choosing whether to sit for the LSAT in person or online — and the method we strongly recommend!
• Two simple but powerful choices that will optimize your LSAT preparation
• The minimum length of time you should give yourself to prepare for an important test and why pacing yourself is essential
• Where to find our favourite and most trusted study, productivity, and lifestyle products

Timestamps:‌ ‌

00:46  Intro 

01:37  LSAT prep materials

04:11  Digital v. in-person testing

06:06  Raw v. final LSAT scores

10:32  Coaching call example

15:28  Our Favourites shop

16:22  Final takeaways

17:49  Outro

Links

The Advancement Spot #94 – On Running Out Of Time With Our LSAT Coach, Marco Kim

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫

For many students, a successful application period can introduce new challenges. When you’re in the position of choosing between two different paths, how do you decide which one will best support your goals?

Developing the Criteria for Identifying Your Best Path

In this episode of The Advancement Spot, I was pleased to be joined by Stephanie Sansone, a VIP Apply Yourself member who has been with us since day one through Mastering Academic Applications and The Success Society. During her graduate school application period, Steph was not only accepted to her top school but highly sought after by multiple grad school supervisors — an impressive feat!

Listen now to learn how she faced the challenge of choosing between two supervisors, and where she found the invaluable support that helped her confidently move forward with her decision.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• The due diligence process that helped Steph settle on the ideal supervisor and institution for her career goals and mental health
• Steph’s tried-and-tested advice for students who are choosing between multiple supervisors
• How to conduct research in a way that allows you to more easily retain and apply what you’ve learned (and when it’s okay to use Google!)
• How the learning process differs from undergrad to grad school — and why you must remain open to “learning how to learn” 
• The mindset shift that will allow you to give yourself grace and experience growth during your academic journey

Guest bio: Stephanie Sansone is working on her Master’s in Science and Biology at York University, with the intention of applying to medical school.

Timestamps:‌ ‌

00:46  Meet Steph

02:54  Choosing between supervisors

06:03  Finding support

11:28  Mental health

14:16  Steph’s advice

16:05  Conducting research

20:59  Bridging the Google gap

26:01  Learning the learning process

28:39  Mindset

32:50  Biggest shift

36:57  Outro

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫