You have what it takes to be a student again.
Go back to graduate school with confidence (when the time is right for your career).
I help working professionals decide when to go back to graduate school + give you the tools and 1:1 support to create a scroll-stopping application when you’re ready.
Get accepted and get that diploma: it’s time to achieve your career goals.
Your job pays the bills, but you know getting a master’s or doctorate could boost (or pivot) your career.
You’ve been in meetings where you know you have a better strategy
… but would be taken more seriously as a leader with a higher degree
You daydream about a better-paying job
… but are stuck underemployed because of your current degree or lack of “relevant” qualifications for your career goals (ever heard of the “paper ceiling”?)
You’ve considered graduate school, but are worried that you don’t have what it takes to be a student anymore
… even though you’ve adapted to every challenge life has thrown at you so far 😉
So how do you get there?
150+
People accepted to graduate school after working with me.
My secret skill? Personal statements ✍️
3,000+
Applications read over a decade.
It’s how I know what makes a scroll-stopping story for reviewers who’ve read everything.
12
Years at The Ohio State University.
I taught career development to business, engineering, pre-med/health students + loved it!
Plus, I graduated from a top liberal arts school (Denison).
3 ✔️
The number of times I applied to graduate school for 2 degrees.
(Check out the story of how I got in to a top 10 program after being rejected as a first-generation college student).
Working together, expect to gain confidence in your:
Decision Making
Going back to graduate school after working is a BIG decision that affects every aspect of your personal and professional life.
After our 1:1 Application Strategy Session, you’ll be confident in identifying your priorities for going back to school, choosing best-fit graduate programs for your career goals, and strategizing an application process that won’t burn you out while working full time.
Application Writing
Most application reviewers have read everything. (I certainly did after reading 3,000+ applications over 10 years). With a 1:1 Personal Statement Review, we’ll work together to highlight the best parts of your personal and professional experiences.
With the DIY tools in The Graduate School Shop, I will show you what to write in your personal statement to make it POP, and how to keep track of every aspect of the complex application process without dropping the ball.
Future Planning
This is a pressure-free zone. If graduate school’s not your best option right now, I’ll tell you (and share better-fitting options). And if it’s time to apply, I’ll share how you can best prepare for the process.
Whether you’re on the fence about applying soon or deciding when is the best time in your career and life to go back to school, our 1:1 Graduate School Strategy Session will leave you confident in your next steps.
What people are saying.
Imagine the thrill of typing and sending this email after months of working on your applications.
(Congratulations again, Trevor!)
Hi! I’m Dr. Jena
I help working professionals decide when to go back to graduate school + equip you with tools and 1:1 support to create a scroll-stopping application when you’re ready.
Whether you are:
At the start, middle or end of your career
Considering a major career pivot
Missing the challenge of being in the classroom
… I can help you apply for the graduate degree you need to move forward in life.
With a Doctor of Education (EdD) degree in Higher Education & Student Affairs, I am committed to empowering you with the tactical and emotional support to make this process 100% less daunting and 110% doable.
You’ve got this!
How I Can Help
Whether you prefer a DIY approach, a 1:1 strategy session, or the encouraging energy of a group program, I’ve got you covered. From the decision to apply for your next degree through hitting submit on an admission-worthy application, I’ll give you the tools + roadmap to get accepted.
Do-It-Yourself
The Graduate School Shop is a first-of-its-kind hub of digital products to make the application process easier.
From personal statement story starters to a detailed application tracking spreadsheet, you’ll finally feel like you have direction and control while you apply to graduate school.
Do-It-Together
Through special events, group bootcamps, and interactive workshops, take action alongside other working professionals preparing for the same leap to level up their career.
Do-It-1:1
As a first-generation college student turned higher education expert, I am committed to sharing everything I know to make your decision-making and application process as informed and anxiety-free as possible.
We’ll discuss your current role, personal priorities and career goals to create an individualized action plan to reach them.
Help your alumni, employees & members achieve their career goals.
Want to host an expert workshop for your alumni, young professionals association, employee resource group, or AmeriCorps program?
I love bringing energy to motivated groups ready to take on their futures!
What people are saying:
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"I received overall clarity on believing in myself and that I was worthy. Dr. Jena helped me tame my imposter syndrome and that alone is a huge step in success."
Kyra F.
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"In the midst of feeling pressured, confused, and directionless, meeting with Dr. Jena gave me a clarity and peace about graduate school that I needed in order to move forward."
Mia M.
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"Dr. Jena was friendly and eager to help and also very real. She made it easier to see things clearly because she was up front and honest and helped me make the best decision for me."
Cam J.
