Catalyst College Prep was started to help students and families make their way through the difficult part of the college application process with expert help and guidance.  I work with students to help them find their voice and tell their story, thereby creating the strongest possible application.  Furthermore, I have extensive experience with the intended audience, and work with students to produce UC Essays, Common Applications, and other college admissions essays that will resonate their eventual readers.

I also believe very strongly that fit is important, and that the question shouldn’t be “what’s the best school my child got into?”, but rather, should ask “of the schools they are looking at, which is the best fit?”  I work with families to help them answer these questions, and share what I’ve learned and gained over the years to help make the application process simpler, saner, and more successful.  I look forward to working with you, and please feel free to contact me with questions, or to make an appointment to see if my approach is the one you’ve been looking for.

Most Appreciatively,

Jess Grainger, Founder

 

Bio

Jess Grainger has worked in a variety of educational endeavors, including as a classroom teacher, running a college access program for high school Juniors and Seniors, and working as an academic director at UCSF. He received a BA from UC Berkeley, and an MA from Columbia University, and has also won some very flattering teaching awards, including the 826 Valencia Teacher of the Month Award. View his resume here.