ELIZA MACDONALD
Writer & College Essay Consultant

About Me
Hi, I’m Eliza Macdonald—writer, wordsmith, and professional wearer of many hats (figuratively and literally—I do love a good hat).
Whether I’m helping a student untangle the mystery of the college essay, crafting a strategic marketing appeal, or spinning a short story out of thin air, I always start with the same foundation: connection. My work is rooted in making complex ideas feel clear and approachable—blending humor, empathy, and a touch of flair to meet people where they are, whether that’s a high schooler navigating college admissions or a nonprofit team working to amplify their mission.
My path has taken me from the theatre stage to the admissions office and front of classrooms, and from MFA workshops to managing multi-channel marketing for mission-driven clients. I’ve led engaging info sessions that had parents comparing me to Tina Fey (true story), helped students believe in their voice during one-on-one essay coaching, and developed digital campaigns that turn passive readers into passionate donors.
Here’s what I bring to the table:
📝 Engaging Writing — From college essays to compelling campaigns, I write to connect, inform, and inspire.
🎓 College Admissions Expertise — Years in the field mean I know the system and how to demystify it with warmth and clarity.
🎭 Creative Voice — With an MFA in Creative Writing and a background in theatre, storytelling isn’t just my skill—it’s my superpower.
✨ Cheerful, Strategic Energy — Whether I’m leading a team or emceeing a session, I bring resourcefulness, good humor, and a sense of calm (even when things go sideways).
If you’re looking for someone who can blend practical know-how with a spark of creativity—and make people laugh while doing it—I’d love to connect.
Education
MFA in Creative Writing
Emerson College
I earned my MFA in Creative Writing with a focus in fiction from Emerson College, a program known for its artistic rigor and strong literary reputation. With a small cohort of writers chosen from a competitive pool of applicants, the program offered intensive workshops, critical seminars, and deep craft mentorship. It was a space that demanded both vulnerability and discipline—where I refined my voice, developed sharp editorial instincts, and learned how to build stories that resonate.
BA in Theatre and English w/ concentration in Creative Writing
Bucknell University
Studying literature, performance, and storytelling in tandem sharpened my analytical thinking, deepened my understanding of narrative structure, and nurtured a creative voice rooted in both discipline and imagination.
