About Harlan Vaughn
Hey, I’m Harlan!
Here’s What I Offer
With any piece of writing, I strive to maintain the author’s singular voice. My edits bring clarity and precision, so the audience receives the intended message. Simply put, I help you sound like yourself—with added polish.
With college essays, there are strict word limits, thematic guidelines, and of course, pressure to get it “right.” As part of the application process, it’s your one shot to deliver the most pure, distilled essence of who YOU are to the admissions committee. I completely believe everyone has a compelling story to tell—and I want your words to shine as they tell that story.
I pride myself on delivering clean, accessible work that’s professional but not stuffy, is easy for anyone to read, and delivers a compelling message so you’ll stand out for being your authentic self.
Where I’ve Been
I’m a professional editor with over a decade of experience. My work has appeared in numerous publications, including Business Insider, Buzzfeed, Forbes, and TIME. I was also a senior copywriter at one of the country’s best independent ad agencies. My client list includes Truist, BioLife, BMS Cat, and Sea Island. I also have a deep background in marketing and branding—which is awesome, because we can collaborate on how to best market you to your chosen colleges.
Simply put, I’m an expert wordsmith ready to use my powers to help you succeed. I write and edit every day of my life, and I love it.
My creative work includes everything from dystopian fiction to essay-based nonfiction and poetry—and my professional work includes thousands of articles written and edited about travel, credit cards, the stock market, and personal finance, among other topics. I’ve led editorial teams and guided dozens of writers over the years. My style is hands-on, collaborative, and encouraging. I use a combination of leading and teaching learned from jobs I’ve had, mediating in highly-charged negotiations, and most recently, being a parent to two children of my own. That means I get down to business crafting your story in a way that’s clear, persuasive, and absorbing.
Where I Am Now
I’m currently an editor at Forbes Advisor, where I work with many writers to edit their works for publication. Along with that daily training, I also enroll in continuing education certificates to keep my editing skills sharp and stay current on emerging college trends and news as often as I can.
My varied roles, professional training, and expert-level skills allow me to provide real, responsive, personalized support for you during your admissions journey.
Bottom Line
With a background in writing, editing, and mentoring, I will help you achieve your academic goals. I’m looking forward to working with you.