Editor Profile Rebecca Blustein

My love of the written word has taken me many places—from Russia, where I participated in a student journalism exchange program as editor of UCLA’s Jewish Student magazine, to Ireland, where I earned a Master’s degree in Irish literature. It also led me to Los Angeles (still a curious thing in my mind!), where I earned both my B.A. and Ph.D. at UCLA, studying English and Comparative Literature.

As a Student Affairs Officer at UCLA’s Scholarship Resource Center since 2004, I’ve seen what distinguishes successful applicants from the rest. I’ve helped hundreds of students craft winning applications and personal statements, for everything from small departmental essay prizes to prestigious international awards such as the Fulbright. I’ve also assisted students with grad- and professional school application essays, and my students have gained admission to top programs in their fields, including Boalt Hall and the UCLA Dental School.

I’ve worked with students whose primary distinction from other applicants is the depth of their commitment to a particular interest or cause; some whose life stories read like a Hollywood action script, filled with international intrigue and close shaves; and some whose stories would more closely resemble tragedies, were it not for the promise, optimism, and success of the determined individual sitting across the table from me.

I take pleasure in helping my students both strengthen their application essays and become stronger writers. My experiences at the Scholarship Center and teaching composition courses at UCLA have shown me that everyone has something to say, a story to tell, something significant to add to the conversation in his or her discipline. As an editor and writing coach, I see my role as enabling my students to voice that contribution as clearly and elegantly as possible. I’m excited to bring my experience to Accepted!

More about me:

• B.A., UCLA (English and Comparative Literature), Summa cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa, College Honors
• M.A., National University of Ireland, Maynooth (Irish), First Class Honors
• Ph.D., UCLA (Comparative Literature)

Notable awards received: Mellon Fellowship; George Mitchell Scholarship

Would you like to work with Rebecca on your application? Just fill out an inquiry including any information you think will be helpful. Rebecca will contact you ASAP.