College Entrance Essay Coaching

I enjoying working privately with students one-to-one on their college entrance essays. We initially meet at a coffee shop and brainstorm ideas, figure out a structure, and complete the first paragraph. Once the first draft is complete, I offer suggestions and editorial advice. After the student polishes their essay, I review one last time before sending it off. 

"Laurie helped to transform my original ideas into a clear, concise essay that embodied everything I wanted to inform colleges of and more. Her editing led me to discover the truly important pieces of my essay which assisted me in weeding out insignificant portions. From the start, I was guided on a distinct path towards the final draft of my essay. After the completion of my edited draft, I consistently felt like I was able to squeeze more relevant, detailed information into my next draft. I couldn't have been more proud of my final draft, and it definitely added boost to all my college applications.”

- Sam H.
​entering Brown University Sept. 2020

Creative Writing Seminars

​Are there specific times in your life you’ve always wanted to write about?  Marriage? Career? Parenting? Parents? Childhood? Travel? Education? Aging? Illness? Your wild youth? Caring for aging parents?

FINALLY! The time, the toolkit, the atmosphere and the guidance you need, along with writing prompts, workshops, instructor feedback, fun, and creative breakthroughs all on Madeline Island.
​
Join widely published memoirists Katherine Lanpher and Laurie Lindeen at the Madeline Island School of the Arts for a week of results (and more than a few laughs). You’ll have written and seen results before noon on the first day!
From left to right: Eileen Cronin, Laurie Lindeen, Leigh Stein, Cheryl Strayed

Laurie wowed me. Before I began I was equal parts apprehensive and excited. On day one Laurie built a sense of camaraderie with the entire group. Her rich expertise paired with her methodical approach built my confidence and got me going. Highly recommend. 

- Kristina C. (former Student)

Instructor / Adjunct Professor 

Writing Your Life, Selim Center, University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, Summer 2016
American Memoir, 1950-Present, University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, Winter 2015
Structuring Your Memoir, Loft Literary Center, Minneapolis, MN, Winter 2010, Winter 2011
Literary Non-Fiction, Essay and Memoir, University of Minnesota, Spring 2004

Guest Lecturer

Minnesota Memoirs, University of Minnesota, Instructor Madelon Sprengnether, Fall 2012, 2013, 2014
Creative Non-fiction Visiting Writer, Ball State University, Spring 2009, Instructor Jill Christman, Spring 2009
Creative Non-fiction Master Class, Columbia College, Instructor Eric May, Fall 2009
Scarlet Letters, St. Catherine’s University, Instructor Susan Welch, Fall 2009-present
Memoir and Essay Writing, St. Cloud State, Instructor Shannon Olson Fall 2010-2012