About Beyond Common
About Dr. Rachel Kraushaar — College Admissions Consultant
Professor. Essay coach. Admissions guide. And a parent who has navigated the neurodivergent college journey at home.
Founder & lead consultant
Dr. Rachel Kraushaar
Dr. Rachel Kraushaar is an English professor, essay coach, and educational consultant with more than 30 years of experience in secondary and higher education. As a Director of Writing and Coordinator of English at private and public colleges, she has read countless admissions essays and helped students from every background find and write their own personal statement. She began her career in the early 1990s as a mentor in a pioneering college program for students with learning disabilities—and that commitment to alternate pathways to success has defined her work ever since.
Her expertise is also personal. As the parent of young adults with ADHD, Executive Dysfunction, and ASD, she understands firsthand how neurodivergent students navigate the transition to adulthood, and how to meet their unique needs and strengths. Her favorite part of the work is learning about each student as an individual, helping them find their voice, and watching their confidence grow.
Dr. Kraushaar holds a Ph.D. in the Teaching of College English from Columbia University, and a Master’s in Education and Bachelor’s degree from The George Washington University. She has published several articles, contributed a chapter to a book on inclusive teaching in the English classroom, presents frequently at conferences in the field, and was recently awarded the SUNY Grant for Innovative Teaching and Technology. When she isn’t with students, she hosts an open-mic night for musicians—and is always trying to get back to the ski slopes.
“The goal isn’t just to help a student get in. It’s to find the place where they’ll thrive.”
- Ph.D., Columbia University
- 30+ years in education
- Director of Writing & English
- Parent of neurodivergent young adults
- SUNY Innovative Teaching Grant
- Published author & speaker
Our approach
A calm, structured path from first list to first semester
Get to know you
A conversation about your student—strengths, needs, hopes, and what “the right college” really means for your family.
Build the plan
A realistic roadmap and a right-fit college list, sequenced so nothing important gets left to the last minute.
Do the work together
Applications, essays, accommodations research, and decisions—guided step by step, at a pace that works.
Transition & thrive
Prepare for independent college life so your student arrives ready—not just admitted.
Results & reviews
Students have earned their place at outstanding schools
Every admissions decision belongs to the college—but with the right essays, strategy, and support, students Dr. Kraushaar has worked with have gone on to schools like these.
“I’m very grateful to Dr. Kraushaar for the guidance and encouragement she gave me in writing college essays. She really helped me hone my essays and clearly articulate what I wanted to say. She was kind and patient, with great ideas and suggestions. She is awesome!”
Let’s talk
Start with a free introductory call
Tell us a little about your student. We’ll listen, answer your questions, and share honestly how Beyond Common can help.
Book a free intro call