Have a question before working together?

Sounds great! Let’s talk about your next step.

Whether you’re considering graduate school or are ready to apply with confidence, you’re in the right place.

If you’ve reviewed my services and have a specific question before booking — or you’re inquiring about a workshop, training, or collaboration — I’m here to help.

If you represent an organization and would prefer to email directly about collaborating, reach out to hello@drjenapugh.com.

Contact Dr. Jena

Frequently Asked Questions

  • If you’re considering graduate school but aren’t yet committed to applying, you’re welcome to reach out anytime.

    If you’re actively applying, I recommend reaching out 6–8 weeks before your earliest deadline. If your deadline is sooner (I’ve been there — the panic is real), reach out and I’ll let you know what’s feasible based on current availability.

  • Not necessarily.

    Many people begin working with me while they’re still clarifying program type, timing, or overall fit. If you’re in the exploration phase, I offer Graduate School Strategy Sessions designed to help you make informed decisions before starting the application process.

  • Absolutely!

    My review and editing approach starts at the strategic level — ensuring your experiences and stories align with each program’s prompts — and then moves into structure, clarity, and flow at the paragraph and sentence level.

    The goal is to help you present your strongest writing in a way that feels aligned and authentic, even if it’s been a few years since you’ve written like this.

  • Here’s the truth: no one can.

    There are a lot of factors that influence admissions decisions: academic history, professional experience, letters of recommendation, interview performance, institutional priorities, and the overall applicant pool each year.

    What I can guarantee is that you will receive individualized strategy, honest and rigorous feedback, plus guidance from someone who’s been both an applicant and a reviewer. After working together, you’ll submit with confidence knowing you’ve put forward the strongest possible version of your application.

What clients are saying

About the Application Strategy Session

“Dr. Jena really helped me through my application process because she gave advice and feedback that supported me in ways I couldn't have gotten with ChatGPT or a Google search.”

— Faith S.

About the Graduate School Strategy Session

“In the midst of feeling pressured, confused, and directionless, meeting with Dr. Jena gave me clarity and peace about graduate school that I needed to move forward.”

— Mia M.

About the Personal Statement Review + Edit

“The Personal Statement Review was helpful in making my personality shine through on paper - it showed my character more than it did with my first draft.”

— Shelby P.

What organizations are saying


“I can always count on Dr. Jena to support our organization in any of our workforce development initiatives. She is extremely communicative, engaging and thoughtful; she makes everyone feel important and valued!”

— Maranda Staub, City Year Columbus