Laura L.

Hi! I'm Laura, a credentialed high school English teacher with 25+ years of experience in Southern California and a active freelance editor and writing coach with over a year of Upwork experience across a wide range of projects. I bring a rare combination of classroom expertise and real-world editing experience. I've worked on children's picture books and middle grade fiction, full-length novels including noir thrillers and culturally-based narratives, memoirs and personal essays, college application essays for students targeting Top 30 schools, academic papers, SEO blog content, and professional copywriting. I understand voice, structure, pacing, and how to give feedback that actually helps — not vague comments, but clear, actionable notes that move your work forward. Here's what I specialize in: Proofreading & Light Editing — grammar, punctuation, clarity, flow Developmental Feedback — structure, pacing, cohesion, tone College Essay Coaching — personal statements, UC essays, Common App Academic Writing Support — ENG101, research papers, argument strength Children's Book Editing — age-appropriateness, tone, SEL alignment English Language Development — support for multilingual writers AI Text Humanization — making AI-assisted writing sound authentic Curriculum & Lesson Design — standards-based, project-based learning My style is warm, direct, and honest. I won't rewrite your voice — I'll help you strengthen it. Let's work together!