Application Essay Editing
Focused, prompt-driven responses
Since 2008, I’ve helped applicants refine short, prompt-based application essays
so they respond directly, meet strict word limits, and communicate substance
efficiently and effectively.
WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE A DLA EDITOR?
Our editor in chief, David Lombardino, looks for more than just an English degree in the experts he trains to work on your application essay. Seeking the highest standard, he handpicks them for their:
Expertise & Skill: They are masters of their craft. They possess an expert understanding of
the application process for the degree or program you are applying to.
Communication & Collaboration: They take a collaborative, edifying approach in sharing their
insights, providing clear, supportive explanations of their changes and welcoming your feedback.
Timeliness & Reliability: They meet their deadlines, on time, every time. They reach out with any
questions in a timely manner, as well as respond to your questions in an equally timely manner.
Got a dream to achieve?
How I Work with Application Essays
I treat application essays as precision writing tasks. Unlike personal statements, these essays serve a narrow purpose: answering a specific prompt within a fixed word count—often 250 words or fewer.
I begin by assessing how well the draft responds to the prompt itself. Many applicants misunderstand the intent of the question or address only part of what is being asked. I focus on ensuring the response is complete, relevant, and aligned with the spirit and details of the prompt.
I also work on efficiency and focus. Applicants often draft well beyond the word count limit without knowing what to cut or how to tighten their language without losing meaning. I guide revisions so each word earns its place and the final version fits cleanly within the required limit.
My feedback centers on:
- Responsiveness and completeness relative to the prompt
- Clarity of focus and relevance of included details
- Streamlining language to meet word limits while strengthening the response
I provide specific guidance on what to revise and why, then refine the essay further in the second round so it reads as deliberate, concise, and fully responsive.
Application Essay Services
Application Essay Editing & Feedback
Two Rounds of Review
This service provides in-depth editing and strategic feedback.
I work directly on:
- Responsiveness to the prompt
- Structure, emphasis, and coherence
- Language economy and clarity
- Reducing excess length while preserving meaning
You revise based on first-round guidance, and I refine the essay further in the second round to ensure it fits the word limit and fulfills the prompt effectively.
Application Essay Proofreading
One Round of Review
This service addresses surface-level errors only.
Proofreading covers:
- Grammar and punctuation
- Spelling and typographical errors
- Agreement, tense, and basic word choice
This service does not include feedback on prompt interpretation, structure, or word-count reduction.
Who You’ll Be Working With
I’m David Lombardino, founder of DLA Editors & Proofers. Since 2008, I’ve worked with applicants across disciplines on short-form application essays used for academic programs, training opportunities, and competitive selection processes.
My approach emphasizes precision, relevance, and judgment. I focus on how reviewers read prompt-based responses and how clarity, restraint, and focus shape evaluation.
Applicants work with me when they want their application essays to answer the question asked—clearly, completely, and within the required constraints.
If you’re ready to begin, you can place your order below.
Place Your Order
Program Type and Service
Ready to strengthen your application essays?
Choose the service that fits your needs and move forward with confidence.