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About
I am an Academic Coach and University Admissions Counsellor supporting students to unblock barriers to their success and achieve their academic potential.
I particularly target and offer support for:
Low Academic Confidence or Self-doubt
Anxiety about Academics
Procrastination & Time Management Challenges
Fear of Failure & Rejection
Self Discipline & Focus
Effective Revision Strategies
High stress before Exams affecting Performance
Difficulties with Memory
Preparing for UCAS
Oxbridge-specific Preparation
Undiagnosed or Diagnosed ADHD
My approach is built on something I noticed repeatedly in my work with students over the years: the students who struggled the most weren't struggling because of a lack of ability. They were struggling because something was blocking access to their mind's ability to perform, like anxiety before exams, a fear of failure, or procrastination, self-sabotaging behaviours, or a self-critical inner voice that made starting feel impossible. Some were struggling with ADHD that had gone unrecognised or unsupported, health and personal challenges, or difficulties managing addictive technologies alongside studying.
These exist alongside challenges all students face, such as the looming weight of high-stakes exams like GCSEs/ A Levels/IB Finals, university applications to competitive institutions, managing extracurriculars, social pressures and time management.
I provide a supportive space to address these challenges, working alongside parents to foster your child’s well-being and unlock their potential.
My background
Ashiyana Kesari Desay
I studied Human, Social and Political Sciences at Cambridge University (MA Cantab), so can offer particular guidance about Oxbridge Admissions process for any Humanities course. I currently also offer Mock Interviews for these subjects.
I hold a Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills and am currently completing my Level 3 Counselling Diploma alongside a Practitioner Certificate in Creative Mindfulness for Young People.
Prior to my work as an Academics Coach for Exam Success Academy, I worked with students in schools, summer programmes and one-to-one settings across the UK and internationally: including as a Pastoral Support Worker and Workshop Leader at Oxford Summer Courses, a Teaching Intern at the British School in New Delhi, and as a Cover Teacher and Special Projects Lead at Blueshift Education.
What I offer
Personalized 1-1 academic coaching tailored to meet individual learning needs and goals, ensuring students excel in their studies through developing confidence and well-being.
Academic Coaching
Support and guidance on planning and time management strategies, stress management techniques. I teach students about the brain chemistry, thinking patterns and habits that make real academic performance possible.
Admissions Support
Comprehensive support for university admissions, including preparation for Oxbridge: I conduct mock interviews in various humanities subjects to enhance candidates' chances of success.
Essay Structuring
Specialised mentoring in Humanities Subjects including History, Philosophy, Psychology, Politics, Sociology, Social Anthropology, and Biological Anthropology to foster deep understanding and critical thinking.
Free mentoring for low-income candidates
I offer a limited number of free mentoring places for students who may not otherwise have access due to financial constraints. Please email me with your background and reasons for seeking help.