Sam Whalen

Sam Whalen grew up in Manhattan, and while he’s always felt at home there, he’s spent much of his life abroad — including eight formative years in Rome, Italy, where he became fluent in Italian.

Sam completed his BA in English Literature with a minor in Computer Science at the University of Chicago, before going on to earn his MA in Creative Writing through UChicago’s MAPH program. When he’s not reading or writing, you can find Sam playing cello or piano, coding up new apps, playing soccer, training for his next race, or experimenting with Mediterranean recipes in the kitchen.

Sam is a versatile and dedicated educator, having taught high school English and Computer Science at Loyola Academy and having served as a Teaching Assistant at the University of Chicago. He’s also brought his analytical mind to the tech world, working as a frontend software engineer at a startup — an experience that sharpened his ability to explain the complex underpinnings of the modern world to lay audiences.

As an Essay Coach, Sam believes that great writing starts with genuine curiosity about one’s own life and a willingness to revise. Drawing on his backgrounds in both literature and technology, he helps students bring clarity and creativity to their essays. Sam creates a supportive, student-centered space where young writers feel safe and empowered to find their own voice — and to tell the stories only they can tell.