Monica James, Founder

 

Monica James prepares students at all levels to present their “best selves” in whatever process is in front of them, whether it is seeking admission to private school or college, or as they work toward a career in their field. With a background in training executives in public speaking and interview skills, and as an interviewer for her own alma mater, Vanderbilt University, she is keenly aware of what impresses admissions counselors-–engagement and initiative. Monica also prepares job seekers for employment interviews, helping them be professional and convincing.

 

After graduating from Vanderbilt with a degree in Economics,  Monica served as the Vice President of Corporate Lending for Bank South (now part of Bank of America). Wanting to segue her communication talents into training, Monica became the Vice President of Curriculum Development for Speechworks, an Atlanta based company devoted to preparing executives for public speaking and interview opportunities. Monica founded Competitive Edge in 2006 to broaden her focus on improving these skills to students, pre-professionals, and professionals in job transition. She works with clients one-on-one in a deeply personalized fashion, helping them not only with the logistics of application processes, but also with uncovering what the perfect school or career for them might be.

Monica is married with two children and one charming dog. Her daughter is a graduate of Georgetown University who is now completing her MBA at Yale, and her son graduated from the Elliott School of International Affairs at the George Washington University. She would be happy to discuss the needs of you or your child. To set up an initial consultation, contact Competitive Edge here.