Students are advised to request the letters 6-8 weeks prior to the application deadline, ideally from two academic teachers: history, English, language other than English, math, or science, plus their high school counselor. Students should select teachers with whom they built a trusting relationship, regardless if a teacher’s academic expertise is related to their potential…
A high school sophomore recently shared her thoughts on the challenges of earning an A in her Chemistry course—a grade that she, her peers, parents, and many others view as essential to be “competitive” for college admissions and a reflection of her intelligence. She realizes that she needs more time than typically allotted in a…
Some private university admissions officers invite prospective applicants to schedule evaluative admissions interviews before applying. Students have a dual opportunity: develop more understanding of the university, and present more insights about themselves. Applicants should note the deadlines for requesting and completing the optional interviews. Notably, some admissions officers, especially at Ivy League institutions, arrange alumni…
Surya, a former student, seeking to live authentically, is developing his latest film. View this post on Instagram A post shared by branded (@branded_film) Creative Marbles was founded by teachers who appreciate helping students (re)discover their aptitude, first in the academic classroom, now as part of the complex college admissions process. For more information, please…
To most effectively gain needed information at college fairs—often described as “speed dating” for college admissions—it’s crucial to prepare in advance. First, scrutinize the list of attending college admissions officers for campuses of interest. Being focused, students and families can save time aimlessly roaming the event space. Second, reflect on one’s ideal college experience. With…
The college essay is autobiographical, not a typical academic writing exercise. However, most students have been trained to write academic assignments, according to a structured grading rubric aligned with the teacher’s expectations. However, crafting an autobiographical essay demands different skills and efforts, including a thorough examination of one’s life experiences. Then, students can effectively communicate…
A soon-to-be first year college student from the West Coast, reflects on her experience preparing to move to an East Coast college. Having attended high school in Reno, Nevada, I was influenced by peers who desired to attend college locally and many adults who graduated from the University of Reno, Nevada. I am one of…
Most families believe the college admissions process starts with picking colleges, then filling out applications, which includes writing college essays, then submit applications, then, wait for responses, then choose one college. However, the actual process of choosing and applying to college is much more intricate. Often, parents are puzzled when their teenager seems overwhelmed or…
It’s a mistake to start the process of drafting college essays by choosing a prompt, then brainstorming ideas based on an interpretation of said prompt. By focusing too narrowly on writing exactly to the prompt, students can contort their own voice and write an essay that isn’t authentic. The Common Application Writing Section‘s directions specifically…
4.0+ Plus High School GPA, CHECK Stellar Extracurricular Resume, CHECK Impeccable Letters of Recommendation, CHECK Brand-name college acceptance, CHECK, YAY! FREEDOM AND LIFELONG HAPPINESS, HERE I COME!!!! (Cue Record Scratch) Maybe. Well, at least not right away and not without effort… [Feigned shock 😳 then 😡] The transition to college can be challenging for first…
College admissions officers are increasingly expecting students to use AI tools to help them write their college essays. However, students should use AI tools in addition to, not instead of, their own creativity and effort. Students can use AI tools to brainstorm ideas for essays. Students prompt AI responses with details about themselves and their…
Starting high school can be an adjustment filled with uncertainties and anxieties: learning to navigate a new campus, understanding the academic expectations of unfamiliar teachers, meeting new friends, all with allusions to “how will this affect my college admissions?” Acknowledge the complexity Starting high school can be complicated, and it’s natural to be anxious in…
For a high school student, there’s no single “right” way to spend a summer vacation. Yet, many students and their families are concerned that without a “productive” summer vacation, then a student diminishes opportunities for college admissions. However, this is not necessarily true. Selection for college admissions is becoming increasingly subjective, thus no one summer…
Students often wonder, “How will college admissions officers’ view this?” in reference to a grade, an extracurricular activity, or topics for college essays. In other words, teens worry about impressing admissions officers, or risk not being accepted to college. Amidst the competitiveness in education, students often search for the “right” combination of factors including: GPA,…
Written by Padma Namgyal, a graduating high school senior musing about what’s yet to come. Waiting as I am in the trails of my eighteenth year. There is excitement shining like a gem but also a lot of fear… I tell myself to do my part. “You need to help out here!” But, when I…
