How to Pick Extracurriculars for College Admissions
A college application is like a puzzle. Each piece represents a different part of your academic and personal achievements. Grades and test scores might reveal a good chunk of the whole picture, but not the entire thing. Extracurriculars are the puzzle pieces that expose your passions, desires, and character. You need to know how to […]
Race-conscious admissions is out. Here are my predictions for colleges in the post-SCOTUS landscape.
Updated: Nov 9, 2023 The Supreme Court’s decision outlawing race-conscious admissions (“affirmative action,” popularly) isn’t just wrong because it flies in the face of decades of precedent and ignores the role of race and diversity in a transformative education. It’s wrong because it assumes that elite universities and highly selective admissions are the best and most […]
Of course anti-LGBTQ+ legislation harms students. Now let’s get specific.
Updated: Nov 9, 2023 A few of my rising juniors this year love marine biology and take it very seriously, and they’re shocked when I blurt out the F-word in our meeting. It’s awkward and takes the students off guard, as I think they thought they’d never hear me say it. That’s right…. Florida. This article […]
What’s it REALLY like to study computer science in college?
Computer science is one of the toughest majors out there, and easily the most selective in the admission process. I tell my students interested in CS the same thing I tell my students who want to go to conservatory for college… if you do this thing, it will be hard and there will be a […]
These 6 part-time jobs look the best on a college application.
All of the fun, convenient jobs I mentioned in my other post do look great on a college application, but the ones that truly look amazing are actually the more challenging jobs. Here are the top three winning jobs from some of my past students: 1. Fast food worker Working in a fast food restaurant […]
In co-op programs, students work for credit during the semester. But is that a good idea?
Updated: Mar 26, 2023 In short: For lots of students, yes! But, not for all. A co-op program (short for a cooperative education program) is an experiential learning opportunity offered to college students. Instead of a traditional academic semester of courses and tests, students gain real-world experience in their chosen field of study through an immersive, […]
5 part-time jobs teens will definitely love
Updated: Mar 25, 2023 Now that you know how to apply for a part-time job, what are some of teens’ favorite jobs? My students usually tell me they want jobs that pay well, offer flexible hours, and are fun. You know a part-time job will enhance your college application, but of course you want to enjoy […]
Hey teens, want a part-time job? Here’s where to start.
Updated: Mar 25, 2023 If you’re a teen looking to make some extra money, a part-time job may be the perfect fit for you. With a part-time job, you can gain valuable work experience, learn new skills, and make money to save for college or other future expenses. Here’s what you need to know about finding […]
Can I change my college application from Regular Decision to ED2 after I’ve already submitted it?
Updated: Feb 22, 2023 Yes, actually! Early Decision is a huge benefit to colleges, and they’d love to see you change your Regular Decision (RD) admission plan to an Early Decision 2 (ED2) plan. In mid-December, high school seniors all over the country are simultaneously submitting their Regular Decision college applications and receiving admissions decisions from […]
Yes, Actually, Colleges Know Whether You Open Their Emails
Updated: Feb 22, 2023 Last week, I told you all about demonstrated interest, which is an admissions factor (next to essays, recommendations, and GPA) at many colleges and universities. The common next questions are, why do they care, and how could they possibly keep track of this for every applicant? Why do they care? In short, […]