When I was sixteen, my father asked me what my passions and goals were. Taken aback by the question, I blurted out, “Helping the world.” How descriptive. Listen: most sixteen-year-olds don’t even know what they’re having for dinner. To expect them to know what they want to do in five […]

The good news: The SAT and ACT essay are both optional. The bad news: They’re not really. Although the essay is no longer included in the comprehensive score report for each test, many colleges and universities still want students to complete and submit the essay along with whichever standardized test […]

You’ve done it. After a summer of tissue engineering, organizing a political campaign or helping younger students navigate summer math camp, you’ve completed your first major summer job or internship. Sure, a line about this will go into your Common Application Activities section. And you may follow up with a […]

Wondering how to approach the admissions process? Looking for a list of things to do in advance of your senior fall, and insight on when to do them? You’re in luck! Please see below for general guidelines on the college application timeline. SOPHOMORE YEAR Study for the SAT and PSAT […]

When crafting a college list, parents and teachers will often suggest a certain limit, but in reality, there is no “magic number” of schools you should target. Ultimately, the process is limited by the finite amount of time you have to complete the applications. You only have so many hours […]

We’ve written previously regarding the difference between early action, early decision, and the variations on these application options. The follow-up question is: knowing the options available, should you apply Early Decision? This is particularly vexing for students who want to impress their top school by showing their dedication, but who may be hesitant […]