How to Apply to College as an Adult or Non-Traditional Student
Every year, I work with adults who are ready to return to school, some for the first time since high school and others after a long break. Whether you’re a working parent, a veteran, a career changer, or someone who simply never had the chance to attend college earlier, applying to college as an adult […]
Should You Take a Gap Year? How It Affects College Admissions
When a student asks me whether they should take a gap year, I always pause before answering. Not because I don’t have an opinion—actually, I do—but because this decision is deeply personal. One student’s dream year of global volunteering might be another student’s detour that leads to lost momentum. Still, I’ve seen gap years be […]
Balancing Academics and Extracurriculars: What Admissions Expect
When I sit down with students who are deep in the college admissions process, one of the most common questions I hear is, “How do I balance academics and extracurriculars without burning out?” And honestly, it’s a fair question. Between AP classes, sports practices, leadership roles, volunteering, and sometimes even part-time jobs, it can feel […]
Crafting the Perfect College Application Theme or Narrative
One of the biggest misconceptions I hear from students is the idea that college applications are just a checklist: test scores, GPA, activities, essays. But what sets apart a standout application isn’t just what’s included — it’s how everything fits together. That’s where your college application theme, or narrative, comes in. I often tell my […]
Standardized Test Policies for 2025 Admissions (Who Requires What)
Every fall, one of the most common questions I hear from high school juniors and seniors is, “Do I still need to take the SAT or ACT?” And honestly, I get it. The rules have changed so much over the past few years that even counselors need a cheat sheet. What started as a pandemic […]
The Value of Summer Programs in College Admissions
Every summer, I talk with students who are trying to decide what to do with their break. Some worry about doing too little. Others feel pressure to do everything. But one question I hear again and again is this: “Do summer programs really help with college admissions?” Let me say this clearly — yes, they […]
How to Choose Reach, Match, and Safety Schools Strategically
You’ve probably heard the terms “reach,” “match,” and “safety” schools tossed around during college planning talks — sometimes with confusion, sometimes with panic. I’ve worked with students who applied to ten reach schools and ended up with a pile of rejections. I’ve also seen students play it too safe and miss out on dream opportunities. […]
What Not to Do in Your College Application (Red Flags for Admissions)
Every college application tells a story. Ideally, it’s one of growth, curiosity, and potential. But sometimes, even the most talented students unknowingly send signals that work against them. As an advisor who has read dozens of applications with students, I’ve seen how small missteps can raise big red flags for admissions officers. The good news? […]
College Interview Questions: Top 20 & How to Answer Them
When students ask me what makes a strong impression during the admissions process, I often say: “Your application gets you in the door, but your interview can open it wide.” College interviews can feel intimidating, especially if you’re the first in your family to go through this process or applying from another country. But with […]
Understanding the Common Application Essay Prompts 2025-2026
Every year, I talk with dozens of high school students who feel paralyzed by the same question: “What should I write about in my Common App essay?” And I get it. You’re being asked to tell your story in 650 words or less—enough to move an admissions committee, but not enough to explain everything you’ve […]