The Ultimate Guide to College Admissions Interviews
There’s no sugarcoating it—college admissions interviews are intimidating. It’s one thing to hit “submit” on your Common App, but it’s a whole different kind of pressure to sit across (or Zoom across) from someone who might potentially have a say in your college future. Here’s some good news: most college interviews are primarily informational and won’t significantly impact your admissions decision. Here’s some more good news: admissions interviews aren’t about having all the right answers. They’re about giving you a chance to share more of your personal story. They’re a low-stakes (yes, really!) way for you to share more [...]
How to Pick the Perfect Common App Essay Topic
Choosing a Common App essay topic can feel overwhelming. After all, this is one of the few chances in your college application where you get to be completely yourself—no transcripts, no test scores, just you in 650 words. But here’s the thing: the Common App essay is not like most other writing you’ve done. It’s not an academic paper. It’s not a persuasive essay. And it’s definitely not a cover letter where you list your accomplishments to prove you’re a perfect fit for a school. Instead, your personal statement is a story—one that showcases your unique strengths, perspective, and personality [...]
College Review: University of Richmond
Some college campuses just take your breath away, and the University of Richmond is one of them. With its picturesque red-brick buildings, serene lake, and lush greenery, this Virginia gem is the kind of place that makes you pause and think, Yeah, I could see myself here. We had the chance to visit on a perfect, sunny day—ideal for exploring what makes this school truly stand out. Beyond its beauty, Richmond is a powerhouse in several academic areas, boasts an impressive commitment to study abroad, and continues to invest in state-of-the-art student resources. Here’s what we discovered. Academics: Strength in [...]
How to Ask for a Strong Letter of Recommendation for College
A strong letter of recommendation can elevate your college application, providing insight into your character, work ethic, and academic potential. But great letters don’t happen by accident—they result from thoughtful planning and respectful communication. If you want a recommendation that truly enhances your application, here’s how to approach the process the right way. Choose the Right Teacher Not all teachers write equally strong letters, so be strategic about whom you ask. The best recommendations come from teachers who know you well and can speak to your strengths beyond just your grades. Prioritize junior-year teachers. Colleges prefer recommendations from teachers who [...]
What To Do If You’re Waitlisted for College: Next Steps
Getting waitlisted by a college can feel like being stuck in limbo—you’re not in, but you’re also not out. While it’s natural to feel frustrated or uncertain, the key is to manage expectations and take smart, strategic steps forward. Here’s how to handle being waitlisted without unnecessary stress. Check Your Chances (Reality Check Required!) Before getting too invested in the idea of a waitlist acceptance, take a look at the numbers. Most colleges publish their waitlist statistics in their Common Data Set, which you can usually find with a quick Google search: “[College Name] Common Data Set” Scroll to the [...]
College Review: Wake Forest University
On a cold, rainy day, we visited Wake Forest University and experienced a blend of awe and thoughtful reflection. Despite the damp weather, the campus's enduring beauty shone through, offering us a glimpse of its storied charm and vibrant academic community. Embracing the Campus Beauty in the Rain Even under overcast skies, Wake Forest University’s architectural elegance and lush green spaces left a lasting impression on us. The rain-enhanced colors of the manicured gardens and historic buildings added an unexpected depth to our campus tour. We found that the serene pathways and thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces created a warm, inviting [...]