Student working on applications

“Why Us” Essays: The Do’s and Don’ts of “Why Us” Essays

Whether you are applying to UT Austin, Rice, Michigan, USC, UChicago, NYU—or any other selective school—this guide will help you avoid common mistakes and craft a response that feels specific, personal, and compelling.
Holistic versus Merit-based

Merit-Based College Admissions on the Rise

A New Era in College Admissions? If you're a parent preparing your teen for college—or a consultant guiding families through the application maze—there’s a new trend you need to watch: merit-based college admissions. The spotlight is…
Mother supporting son as he works on applications
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Addressing Application Stress: Strategies for Students and Families

When College Dreams Meet Overwhelming Pressure As spring rolls in, so does an invisible weight for many high school juniors: college application season is around the corner. This should be a time of excitement and opportunity. But for many…
A group of students working on their early applications

How the Rise in Early Action Applications Is Changing Admissions

College admissions are evolving, and one of the most significant changes in recent years is the rise in Early Action (EA) applications. More students are choosing to submit their applications earlier, seeking potential advantages in acceptance…

Choosing the Right Major: The Overlooked Key to College Success

College applications are a stressful and exciting time for students and their families. Parents often focus on grades, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and crafting the perfect personal statement. However, one critical factor…
Student desk before test
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Test-Optional is Fading: More Students Are Submitting Test Scores

Test-optional is fading in college admissions. For the past few years, test-optional policies have dominated college admissions. In response to COVID-19 and long-standing concerns about standardized testing fairness, many colleges eliminated…
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College Admissions Updates 2025: 6 Key Changes Families Must Know

The college admissions landscape is evolving rapidly, and families with high school students—especially in the Class of 2026 and 2027—need to stay ahead of the curve. With major college admissions updates in 2025, including new testing policies,…

Exploring Rice University: A Campus Tour & Insider’s Guide

Join me as I visit Rice University, one of the most prestigious schools in the South! From its breathtaking campus and top-ranked programs to the tight-knit student community, explore what makes Rice a top choice for students.
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How to Research and Compare Colleges Effectively: A Step-by-Step Guide

Choosing the right college can feel overwhelming, but with the right research strategy, you can find your perfect fit. This step-by-step guide will show you how to compare colleges effectively using reliable tools like College Navigator.
Student asking for letter of recommendation

The Ultimate Junior Year Checklist: How to Get Your College Applications Ready

The end of the Junior year will be here before you know it, and if you want to start Senior year stress-free, now is the time to get your college applications in order.