As the holiday season wraps up and we bid farewell to the seniors of 2024 who have made their early decisions or early action applications, it's time for the junior class of 2025 to step into the spotlight. 

Today, I want to share with you why thinking about and planning for your high school junior's summer activities is crucial for their college applications.

Why Summer Matters

I understand that summer seems distant, almost six months away, but how your high school junior spends this time can significantly impact their college application. The pressure isn't on to enroll in an academic program or secure a high-profile internship. A traditional job or a refreshing, rejuvenating experience can...

 December marks a pivotal moment for high school seniors as Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA) application decisions start rolling in. I'm Shereem Herndon-Brown, President CEO of Strategic Admissions Advice, and I understand the mix of excitement, anxiety, and uncertainty this season brings.  

Today let’s delve into the intricacies of deferrals and denials, providing clarity for parents navigating this crucial phase with their high school students.

The Rollercoaster of EA and ED Decisions

As the notifications flood in – the triumphant cheers of acceptance, the disappointing sting of denial, and the perplexing realm of deferral – it's easy to feel...

Happy holiday season! 

As we enter this festive season, it's also a crucial time for the junior class of 2025 as they receive their PSAT scores. In this blog post, we'll delve into the intricacies of these scores, shed light on the changing landscape of standardized testing, and guide you through the next steps.

The Digital Transformation of Standardized Testing

Your student, likely part of the first class to experience the digital PSAT, is witnessing a significant shift in testing dynamics. The SAT, a landmark test in our educational journey, is making the leap to digital formats starting in March 2024. While the PSAT was an introduction to this change, it's essential to understand that these...

The holiday season is not just about indulging in festive delights but also an opportunity to have meaningful conversations with your teen about their college application progress. This blog post will guide you through using this Thanksgiving weekend window wisely, discussing crucial checkpoints like finalized personal essays, supplemental work, and communication with their college counselor.

The Role of Essays in College Applications 

Essays play a pivotal role in shaping your teen's college application. Uncover the significance of understanding and reviewing your teen's essays. Explore the resources available for essay support and discover how a well-crafted essay can make a lasting...

Today, let's delve into a crucial aspect often underestimated in the college admissions process – service. As we celebrate the founding day of the esteemed Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. let's explore how service can not only enrich your teen's life, but also significantly impact their college applications.

In this blog post, we'll discuss why service matters in the eyes of college admissions officers and how it can set your teen apart from the competition.

Today, colleges seek more than just academic prowess. They are looking for students who go beyond the classroom, contribute to their communities, and exhibit a genuine spirit of service. Colleges are not only interested in grades and test...

As the acceptance letters start pouring in, I'm thrilled to share the success stories of our 17 proactive students who recently secured their spots at incredible colleges. The key? Being ahead of the curve and submitting applications six weeks ago.

In the ever-evolving landscape of college admissions, time is of the essence. The application process is moving swiftly, and with deadlines looming, it's crucial for parents and students alike to stay proactive. In this week’s blog post, I'll provide three essential tips to ensure your teen's college applications are not only complete but also stand out in the competitive pool.

Tip 1: Reassess Your College List 

As parents, your involvement in...

Today, let's delve into a crucial aspect of the college decision-making process—considering distance when researching colleges. As sophomores, juniors, and even seniors embark on the journey of exploring potential schools, understanding the impact of distance is essential. Join me as we uncover the key factors that can influence your decision and ensure a well-informed college choice.

The Significance of College Visits:

Before we dive into the specifics of distance, let's reiterate the importance of college visits. Whether in person or virtual, exploring campuses allows you to gather valuable insights into academics, activities, and admission requirements. As we progress through fall and...

Greetings, parents! 

Last week, we delved into the essentials of college visits, emphasizing academics, activities, and admission requirements. 

This week, let's explore the X factors—the unique elements that can make or break your teen's college experience.

Understanding the Core Elements:

Before we dive into the X factors, let's recap the fundamentals—academics, activities, and admission requirements. These are the pillars that provide a solid foundation for your college exploration.

The X-Factors Unveiled:

1. Culinary Considerations:

My colleague Tim shares a fascinating story about a prospective student at Emory University. This young man was fixated on food...

Hey there, parents! It's fall, the air is getting crisp, and many of you are heading back to your college campuses for homecoming. It's a nostalgic time, but more importantly, it's an opportunity to share your own college experiences with your high school teen.

Why Visit College Campuses:

1. Understanding Academics (The First "A"):

Begin the journey by helping your teen understand the academics of different colleges. Is it a liberal arts school or one with a focus on business and engineering? What specialties does it offer? How does it support students academically on a day-to-day basis? Remind them that academics should be the cornerstone of their college experience. 

2. Exploring...

Parents, 

Today, we're delving into a crucial aspect of the college application process that often goes unnoticed—the peril of selective and rejected colleges. In a world dominated by rankings and percentages, it's essential to guide teens away from colleges that too often take very few students.  

The Rejected School Conundrum: Unveiling the Odds

In a recent discussion, the prevalence of anxiety among parents about the US News and World Report rankings came to light. What exactly is a rejective school? It's a school that admits only 5% to 20% of its applicants, meaning the majority face rejection. While aiming high is admirable, it's crucial to understand the staggering odds and...