As parents, we all want the best for our children, especially when it comes to their education. Ensuring that they have a well-balanced and aspirational college list is a critical step in the college admissions process. I want to guide you and your teen through the essential considerations for creating the right college list. By redefining success and focusing on your child's unique needs and goals, we can work together to build a list that is best for them. So, let's delve into the process of crafting the perfect college list! 

1. Partnership Between Parent and Child 

Before we begin discussing the college list, let's reiterate the importance of parent and child collaboration in this process. As p...

Welcome, parents of high school students in the class of 2024! As we embrace the exciting and crucial time of college essay season, I am delighted to connect with you. It's my favorite time of year because this is when your teens have the opportunity to authentically express themselves through their college essays, revealing who they are, what they value, and what sets them apart.

Why an Authentic College Essay Matters

With so many factors impacting the college admissions process, including the rise of test-optional policies and evolving affirmative action rulings, a student's college essay carries significant weight. This essay is more than just a piece of writing; it's a window into their personalit...

Welcome, parents of high school students in the Class of 2024! As the CEO of Strategic Admissions Advice, I am thrilled to share some exciting news with you. August 1st has passed which marks a significant milestone in the college admissions process: the “rollover” of the Common Application. This event paves the way for students to start applying to colleges and universities.

In this week’s blog post, we will discuss the importance of this date, provide valuable insights, and offer guidance on how to navigate this crucial period successfully. As you embark on this journey with your child, remember that Strategic Admissions Advice is here to support you every step of the way. Let's dive in!

The S...

Welcome, parents!

Let’s talk today about the ever-changing landscape of college admissions. It's a topic that affects your high school students and their future. From recent Supreme Court decisions impacting affirmative action to the rise of digital SATs and the growing influence of AI, so much is happening that demands your attention. I invite you to schedule a free Discovery Call with us, so we can help you navigate these changes and ensure the best possible outcomes for your child.

The Impact of the Supreme Court Decision 

You may be aware of the recent Supreme Court decision that has influenced affirmative action in higher education. As a parent, this development might leave you disappointed o...

Happy summer day to you!

I want to continue our series on supporting our kids through the college admissions process. As a parent and educator, I understand how challenging it can be to strike the right balance between involvement and letting our children take the lead. That's why I want to share some essential do's and don'ts that I've learned as a college counselor and as a parent. By following these guidelines, you and your child can get on the same page and navigate this process with confidence.

Don't Write the Essay

One crucial "don't" in this process is to resist the temptation to write your child's college essay. It's important to let them take ownership of this vital piece of their appl...

Today, I want to have a conversation with you that is extra special and crucially important. As parents, we all want the best for our kids, and one of the key decisions they'll make is about their college education. In order to guide them effectively, we need to get on the same page with them and have real conversations about college to ensure we make informed choices together.

College is a big decision, and it's important for parents and teens to be on the same page about what they want out of the college experience. This blog post will provide you with some tips on how to have these important conversations with your teen.

Why is it important to be on the same page?

There are a few reasons why it...

Summer is finally here, and I can't help but feel the excitement in the air. It's a time for sunshine, relaxation, and making memories. But as parents of high school students, it's essential to consider how your teenager spends their summer and how it can positively impact their college admissions journey. 

In this blog post, I'll shed light on the significance of productive summer activities, how they influence college applications, and why it's crucial to strike a balance between enjoying life and preparing for the future. Let's dive in!

The Power of Productive Summers 

While it's tempting for teenagers to indulge in carefree summer days, it's equally important for them to engage in meaningful a...

Hey there! This week, I want to continue our discussion on college admissions and shed light on how resumes and essays can work together to create a compelling application. Did you know that a staggering 80% of colleges no longer require standardized testing? This shift puts a greater emphasis on essays and activities resumes, allowing students to showcase their true potential. In this blog post, I'll explain how your child's essays and resumes should align and amplify their unique stories. So, let's dive in!

The Impact of No Standardized Testing 

With colleges moving away from standardized testing, the weight placed on essays and activities resumes has significantly increased. Admissions officers now...

It's crucial for parents to understand the importance of resumes for high school students. While I've been talking about essays in the past few weeks, let's shift our focus to resumes and activity sheets. I've received numerous requests for templates and formatting tips, so let's dive right in!

What is a Resume? 

A resume or activities list is a compilation of your child's accomplishments and involvements outside the classroom. It's essential to present these activities in an exciting and engaging manner. Using active verbs and listing the most significant activities at the top, you can highlight how your child spends their time and showcase their interests and strengths. Colleges are interested in le...