Application Tips
Tips for choosing the right essay topic
Tips for writing a compelling essay
Options for structuring your essay
Questions to ask on your campus tours
Tips for activities to boost your college resume
Pros and cons for joining a fraternity or sorority
The pros and cons of taking a gap year
Tips for meeting with college admissions reps
List and description of some of the fastest growing majors
Choosing the Best Topic for Your Essay
Let’s talk about how to absolutely nail your college admissions essay topic. This is your opportunity to showcase your unique personality, skills, and experiences to the admissions committee. It’s a chance to differentiate yourself from other applicants and make a lasting impression. Basically, it’s your chance to shine. So why do many students struggle with picking a topic that will effectively capture their essence and make them stand out? Probably because it sounds like this essay is going to have to do a bunch of different jobs all at once, and do them perfectly. So let’s discuss some tips on how to pick a topic that will wow admissions reps and help you put your best foot forward.
First and foremost, it’s important to remember that this thing is about you. It’s not about what you think the admissions committee wants to hear, or what your friends or family think you should write about. Your essay should be a reflection of your interests, experiences, and values. Start by brainstorming a list of topics that you feel passionate about or that have had a significant impact on your life. This could include a personal challenge you’ve overcome, a unique hobby or interest, a significant life event, or a community service project you’ve been involved in. And remember, if you choose to write about the impact of another person on your life or on your way of thinking, you must focus the essay on yourself, not on the person who impacted you. I’m sure this person is awesome, but so are you, and they aren’t applying to college with this essay.
The next step is to evaluate just how unique your essay is. Admissions committees read thousands of essays each year, so you want to make sure your topic stands out. Think about what makes your story unique and why it’s important to share. For example, if you’re writing about a community service project, consider what sets your experience apart from other students who may have volunteered in similar ways. Like a good Taylor Swift song, the more specific and the more detailed it is to you, the more it will resonate with your reader.
This should go without saying, but I wouldn’t be a former English teacher if I didn’t at least mention it. It’s important to effectively communicate your ideas, even if you’re not the best writer in the world. Your essay should be well-written, concise, and engaging. Make sure to proofread your essay carefully and have someone else read it over to catch any errors or areas that need improvement. Don’t miss that last part – proofread, proofread, and then proofread. Nothing will demonstrate carelessness or haste like a typo or egregious grammatical error.
Another important factor to consider when picking a topic is the prompt, especially for the personal insight questions or for supplementals. Make sure to read these prompts carefully and choose a topic that directly addresses the prompt. You don’t want to write a great essay about a topic that’s not relevant to the prompt, as it won’t effectively showcase your ability to follow directions and answer the question. This is less important for the common app essay as the prompts there are broad enough that a couple of minor edits can make an essay fit at least one of the prompts. And if not, there’s always the catch all “share an essay on any topic of your choice” prompt. So, for the common app essay, don’t feel bound by the prompts at all.
Lastly, remember that the admissions essay is just one part of your application. While it’s important to put effort into crafting a strong essay, it’s also important to focus on other aspects of your application, such as your grades, test scores, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation. Make sure to allocate your time and energy wisely and prioritize the areas that will have the biggest impact on your application. It’s also important to remember that some of these things can’t happen in the first semester of your senior year, so get started early and build that resume. Happy writing!
Tips for Writing A Stellar Essay
The college admissions essay is an essential component of the college application process. It is a unique opportunity for students to showcase their personality, experiences, and writing abilities to the admissions committee. Writing a compelling admissions essay can make a significant difference in the application process, but let’s be honest, not all essays are created equal. Some people have an incredible story to tell and, even if it’s poorly written (which is never great), it can still be compelling and give real insight into who they are as a person. But for the rest of us, the trick is going to making a less than earth-shattering story feel compelling. So let’s talk about how we do that.
1. Start with a strong introduction
The introduction is the first impression that the admissions committee will have of your essay. It’s important to make it count. Start with a hook that grabs the reader’s attention, such as an interesting fact, a personal anecdote, or, if you are telling an actual story, start at the height of action or in the middle of a complicated situation and then backtrack to explain it. If you are funny, be funny right out of the gate. But, as I always tell my students, you can’t fake funny. If you aren’t funny, it will show IMMEDIATELY. The introduction should set the tone for the rest of the essay and give the reader an idea of what to expect.
2. Tell a compelling story
The best way to make your essay stand out is to tell a unique and compelling story. Focus on a specific event or experience that has shaped your life or your perspective. The more detailed sense oriented you can make it, the better. Also, don’t shy away from sharing your emotions and how the actions of the story are making you feel in the moment. Your essay should be personal.
3. Use vivid language
Your essay should be written in a clear and concise manner, but that doesn’t mean it should be boring. Use vivid language to bring your story to life. Use metaphors, similes, and descriptive language to paint a picture for the reader. Avoid cliches and generic language, and instead use words that are specific and unique to your story. And again, engage the senses as much as possible and be specific where appropriate.
4. Show, don’t tell
One of the biggest mistakes that students make when writing their college admissions essay is telling the reader what they want to hear instead of showing them who they are. Instead of saying that you’re a hard worker, provide examples of times when you have demonstrated your work ethic. Your reader will be an intelligent human being (most of the time), so you needn’t spell everything out for them. If your essay implies that you have strong leadership skills, you don’t need to use the word leader to make sure they get it. Trust me, they get it.
5. Be authentic
The most important thing to remember when writing your college admissions essay is to be authentic. Don’t try to be someone you’re not or write about something that doesn’t truly represent who you are. The admissions committee is looking for students who are genuine and authentic. Be honest about your strengths, weaknesses, and experiences. Show the admissions committee who you truly are, not who you think they want you to be. And trust me, you can tell when a student isn’t being authentic.
6. Proofread!
Once you’ve written your essay, it’s important to edit and proofread it carefully. Make sure that your essay is well-organized and that your ideas flow logically. Check for grammar and spelling errors, and make sure that your essay is within the word limit. Have someone you trust, like a college counselor or parent, read your essay to provide feedback and catch any errors you may have missed. But don’t overdo it. Too many people giving you advice can cause your authenticity to be lost in the process. I’ve found 3 trusted readers to be a good maximum.
The college essay process can feel daunting, but if you have a small group of people you trust to help you find a story you can use to share more about who you are and how you think with the college reps, then you will find yourself walking the halls of your ideal school in no time.
How to Structure Your Essay
Words matter. Story matters. But just as important as the content of your essay is the structure of the essay. There are several ways to construct your story, so make sure you find the one that best communicates the content of your essay.
1. Chronological Structure
One way to structure your college admissions essay is to use a chronological structure. This approach involves starting at the beginning of a story and moving through the events in the order that they occurred. This is a common and effective way to tell a story that has a clear timeline or sequence of events. It allows the reader to follow along and understand the significance of each event and usually occurs in a three-act structure where the first and second acts are the story and then the third is your growth as a result of the story.
2. Reverse Chronological Structure
A reverse chronological structure is the opposite of a chronological structure. It involves starting with the most recent event or experience and working backward. This approach is most effective when the climax of the story works as a compelling hook or opening. Then the story unwinds backwards and we learn what you learned as we go. That also makes this story ideal for demonstrating growth over time.
3. Thematic Structure
A thematic structure involves organizing the essay around a central theme or idea. This approach can be useful for students who have a variety of experiences that relate to a common theme. It allows the reader to see how the different experiences relate to one another and how they contribute to the student’s overall character. In this structure, some of what we learn about you is in the way the stories relate to one another. These connected vignettes should all connect around a single theme but each should demonstrate something different about you that is positive as well.
4. Problem-Solution Structure
A problem-solution structure is an effective way to highlight a student’s problem-solving skills. This approach involves presenting a problem that you have faced and then describing how you solved it. It can be useful for students who have overcome challenges or obstacles in their lives or for students who have a unique way of solving a seemingly simple problem. This can showcase your out-of-the-box thinking.
5. Compare and Contrast Structure
A compare and contrast structure involves comparing two different experiences or perspectives. This is a really effective way of juxtaposing an intense story with a lighthearted one. Similar to the problem-solution structure, this can really showcase the way you problem solve or the way you think through various events in your life. Even the stories you choose to pair with one another demonstrate something about how you think.
As you can see, there’s more than one way to skin a cat. While the structure matters, it’s crucial that you don’t tackle something you can’t handle. If you’ve never written a story in reverse chronological order, it might be a little complex for you to take on, unless you have help, of course. Ultimately, the structure of the essay should be chosen based on the content of the essay and the story you’re looking to tell, and should fit in within your skill-set and abilities.
Questions to Ask During Your College Visit
Whether you’re waiting until you’re accepted to places before you tour them, or using your college visits as a way of figuring out which colleges you’d like to apply to, college tours are an important part of the decision. It’s an opportunity to get a firsthand look at the campus and get a feel for the school’s culture and atmosphere. While touring the campus, students should take advantage of the opportunity to ask questions and gather information. Let’s talk about how to make the most of these visits while you’re there. Here are some questions to consider asking.
1. What is the student-to-faculty ratio?
The student-to-faculty ratio for the university as a whole is generally listed on various websites. For your purposes, you should be asking about your specific major, or majors you’re interested in during your time there. While the school ration might be 15:1, ratios in an impacted major could be more like 25:1 or 30:1. If more direct attention or access to your professors is important, this is a great question for you to ask.
2. What is the average class size?
The average class size is another important factor to consider. It can affect the level of interaction that students have with their professors and classmates. Smaller class sizes typically allow for more discussion and engagement, while larger class sizes can be more impersonal. Like the student-to-teacher ratio, you should ask about this in relation to your major as well.
3. What types of academic support services are available?
Academic support services can be crucial for students who need extra help or guidance. It’s important to ask about tutoring, writing centers, and other resources that can help students succeed academically.
4. What types of extracurricular activities are available?
Extracurricular activities can be an essential part of the college experience. It’s important to ask about the types of clubs and organizations available on campus, as well as any opportunities for community service or internships.
5. What is campus safety like?
Campus safety is a critical concern for students and parents. Try to notice what security looks like on campus, and ask about various security measures that might be in place, including emergency protocols, security personnel, and crime statistics.
6. What is the housing situation like?
Housing is a significant factor to consider when choosing a college. It’s important to ask about the types of housing available, including dormitories, apartments, and off-campus housing. It’s also important to ask about the cost of housing and any policies or restrictions that may apply.
7. What is the overall culture and atmosphere of the campus?
Some of this you’ll be able to ascertain while you’re walking around and checking things out, but the culture and atmosphere of a college can have a significant impact on your experience, so ask about it as well. Ask about the student body, the social scene, and any traditions or events that are unique to the campus.
This is your chance to get a firsthand look at the campus and gather information. Whether it’s to help you make a final choice, or narrow your application list, it can be a great way to differentiate between several great options.
Summer Activities to Boost Your Resume
As summer approaches, many students are looking for ways to improve their college resumes. The summer break is an excellent opportunity to engage in activities that can enhance your academic and personal growth. Let’s look at some ways to improve your college resume.
Internships
Internships are an excellent way to gain valuable work experience and develop professional skills. Many companies and organizations offer summer internships to high school students, providing them with the opportunity to learn about their chosen field and make connections in the industry.
Volunteering
Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community and develop leadership and teamwork skills. Many non-profit organizations offer tons of volunteer opportunities, such as working in a soup kitchen, tutoring children, reading or playing games at a retirement home, or participating in a community garden project.
Language Immersion Programs
Language immersion programs are a great way to develop language skills and cultural competency. Obviously, this will depend on availability and ability to afford a longer trip abroad, but this provides students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the language and culture of the host country and will look great on your college application.
Summer Courses
Summer courses are an excellent way to earn academic credits and get ahead in your studies. Many junior colleges offer summer courses that allow students to complete required courses or explore new academic interests.
Leadership Programs
Leadership programs are an excellent way to develop leadership skills and gain experience working in a team. Many universities and non-profit organizations offer summer leadership programs, providing students with the opportunity to work on group projects and learn from experienced professionals.
Sports and Fitness Programs
Sports and fitness programs are an excellent way to stay active and develop physical fitness. Many community centers offer summer sports and fitness programs, such as tennis camps, swimming lessons, or yoga classes. Even if you aren’t an athlete, this can be a great way to round out your resume.
Entrepreneurship Programs
Entrepreneurship programs are an excellent way to develop business skills and gain experience working in a startup environment. Many universities and non-profit organizations offer summer entrepreneurship programs, providing students with the opportunity to work on real-world projects and learn from successful entrepreneurs.
Online Learning Programs
Online learning programs are an excellent way to develop new skills and gain knowledge in a flexible and convenient way. Many online platforms offer summer online learning programs, providing students with the opportunity to learn about a wide range of topics, from coding and marketing to creative writing.
From internships and volunteering to language immersion programs and online learning, there are many options available to students who want to enhance their academic and personal growth. By participating in one or more of these summer activities, students can gain valuable experience and make yourself more attractive to college admissions committees and future employers.
Things to Consider When Considering Greek Life
Rushing a sorority or fraternity can be an exciting and overwhelming experience for college students. Joining a Greek organization can provide students with a sense of community, leadership opportunities, and lifelong friendships. However, it is important to consider several factors before deciding to rush a sorority or fraternity. Let’s consider some pros and cons.
1. Time Commitment
Joining a sorority or fraternity can be a significant time commitment. Greek organizations typically require members to attend weekly meetings, participate in philanthropic events, and attend social events. It is important to consider whether you can balance your academic and personal commitments with the time commitment required by the sorority or fraternity. If you are working while attending college, that’s an additional time commitment to think about. But for most college students, the time isn’t much of an issue.
2. Financial Obligations
Joining a sorority or fraternity can also come with financial obligations. Members are often required to pay dues, which can vary depending on the organization. It is important to consider whether you can afford the financial obligations associated with joining a sorority or fraternity.
3. Social Life
Sororities and fraternities are known for their parties and formals. It is important to consider whether the social life associated with Greek organizations aligns with your personal values and interests. Additionally, it is important to consider whether you are comfortable with the social norms and expectations within the organization. Much of what being in a particular house will be like can be discovered during rush week.
4. Philanthropic Opportunities
Many sororities and fraternities are committed to philanthropy and community service. It is important to consider whether the philanthropic opportunities associated with the organization align with your personal values and interests. But this is, for most people, a big pro and a great way to give back to the community near your school and grow your own personal community.
5. Diversity and Inclusion
It is important to consider whether the sorority or fraternity you are interested in is committed to diversity and inclusion. I know we’ve said this before, but the diversity of a house should align with your interests and values.
6. Reputation
The reputation of a sorority or fraternity can also be a consideration when deciding whether to rush. It is important to research the organization’s history and reputation within the college community. Any current members or alumni you can talk to to gain a better understanding of the organization’s culture and values would also be a huge help.
7. Hazing
Hazing is a serious issue within Greek organizations. It is important to consider whether the organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards hazing and whether current members adhere to the policy. I have heard some horror stories of some pretty serious hazing, so make sure you know the reputation of the fraternity or sorority you are pledging with regards to hazing and keep that in mind before you jump in.
Greek life can be great. But, as with most things, more information is always better. So do your research and make a decision about Greek like that is best for you. Have fun and, of course, be safe.
Pros and Cons of Taking a Gap Year
Taking a gap year before starting college has become increasingly popular among students in the US and is already popular throughout the rest of the world. A gap year is typically a year-long break from academic pursuits to explore personal interests, work, travel, or volunteer. While a gap year can be beneficial for some students, it may not be the right choice for everyone. Let’s look at the pros and cons of a gap year before you start college.
Pros:
- Personal Growth: A gap year provides the opportunity to explore your interests, gain new experiences, and develop personal skills. You can pursue passions outside of academia and gain valuable life skills such as independence, resilience, and adaptability. This can be particularly true if you are also traveling or volunteering during this time away from formal schooling.
- Career Exploration: A gap year can also help you gain clarity on your career goals. You can use this time to explore different fields through internships or volunteering, which can help you select an academic or career path.
- Cultural Exposure: Traveling during a gap year can expose you to different cultures and perspectives, enhancing your global awareness and understanding of the world.
- Mental Health: Taking a break from schooling can also help to alleviate the stress of academic pressure and develop healthy habits such as exercise, meditation, and self-reflection.
Cons:
- Academic Disruption: Taking a gap year can disrupt the academic momentum for some students. It can be challenging to get back into the academic routine after a year-long break.
- Financial Constraints: A gap year can also be expensive, especially if students are traveling or participating in internships. You should consider your financial situation before taking a gap year and ensure that they have a plan to cover the expenses.
- Social Isolation: You may miss out on the opportunity to connect with your peers if you take a gap year. You may feel isolated or disconnected from the college community upon your return.
- Delayed Graduation: Taking a gap year can delay graduation, which can have financial and career implications. You should carefully consider the impact of delayed graduation on your future before jumping in.
A gap year before starting college can be a positive experience for some students. It can provide personal growth, career exploration, cultural exposure, and improved mental health. But there can be some restraints and negative effects to consider, so you should carefully evaluate your personal and academic goals to determine if a gap year is the right choice for you.
Tips for Meeting with an Admissions Rep
As a high school student preparing for college, meeting with a college admissions officer can be an important opportunity to learn more about a college or university and make a positive impression on the admissions team. However, it’s important to approach these meetings with a strategy in mind. Here are some key factors to consider when meeting with a college admissions officer:
- Do your research: Before you meet with a college admissions officer, it’s important to do your research on the school. Review the school’s website, read their mission statement, and learn about their academic programs. This will help you come prepared with specific questions and demonstrate your interest in the school.
- Dress appropriately: While it’s not necessary to wear a suit and tie, it’s important to dress neatly and professionally for your meeting. This shows that you take the meeting seriously and that you understand the importance of making a good first impression.
- Be on time: Arriving on time is a sign of respect and responsibility. Make sure to plan your route in advance and leave plenty of time to navigate traffic or unexpected delays. If you are meeting virtually, make sure to arrive early so you don’t keep them waiting.
- Ask questions: Come prepared with some questions and write them down so you don’t forget. You can ask about admissions, or about your major, or about other aspects of that school that interest you. You can also ask questions about support and school life listed in our Campus Visit post. This shows that you are engaged and interested in learning more about the school and helps you understand if that university is the right fit for you. Be sure to avoid questions that are readily available online. This will have the exact opposite effect you are interested in having.
- Be yourself: While it’s important to be professional and respectful, it’s also important to be yourself. Admissions officers want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your personality and interests.
- Follow up: After the meeting, consider sending a thank-you note or email to the admissions officer. This is a great way to reiterate your interest in the school and leave a positive impression.
Meeting with a college admissions officer can be an exciting and valuable experience. By following these tips, you can make the most of your meeting and increase your chances of being accepted into your ideal school.
Fastest Growing College Majors
As the job market and industry demands continue to shift and change, so do the fastest growing majors. Students who are looking to pursue degrees that align with high-demand fields may find it helpful to know which majors are experiencing the most significant growth. Here are some of the fastest growing majors as of 2022:
- Cybersecurity: With increasing threats to cybersecurity, the demand for professionals in this field has grown significantly. Cybersecurity majors will learn how to protect systems and data from cyberattacks and will be equipped with the skills needed to prevent cybercrime.
- Health Sciences: The healthcare industry continues to grow, and as a result, so does the demand for professionals in this field. Health science majors will study healthcare policy, ethics, and administration, preparing them for a variety of careers in healthcare.
- Data Science: With the explosion of data in virtually every industry, data science has become an essential field for companies seeking to harness and analyze data. Data science majors will study statistics, computer science, and machine learning to prepare them for careers as data analysts or data scientists.
- Sustainability Studies: As the world continues to grapple with climate change and environmental issues, sustainability studies has become a rapidly growing field. Sustainability studies majors will learn about renewable energy, green technology, and sustainable development.
- Exercise Science: With an increasing focus on health and wellness, the demand for professionals in exercise science has grown significantly. Exercise science majors will study human anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics, preparing them for careers as personal trainers, fitness instructors, and physical therapists.
- Business Analytics: Businesses are using data more than ever before to drive decision-making, and as a result, the demand for business analytics professionals has increased. Business analytics majors will learn how to use data to make informed business decisions.
- Biotechnology: With advances in medical technology and biotechnology, the demand for professionals in this field has grown significantly. Biotechnology majors will study molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry, preparing them for careers in research and development, biomanufacturing, and pharmaceuticals.
- Artificial Intelligence: As AI continues to transform the business world, the demand for professionals in this field has increased. Artificial intelligence majors will learn how to create and implement intelligent computer systems and applications.
- Public Health: Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for professionals in public health has increased significantly. Public health majors will study epidemiology, biostatistics, and health policy, preparing them for careers in public health administration and research.
- Creative Writing: While not a field that typically comes to mind when discussing fast-growing majors, creative writing has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years. As storytelling continues to play a crucial role in marketing, branding, and social media, the demand for skilled writers has increased.
Students who are considering which majors to pursue may find it helpful to consider some of the fastest growing majors out there. If you already know what you’re into, then definitely go for that. Your interest will be a major asset. But if you aren’t sure what you want to do, or if you’re interested in a field related to one of those above, maybe consider the growth potential of the majors listed above.