Last-Minute College Apps? ⏰ No Worries!


Hi, Reader!

In two weeks, I'll be heading out to San Diego, where I’ll spend the week with the College Essay Guy team to plan for the next admission season. I love the team I work with and am grateful to be able to spend the week with them learning, connecting, and planning. They make me a better essay coach — and person.

And even though I have plenty of time before I leave, I can bet you that I'm likely to wait until the night before to start packing. Can you empathize?

It seems like often, waiting until the last minute is second nature for many of us. And it may be a little panic-inducing … especially if you’re still thinking about submitting some college applications in the next few days or weeks.

But here’s the good news for the Class of 2026: Even if you’ve procrastinated (or are submitting some new applications after getting some deferrals or denials), you can still submit some kick-butt essays. Now, it’s not like I recommend this at-the-buzzer approach (take note Class of 2027), but I get it. Life happens.

So how do you take care of your application essays fast?

Both will help you submit your best applications in the time you have left.

And if you’re part of the Class of 2027, you still have a few months before you have to start thinking about college essays, but your application time will be here before you know it. While you don’t need to start writing until after school lets out for the summer, if you think you might want/need application or essay support, start researching your options and interviewing professionals soon. Finding the right fit is so important, and it’s really helpful to talk with different coaches and counselors to see who works best with your personality and goals. I know that coaches are booking up now (and I’m taking on a very limited number of students this season), so don't wait too long!

Registration Deadlines for the ACT Are Coming Up!

There’s still two more chances to take the ACT this school year! Register by January 23 for the February 14 test date or by March 24 for the April 11 test date.

Meanwhile, I promise to pack early. For real this time!

Happy Writing!

Julia

What I'm Working on

I’m updating old blog posts and adding new ones, like this one on the Common Data Set. Have you used the CDS in your college research?

What I'm Recommending

I love this travel backpack I got from Amazon. It’s perfect for my laptop, but it also fits a ton of clothes and travel essentials.

What I'm Watching

​“5 Ways Parents Can Support Their Teen with the College Process” from the College Essay Guy. It’s just over an hour and packed with great information.

Interested in Coaching? Let's Talk! | ​View My Resources | Need Help? Open a Support Ticket.

This email may contain affiliate links. This means I may receive a percentage of the sale in commission, but using these links doesn't affect the price you pay. I recommend only products I use myself and believe in. Thank you for supporting me! Read more: Privacy Policy

You're receiving this email because you opted in to my mailing list or because you're a current or past client. Don't need (or want) this information anymore? No hard feelings. Just use the links below to adjust your subscription.

  • Unsubscribe From All: To stop receiving all communication from me, including emails related to any purchases. (Coaching clients will still receive service-related emails.)
  • Unsubscribe to Newsletter: To unsubscribe from my newsletter but still receive updates on any purchases you've made.
  • Update your Profile: To fix your name or update your email address.

If a friend has forwarded you this email and you'd like to subscribe, come join the party by clicking here.

Julia Byrd: Essay Coach

I work with rising high school seniors to help them identify the meaningful, personal stories that make for standout admissions and scholarship essays. Subscribe to my newsletter to get the latest college admission and essay writing information.

Read more from Julia Byrd: Essay Coach

Hi, Reader! Spring is one of my favorite times of year in this work — not because things slow down (although I do love catching up on TV and hobbies), but because I'm seeing the students who want to have a smooth application season start to think about how they can make that happen. And, of course, planning out their main essay (also called the Common App essay or the Personal Statement) is a big part of having that smooth season. Here’s the truth about the college essay: it doesn’t write...

Hi, Reader! I don't know about you, but it's been a busy spring. From spring break to my husband retiring to my family starting to make summer plans, the days are just flying by. But one thing's for certain: We don't get anything done without a plan. Whether I’m using my paper to-do list, my calendar items, or a task list in ClickUp, when I have a clear plan, I'm more strategic about (and effective with) my time. One of the things in my to-do list is a section for saving links I think you...

Ethan Sawyer + CEG

Hi, Reader! I promise I won’t derail your Friday for long — but I just got word that the Common App released its essay prompts for the Class of 2027. And the big headline? They’re staying the same. 🎉 👏 🎉 You can find the full details here. This doesn’t mean juniors need to start drafting tomorrow or next week (please enjoy your spring and focus on ending the school year strong). But it does mean they can begin gently thinking about possible topics. Last year’s most popular choice (picked by...