Hi, Reader! Between school work, activities, the upcoming holidays (and travel uncertainty), and more application deadlines not that far away, I know it can feel like there’s a lot to juggle. But don’t worry — you’re not alone in this! This month, there are some key steps you can take to stay organized, focused, and on track with your college plans, no matter what grade you (or your student) are in. Whether college isn’t even on your radar quite yet or you’re eagerly awaiting admission...
25 days ago • 4 min read
Hi, Reader! We’re just about a week out from Nov. 1 deadlines, which means I know there’s a lot of work being done right now. As early deadlines continue getting closer, I just wanted to send a few quick reminders to help keep everyone’s stress level (slightly) lower: 1. Don’t panic about “missing” materials in your application. (But keep an eye on them.) Here’s what I’ve been seeing (and hearing): For most schools, your application itself must be submitted by the deadline — but supporting...
about 1 month ago • 3 min read
Hi, Reader! Some of you may be getting ready to submit applications soon — remember that you have until 11:59 p.m. local time on the deadline day to submit them. (But don’t wait until the last minute! The Common App becomes notoriously glitchy as we get closer to midnight.) I know I’ve shared them before, but in case you need any last-minute help with your Common App application, here are two resources I find helpful: AXS Companion — Open Resource. Anyone can use or share this free resource....
2 months ago • 3 min read
Hi, Reader! I had a great week last week in Columbus attending the National Association for College Admissions Counselors conference and connecting with some of my College Essay Guy colleagues. September is a tough time to have a college counseling conference — when we’ve got lots of students preparing for their first round of submissions — but I’m fortunate to have been able to serve my students, spend time with colleagues, and make some great memories. Me and some of the CEG team at a...
2 months ago • 3 min read
Hi, Reader! All of you are likely well into the thick of the school year now — and from what I hear, teachers didn’t waste any time assigning projects and scheduling tests. I hope y’all are adjusting to the new schedule well. It’s back-to-school time in our house, too. My son started his junior year of college, and it’s always been tradition in our house that I have hot, fresh, homemade chocolate chip cookies waiting for the kids when they get home from school. My son and I have been in a...
3 months ago • 6 min read
Hi, Reader! Did you know students of all ages can apply for scholarships — right now? And why not apply for them? It’ll put those essays and letters of recommendation you’re already writing and getting to good use. Here’s a list of just a few of my go-to sites for these scholarships (hint: I’ve got even more on my website). 12 Best College Scholarships Websites Plus Other Resources Access Scholarships Best College Reviews BigFuture (College Board) — Under Pay for College Tab...
4 months ago • 3 min read
Hi, Reader! As school starts back up (today is the first day of school for my district!), a few things are certain: Nobody wants to get up early. Someone is going to walk into school and then realize they’ve forgotten something important at home. Free time becomes increasingly scarce. College application deadlines get even closer. And the third and fourth ones can feel especially true for our new seniors, who are balancing the stress of college applications with the fun (and intensity) of...
4 months ago • 2 min read
Hi, Reader! We’re at the beach this week for a little vacation and a little essay work, so apologies for this email coming out late. Because I’m getting ready to head down to the beach, I’m going to make this newsletter a little bit of a roundup of current news and tidbits of information you might find helpful! The Common App Is Open The Common App came back online a little early last night, and here are some of the changes you can expect to see when you go on and create a new account or roll...
4 months ago • 2 min read
Hi, Reader! Application season stress is real. Are you feeling it? Luckily, with thoughtful support, parents and students can navigate the pressure without turning the whole household into a stress vortex. (And I'm speaking not just as an essay coach but also as someone who has come through the other side of college admissions with her own two kids.) Here are some tips you might want to keep in mind as application season draws near. For Students Here’s a truth you might already know (or may...
4 months ago • 4 min read