Colleges with the Coolest Summer Events

It’s summer time – and while we strongly encourage families to visit college campuses during active semesters to get a better sense of campus life, we know that’s not always an option. Sometimes, your only choice is to go in the summer when the kids are out of school and you're already planning a vacation. If that’s the case, why not visit when there’s something special happening on or around campus? While these events might not be academic in nature, college summer festivals and local traditions can tell you a lot about a school’s culture and community.

Below are a few of our favorite fun-in-the-sun campus events to keep in mind – either for this summer or next:

Dillo Day – Northwestern University (Evanston, IL)

The Music Festival You Don’t Want to Miss!

Every year at the end of May, Northwestern hosts the country’s largest student-run music festival: Dillo Day. Originally inspired by May Day celebrations and organized by students from Austin, Texas in 1972, “Armadillo Day” has evolved into a full-scale production featuring top-tier artists, student-curated stages, food trucks, games, and art installations.

It’s not your typical college tour stop, but it is a revealing look at Northwestern’s vibrant student life. In recent years, the second stage has showcased an all-Black lineup curated by student groups – a reflection of the school’s ongoing commitment to equity and inclusion.

If you didn’t get the chance to experience it this May, consider planning around it next year – it’s one of the most spirited and community-driven events on campus.

Ann Arbor Summer Festival – University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, MI)

A Month-Long Celebration of Community and Art

The Ann Arbor Summer Festival (A2SF) is a four-week celebration every June filled with music, theater, film, visual art, family programming, and even nightly wellness events like yoga and the can’t-miss “Nerd Night.” Many events are free and take place on the University of Michigan campus or nearby venues, while others are hosted by U-M programs and alumni groups.

This is a great event to catch if you're visiting Michigan in June – or a reason to plan your visit then next year. More than just a festival, A2SF is a window into how U-M blends community, culture, and learning year-round.

National Orchestral Institute + Festival – University of Maryland (College Park, MD)

A Classical Music Showcase Worth the (Short) Drive

Every summer, the University of Maryland hosts the National Orchestral Institute + Festival (NOI+F) at The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center. For four weeks, talented young musicians work with world-class conductors, participate in master classes, and perform in concerts that are open to the public.

This isn’t a trip you need to plan months in advance – most of our readers are just a quick drive from UMD, making it an easy and inspiring evening out. This year’s program featured major works like Mahler’s Symphony No. 2, conducted by the iconic Marin Alsop at the Washington National Cathedral.

If you’re a classical music fan (or just want to see UMD’s arts scene in action), it’s well worth putting on your summer calendar.

Astro Nights – University of California, Berkeley (Berkeley, CA)

A Star-Gazing Spectacle

If you (or your student) are interested in astronomy, UC Berkeley’s Astro Night is a must. On the first Thursday of each month – weather permitting – the public is invited to use university telescopes, hear accessible talks from astronomy faculty, and get an up-close look at Berkeley’s world-class programs.

These monthly events are geared toward high school students and curious community members alike – a great low-pressure way to visit campus and meet some of the people behind the science. If you missed one, no worries – they happen regularly, and you can even stream past lectures online here. 

Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts – Penn State (State College, PA)

Also Known as ArtsFest – And Definitely Worth a Visit

Every July, more than 125,000 people head to Penn State for the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts – or, as most people call it, ArtsFest. From juried exhibitions and live music to street painting, book events, and vibrant sidewalk art sales, this festival is packed with energy, creativity, and community pride.

This year’s dates are July 10–13, 2025, so there’s still time to check it out if you’re making summer plans. While you’re there, don’t forget to look up the Banner Exhibition and Competition – it’s a real treat! Can’t go this year? Make a note for next summer – it’s one of the most festive and family-friendly ways to explore State College.

Campus Visits in the Summer: Quick Tips

Whether you're visiting during a festival or just trying to make the most of a quieter summer visit, a little planning can make a big difference. Sure, summer might not show you the typical campus hustle – but it can still give you a real feel for the school and its surroundings.

• Check Tour Availability: Not every college runs its full slate of tours and info sessions in the summer. Some offer limited options or fewer student guides. Double-check the admissions website and register early – summer slots can fill quickly.

• Book Lodging Early: Festival weekends and general summer travel can mean crowded hotels and limited availability. Reserve your accommodations ahead of time to avoid last-minute stress.

• Explore the Town: A big part of the college experience happens beyond the campus itself. Visit the local shops, grab a bite at a popular student hangout, or check out the parks and neighborhoods nearby. You’ll get a better sense of whether the surrounding community feels like a good fit.

• Take Advantage of the Quiet: With fewer students around, you might get a more peaceful, flexible tour experience. It’s a great chance to walk the campus at your own pace, peek into buildings, and take in the vibe without the crowds.

• Have a Conversation (If You Can): If possible, try to connect with someone while you’re there – an admissions officer, professor, or even a current student. Ask what the energy is like during the school year!

Even if a summer visit doesn’t show you the full student life experience, it can still be productive. You'll get to see the campus layout, explore the local community, and have meaningful conversations without the crowds. It’s a low-pressure way to gather impressions – and it might even turn into a fun family getaway!

Want to Learn More about Campus Visits? Check Out Our Other Posts:

Weekly Update: June 25

Hope everyone is staying cool in this heat!

While we definitely want you to get outside and enjoy the summer, this extreme weather is the perfect excuse to spend some extra time indoors working on college applications. Rising seniors, this is a great window to book a few more essay coaching meetings and make meaningful progress before things cool down.

In the meantime, here’s what’s been happening in the world of higher education:

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

June SAT Scores Are In!

The moment of truth has arrived: June 7 SAT scores are now live for most students. Head over to your College Board account to check your results. Fingers crossed for great news! If you're still on the fence about retesting, go ahead and register now to secure your preferred test center. You can always cancel later if needed.

🌟 DCCC students: Don’t forget to send us a screenshot of your scores so we can keep your file up to date. Use our multi-purpose submission form and follow this path: DCCC Forms and Information → Test Scores, Report Cards, or Transcripts.

Tenure Under Fire

The tenure system is now under attack! Never heard the term? Tenure refers to the protections granted to some professors to prevent them from being fired for presenting challenging or controversial ideas. At least 11 states are now proposing to revise or eliminate this system, arguing that it leads to decreased faculty productivity and wastes taxpayer dollars.

Suggestions include more frequent performance reviews and allowing dismissal for those who fail to meet certain milestones. While some of these proposals are framed as economic, states like Texas have made it clear their goals also include limiting instruction on topics like critical race theory. Although faculty are the most directly affected, these changes could impact the academic climate and educational depth at the colleges you’re considering.

Birthright Israel Participants Evacuating Amid Conflict

As missile strikes continue following the recent escalation between Israel and Iran, Birthright Israel has evacuated thousands of American participants from the region. Birthright is a well-known program that offers free 10-day trips to Israel for Jewish young adults, many of whom are visiting the country for the first time. The program is designed to strengthen cultural identity and connection, with itineraries that include historical tours, educational activities, and exposure to daily life in Israel.

Last week, as Iranian missiles broke through Israeli defenses, approximately 1,500 Birthright participants were evacuated. Others remain in shelters or are still awaiting transport home. Reactions among families have varied; some have expressed gratitude for the swift evacuations and others are struggling with disappointment over shortened trips.

If you're considering international programs during or after college, this situation is a reminder to stay informed about global events and make sure the programs you're participating in have strong emergency plans in place. And if you’re curious about Birthright Israel, you can learn more here! It’s a really great program.

Deeper Budget Cuts at Major Research Schools

As federal support for higher education continues to decline, colleges and universities are bracing for deeper cuts, including potential staffing reductions. According to Forbes, six major research universities reported significant financial losses this past week:

• Temple University

• Cornell University

• University of Kansas

• University of Minnesota

• University of Maryland

• University of Nebraska

These budget constraints could affect research funding, campus resources, and tuition, which may rise to compensate for lost revenue. While we don’t recommend ruling out top research universities or Ivy League institutions, it’s definitely smart to monitor how these changes could influence academic offerings and student life over the next few years.

Higher Ed Fights Back, Suing Over DOD Cuts

In response to recent federal budget cuts, several leading universities are taking legal action to protect their research funding and academic autonomy. A judge ruled on Friday that the National Science Foundation cannot proceed with additional proposed cuts following lawsuits from MIT and Princeton. Separately, 12 colleges, including nearby UMD and Johns Hopkins, have sued the Department of Defense to prevent further reductions that would significantly impact university research.

While the outlook may feel uncertain, these legal actions show that colleges are actively fighting to protect their programs. And remember: one disappointing headline doesn’t mean a school is no longer a good fit. it's still too early to predict long-term effects! What matters is staying informed, which is why we’ll keep sharing the latest here on our blog.

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

It’s hot out there — and not just outside. The post-college job market is heating up in all the wrong ways. According to the Wall Street Journal, unemployment among recent grads (ages 20–24) is sitting around 6.6%, the highest it’s been in a decade, not counting the pandemic years. Even tougher? Employers aren’t in a rush to hire. Entry-level roles are increasingly going to candidates with experience, and industries that once snapped up new grads — like tech — are now flooded with applicants, all competing with each other and, yes, with AI.

Some fields are holding steady. Healthcare and medical-related careers, for example, continue to offer stability thanks to long-term demand. But students entering computer science programs with dreams of working at a major tech company may need a backup plan. The competition is fierce, and companies are moving cautiously.

For students without a college degree, the picture is even bleaker — unemployment is around 14.5% — so college is still a worthwhile investment. But it may be time to rethink what you’re investing in. Choosing a major that aligns with current and future job openings is more important than ever.

Take air traffic control, for instance. It’s probably not a career you’ve spent much time thinking about, but the field is facing a major shortage. The Federal Aviation Administration is partnering with colleges to fast-track training, and students are discovering the role has a lot to offer: problem-solving, creativity, and no sitting behind a desk all day. One student told NPR that it was exactly what she was looking for — she just didn’t know it existed. If you're still figuring out your path, use this summer to look beyond the obvious. Ask yourself: how could I apply my strengths in fields I haven’t considered?

Of course, big decisions about college and careers require clarity — and that’s hard to come by if you (or your teen) are glued to a screen all day. And yes, we know the conversation about screentime can feel overdone, but new research is giving it sharper edges. A long-term study recently found that teens who show signs of actual screen addiction — meaning they use their phones or video games to escape reality and can’t stop thinking about them even when logged off — are at a significantly higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

But it’s not about screen time alone. Just because your teen is on their phone a lot doesn’t mean they’re in danger. The key takeaway is to look at why they’re using it. If it’s about connection, fun, or relaxation, that’s one thing. If it’s a coping mechanism for avoiding the real world, that’s something to pay closer attention to.

Luckily, summer offers a perfect opportunity to reset. One of the most effective — and surprisingly popular — ways to get teens off their phones? Sleepaway camp. Many programs require campers to hand over their devices, and the kids aren’t just surviving — they’re thriving. According to The Washington Post, teens at one Maine camp were more talkative, more creative, better rested, and even said they could think more clearly after just a few days without screens. One camper put it simply: “I can remember things at camp. I can’t remember things at home.”

And as a bonus? We’ve seen some fantastic college essays come from camp experiences. Whether it’s pushing through a tough hike, learning to lead a cabin, or just finding confidence away from home, those unplugged moments often turn into the kind of personal stories that admissions officers love to read.

So whether you’re thinking about majors, jobs, mental health, or just surviving the heat — this summer might be the right time to slow down, unplug, and look at the bigger picture. There's a lot out there to explore. You just might need to step away from the screen to find it!

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

As students are finishing up their Common App essays with our DCCC coaches, it looks like colleges are finally starting to release their 2025-2026 supplemental essay prompts. We’re always thrilled to see them showing up online this early so we can help our clients stay a step ahead of the process. So far we’ve seen prompts from Boston College, University of Miami, Georgetown, University of Georgia, and Purdue. 

With these prompts already trickling in, it’s all the more reason to book appointments soon to try and finish up those generic supplemental essays. Once those are out the way, it’ll be so much easier and smoother to respond to the specific questions from your top schools.

Try to stay cool, everyone!

Interested in More Summer-Related College News? Check Out Our Other Weekly Updates!

Our 2025 Summer Reading Picks

Summer Reading That Actually Matters

Yes, summer is for relaxing – but it’s also a great time to build your college admissions toolkit. Why? Because more and more schools are asking students to talk about the books they read for fun, whether it’s in supplemental essays, short answer questions, or even interviews.

The Columbia and Wake Forest supplements from last year asked applicants to name books they’d read recently. And other schools (like Stanford and Yale) encourage optional reading lists. Plus, interviewers often use a “What’s a book you’ve read recently?” question as an icebreaker – or a test of curiosity. Either way, being able to speak thoughtfully about what you’ve read helps set you apart!

But what should you read?

Nobody expects you to dive into 600-page Russian novels or dense academic theory. Instead, we encourage students to explore books that match their potential majors, interests, or personal narratives. That way, the book becomes more than just a talking point – it becomes a bridge to something meaningful about who you are.

Below, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite 2025 picks. These books are smart, compelling, and relevant – and they just might give you something interesting to say in your next college essay or conversation!

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‘The Heart and the Chip: Our Bright Future with Robots’ by Daniela Rus & Gregory Mone

Robots are no longer just sci-fi – nor are they here to destroy mankind! From helping in hospitals to farming fields, they’re already changing our world for the better. MIT roboticist Daniela Rus teams up with journalist Gregory Mone to show how robots are being designed to work with people, not against them. Plus, you’ll learn how coding, ethics, and imagination all come together to shape the future.

Recommended for students interested in computer science, engineering, and robotics – or anyone curious about the ethics of AI, an incredibly relevant topic today.

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‘The Everything War: Amazon’s Ruthless Quest to Own the World’ by Dana Mattioli

You probably use Amazon all the time, but this book shows how the company grew into a global giant – and what it cost along the way. You’ll find yourself engaged in a wild (but true) story of power, corruption, and competition in the digital age. Before you buy your textbooks from Amazon, you might want to consider what Mattioli has to say.

Recommended for students interested in business, economics, and law – especially those curious about how these fields intersect with technology and global industry. Bonus ethical dilemma: should you order this book from Amazon? 😀

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‘Fire in the Sky: Cosmic Collisions, Killer Asteroids, and the Race to Defend Earth’ by Gordon L. Dillow

While apocalyptic meteorite collisions may sound like science fiction, NASA actually has a plan for what to do if a giant asteroid heads for Earth. In fact, many have already struck our planet! This fast-paced book explores that history along with the science of planetary defense and the people working to prevent disaster.

Recommended for students interested in astronomy and physics – and also those who enjoy science writing related to environmental science or history.

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‘How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply’ by David Brooks

This one’s all about connection. How can you truly get to know someone? Why do some people make you feel instantly understood? And how can you build better relationships at home, at work, or as you head to college? Brooks explains how to really listen, ask better questions, and become the kind of person others want to talk to.

Recommended for students interested in psychology, sociology, leadership, and education – or anyone who’s a little nervous about making new connections on campus.

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‘Grief Is for People’ by Sloane Crosley

When Crosley lost a close friend, she did what she does best – wrote about it. With her trademark wit and insight, she’s crafted a short, powerful memoir. It’s sad, funny, and deeply human in its exploration of love, loss, and the complicated process of keeping going.

Recommended for students interested in psychology, counseling, creative writing, or anyone who appreciates a well-crafted memoir or has experienced grief.

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‘Blood in the Machine: The Origins of the Rebellion Against Big Tech’ by Brian Merchant

In the 1800s, factory workers smashed machines to protest unfair working conditions. They weren’t anti-technology – they were anti-exploitation. This book connects their struggle to today’s concerns about AI, automation, and the gig economy. How real is the threat to human labor, and what can we do about it?

Recommended for students interested in political science, technology ethics, and the future of work in an automated world.

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‘How to Build a Boat’ by Elaine Feeney

This beautifully-written coming-of-age novel follows a neurodivergent teen, a teacher, and a school caretaker as their lives unexpectedly intertwine. Feeney explores what it means to fit in, form community, and find connection. Emotional, funny, and full of heart – this quiet story lingers long after the last page.

Recommended for students of English literature and education majors – or anyone who appreciates thoughtful storytelling.

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‘Rebel Girl: My Life as a Feminist Punk’ by Kathleen Hanna

If you’ve ever blasted a song that made you feel unstoppable, you’ll love this memoir from the lead singer of Bikini Kill and Le Tigre. Hanna helped launch the Riot Grrrl movement – and this is her fearless, funny story. From touring chaos to activist roots, she shares what it took to succeed as a feminist punk in a male-dominated industry.

Recommended for students interested in gender and cultural studies, activism, music – and any young woman looking to carve her own path!

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‘Extremely Online: The Untold Story of Fame, Influence, and Power on the Internet’ by Taylor Lorenz

So, you want to be an influencer? From Vine stars to TikTok millionaires, this is the behind-the-scenes story of how creators took over the internet – and reshaped our culture and economy. Lorenz’s history of digital fame is smart, sharp, and full of insight into what it really means to be “online.”

Recommended for students of marketing, media studies, and anyone curious about how their online presence shapes real-world impact.

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‘The Demon of Unrest’ by Erik Larson

This history book reads like a thriller. It covers the five tense months between Lincoln’s election and the start of the Civil War – a period full of backroom deals, bold decisions, and mounting conflict. Larson’s storytelling brings the era’s key figures and national crisis vividly to life.

Recommended for students interested in American history, government, and political science – or anyone who loves immersive nonfiction with high stakes.

Pro Tip: This Isn’t Just for Rising Seniors

Even if you’re not applying to college this fall, summer is the perfect time to explore new ideas, strengthen your reading habits, and get more confident in how you talk about what you care about. That’s a win no matter your grade level.

So whether you're on a beach, at a camp, or just stretched out on the couch — grab a book (or two) from our list. You’ll be reading for fun and for the future!

Weekly Update: June 20

☀️ Summer is (unofficially) here, and you know what that means: pool days, sunburns, melty ice cream... and college essays.

Yes, while your rising juniors and seniors are probably thinking about popsicles and playlists, we’re over here thinking about personal statements, recommendation letters, and how your student will make their case when answering 'Why This School?”

Between scoops of your favorite frozen treat, keep an eye out for upcoming blog posts on colleges with surprising quirks and hidden strengths – perfect for adding punch to those “Why Us?” supplements.

In the meantime, here’s what’s happening this week in the world of college admissions:

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

GOP 2025 Tax Bill Could Expand Qualified 529 Expenses

You may already know that 529 plans are a great tax-advantaged way to save for college—but new legislation could make them even more flexible, according to the WSJ. Proposed changes would expand what qualifies as a legitimate educational expense, including:

• K–12 tuition beyond the current $10,000 cap

• Test prep and tutoring -> yes, that would include your DCCC fees! 🎉

• Books and online learning tools

• Homeschooling costs

• Trade and credentialing programs

Translation: families could soon use 529 money for a broader range of educational paths, not just four-year degrees. We’ll be watching this closely – if passed, it could be a game-changer for college-bound students with hefty supplementary educational expenses. Check out the article linked above for a closer look at some of the finer details – but keep in mind that even if it passes, states can still enforce these changes differently.

Baby Bonds in the GOP 2025 Tax Bill

Another feature of the proposed GOP tax bill is the creation of “baby bonds” – what some are calling “Trump accounts.” Under the plan, every U.S. citizen born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028, whose parents have Social Security numbers, would receive $1,000 in seed money from the federal government. Families would open an account at a qualifying institution, and the funds could be used starting at age 18 for college, vocational training, a first home, or to start a small business. If unused, the money becomes fully accessible at age 31.

Families could also contribute up to $5,000 per year, so families who can contribute extra will see even greater returns over time. While some see this as a step toward addressing wealth inequality, the proposal has drawn bipartisan interest. It’s worth keeping an eye on – especially if your family is growing and you’re thinking about future college costs.

A Supreme Court Win for Disabled Students

On June 12, the Supreme Court unanimously ruled in favor of a young girl with epilepsy whose school had refused to adjust her schedule – even though her seizures made morning instruction unsafe. Previously, families had to prove that schools acted with “bad faith or gross misjudgment” to win a disability discrimination case – an unreasonably high bar. The Court struck that down, aligning the standard to that in workplaces and other areas of public life: if reasonable accommodations aren’t being provided, that’s enough.

This ruling is a big deal for families of students with IEPs and 504 plans. It strengthens legal protections and puts schools on clearer notice: they must take accommodations seriously, not just check boxes or hide behind vague justifications. For many special needs students, this could mean more responsive support, greater access to meaningful learning, and fewer barriers to getting what they actually need to thrive.

Fulbright Scholarship Board Resigns Citing Trump Interference

11 of the 12 members of the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board resigned in protest after the Trump administration blocked a significant number of already-selected U.S. Fulbright recipients and called for a surprise review of 1,200 incoming international scholars. The Fulbright Program, established in the 1960s, funds U.S. students to pursue graduate study, research, and teaching in more than 140 countries. It’s one of the most prestigious global fellowship opportunities, designed to promote cross-cultural exchange and academic collaboration.

The resignations reflect growing concerns about politicization in higher education. For students hoping to study abroad through Fulbright or similar programs, this introduces a level of uncertainty – and serves as a reminder to build a strong Plan B. As with college admissions, international opportunities may increasingly require flexibility and backup options.

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

Last week, we shared some thoughts on the public vs. private school debate, leaning slightly toward public options—especially if that means a chance to save more for college. But Town & Country recently took a closer look at some of the country’s most progressive private schools, many of which are now facing enrollment challenges. And while their offerings may sound unconventional (broom-making, anyone?), these schools aim to give kids a holistic education—one that teaches them to think for themselves and solve real-world problems without relying on a pre-written strategy guide from a teacher.

Of course, in today’s era of standardized testing, some parents worry that their kids will be learning how to milk cows instead of how to ace the SAT. But, as the article points out, the kind of life experience and self-direction that progressive schools cultivate often lead to the most compelling—and memorable—college essays. And we agree! One quote stood out:

““The average competitive schools spend about 90 seconds reading a college application,” says Danny O’Brien, Putney’s head of school. “What a Putney application does is it gets that kid an extra minute. Because they’re interesting, they’ve done something, and they have a lot better sense of who they are and what they want to be than the average incoming freshman, who has just put their head down and tried to beat the system for four years or more.””

— Town & Country

So if you're still weighing private K–12 options, it's worth remembering: colleges do notice students with more than just test scores. Liberal arts colleges especially value the whole student – not just the transcript.

At the same time, some families are rethinking whether college itself is worth it. With millennial parents still carrying hefty student debt, it’s no surprise that many are encouraging their kids to explore paths outside of academia. According to Fortune, a recent study found that 70% of high school students say their parents support alternatives like apprenticeships or trade schools. Many Gen Z grads are struggling to find jobs even after earning a degree, and “new-collar” jobs – especially in tech – often don’t require one in the first place. For kids raised hearing about student loan horror stories, the appeal of diving straight into a career is growing. And if the GOP tax bill mentioned above passes, 529 plans may soon cover vocational programs as well.

We still believe that a college education at the right school can be a strong investment. But it’s worth asking: does your child’s dream job actually require a college or graduate degree – or could they get there through a different path?

If the answer is yes, here's a surprising financial aid twist to keep in mind. Shortly after the May 1 enrollment deadline, a student who had already committed to Penn State received a sudden $20,000 merit offer from Syracuse – despite getting no offer from them earlier in the cycle. That number kept growing in the weeks that followed. And she wasn’t alone! Multiple students received sizable merit awards post-deadline, though few enrolled as a result – partly because it was too late logistically, and partly because the effort seemed, frankly, a little desperate. Syracuse later admitted that the offers were an attempt to reverse declining enrollment.

What can families take from this? While we wouldn’t count on a last-minute offer, it’s a good reminder: don’t feel pressured to rush your deposit until you’re sure a better offer isn’t coming. And if you’re still deciding, don’t be afraid to ask schools if there’s room to negotiate.

And speaking of arrivals – summer also brings home the college kids. Before yours comes back and turns the kitchen into a snack graveyard, take a minute to set some ground rules. After months of late nights, messy roommates, and minimal adult supervision, your well-behaved teen may return with a few... new habits. Try to compromise, keep your expectations clear, and – if all else fails – remember what it felt like to be 20 and invincible.

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

Now that high school is officially out for summer, things are picking up at DCCC! Many of our rising seniors are putting the final touches on their Common App essays, and our coaches are gearing up to dive into school-specific supplements next.

If you’ve got a vacation coming up, we recommend scheduling a meeting or two before your rising senior disappears into full summer mode. The more consistent the writing process, the easier it is to stay focused and build momentum.

Have a great week – and as always, we’re here when you need us!

To Learn More about what’s going on in the world of higher ed lately, Check Out Our Other Recent Posts!

The Mistakes Students Always Make on “Why This School” Essays...and How to Avoid Them!

When most students think about college essays, they start with the Common App® personal essay – and that makes sense. But that’s just the beginning! Most schools also require supplemental essays, which are designed to assess how well an applicant might fit within the institution’s academic programs and campus culture.

There is a pretty broad range of possible essay topics for these, and we work with our students to prepare what we call “generic supplemental essay” content in advance. We’ve found that most supplemental prompts fall into about five big themes, so we help students write strong responses to those ahead of time. We tackle these before most prompts even come out. That way, students already have solid content they can tweak to fit each school’s version.

But there’s one type of essay that’s tough to reuse – and it also happens to be the trickiest: the “Why This School?” essay. These prompts usually ask why you’re interested in a specific institution (or the undergraduate division of your choice at that institution), what you’d get out of being there, how you’d contribute to campus life … or all of the above!

These prompts are designed not only to test whether you’ve researched the school, but also to help admissions officers understand how you might contribute to campus life in meaningful ways – beyond simply earning good grades (that’s a given!).

At DCCC, our students work one-on-one with coaches to develop personalized, well-researched responses to every school on their list – so they're fully supported throughout this process. But if you're just getting started, or you're trying to help your student tackle these essays on your own, here are some common mistakes to avoid – and a preview of the kind of guidance our families receive along the way.

Mistake #1: Copying the Website

Weak: I am excited to join Clemson’s engineering program for its excellent research opportunities, study abroad offerings, and hands-on work experience.  

Sure, those are good reasons to want to attend Clemson … and they are practically ripped right from the home page of the College of Engineering, Computing, and Applied Sciences site. There’s nothing really special here, either – after all, most engineering programs offer research, study abroad, and experiential learning opportunities.

We guide our clients through this research process to make sure they’re finding really valuable and specific information. Consider the following: Are there faculty whose work aligns with your interests? Specific research projects that excite you? A study abroad program, club, or competition team you'd love to join?

And just listing features isn’t enough – you need to explain why these matter to you personally.

Better: As a student pursuing a career in aerospace engineering, I’m especially excited about the chance to join Clemson’s Rocket Engineering (CURE) team. The opportunity to help design and machine rocket components as an undergraduate is exactly the kind of hands-on experience I’m seeking! I’m also drawn to the team-based structure of CURE, which reflects the type of collaborative environment I grew to love on my high school robotics team.

Mistake #2: Putting Too Much Emphasis on the Prestige

Weak: I can’t wait to attend Yale University, as graduating from an Ivy League school will afford me incredible opportunities after college.

You’re not wrong – but Yale doesn’t need you to remind them of their prestige. A statement like this suggests you’re more interested in the Ivy League brand than in Yale itself. Admissions officers want to see that you’ve done your research – and that you’re drawn to Yale for reasons beyond its reputation.

What programs or departments are you excited about? Are there specific faculty members you’d like to study with, research opportunities you want to pursue, or campus traditions that genuinely appeal to you? It’s fine to admire a school’s status, but you need to connect that admiration to something personal, thoughtful, and specific.

Better: While Yale’s global reputation first caught my attention, I’m especially drawn to the sociology department’s focus on culture, power, and social change. In high school, I launched a storytelling project in which students shared family migration stories. It showed me how narrative can shift public understanding – something I hope to explore further through courses like “Narratives of Social Protest” and research at the Ethnography Hub. Yale’s emphasis on discussion-based learning and faculty-mentored research will prepare me for a career in public policy, where I can use storytelling to shape more equitable systems. I can already picture myself walking across Old Campus in the fall on my way to a seminar on activism and identity!

Mistake #3: Forgetting to Talk About Yourself

Weak: The U-M Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) is a unique opportunity to work alongside faculty on meaningful projects.

Sure – Michigan is the #1 public research university, and UROP is an incredible opportunity. But the concept of undergraduate research isn’t all that unique, so what’s special about UROP? Plus, how does this actually serve you? What kinds of projects are you excited about and why? Is there a specific lab, professor, or research topic that aligns with your interests? Just describing what the university offers isn’t enough – you have to connect it to your own goals, values, and curiosity.

While it’s important to do your homework when writing these essays, don’t forget to keep the focus personal.

Better: I plan to major in exercise science because I’m interested in exploring how physical activity can help people stay healthy as they age. After seeing my grandfather regain strength through a rehab program after heart surgery, I wrote my IB Extended Essay on how aerobic exercise affects blood vessels in older adults. That’s why I was so excited to learn about Dr. Lane’s research in the Lifestyle, Exercise, and Arteries Lab! Through UROP, I’d love to join his team and get hands-on experience studying how aging affects the cardiovascular system.

Mistake #4: Being Too General

Weak: Brown’s innovative education program is fascinating, and I love the strong sense of community. 

I’m not sure there’s a single college in existence that wouldn’t advertise its education as “innovative” or try to sell you on its strong sense of “community”! In other words, you could swap out “Brown” for almost any other school and this statement would still work – which is exactly the problem!

If your sentence could apply to 50 different colleges, it’s not doing its job. Strong “Why Us?” responses are specific and precise. They highlight particular programs, courses, professors, or traditions that connect to your goals and interests.

The best essays come from students who know what they’re looking for in a college – and have taken the time to find where those things exist. So before you write, reflect on what matters most to you, then research how each school specifically supports the kind of experience you’re hoping to have.

Better: Brown’s Open Curriculum will let me combine Africana Studies and Architecture to explore how design impacts Black communities. Growing up, I noticed how poorly planned buildings and public spaces shaped everyday life – from crowded bus stops to schools that felt more like holding spaces than places to learn. Courses like “Race and Space,” paired with studio work and faculty mentorship, will help me design with equity in mind. I can’t wait to join the tight-knit, collaborative community where students are encouraged to connect big ideas with real-world change.

Mistake #5: Procrastination

I don’t need to give an example here – because any last-minute “Why This School?” essay is almost guaranteed to be weak. It takes time, research, and reflection to craft these well, and there is no one-size-fits-all formula for this type of essay. Each school phrases the question a little differently, and each response needs to show that you’ve thought seriously about your fit with that institution.

Plus, if you haven’t figured out what you’re actually looking for in a college experience, it’s going to be tough to answer these prompts in a meaningful way. That’s why our students work with their essay coaches early and often to build strong, tailored responses.

Not a DCCC student? You can still get ahead by making a spreadsheet or simple list of your colleges and doing some focused research. For each school, jot down a few specific answers to questions like:

• What’s a class, major, or department offering that excites you – and why?

• Is there a student org, tradition, or campus value that resonates with your background experiences or future plans?

• How could you see yourself contributing to that community?

Bottom line: Don’t wait until the last minute. Strong essays aren’t rushed – they’re built.

Final Tips

1. Read the prompt very carefully.
Not all “Why This School?” questions are created equal. Some schools ask why you’re interested in the university as a whole, while others focus only on the specific undergraduate division you’re applying to. Some want academic reasons; others care more about how you’ll contribute to the campus community. Tailor your answer to what’s actually being asked.

2. Write like yourself.
Just like the Common App® personal essay, your supplemental responses should sound like you. These essays are often shorter and a bit more focused, which can give you room to write in a more casual, conversational tone – while still staying polished and purposeful. Enthusiasm, a personal touch, and clear writing all go a long way.

3. Prioritize clarity.
Yes, you want to sound smart. But complicated vocabulary and long, winding sentences can sometimes hide your personality instead of showing it. We know you want to impress the admissions people with your eloquence and erudition, but a labyrinthine syntactic style alongside bombastic if not baroque diction (see what I did there?) can make it hard for them to sense your enthusiasm or get a feeling for your personality. Be thoughtful, but keep your writing clean and clear. Simple is often stronger.

4. Be real.
This isn’t a sales pitch. It’s your chance to tell the truth – about what excites you, what matters to you, and how you see yourself in that campus environment. Be honest, be specific, and show that you’ve thought it through.

Need help? We’re here to support you with brainstorming, editing, and refining every supplemental essay on your list.

Book a Meet & Greet with us to learn how we can support you through the entire college application process – including all of your essays.

If you only need help with essays, you can also Book Pay-As-You-Go Essay Coaching Sessions for as-needed assistance!

Check Out These Other Posts for Supplemental Essay Tips:

Weekly Update: June 13

It’s an exciting time at DCCC as many of our clients have just finished their high school classes, and for others, there are only a few more days to go! ☀️☀️☀️ While we know it’s important to enjoy that hard-earned rest, it’s also time to book some more appointments and make progress on those college application materials! Our coaches are looking forward to spending a lot more time working directly with your students on their essays. (And also taking some vacations … when there’s time!)

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

Major Change at Indiana’s Kelley School of Business

Incoming pre-business students at Indiana University received a welcome email this past week that came with an unexpected twist: the Kelley School of Business changed its internal admissions requirements. Not exactly the kind of thing you want to find out a month after you committed to attending the school! At IU, pre-business students enrolled with the expectation that they will be able to transfer into Kelley as long as they meet the standard admission criteria: a 3.5 GPA with some flexibility in individual course grades.

But beginning with the Class of 2029, students must now earn a B+ or higher in every single class during their first year at IU Bloomington to gain guaranteed admission to Kelley. This is a major shift in policy. While the announcement frames the change as a commitment to academic excellence and student support, it’s landing poorly with many families and counselors. We love Kelley and think it provides a phenomenal education, but this kind of midstream policy change raises serious questions about transparency and fairness.

Note: Just before publishing this post, we noticed that Kelley’s website now includes an updated list of admissions requirements for students admitted to the Summer 2025 semester or later. However, this updated list does not match up with the information provided in the letter. Very strange!

College Athletes Are Finally Getting Paid!

In the landmark settlement House v. NCAA, U.S. District Judge Claudia Wilken gave the final go-ahead to revise a model that has, for over a century, prevented college athletes from getting paid directly by their schools. Starting July 1, colleges can share up to $20.5 million of their revenues with the actual athletes who are filling their stadiums, not only providing much-needed rights for student athletes but also helping to avoid some of the shady third-party dealings that were approved in 2021. Better still: the $2.8 billion settlement means that schools will be able to offer back payments for athletes who competed between 2016 and 2024! While the bulk of the money will be going to student-athletes in the highest revenue-earning sports – namely, football, this is a major win for athletes in all NCAA sports. On the flip side, others worry that this move could change the nature of college sports altogether, blurring the line between student-athletes and professionals. We can definitely see both sides!

Travel Bans Worry International Students

On June 4, President Trump announced plans to ban travel to the U.S. from 12 countries, including Iran, Somalia, and Sudan – countries from which many visa-holding students have come to the U.S. for their college education. As summer vacation starts at colleges and universities, many international students are anxious about leaving the U.S. to see their families, fearing they won’t be permitted to re-enter the country. Others already abroad rushed to try and make it back before the enforcement of the ban, which began Monday, June 9. According to the Washington Post, over “24,000 international students from the affected countries studied in the U.S. as recently as the 2023-2024 academic year,” so it’s not merely a handful of students who are impacted. Here at DCCC, our hearts go out to all the college students and their families worrying about their futures as a result of these recent restrictions.

A Different Kind of Legacy Admission in California

While the Supreme Court overturned affirmative action policies in 2023, the state of California is still fighting to provide opportunities for students who can prove they are directly descended from U.S. slaves. The goal of the bill is to address structural racism by allowing students who can prove that they have slave ancestors, regardless of their race or color. The bill, AB7, passed the State Assembly and will now be considered by the State Senate. If it passes there as well, it is sure to spark larger debate and could even reach the Supreme Court, as it continues to reinforce the divide between those who think colleges should offer reparations for historical injustices versus those who reject the idea of race-based special preferences.

Will Columbia Lose Accreditation?

As the Trump administration continues to target higher education, Columbia University remains (alongside Harvard) in the crosshairs. The Department of Education is trying to get Columbia’s accreditation status revoked, citing anti-semitism and a violation of anti-discrimination laws. However, accreditation is provided by federally-approved third-party groups, so there is no guarantee the president’s push to have this crucial status removed will move forward. Still, it’s a source of major concern as accreditation is required for federal student loan eligibility, federal grants, and even for credits to transfer or carry forward to graduate education at other colleges and universities. We’ll be watching this issue closely at DCCC as it could very seriously impact admissions and student aid at a school where many of our clients have sought (and gained!) acceptance in the past.

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

This week, I wanted to start by addressing a question I’m asked all the time: is it better to send my child to private school or public school?

There’s no one right way to answer that question, as there are many different factors involved: how much will it cost? Which private schools are you considering? Which opportunities do public schools have in your area? While our team can advise people on a one-to-one basis, I think this short video from Scott Galloway (public speaker and professor of marketing at NYU’s Stern School of Business) sums it up really well: in many ways, it’s more beneficial to save and invest the money you would have spent on private education. Your local teachers could be really great, and it’s not too difficult to fill in any education gaps. I would still say the decision should be made on an individual basis, because there are many nuances that affect individual situations. In a general sense, though, his advice here is on point, and the video is worth a watch for any families considering this decision.

Of course, if your child isn’t getting enough sleep, they won’t be doing very well in their classes regardless of which type of school they attend! It can be hard to tell if your emotionally-volatile teenager is sleep-deprived or just … well … acting like a teenager, but one school in Ohio is offering classes on improving sleep! Studies show that our kids just aren’t sleeping enough. As the article explains, many are getting 3-4 fewer hours per night than needed. It even suggests that the rise in mental health concerns among teenagers could at least partially result from sleep deprivation and its impacts on the brain. Other factors are involved, of course, but I wouldn’t risk blaming everything on social media if you know your teen is only clocking 5 hours per night! So it might be time to consider implementing better sleep habits for your teens, especially as we move into summer when sports, internships, and social activities are a constant – we want those minds sharp for writing college application essays!

Once your child is accepted to the college of their dreams, sleep deprivation won’t be the only problem! Uncomfortable interactions with other students on campus can also lead to major concerns, which is why most schools offer “No Contact Orders,” or NCOs. Initially designed to help with instances of sexual misconduct, NCOs ensure that both parties in a dispute avoid each other to prevent further escalation – which is especially helpful if there is a legal concern involved. However, according to the Wall Street Journal, there has been a significant rise in the use of NCOs on campus in recent years, in part due to Gen Z’s challenges in navigating interpersonal challenges. The article discusses some really absurd cases, such as a student requesting a NCO for her roommate after an accusation of stealing bagels! And many of these NCOs are being served as a direct result of parental involvement. 

Unfortunately, they’re being dished out so frequently that they can lead to as much harm as good, since they can “leave students vulnerable and violate due process.” For instance, the article discusses a student with ADHD who was served an NCO by a female classmate he didn’t even know – she mistook his symptoms as stalking, and he spiraled into anxiety as a result. We’re raising a generation taught to block anyone they don’t like on social media, one that was deprived of the chance to learn the complexities of social engagement thanks to the pandemic. Before we send them away, let’s see what we can do to give them the skills they need to resolve conflicts in a healthy manner … or at least to determine if a situation is bad enough to call for an NCO!

Finally, let’s circle back to Indiana University, where some administrative and organizational changes are causing a stir. In accordance with the Trump administration’s attempt to impose sweeping changes at colleges and universities across the country, Republicans in Indiana passed a new law that limits the voice of tenured faculty in public university decision-making, gives the state’s governor power over the IU governing board, and eliminates degree programs with too few students, primarily those in the humanities. IU Bloomington is known for its strong arts and humanities programs, which is one of several reasons many are concerned about these changes. Meanwhile, IU’s president, Dr. Pamela Whitten, has calmly accepted this legislation, leading many faculty to publicly condemn her silence. Additionally, Indiana’s public universities are facing 5% in budget cuts over the next 2 years. I am sure IU will remain a highly regarded school for many reasons, but before committing yourself to becoming a Hoosier, you should definitely keep an eye on some of these changes in case they impact your degree program.

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

The Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process is definitely challenging to navigate, and we have worked with families over the years to figure out how to align a student’s IEP goals with their college admissions search and application process. However, even just securing the IEP itself can be a huge obstacle for many families.

Fortunately, the Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center (PEATC), in collaboration with the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) regularly offers a free, self-paced course to help parents better understand this process – there’s even a certification of completion at the end.

“IEP University” is something I would highly recommend to any of our parents with students who have IEPs, and I’ll even be taking it myself so I can get a handle on some best practices and strategies for productive IEP meetings. While the June class has already started, you still have until June 29 at 11:45 pm EDT to complete the course. If this is relevant to you, register here. 

Have a great weekend!

Interested in Other Higher Ed News? Check Out the Posts Below:

Weekly Update: June 5

Well, it’s been a minute…but we’re back! Get ready for more regularly-scheduled blog content as we roll into the busy summer season!

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

Harvard vs. Trump: The Battle Continues for Academic Freedom

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’re likely aware of the legal and policy battles between the Trump administration and the nation’s oldest and most renowned university…but if you need a quick refresher, here goes! Broadly speaking, President Trump has attempted to freeze over $2 billion in contracts and grants to Harvard unless it agrees to revise its curriculum in a way that reflects Trump-era values. Additionally, following his anti-immigration policies, President Trump is trying to prevent Harvard from enrolling international students and to force current foreign students away or risk losing their student visas. For now, Harvard seems to be winning the fight with an initial court victory protecting international students. But the issue is really a question of whether the federal government has a right to tell universities what they can teach and who they can enroll - a question that has many other colleges concerned.

More Madness in March?

Contrary to earlier statements, it seems like NCAA President Charlie Baker is now pushing to expand March Madness as early as 2026! If his vision comes true – and it seems the Big 12 mostly supports the idea – we might be seeing anywhere between 72 and 76 teams next year. Not everyone is in favor, of course, but I think more competition is generally a good thing! Maybe 2026 will be the year of the underdog (here’s looking at you, Indiana!).

Varsity Blues Part II: USC Coach on Trial…Again

The infamous 2019 Varsity Blues scandal is making news once again here in 2025! It’s been 6 years since the investigation into the criminal college admissions scam in which parents, coaches, and university officials conspired to sneak wealthy students into top schools. However, just this past week, former USC water polo coach Jovan Vavic returned to court over complex legal questions regarding the misrepresentation of evidence during his initial trial. Ultimately, his conviction was reinstated. What it means for Vavic: a possibility of three years in jail. What it means for colleges: a timely reminder to accept students based on merit, not money.

MIT 2025 Class President Banned from Commencement Ceremony after Pro-Palestinian Speech

Tensions can still be felt on college campuses during this year’s commencement period as the war in Gaza continues to divide opinions. MIT’s class president, Megha Vemuri, delivered a commencement speech that called out the university’s complicity in what she described as an “assault on the Palestinian people.” The speech was quite different from what Vemuri had submitted to the university and led to many Jewish students walking out – as well as Vemuri being prohibited from walking at her own graduation.

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

It is impossible to think about the future of higher education without considering the impact of the current presidential administration as well as the values of a generation raised amidst economic uncertainty, a pandemic, and social media pressures. From admissions to education, campus life to preparing for life after college, the nature of college itself is changing considerably – and we want to make sure you’re aware.

For instance, while we aren’t sure just yet how many students will be heading abroad for college this year, those who are cite concerns about the presidency as well as issues with diversity and decreases in university funding as the main reasons why they are seeking their college education outside of the United States. The New York Times interviewed several students about their decisions to study abroad, including Aaron Dowd, a Maryland high school senior who will be heading to the University of Toronto thanks to the massive cuts to the National Institutes of Health and other research institutions. 

For others, issues regarding racial and gender identity and the eradication of DEI programs are making international study a more appealing option than ever before - although it might be worth considering what students themselves have to say about the results of the scaling back of DEI on college campuses.

The appeal of studying abroad, fears about the impacts of the current administration on college life and the career world after, and general economic uncertainty have led to some other major changes in the college acceptance process. As New York Magazine points out, “colleges across the country are competing for a shrinking pool of students,” and declining rates in student enrollment have made many schools desperate – even to the point of offering incredibly generous financial aid packages at the very last minute!

One sentence from the article mentioned above really stands out to me: “It appears that this kind of last-minute deal-making will also be the new normal.” While I don’t know that this is true just yet – or that it’s something that should be a factor in determining where to apply – I think it’s an important reminder that you shouldn’t rush to make that final decision. Even if you get a great offer for your #1 choice, wait and see if any other top schools on your list are ready to bargain!

In a slight change of topic, The Washington Post pointed out this week that many colleges are changing the curriculum to help better prepare students for the work environment. While older generations grumble about the younger's lack of basic professional skills – much of which resulted from being stuck at home during the pandemic – Gen Xers and millennials have much to learn from the efficiency of Gen Z as well as their desire for a better work-life balance. So keep an eye out for some of these newer courses on how to behave during a meeting, for instance, but also expect colleges to start investing more in supporting the values of their undergraduates so they can find meaningful work after college.

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

And back at DCCC, it’s letter of recommendation season! Our team is working with juniors to prepare letters that will help teachers and counselors boast about them. High school teachers write tons of recommendations, so having the kind of personalized and detailed letter we help our clients create is a great way to ensure that they receive a glowing rec. Admission is based on so many factors, including how well you are going to fit into the college community, and a detailed, specific recommendation letter helps to tell the story of who you are to the admissions folks.  

So as we head into these final few weeks of high school classes, make sure to leave great last impressions on your teachers – but also don’t forget to have fun! It’s so much work at the end, but it’s also exciting to know that summer is right around the corner.

Interested in other changing trends IN COLLEGE admissionS? Check out these other posts!

Weekly Update: March 25

Boy, have we been swamped this season - and blogging keeps taking a backseat! Better late than never, right?

BIGGEST RECENT COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS

COMMON APPLICATION ® 2025-2026 ESSAY PROMPTS RELEASED, CHANGES TO ADDITIONAL INFORMATION SECTION

The Common App ® released their 2025-2026 essay prompts, and they will be the same as last year. However, applicants will see substantial changes in the Additional Information section. First, the word limit for the main Additional Information response will be shortened considerably - to 300 words, down from 650. Second, the “community disruption” question relating to Covid-19 will become a “challenges and circumstances” question. Applicants will be able to describe particular obstacles that they have overcome and share an additional piece of writing about them. 

AMAZING NEWS FROM THE HILLTOP

On a related note, word on the street is that Georgetown will finally begin allowing applicants to use the Common Application ® system to apply for admission! According to student newspaper The Hoya, Georgetown will begin accepting the Common Application ® starting with the fall 2026 application cycle, impacting applicants for the undergraduate Class of 2031. Sorry, juniors! Until now, Georgetown was one of the few top-ranked institutions, including MIT and the University of California system, that has required students to apply using a very time-consuming institutional application. Georgetown’s Dean of Undergraduate Admissions, Charlie Deacon, is well known for his long-time criticism of the Common App ® - so this is really a significant shift. 

COLUMBIA CHANGES POLICIES IN RESPONSE TO FUNDING CUTS; PENN, MICHIGAN, STANFORD, AND HARVARD MAY BE NEXT

Columbia has agreed to make big changes to its campus policies after the Trump administration cut off $400 million in federal funding. The government said the school didn’t do enough to stop antisemitic harassment and violence, especially during heated protests related to the Israel-Gaza conflict. Some of the new policies include a leadership overhaul of the Middle Eastern studies department, a formal definition of antisemitism, an internal review of the admissions process to reduce bias, and new regulations relating to protests. Changes at Penn may be next. The administration just cut off $175 million of federal funding as a result of the school’s policies on transgender athletes. Michigan, Stanford, and Harvard are now under investigation as well. 

TRACKING NEW ACT POLICIES

As most of our readers likely know, the new ACT rolling out online this spring and in paper this fall will not have a required science section. Instead, it will be optional. However, it’s hard to know what this means for students. Do they need to take it anyway? Will colleges accept score reports without science? How about super-scoring - can you super-score between tests? Compass Prep has put together a great chart that compares policies at various colleges and universities - and also indicates which ones have not yet shared their plans. Don’t be fooled by the date at the top of the their page - this continues to be updated as schools release policies. 

DOES YOUR COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE REALLY COUNT IF YOU DON’T HAVE A BED PARTY PIC TO SHOW FOR IT?

(Yes, it most certainly does). If you aren’t familiar with the bed party trend, you can learn all about it here! I have to say, I don’t love these. In a world where the college admissions process has become increasingly unpredictable and competitive, the last thing we need is one more thing for kids to feel anxious about. These types of celebrations can be a source of incredible stress for students - mainly with regard to having to share their college decision publicly. And seriously - all that food in bed? Yuck!

Source: Pinterest

BEST RECENT ARTICLES

Could your family survive if your income was cut by almost 30% overnight? “Something would have to give, and fast,” reflected Ian Bogost of The Atlantic. In his recent article, “A New Kind of Crisis for American Universities,” Bogost compares this type of household financial shock to the exact one that colleges and universities in our country face right now in the aftermath of new federal government funding regulations. 

As Bogost explains it, federal research grants have always come with additional funds allocated for directly related overhead; in other words, while a grant itself might pay for the salaries of professionals conducting a particular type of research, there are still many related costs necessary to carry that research out. For example, expenses related to lab space and research equipment, or the costs of administrative support. These can be substantial: in some cases, they can amount to more than 60% of the cost of the grant itself. 

These overhead expenses have now been capped at 15% of the cost of the grant, effective immediately. Some universities could lose more than $100 million annually as a result, forcing them to make tough choices. It’s just like we tell our kids: money doesn’t grow on trees! That money has to come from somewhere. 

Reporters from The New York Times agree, writing that these budget cuts are a key factor leading to the current “moment of extraordinary turmoil” in today’s higher education landscape (along with changes relating to affirmative action, campus culture, a shifting admissions process, and more).  

While some of the cuts have been temporarily blocked in court, the uncertainty has already sent universities scrambling to find solutions. We’re about to see faculty cuts, fewer student life resources, a reduction of research opportunities, and even increases in tuition in order to cover the enormous financial gap. 

We encourage all families to research the extent of proposed changes at each college under consideration by their students. Cuts will be different at each institution, so it’s important to try to minimize the extent of the direct impact on an individual student’s plans and needs.

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Interested in the University of Michigan? You and everyone else! Michigan has consistently been one of our students’ top-choice schools over the years. Unfortunately, the school has seen a notable increase in undergraduate applications, leading to a record-low acceptance rate of 15.64% in 2024. And it’s important to recognize that those published statistics involve a combination of in-state and out-of-state applicants, so the acceptance rate for out-of-state applicants is surely going to be considerably lower. Want to learn more? Don’t miss this article on the last 20 years of admissions data in the Michigan Daily!

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Many parents assume that if their teen is doing their homework and getting decent grades, they’re engaged in school. But a new study examined by Jenny Anderson and Rebecca Winthrop in The Atlantic suggests that a huge number of middle and high school students are simply "coasting": showing up, doing the bare minimum, and not really caring about what they’re learning. “Think of them as the original quiet quitters,” Anderson and Winthrop joke. Researchers call this "Passenger Mode," and it has long-term consequences. If this rings a bell, check out the piece for some suggestions to help your teens move out of Passenger Mode before college begins! 

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

I can’t believe it’s spring already! Our juniors have made lots progress on essay writing already and are plugging right along on schedule - they are going to be so relieved next year when they finish all of their applications early! 

In other news, I was able to visit Vanderbilt a few weeks ago. Did you know that the university is preparing to launch its first new college in forty years? The College of Connected Computing will offer interdisciplinary programs relating to innovation, AI, data science and more. While details of the specific programs have not yet been announced, we’re eager to learn more in the coming months!

Also, a pro tip to share: if you are visiting Vanderbilt anytime soon, grab brunch at The Butter Milk Ranch. And check in first online so you don’t have to deal with the 2-3+ hr wait! AMAZING!

Weekly Update: January 8

Is everyone enjoying the extended winter break? Day 19 and counting…

via GIPHY

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

UT AUSTIN PRESIDENT JAY HARTZELL PONIES UP!

Southern Methodist University has become more and more of a hot school each year, but we’ve never seen a level of interest quite like we have during this current 2024-2025 application cycle. Whether it’s joining the ACC, waiving application fees this year, or simply providing a great mid-sized environment with a beautiful campus, good weather, and excellent career placement, SMU is becoming increasingly popular. UT Austin President Jay Hartzell must agree, because he just resigned to become SMU’s newest president. It will be interesting to see how his new leadership impacts the campus environment and student experience. Our prediction? SMU will continue to become more and more selective with each application cycle. Go Mustangs!

LOS ANGELES-AREA COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES IMPACTED BY WILDFIRES

As of this writing, four major wildfires in the Los Angeles area have destroyed over 1,000 buildings, and the situation is becoming increasingly dire as firefighters reportedly face water shortages. Fortunately, some of the colleges and universities in Greater Los Angeles have not yet been impacted; as of 2:00 p.m. local time on Wednesday, campus operations have not yet been impacted at USC, UCLA, and Loyola Marymount. The Caltech campus is closed as a result of the Eaton fires; however, it’s not under an evacuation order yet. Pepperdine is is heavily impacted by the Palisades fires. Students won’t be evacuating, though! Check out this fascinating CNN piece that explains why. It makes sense, but wow - I cannot imagine how scary that must be for them!

$250+ MILLION DOLLAR TECH HUB OPENS AT GEORGE MASON

Virginia’s largest public research university, George Mason, is stepping up its game with the new Fuse at Mason Square, a cutting-edge tech hub on its Arlington campus. Located between Ballston and Clarendon, this building is now open for commercial use and will be ready for students in Fall 2025. It will house GMU’s new Institute for Digital Innovation and a number of programs from the new School of Computing, and the top-notch facilities include 12 advanced labs for students to collaborate with industry leaders. We highly recommend George Mason to STEM-oriented students who are willing to consider staying local! The university has transformed over the past five years, with a significant increase in students enrolled in computer science, computer engineering, and applied computer science programs.

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

In “College in 2025? Buckle Up For a Wild Ride,” Town & Country writer James S. Murphy writes that “the upcoming year in higher education promises to be anything but boring.” His predictions include the following:

• The Department of Education will likely remain operational, regardless of Trump’s campaign messaging. (As an aside, even if it were to be shut down, this would not be the end of FAPE - a Fair and Appropriate Public Education via IEPs and 504 plans). 

• After quite a lot of hiccups, the FAFSA is now more user-friendly and will provide a better experience for families seeking federal financial aid. 

• Enrollment has continued to decline nationwide due to a variety of factors, and less-selective colleges will need to adapt in order to survive.

• Lastly (you knew it was coming), the college admissions process will be increasingly selective, but also increasingly difficult to predict.

Only have a minute? read the very end of the article, because it provides critically important information that families struggle to understand. While we've shared this information previously, hearing it from an external source can be beneficial. Published acceptance rates no longer provide information that can be used in a meaningful way to determine whether a student might be accepted. (Emphasis mine because this is SO TRUE).

I think the reason that families have so much trouble believing this because it defies all logic. However, because students are applying to more colleges than ever before, the calculus has changed in terms of the metrics that colleges use to admit students.

Highly selective schools are not accepting the absolute most qualified applicants. Instead, they are prioritizing applicants who are “most-qualified-who-might-actually-attend-based-on-predictive-data-that-is-often-wrong” 🤦‍♀️ I would also add that the impacts of socio-economic and geographic diversity have also changed dramatically.

This creates wonky stats that simply cannot be trusted. I really like the author’s comparison of Northeastern, Duke, and Cornell. For example, Northeastern had an acceptance rate of 70% in 2001. In 2023, it became 5.7%. There’s no doubt that Northeastern is really, really hard to get into now. But it’s certainly not harder to get in than Duke (6.8% acceptance rate) and Cornell (8.2% acceptance rate).

Finally, it’s important to recognize that test score data in the wake of the test-optional shift has continued to inflate averages at schools that are still test-optional, while admissions rates continue to plummet. The article’s example of Emory University is a great one - a 1480 at Emory is now under the 25th percentile, for instance. It can be extremely difficult for families to make the right decisions about whether to submit “good” or even “fantastic” scores that are still well below average. And the truth is that this is an incredibly nuanced decision: it’s not straightforward for even the most experienced college counselor.

On to an unrelated topic.. if you’ve had kids attend a Fairfax County middle school, you know that start times have been a hot topic for many years and are currently under formal study by the school board. I will admit that I did not follow this issue as closely as I should have before it began to impact me directly, but it’s pretty absurd what these kids have to deal with. My daughter has to be at school by 7:15, which requires being at the bus stop by 6:35. It’s awful for everyone - students, parents, and I can’t even imagine how bad it must be for the teachers!

If this is on your radar, too, check out the recent Time essay on the subject by a leading expert on the matter. Lynne Peeples is the author of The Inner Clock: Living in Sync with Our Circadian Rhythms, and she shares that these early school start times are very much not in sync with our circadian rhythms! She makes some good points that I had not actually considered, including the fact that the proposed national move to end daylight savings time will potentially undo any progress made on this issue. There has got to be a better way… 😴😴😴

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

We’ve continued working with a lot of younger students this week on course scheduling, and it’s funny to me how the same issues come up year after year. Can anyone guess what the single most hated high school course seems to be? Spanish. Without fail. Every year.

Interestingly, we don’t see the same hatred of other world languages (although Spanish is by far the most common language students take, so it may not be a fair comparison). It makes me wonder what’s happening in these classrooms that kids are so adamantly opposed! They would happily double up on all kinds of challenging courses to be able to get out of Spanish.

Unfortunately (as much as we hate to be the bearers of bad news for them), most colleges consider world language to be a core subject area, and students can’t just drop it without facing potential consequences in the college admissions process. It would be like dropping English or math.

Moreover, on a “life experience” note that has nothing to do with college admissions, I truly think that Spanish is one of the most practical subjects anyone can take in high school. When I think about all the random stuff I learned in high school that I never used again, it’s depressing. So many wasted hours. But Spanish? You can go right outside and start using it immediately, for the rest of your life! Just my two cents..

Weekly Update: December 31

Another long blogging pause but I have a good excuse (see the last part of this post). We'll be back on schedule in the new year, I promise! 😊

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS

EARLY APPLICATION RESULTS (PART I) ARRIVE!

The first round of early application results came in for students during the month of December, including binding Early Decision I plans. Fortunately, many of our students heard good news — we are so proud of them! 🎉🎉🎉 It’s amazing to see their hard work pay off. Some students have also heard from their early action schools, although a large number of those decisions will not be released until January. Deferred students should definitely write letters of continued interest where appropriate. They should also pay very close attention to their admissions portals at the various schools, as many (especially large flagship public schools) are giving students the opportunity to respond to specific prompts. Responding to these prompts is crucial if given the opportunity!

LAST DAY FOR FCPS STUDENTS WITH IEPS OR 504 PLANS TO SIGN UP FOR FREE 1:1 TUTORING

Yes - truly free! As part of the commitment to providing compensatory services for special needs students impacted by Covid-19, FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to offer free 1:1 online tutoring to middle and high school students with IEPs and 504 Plans. Today is the last day to sign up - you can do so here. Students will be paired with a dedicated tutor and assigned a weekly meeting time for ongoing sessions. Need help in more than one subject? No problem — students can sign up for two sessions per week!

IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN.. GET READY FOR HIGH SCHOOL COURSE SELECTION!

It’s hard to believe, given that the school year is not even at the halfway point yet, but 8th-11th grade students need to start thinking about course selection for next year. Our public school students will start selecting their 2025-2026 coursework almost as soon as they return from winter break, but most of our parochial and independent school students will not begin this process until March or so.

FCPS students will notice that earth science has been added as a full-year science offering at all high schools in the district, while geosystems will no longer be offered at every single school. Note: Students aiming for highly selective schools should take physics, chemistry, biology, and a fourth year of elective science. Rising 10th graders will have a new option for their required 10th grade English class: AP Seminar English 10. This turns the AP English sequence from a two-year track (with AP English Language and AP English Literature) into a three-year track, so students who want to take the most challenging course load available should consider this option. P.S. Don’t sleep on the FCPS Academy options (only those with an FCPS email account will be able to view these). From “Social Media Marketing” to “Cloud Computing,” students can gain exposure to career fields and enhance their college applications.

BEST ARTICLES

In “University of California was a beacon of opportunity. What went wrong and how to fix it,” LA Times columnist Mary McNamara interweaves her personal experiences into a deep dive into the University of California system. She recalls the original intention of California’s Master Plan for Higher Education, which was “designed to guarantee every high school graduate in the state the opportunity to attend college,” and how the current landscape falls short of this goal.

Not only have UC and California State schools become unaffordable for many, they are nearly impossible to get into. Is that fair to California taxpayers? McNamara doesn’t believe so. “Sending a child who meets the historical standards of a UC to the campus that best meets their educational priorities should not require the kind of multiyear planning and hand-wringing worry of getting into MIT or vaulting into the Ivy League,” she remarks. I agree - and I can’t help but think about how her words likely resonate with parents from our area, too. You shouldn’t have to cure cancer to get a degree from your state’s flagship school.

Almost three years ago, we wrote about a lawsuit alleging that a number of top universities had engaged in antitrust violations when calculating financial aid packages. A recent motion in the lawsuit has generated significant buzz, because it provides inside information about the role that certain applicants’ wealth played (spoiler alert: a big one) in the admissions process at these highly-selective institutions.

Some school officials do acknowledge that special treatment was given, but maintain that it’s irrelevant to the case and wasn’t against the rules. A Penn official wrote that the inclusion of this information seemed like it was only to “embarrass the university about its purported admission practices on issues totally unrelated to this case.” Other universities deny providing an admissions advantage to wealthy candidates, despite apparent evidence showing otherwise. “Sure hope the wealthy raise a few more smart kids!” wrote a Notre Dame enrollment officer. Ouch. From my point of view, this practice is definitely alive and well at all sorts of colleges. The legality of it, though, is above my pay grade. Does providing advantages to the wealthy equate to institutional discrimination against the non-wealthy? I’m not sure.

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

If any of our blog readers were around in late 2019, you’d know how excited I was about moving into our big "new office suite. I signed a three-year lease that began on January 1, 2020, and had lots of exciting plans for the space. While just about nothing that year played out the way I envisioned, it did end up being a nice second home of sorts for me during the pandemic, especially with two children out of school. I was the only person I knew who got to leave the house to go to work every day, and I was so grateful for that!

As the years passed, I wasn’t quite ready to give up on the dream and I ended up renewing the lease twice for a year each time. I was pretty sure that students would want to start meeting in person again. A handful of kids had 1-2 meetings in person during 2023, which was a lot less than I had expected. And then last summer, in 2024, we didn’t have a single student who wanted to meet in person!

At many points during the last five years I was the only one working from the suite, and at other points (seasonally) there were up to four of us there at once, which I personally really enjoyed. But even when each office was occupied with a team member, our students only wanted to meet virtually and it seemed a little silly to drag my team in for no reason! Over the last year in particular I was the only person there on a regular basis, and that started to feel a bit isolating. I didn’t like going to an empty suite all by myself every day.

Ultimately, I decided to let the suite go and find a new office that better fits our needs. After a LOT (and I mean a LOT) of hunting, I settled on a private space within the Industrious coworking community in Tysons, right across from the Galleria. It’s great — and let me tell you, the snack situation is ON POINT.

My move-in helpers wanted to come up with a new college-related quote and I don’t love the one they chose. Any better ideas?

We’re still not 100% set up yet but will be soon - stay tuned for new pictures! And in the meantime, we wish all of our families a very happy new year - we hope you are having an amazing holiday season filled with quality time!

Weekly Update: November 4

And.. we’re back!

RECENT COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS

DIVORCED FAMILIES TAKE ON ELITE UNIVERSITIES OVER ALLEGED ANTITRUST SCHEMES

A lawsuit filed in federal court accuses the University of Pennsylvania, Villanova, and 38 other private universities of colluding to make college more expensive for students with divorced parents. The schools require financial aid applicants to include income from both parents through the CSS Profile (as well as their spouses, if they are married), even if only one parent provides financial support. The suit alleges that this approach, which began in 2006, increased tuition costs by an average of $6,200 per student. It claims that this practice violated antitrust laws by limiting competition and making college less affordable, causing stress and financial strain for families. 

This year’s FAFSA redesign has been tough on divorced families, too. Previously, the custodial parent (defined as the parent the student lived with the most during the past year) was responsible for completing the FAFSA. The new FAFSA will now require financial information from the parent who provides the most financial support – and that parent’s spouse, if they are married. If parents provide 50/50 financial support, the FAFSA will require financial information from the parent/spouse pair with the highest income and assets – regardless of custody arrangements or willingness to pay for college.

A WHITE COAT WITH DARK INTENTIONS AT MIAMI

When reflecting on the professionals that students should be able to trust most in a university setting, it’s hard to think of positions higher on that list than professors and doctors. And yet, a professor (and medical doctor) from the University of Miami’s medical school was recently arrested for trafficking and distributing GHB, according to police reports. GHB is widely known as a common date-rape drug; rapists put it in beverages so their victims will lose consciousness. This horrifying incident has raised significant concerns and discussions among students, staff, and the local community about campus safety and ethics at the U. So far, his name has been removed from the school’s website - and we will definitely continue to follow this case to monitor the university’s response.

RECORD-BREAKING DONATIONS ELEVATE W&L AND VILLANOVA

Washington and Lee University received a record $132 million donation from alumnus Bill Miller, the largest in the school’s history (and one of the largest financial aid-related gifts in history for any liberal arts college). It will enable the school to institute a brand new need-blind admissions process, as well as a no-loan financial aid policy. Similarly, Villanova University just announced a $40 million gift - its second-largest ever. This anonymous gift will support the President’s Strategic Initiative Fund, allowing investments in academic programs, campus improvements, and student needs. The gifts to both schools underscore efforts to increase access, affordability, and the overall student experience.

THE NEW RUTGERS ROOMMATES NOBODY WANTED

Gross! Rutgers University students have raised very understandable concerns about bed bug infestations at their residence halls on the main campus in New Brunswick. They are urging the university to take more effective action to address the problem, as it continues to be unresolved over six months (!) after the outbreak began. The situation has prompted calls for better pest control and more transparency from the administration. We caution prospective students to be aware of these concerns - bed bugs could theoretically happen anywhere, but in our opinion, it’s unacceptable that this has gone on for six months.

IS MINNESOTA THE NEW DC?

Wondering which college had the highest voter turnout among students during the last presidential election? Nope, it’s not Georgetown, George Washington, or American - it’s St. Olaf College in Minnesota! The student body achieved an incredible 87% voter turnout during the last presidential election, an impressive feat driven by the college’s strong culture of civic engagement. This commitment to voting reinforces St. Olaf’s dedication to nurturing socially responsible and active citizens. Students interested in a campus that values civic involvement and leadership should make sure to check out St. Olaf - you can even read our thoughts about the school in our college profile (we’ve created these for a huge number of schools to help our students!).

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

While W&L and Villanova administrators are likely thrilled about the recent donations to their respective schools, their colleagues on other campuses are having a bit of a harder time. This Town & Country article explores the challenges that can occur when long-time wealthy donors begin to disagree with institutional policies. 

The piece discusses the recent wave of "donor revolts" at schools including Harvard, Penn, and Columbia, where formerly-generous alumni have threatened to withhold (or have already withdrawn) their support due to disagreements over campus policies - especially those related to political and social issues. This became a particular issue over the last year, as the donors reacted strongly to what they felt were failures to address antisemitism and other political stances.

These conflicts show the powerful influence that major donors can have on universities, sometimes pushing for actions or policies aligned with their beliefs. Critics argue that this kind of influence undermines academic freedom and the mission of higher education, while others believe it holds institutions accountable. One thing is for sure, though: the growing reliance of universities on these donations means that the disputes can significantly impact campus operations.

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SMU in the ACC? UCLA in the Big Ten? The recent changes in college football conferences - motivated by financial opportunities, media rights deals, and the pursuit of higher visibility - have become downright confusing to prospective students. However, as The New York Times discusses, no one feels the impact more than the actual players. Yes, they are racking up all kinds of frequent flyer miles (and bonding opportunities!) but jetting across the country takes a major toll on their mental health, academic priorities, and ability to live a well-balanced life. 

The realignments have also impacted traditional rivalries, travel logistics, and the overall college sports landscape. They also reflect how college football - and many other college sports, like basketball - have become increasingly driven by business considerations. In combination with all of the NIL controversy, it’s no wonder that long-time coaches are leaving, one after the other. Everyone seems to agree that change is needed, but when will it happen? And how? We’re following this closely.

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Data science has some competition for the position of “hottest new degree” - and the subject matter couldn’t be further away from anything quantitative! Strange as this may seem, a new trend has emerged for mid-career professionals to leave their established careers for a stint at … divinity school! From Wall Street analysts to singer-songwriter Maggie Rogers (yes - the Maggie Rogers who played at Madison Square Garden this past month!), twenty-somethings are flocking to Harvard, Duke, and more to pursue the country’s hottest graduate degree. Confused? You’re not alone, but this Town & Country article provides some helpful insight. 

No, most of the students aren’t trying to pursue careers in religion. Instead, they want to explore deeper questions of ethics, purpose, and morality. The trend reflects a desire for intellectual growth and a break from traditional career paths, with some seeing such degrees as unique credentials that distinguish them in fields valuing empathy and understanding. The programs offer flexibility, allowing students to pursue personal and interdisciplinary interests, impacting their careers and perspectives in unexpected ways. Impressive, yes - but if it were me, I’d still go the data science route. Think about the ROI!

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

It’s been a minute! I know we say this every year (and it’s true every year), but August-October was just beyond hectic in our office. Something that was a little bit different about this particular year was that a lot of colleges released their essay prompts later than usual. 

Most years, about half of the essay prompts are released in advance of the Common Application® refresh on August 1. This year was very different - we had a much smaller percentage of school-specific supplemental prompts in advance and it impacted the ability of our students (and staff!) to use the early summer months for specific prompts. 

Fortunately, we made sure that our students were done with their Common Application® and generic supplemental essays*, which made things as easy as possible for them once the school-specific supplemental prompts were released - but it was still a lot of work for us with many, many late nights spent editing! 

As a result, we made the executive decision to put the blog aside for a few months to focus on our seniors - but we’re excited to be back as things have calmed down! Onward to transfer apps :)

*Wondering what generic supplemental essays are? Stay tuned for an upcoming post..

Weekly Update: July 29

Our last blog post before the 2024-2025 admissions cycle formally begins on Thursday!!!

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

W&M TO OFFER VIRGINIA’S FIRST B.S. DEGREE IN MARINE SCIENCE THANKS TO BATTEN GENEROSITY

Every year, a handful of our former clients work with us on their “Batten School” applications during their second year at UVA. And by “Batten School,” I mean the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy (which, as an aside, has some great undergraduate opportunities - check it out!). Now, the Commonwealth has a new Batten School on the horizon, thanks to Frank Batten’s wife, Jane Batten: the Batten School of Coastal and Marine Science at the College of William & Mary. Mrs. Batten’s “transformational” $100 million gift is the largest in William & Mary’s history, and will result in truly incredible opportunities for students interested in marine science and related fields — including the first Bachelor of Science degree in marine science at a public university in Virginia. We’re really excited to learn more details about the Batten School’s offerings in the months to come — or should we refer to it as the Batten School 2.0?

SCHEV APPROVES BRAND-NEW WILLIAM & MARY SCHOOL OF COMPUTING, DATA SCIENCES AND PHYSICS

It has been quite a week for STEM programs at William & Mary! The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, more commonly known as SCHEV, just approved the College’s first new undergraduate division in fifty years: the School of Computing, Data Sciences, and Physics. This new school will bring together four of W&M’s top-performing programs: applied science, computer science, data science, and physics. These areas are seeing tremendous growth and are critical for preparing students for the future. Think machine learning, AI, and computational modeling — the skills of tomorrow! This move represents a huge leap forward for the university. The school will be housed in the heart of the campus, within the new Integrated Science Center. Set to open in Fall 2025, the cutting-edge space is designed to foster interdisciplinary learning.

DEFERRALS ARE BACK AT UVA

We have some news out of Charlottesville this week, too. Long-time blog readers may remember that UVA stopped deferring ED and EA applicants to the regular decision pool during this past admissions cycle. Instead, all ED and EA applicants were either admitted, denied, or placed on a waitlist. My understanding is that putting the students on a waitlist right off the bat was meant to help them achieve realistic expectations of their (very low) chances of eventual admission. I really liked this, personally! Especially for kids who applied early decision, it was nice to help them come to terms with the fact that they had already exhausted their best shot at admission and should move on. Well, in an unexpected pivot, deferrals are now back! Check out UVA's updated Admissions FAQs for more details.

VARSITY PICKLEBALL IS NOW A THING

Have you caught the pickleball bug? I feel a little behind the curve because it seems like everyone is playing and I never have! That’s especially the case in Montgomery County: MCPS is officially the first school system in the country to introduce pickleball as a varsity sport! MCPS officials hope that students of all abilities can pick up pickleball as a stress reliever and lifetime sport. “Across all ages [and] demographics, pickleball is fun and it leads to lifelong health and well-being,” noted Dr. Jeff Sullivan of MCPS.

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

Bloomberg Businessweek published a really fascinating piece called the Miseducation of America’s Nurse Practitioners (Apple News subscribers can get past the paywall!). Nurse practitioners are able to operate like doctors in many ways — they can make diagnoses and prescribe medications — but they have significantly less training. And in many cases, they are simply unprepared to be doing what they are doing. Bloomberg blames this on a “surging number of programs” that do not have a standardized curriculum and often accept more or less anyone who applies. “The former director of the largest NP program in the country says she can’t recall denying acceptance to a single student,” the article reads. Even worse, many of these new online programs take place asynchronously, with outdated lectures. Patients are suffering, and in some cases, dying, as a result. Awful! Full disclosure, I see a NP myself who I love, and my kids see the most amazing NPs as well. But it sounds like nursing may ultimately become the type of career in which college/graduate school choices could have long-term professional implications.

Have you caught the Olympics bug? Check out NCAA footprint at the Olympics, which details the significant impact that 1100+ current and former NCAA athletes are making at the 2024 Paris Olympics. They represent a substantial portion of the Olympic roster across various sports and countries, although USA is dominating: Team USA’s 385 NCAA athletes make up 65% of its roster! Southern California, Stanford, and Michigan have the greatest representation.

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

It’s the calm before the storm in our office as we wrap up everything we need to do before August 1! This has been a strange year as colleges are so, so slow to release their respective school-specific essay prompts. Never in my career have I seen anything like this before. We normally have about half the essay prompts available to us by July 15, and here we are on July 29 with a very small fraction of essays!

I suspect that this is a result of individual schools considering additional changes to their essays in the wake of last year’s Supreme Court ruling. As we discussed at length last year, the timing of the ruling was such that many colleges did change their prompts after the fact and made last-minute adjustments, but the changes could not go through the typical supplemental essay review process involving lots of different stakeholders.

Now that a full cycle has passed and admissions offices were able to assess the prompts more comprehensively, we are likely to see a number of changes again. Stay tuned!

Weekly Update x2: July 22

We have been absolutely swamped getting ready for August 1, when the 2024-2025 Common Application (R) goes live and the (controlled) chaos begins :)

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE LAST WEEKS

BIG CHANGES AHEAD FOR THE ACT

Rising juniors, take note! Starting in the spring of 2025, the ACT is getting a makeover of sorts. Test-takers can expect a shorter test, trimmed down from three hours to two. Additionally — and this is the big one — the science section will be optional, just like the writing section. But don’t throw away your science books just yet! Colleges may require students to submit an ACT science score, the way they did with the writing section for a long time. Our advice is to plan on taking the science section unless every single college on your list confirms that they will consider your ACT score without it.

FAIRFAX COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD PASSES UNPOPULAR POLICY 8130

Major news coming out of Fairfax County — the School Board has approved a new measure that many parents are up in arms about. They’ve decided to implement Policy 8130, which means every five years, they’ll review and possibly redraw school boundaries to tackle issues like overcrowding and equity.

For those who don’t live in Fairfax County, we have a unique situation in that the perceived quality of the schools varies tremendously based on individual school pyramids within our very large district. As a result, the exact same homes in the better pyramids can cost twice what they would cost in the worse pyramids. Beyond the fact that students will be forced to transfer to lower-performing schools, which does not seem particularly fair to those children, redistricting also creates the potential for an economic nightmare. Home values in the top pyramids would plummet in this kind of situation. Yet at the same time, it’s not fair to the other children to be attending the lower-performing schools in the first place. It would be great to find a way to improve the lower-performing schools so that all schools are equally great — that would be a win-win for everyone.

NEW GRADING POLICY IN FAIRFAX COUNTY SCHOOLS

In more controversial news out of Fairfax County, a new policy will allow students to retake assessments for full credit and will add a D- to the grading scale. Some feel this will allow for a more fair and consistent grading system, but others believe it will be hard to implement and will lower expectations of students. Previously, students could get up to 80% on a re-take, but now it will be up to the full 100%. Opponents of this move believe that it will not encourage students to study, as they feel they can simply take the test (or redo assignments) again in order to “game the system”. From a college standpoint, I can see this continuing to perpetuate the (very real) problem of grade inflation in high-performing schools — a situation that contributes to unpredictable admissions decisions, because it leaves admissions officers with no real way to make meaning of transcripts.

KIDS STILL SUFFERING MATH LOSSES FROM THE PANDEMIC

Educators are concerned as they continue to see evidence of math learning losses in students since the upheaval of the pandemic. Schools are seeing that students are still behind in math even though they have been making ground in reading. Colorado has been using the SAT to take some measurements, but are left to wonder if the new SAT digital format is having an effect on those numbers after seeing a “significant” drop in math scores. States across the country are still grappling with overall losses and wonder what that will mean as students head off to college.

BEST ARTICLES OF THE LAST WEEKS

When I grew up, a lot of kids I knew tended to follow their parents’ political beliefs without really thinking for themselves. Needless to say.. a lot has changed! This Washington Post piece profiles a conservative mother, Jennifer, who sent her son, Mike, to a liberal-leaning school that she believes “indoctrinated” him. Mike, however, “decided the ‘indoctrination’ he underwent actually took place at home” and that his school engaged in “counter-indoctrination.” Ouch! Ultimately, Jennifer and Mike were able to put their differences aside and find some common ground. However, no matter where on the spectrum your political views fall, this is a good reminder for parents and students to think about the campus political climate as a factor to consider during the college search.

Did you earn a high score on your AP U.S. History exam this year? You’re not alone. Anecdotally, I have never seen so many students score 4s and 5s on this particular test. Do we just happen to be working with a class of history buffs? As much as I wanted to believe the answer was yes, I suspected that something else was in play as more and more of our students began submitting their score reports. It just didn’t make any sense. But when I read “The Great Recalibration of AP exams”, it all clicked. As it turns out, the Advanced Placement program is making some major changes. Over the past three years, the College Board has been "recalibrating" several AP exams, meaning about 500,000 more students will score a 3 or higher on their exams this year than before. As a graphic in the article shows, the percentage of students scoring 4s or 5s on the AP U.S. History exam in particular rose from approximately 25% in 2023 to approximately 45% in 2024.

Like fashion and music, slang is a reflection of society and the world at large. Post-WWI saw hemlines go up, the rise of the flapper, jazz and a celebration of youth and life – it was the bee’s knees. Not surprising after the horrors of the type of war the world had never seen! Things got groovy and skirts became mini 50 years later. So what are the kids saying these days that reflect on the current state of affairs? This opinion piece from The New York Times takes a nice dive into the words kids are using today — cringe!

As recent graduates are enjoying their last summer before heading off to college, parents are trying to capture quality time, thinking about dorm-necessity packing lists, and trying not to think about their “babies” heading off on their first independent steps. It’s also the time to have serious conversations about the college social scene, including alcohol. It’s unlikely that your soon-to-be college fresh-person will not attend a party, and that party will probably be within the first week of school. This article offers a few things to think about in terms of overall family dynamics around drinking and how to support your teen so they can make good decisions when they are on their own.

And lastly, as we gear up to begin meeting with our Class of 2026 juniors, we’re about to start having a lot of conversations about extracurricular activities and involvement. We always tell our students that it’s better to find one or two really compelling interests and dig into those than to be a jack-of-all-trades dabbling in a lot of little things that don’t really amount to much. And the best types of compelling interests are the ones that truly do interest a student - not ones that they think will “look good” to colleges or that their parents think are worthwhile. What actually looks good is authenticity, passion, and commitment! With this in mind, we loved reading “The life secret Jerry Seinfeld learned from Esquire,” an opinion piece in The Washington Post. The author actually dug up a 1987 copy of the magazine to read the insight that Jerry found to be so powerful! If you want to learn how to become good at one thing in particular, you won’t want to miss it.

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

Essays, essays, more essays!

Each year during the month of July, we try to identify prompts as early as possible so that our students can get as much work done as possible before the mass release in August that turns into a free-for-all. This year has been especially anxiety-producing for students in Fairfax County, who return back to school earlier than ever before — on August 19! It is important to our families to try to make as much headway as possible on essays and applications before school starts.

So our coaches are working around the clock and we are editing around the clock, too — whether we are on vacation or not! Here I am on the way home from the ERAS TOUR! in Milan last week. My friends and family always take funny pictures of me working in random places and we have a whole collection... mainly because I am constantly working at this time of year! I can’t help but start laughing when I see the camera come out :)

#wherecolleenworks

For more on THE ACT, check out these posts!

Weekly Update x2: July 7

Schools are out now and summer is well underway! While I might not want to go back to being a kid, I do miss days when it seemed like summer lasted forever! Time really did move at a different pace then. Hope everyone can stop and savor the special moments of their summer.

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

UNC FIRES PROFESSOR THEY SECRETLY RECORDED

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill gave notice to Professor Larry Chavis that his contract would not be renewed. In April, they notified him that they had recorded his lecture without his knowledge or permission. When Professor Chavis asked for a meeting to discuss the matter further, and wanted to know the reasons why he was under investigation and his contract was not renewed, the university said they would schedule a meeting, but never did. Professor Chavis is a member of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina and an advocate for Indigenous and LGBTQ rights.

EMERSON AND HAMPSHIRE COLLEGES ANNOUNCES SERIOUS CUTS

Blaming the student protests, the botched FAFSA roll-out and implementation, and low enrollment numbers, Emerson College announced layoffs of faculty and staff and cuts to any new hiring. College president, Jay M. Bernhardt, said in an email that the incoming class that deposited was “significantly below what we had hoped.” Hampshire College in Amherst, MA, also announced cuts to their staff benefits, citing many of the same reasons. Small colleges across the region face some of the same threats, simply because there are fewer and fewer students as the population of graduating seniors declines across the country.

SAT AND GRE TEST ADMINISTRATION COMPANY FLOUNDERING

ETS (Educational Testing Service, the long-time administrator of the SAT, AP, GRE, and TOEFL exams) has offered all employees who have been there a minimum of two years a buy-out. The decline in both SAT and GRE test-takers have caused serious problems for the company, and they recently signed a new contract with the College Board in which they would no longer administer the SAT. Originally, that was 30% of their revenue. An anonymous source said that employees were devastated, noting that “folks [were] earnestly sharing self-harm and suicide-prevention hotlines” within hours of the news.

MORE CONCERNING SHENANIGANS HAPPENING WITH THE  TESTING COMPANIES.

Two weeks ago, we shared the news that the Department of Education has hired the president of the College Board to oversee the continued work on the FAFSA. Well, we have since learned that a second College Board executive, Chief Information Officer Jeff Olson, is joining the DOE team. Like Jeremy Singer, Jeff Olson will take a leave of absence from the College Board for the duration of his time at DOE, and then will return to the company. Many are concerned about how student data and privacy will be handled, given how the College Board hungers for such information to do its business. There are also concerns related to possible conflicts of interest related to the College Board’s financial aid platform, the CSS Profile. Many private colleges and universities use the CSS Profile alongside the FAFSA to determine student aid packages.

CONSTRUCTION OF 25K-SQUARE-FOOT RECREATIONAL FACILITY BEGINS AT GMU

George Mason University has broken ground on an $11 million new recreational facility, set to be open by the Spring 2025 semester. The Activities Community Wellness Center will be home to the Green Machine pep band, and will also contain a full-sized basketball court for intramural games, other activity courts, yoga and exercise spaces, offices, conference rooms, and storage.

VILLANOVA BEGINS RENOVATION OF NEWLY ACQUIRED CABRINI UNIVERSITY CAMPUS

Villanova University will begin work at Cabrini University after officially assuming ownership of the 116-acre campus on June 28th. The Radnor, PA campus will be closed for a minimum of two years before reopening as the "Villanova University Cabrini Campus.” Villanova announced their plan to take over Cabrini University last November, after the small, 67-year-old school was unable to bounce back from financial woes as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Cabrini held their final commencement this spring. Founded by the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and named after the first American naturalized citizen, Saint Mother Frances Cabrini, the university had a core curriculum centered on social justice and was one of the first schools to make community service a graduation requirement.

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

We have talked a lot about teens and social media. Its pervasiveness and brain-rewiring algorithmic powers are not really in dispute any longer, but there is a deeper and darker side to it than most adults know — and that’s quite terrifying. This article from Rolling Stone provides an in depth look at Snapchat, the role it plays in connecting teens (and young children) to the world of drugs and sex, and how there is almost nothing law enforcement can do. Cute filters aside, it seems that Snapchat may offer a very different experience for its users based on age, dangerously so.

Some busy high school students can only fit campus visits into their calendars over the summer. These can still be valuable experiences, even though the campus environments may not be teeming with students as they are during the academic year. Almost every college has summer school, and so visitors will still have the chance to observe some sense of the student experience that way. It’s also important to note that there may not be as many tours during the summer, however, as that tends to be when admissions staff take their vacations. And, depending on the school, visitors might not be able to see a specific building like a particular dorm or lab, so it’s important to ask the school how a summer visit may differ from a fall or spring visit.

This article offers a nice guide to how to get the most out of a visit and also shares a great point that sometimes a visit will come after being accepted — and that’s ok. As always, no matter when the visit takes place, try to make it an official one. This means signing up with the admissions office and attending school-sponsored programming, not just taking a casual walk around. After your tour has concluded, though, we often recommend asking random students you come across why they chose that school, what they like about it, and what they would change. Most students are happy to give you a fair and honest assessment based on their experiences.

A new study has come up with a list of some of the best choices of majors that are most likely to snag students a stable job post-graduation. It will be of no surprise that majors like engineering, nursing, medical technology, plant and animal sciences and education lead to some of the most reliable jobs. Students majoring in the humanities ended up struggling to find work and often the work found is relatively low-paying. Sadly, art history majors had the highest rates of unemployment.

But what the study also found was that the jobs in industries with low employment rates were also ones where people became burned out and people were simply less satisfied because of the lack of work-life balance. Choosing a major can be challenging because of the pressure to have a “good job for a stable future”, but it’s important to also spend time thinking about what will bring contentment. Of course, there is no reason a teenager would know the answer to this question now, especially when adults don’t even know that for themselves!

So how can we let students know that it’s ok to not have the answers; to be able to sit with the unknown? The future is made up of things — jobs, careers, professions — that don’t even exist yet, so maybe we give them space to learn not only a specific trade, but also critical thinking and problem solving skills. Maybe we do everything we can to instill true love of learning and discovery — a genuine “growth mindset” so that when they need to pivot in the future (and I have no doubt that they will need to!), they can. As quickly as things are changing, I suspect that the ability to turn on a dime and head in a new direction will be the gold standard of a truly educated person — or perhaps it always has been.

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

As schools have ended for the year, juniors might now be thinking of themselves as seniors — or “almost seniors”! We have been busy finishing up the Rising Senior Meetings with students and their parents. This is when a student finalizes their college list, with their parents’ blessings, and we help make sure it’s a solid and balanced list of schools. Students are also very busy working on their Common App(R) essays and preparing for their supplemental essays. We love seeing the creativity and self-reflection that our students are finding within themselves!

To read more about testing and the college board, check out these posts!

Weekly Update: June 20

Hope everyone is finding a way to stay cool this week; it’s a hot one!

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

COLLEGE BOARD PRESIDENT TO OVERSEE THE FAFSA

In some rather shocking news to the educational community, the Department of Education has tapped Jeremy Singer, president of the College Board, to oversee the continued development of the new and “improved” FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona called Singer’s appointment part of the “transformational changes” they are bringing to the FAFSA. Singer will not be stepping down from the College Board, merely taking a leave of absence. Students, families, and colleges alike will wait with bated breath to see if the FAFSA will be ready for use by October 1, as promised.

FOUR U.S. COLLEGE INSTRUCTORS STABBED IN CHINA

Four instructors visiting from Cornell College were stabbed by a man as they strolled through a public park in Jilin, China. All four are doing fine and the suspect was arrested, though there is no known motive shared by the police or the Chinese government, and the footage on social media has been mostly censored. Cornell College, a private liberal arts college in Iowa, is known for their innovative “One Course at a Time” block-schedule, similar to Colorado College. It is also one of the Colleges That Change Lives.

USC OFFERS TUITION-FREE MASTERS OF FINE ARTS DEGREE

The University of Southern California School of Dramatic Arts will now be offering tuition-free Masters of Fine Arts programs. Beginning this fall, those pursuing MFAs in acting and dramatic writing will have their tuition waived. This move reflects USC’s “investment in the future of storytelling and the performing arts,” as well as the school’s commitment to making “top-tier training” affordable to future professionals who often face financial barriers, according to Dean Emily Roxworthy.

GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY ACCUSED OF RACKETEERING SCHEME

Doctoral students at Grand Canyon University have filed a class action lawsuit claiming that the school “intentionally defrauded [them] out of thousands of dollars through what attorneys claim was a racketeering scheme.” The suit alleges that they were charged more than they were originally told tuition would be and for classes added on at the end that they suddenly needed in order to graduate. This is not the first time the university has faced scrutiny. Last year, the Department of Education fined Grand Canyon University $37.7 million dollars for “deceptively marketing its doctoral degrees.”

ANOTHER UNIVERSITY FORCED TO MAKE CUTS DUE TO FINANCIAL CONCERNS

The University of North Carolina at Asheville will be cutting four academic programs and reducing a fifth in cost-cutting measures. This is a move seen more and more around the country as financial woes continue to cause concerns across the higher education landscape. The four programs slated to be cut are Ancient Mediterranean Studies, Drama, Philosophy, and Religious Studies. Languages and Literature will be “curtailed” under the current plan, to reduce a $6 million dollar deficit. Tenured and tenure-track faculty in those departments will get six to 12 months notice of their loss of employment, but others will only receive 30-90 days notice.

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

Roger Federer, retired Swiss tennis legend, gave an inspiring commencement speech at Dartmouth University’s graduation ceremony this year. With many words of wisdom and thoughts shared, one that is important for all folks to keep in mind is that it’s okay not to know answers about their future. That might relate to what happens after students graduate from college, what they might want to study in college, and especially the dreaded, “what do you want to be?” question! The future doesn’t need us to know everything right now, despite the fact that so many people spend significant time dealing with worry and fear about just that. Federer sagely pointed out that “negative energy is wasted energy.” How might students be more ready for the future by focusing on the here and now? Nobel winning chemist Louis Pasteur observed that “chance favors the prepared mind.” I take this to mean learn all you can, follow your curiosity, and engage with the world around you physically, mentally and spiritually (as you define it). Then when an opportunity pops up, you are ready to grab it!

“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose, by any other word, would smell as sweet.” The Bard did have a way with words, but the reality, when it comes to college scholarships, is a different matter! This article in the Wall Street Journal tells of several last-name specific scholarships that are out there, some searching desperately for a recipient. Are they calling your name?

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

In 2017, the American Psychology Association conducted the Stress in America Survey and found that teens are very stressed. 83% of teens, it noted, felt stressed about getting into a good college or what to do after high school. In 2020, they conducted another survey, this time at the end of the first year of the COVID detection. Needless to say, the stresses in teenagers’ lives did not go down! It is probably not a surprise that issues about academics, life after high school, leaving home for college (hoping you get into one, of course), and fears about the future were still the number one stressor. And, from what we have been sensing as we work with students this year, the trend has not shifted. 

One of the pillars of DC College Counseling is working with families and students to manage the stress of the college search and application process. We can’t take it away, nor should it all be removed, as learning how to successfully manage stress in a healthy way is an important part of growing up. What we do provide is the structure, scaffolding, and safety net to help our students get through this process without being derailed by stress. We do this through our meetings, our strategically-paced timelines, and gentle reminders of what needs to happen when. But we are only focusing on one of many common stress points a teen faces today, and more support is out there, if needed. The information below comes directly from an email from Fairfax County Public Schools, and we encourage any FCPS student or family in need of support or assistance to reach out:

This summer, the FCPS Office of Intervention and Prevention Services will offer virtual Mental Wellness Consultations from June 24, 2024 through August 2, 2024. Any Fairfax County parent or secondary student will have an opportunity to schedule a 45-minute consultation with a school psychologist or school social worker by phone or videoconference. Consultations will be offered in two ways:

1. Directly to parents of students in any grade level. This consultation provides an opportunity for parents to receive guidance on how to support their child’s social, emotional, and academic success. Information about community resources will also be provided.

2. Directly to students in middle or high school. This consultation provides an opportunity for middle and high school students to receive guidance and support for concerns related to anxiety, mood, behavior, peer or family interactions, or school transitions and changes. Strategies and tools can also be provided to address academic challenges such as organization and time-management.

What a great opportunity! Click here to request a consultation. Families may also leave a message at 703-503-2520.

For more about mental health, check out these posts.

Our 2024 Summer Reading Picks

What did the Columbia and Wake Forest applications have in common this past year? Both asked students to share information about books they’d read!

Yes, reading is a great way to pass the time in general, but it can be especially important for rising seniors to pick up a few books while hitting the beach this summer. Remember, even if students aren’t applying to schools that ask about books in the application, they still need to be prepared to discuss reading material in college interviews.

Unfortunately, selecting books to discuss, whether in an interview setting or in a supplemental essay, can be tricky. Students have to find the right balance. War and Peace? Nobody is going to believe a 17-year-old chose to read that for fun. And yet the trashy beach reads won’t be your best bet, either.

Instead, we advise our students to try to find texts that are in alignment with their academic (or extracurricular) interests and overall application narrative, yet aren’t dry and obscure, either.

Check out our top pics below — no matter your intended major, we’ve got options for you!

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‘Challenger: A True Story of Heroism and Disaster on the Edge of Space’ by Adam Higginbotham

If you're into gripping true stories, check out this book about the 1986 Challenger disaster. It dives into the tragic event where the space shuttle broke apart just seventy-three seconds after launch. All seven crew members were killed, including a teacher named Christa McAuliffe. This book isn't just packed with facts—it's also super inspiring and thought-provoking. You'll get the full scoop on what led up to the accident, the disaster itself, and the investigation afterward. Plus, it touches on big themes like ambition, ingenuity, political drama, and heroism. 

We recommend this for students interested in history, politics, science, and engineering – or anyone who can appreciate a good real-life thriller!

‘Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection’ by Charles Duhigg

Check out this book for a fascinating read that can up your communication game! Imagine being in a jury room where one person manages to get everyone on the same page, or a young CIA officer convincing a reluctant foreign agent, or a top surgeon trying to persuade a patient to choose a safer form of treatment. This book is packed with cool stories like these, showing how great communicators work their magic.

Duhigg explains that every conversation has three layers: practical (what’s this about?), emotional (how do we feel?), and social (who are we?). Knowing which one you’re dealing with can make a huge difference in connecting with people. You'll learn how to pick up on emotions, negotiations, and beliefs that shape our talks. By the end, you'll get that with the right tools, you can connect with anyone. 

We recommend this for students interested in communications, business, and politics  – or anyone looking to improve their communication skills in a fun and engaging way!

‘James’ by Percival Everett

If you enjoyed The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, you have to check out this book, which reimagines the classic story from Jim's perspective! When Jim hears he's about to be sold and separated from his family, he hides on Jackson Island and meets Huck. Together they embark on a dangerous adventure, aiming for the Free States. Everett's version keeps all the exciting elements of the original — floods, storms, treasure hunts, and run-ins with scam artists — but it shines a new light on Jim. You'll see his intelligence, agency, and compassion in a way that the original story didn't show. This book is packed with humor and sharp observations that make it an electrifying read. It also dives into serious themes including language, race, and power.

We recommend this for students interested in English literature, race and culture, psychology, or sociology  –  or anyone interested in stories that mix adventure with deep, thought-provoking themes. 

‘Finding Fortunato: How a Peruvian Adventure Inspired the Sweet Success of a Family Chocolate Business’ by Adam Pearson

Dive into this exciting memoir about a family's adventure in the northern Peruvian jungle. They stumble upon a rare cacao bean, once thought extinct, and their journey turns into an epic chocolate business story! This book takes you through their struggles and triumphs as they decide to disrupt the traditional supply chain by trading directly with farmers. Their efforts not only produce what the BBC calls "the Rolex of chocolate" but also help lift farmers out of poverty. A tale of resilience and entrepreneurial spirit, the book shows how gut instincts and determination can lead to incredible success.

We recommend this for students interested in business, politics, or global studies  –  or anyone interested in adventure and making a difference in the world.

‘All the Gold Stars’ by Rainesford Stauffer

Dig into the pressures of ambition and how it leads to burnout! From gold stars in grade school to getting into the "right" college and grinding at work, our drive to achieve is celebrated but often comes with serious downsides. The book explores how cultural, personal, and societal expectations push us to tie our worth to productivity, limit our imaginations, and drive us apart. 

Through her own story of ambition and burnout, along with interviews with students, parents, workers, psychologists, and labor organizers, Stauffer uncovers the common pressures we all face. This book challenges us to rethink what success really means and offers new ways to approach ambition that's more about caring for ourselves and each other. 

We recommend this for students interested in psychology, sociology, or education – or anyone feeling the weight of expectations and looking for a healthier way to achieve their goals.

‘The Algebra of Wealth: A Simple Formula for Financial Security’ by Scott Galloway

If you want to get a head start on financial success, check out The Algebra of Wealth by Scott Galloway. Today's world offers more opportunities and mobility than ever, but also some big challenges like inflation, housing shortages, and climate issues. The old financial advice your parents followed just doesn't cut it anymore!

In this book, you’ll learn how to choose a career by focusing on your talent (not just your passion!); how to adopt a mindset that will help you develop better financial habits; and how to make small steps now that will have a big impact later. 

We recommend this for students interested in economics or business – or anyone looking to make smart money moves!

‘The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness’ by Jonathan Haidt

If you're curious about why so many teens are struggling with mental health issues, check out this book, which dives into why rates of depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicide skyrocketed for teens starting in the early 2010s.

Haidt, a social psychologist, breaks down the facts about this mental health crisis and explores how childhood has changed. He explains how kids used to grow up with lots of play and independence, but starting in the 1980s, this "play-based childhood" started disappearing. By the early 2010s, the rise of smartphones completely changed how kids grow up. Learn how this shift has messed with adolescent development, from sleep problems to addiction, loneliness, and constant social comparison. 

We recommend this for students interested in psychology, sociology, or education – or anyone interested in understanding and tackling the mental health challenges facing Gen Z. 

‘There’s Always this Year: On Basketball and Ascension’ by Hanif Abdurraqib

This book dives into what it means to succeed, who deserves it, and the tension between excellence and expectations. Growing up in Columbus, Ohio, in the '90s, Abdurraqib experienced an amazing era of basketball where legends like LeBron James were born. He combines his personal stories with a deep exploration of basketball's impact on culture. The book is filled with joy, pain, solidarity, comfort, outrage, and hope, and it’s creatively structured like a basketball game, divided into quarters with "timeouts" that mix prose with poetry. 

We recommend this for students interested in sports, race and culture, or psychology – or anyone who loves powerful storytelling!

‘The Formula: How Rogues, Geniuses, and Speed Freaks Reengineered F1 into the World’s Fastest-Growing Sport’ by Joshua Robinson and Jonathan Clegg

If you're into fast cars and thrilling stories, you need to check out this epic story of how Formula 1 (F1) racing went from being a distant third behind NASCAR and IndyCar in America to leading the pack in 2023. It dives into F1’s fearless reinvention and its breakthrough in the US. With fast cars, engineering geniuses, driver rivalries, and glamorous settings, you'll see how F1's rise in America was actually decades in the making. It's all about constant transformation and bold moves.

This book isn't just about sports; it's a high-octane history of how modern F1 racing came to be. It's the first book to cover the outrageous successes and spectacular crashes that led F1 to its current, thrilling moment. 

We recommend this for students interested in cars, engineering, popular culture and business – or anyone who wants to know how F1 broke into the American sports scene with style, cash, and personality!

Runner-Ups

• ‘Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI’ by Ethan Mollick 

• ‘Hot Dog Money: Inside the Biggest Scandal in the History of College Sports’ by Guy Lawson

• ‘Cue The Sun! The Invention of Reality TV’ by Emily Nussbaum

• ‘The Mango Tree: A Memoir of Fruit, Florida, and Felony’ by Annabelle Tometich

• ‘A Thousand Times Before: A Novel’ by Asha Thanki

• ‘The Cemetery of Untold Stories’ by Julia Alvarez

• ‘What this Comedian Said Will Shock You’ by Bill Maher

• ‘The Achilles Trap: Saddam Hussein, the C.I.A., and the Origins of America’s Invasion of Iraq’ by Steve Coll

• ‘Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here: The United States, Central America, and the Making of a Crisis’ by Jonathan Blitzer

• ‘ADHD is Awesome: A Guide to (Mostly) Thriving with ADHD’ by Penn Holderness and Kim Holderness

• ‘Sing Like Fish: How Sound Rules Life Under Water’ by Amorina Kingdon

• ‘WHEN THE SEA CAME ALIVE: AN ORAL HISTORY OF D-DAY’ by GARRETT GRAFF

Weekly Update: June 12

HAPPY LAST DAY OF SCHOOL, FAIRFAX COUNTY! Catholic schools finished up yesterday and most of the independent schools have been out for a little while already — so we are officially on summer break!

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

FAFSA DEBACLE CAUSES PROBLEMS FOR THOSE WHO NEED AID THE MOST

The rollout of the new FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, has been a nightmare for students and colleges this year. As we have mentioned in previous posts, this had led to students not being able to receive their financial aid packages, compare offers and pick schools at which to matriculate. And it also means that colleges are not sure who and how many students will be enrolling for the coming school year! One latest development as a result of the chaos: more students than ever are not even bothering to complete the FAFSA due to the ongoing issues and lack of guidance and support. The University System of Maryland’s 12 schools and three higher education centers saw a decrease of 15.6% in form completion; the University of Wisconsin had 14% fewer students complete; and UVA’s Board has been informed that thousands of returning students are still waiting for their packages. Plus, the entire state of Virginia is down almost 13% in completed FAFSA forms. Unfortunately, it’s the colleges which serve those with the highest need that are also seeing the highest non-complete numbers.

THE COLLEGE MERGER TREND CONTINUES

The California State University system is waiting on Board approval for Cal Poly-San Luis Obisbo to merge with the California Maritime Academy in a bid to strengthen both of their financial challenges. If approved, the Cal Maritime students would become part of the Cal Poly student body in the 2026-2027 school year. Cal Maritime has seen a drop of over 30% of their student body in less than a decade and now serves just over 750 students. The Board will consider the plan in its November meeting.

STANFORD WILL REINSTATE TEST SCORE REQUIREMENTS NEXT YEAR, DESPITE THE FACT THAT CALIFORNIANS HAVE FEWER OPPORTUNITIES TO TEST

Beginning next year in fall 2025, students hoping to become part of Stanford’s Class of 2030 will be required to submit a standardized test score (in other words, students currently finishing their sophomore year of high school). Students applying during the upcoming admissions cycle for the Class of 2029 (those currently finishing their junior year) will still be grandfathered into the current test-optional admissions process. It is somewhat ironic that trying to take the required tests, or at least the SAT, has become harder than ever to do in the state of California. The June 4th test was abruptly canceled in Oakland due to internet issues, leaving approximately 1,400 students high and dry! Unfortunately, this lack of testing sites is not unique to Oakland. College Board, the company that makes the test, reports that there are now fewer than half as many SAT testing sites in CA as there were before the Covid pandemic. Across the country, the fact that the test has now gone digital means that students who attend schools without adequate internet infrastructure will have even less access to the tests.

COMMUNITY COLLEGE MIGHT BE THE BEST RETURN ON INVESTMENT

As student debt climbs, students and families are looking at how to get the most out of the huge financial investment that college could be. The debate about whether college debt is “good debt” these days is raging, given that it can take a student 20+ years to pay off a loan or even get close to just paying off the interest of a loan. This Forbes article sheds some light on 16 high-paying jobs that you only need an associates degree to get, making them some of the best for a true return on that educational investment. The jobs on their list all pay over $70K/year and averaging more than $100,000. Who knew?!

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

While people usually feel the power of empathy, they may not always be aware of how it is taught or gained: it is often considered a trait that a person simply has or doesn’t have. However, a new study sheds light on the practical impact that empathic parenting can have on teens. Parents who practice empathy are actually giving their adolescents the tools to developing their own capacity for empathy, both in the moment and lasting through their adulthood. The study is part of  an ongoing project called KLIFF/VIDA (Kids, Lives, Families, Friends/Virginia Institute for Development in Adulthood) at the University of Virginia. The research shows that with a grounding in empathy, “[t]eens […] start to depend less on their parents, discover their own identities, become interested in understanding the perspectives of others and learn how to navigate social situations independently.” 

If you’re solidifying summer plans, check out this piece by a former admissions officer, weighing in on the benefits of summer jobs and internships. Sure, college applications will be enhanced by these activities, but the students themselves will also learn important life skills such as time management, networking, interviewing and financial responsibility. These are all important aspects of growth and maturation that will help them successfully navigate college as well. PRO TIP: When it comes to internships, a lot of students think that unless they are at some “big firm” or nationally known company, it’s not worth it, but that just isn’t the case. Covid taught both students and colleges that creative, “out of the box” thinking can lead to some amazing opportunities. More on that below!

Recently, our essay coaches were discussing how to best guide students if they wanted to write about their learning differences or mental health challenges. This opinion piece in Scientific American, “Neurodivergent Kids Flourish When They’re Taught How Their Brain Works,” was so on point that we decided to share it anyway, even though it’s a few weeks old! When students understand their own learning styles and needs, they naturally become better self-advocates — and this leads them to truly own their education. Deeper understanding also plays a role in the college search as students grasp what successful classroom and educational environments look like for them. Not every school may have that perfect classroom or professor, but students who know what they need are better equipped to seek out supportive accommodations. A sense of empowerment will go a long way in having a fulfilling college experience.

High school students feel a great deal of pressure in their junior and senior years. It’s not just because their classes may get harder, their hormones are raging, and they are trying to figure out who they are — though all three of those things do make up a bulk of that pressure! It’s that the world suddenly begins to start asking them seemingly impossible questions about their future. What do you want to study? What are your plans? What will you be? Who will you be? Some students are on a pretty decent path towards finding out. But not everyone is. For many, the best years of their lives were not in high school, despite what all the movies, television shows and society in general promised. And life did not – is not – playing out the way they hoped. This opinion piece in the New York Times reminds us that everything can still turn around. That late bloomer can still bloom; that kid who made some bad choices, can also make good choices, too — that “[your] destiny is not shaped in high school.

Every time I am in Connecticut, I go by my high school - Choate Rosemary Hall. It was such a pressure cooker, and I have so many mixed emotions about my experience there. Ultimately, it was good for me, and helped me grow in ways that were critical later in life. However, I would most certainly NOT classify those years as the best of my life!

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

As we mentioned above, sometimes the most valuable summer and/or extracurricular opportunities do not come in the form of fancy internships. We have spent a lot of time talking about this with our students lately — especially those finishing their freshman and sophomore years of high school, as many of them are still on the hunt to find something meaningful to do this summer. They often ask us for examples of projects or undertakings that our former students have pursued, and we have a great one to share with our readers today!

While working at an international school in Thailand during the pandemic, Sonya had a student (let’s call her Jes) who used imagination and persistence to create a unique opportunity. As you may remember, the summer programs and internships dried up everywhere; some went virtual while others just hit the pause button, hoping to resume the following year. With all her original plans canceled, Jes tried to think of something she could do that would have a positive impact on people even at a time when we were all socially isolated.

Jes had read stories of older people in care homes and assisted living residences who could no longer see their families because of Covid and it broke her heart. In Thailand, there aren’t “old folks homes” or the equivalent as families live in multigenerational households. Being half Dutch, Jes tried contacting some places in Europe, hoping she could “volunteer” via Zoom or Skype, but it was not received well. She then decided to try places in the US, cold-calling nursing homes — and she struck pay dirt! She was connected with a woman named Elizabeth at a care home in the midwest, and the two began chatting virtually. Despite the 12-hour time difference, every Saturday, around midnight they would talk. This went on throughout the summer and all through Jes’s senior year.

Jes is now a junior at Duke and is still in touch with Elizabeth, who thinks of her as another granddaughter. This level of persistence, creative-thinking, and long-term commitment was something that really impressed the schools on Jes’ list. We encourage all of our students to think about how they can spend time identifying needs and using their intellectual curiosity to find solutions!

Want more on Learning differenceS? Check out these posts!

Weekly Update: June 6

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

ART SCHOOLS SUFFER FROM TOUGH ECONOMIC TIMES AND LOW ENROLLMENT

Columbia College Chicago and the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, two well-respected arts schools, have both come into economic difficulties recently. With just a week’s notice, the University of the Arts sent out a message stating that the school would be closing June 7th, catching students and faculty completely by surprise. The university, home to approximately 1,125 students, had just enrolled next year’s new class. Area universities such as Temple University, Drexel University, and Moore College of Art and Design have all reached out to try and assist current and incoming students with transfer opportunities. 

Columbia College Chicago, also with little notice, laid off 70 faculty members and eliminated 32 vacant staff positions due to financial worries and declining enrollment. The concerns of the college were not a secret, though; last month they announced that first-year enrollment was down 46% from last year and transfer deposits down 36%. “The advising office, library, admissions and enrollment, career center and the counseling services office were among the departments affected by layoffs,” said Lillian Gecker, co-membership chair of the Columbia staff union.

HARVARD WILL NO LONGER WEIGH IN ON GLOBAL AFFAIRS

A new policy is being put into place at Harvard, in which the university will no longer share an official opinion on issues that are “not relevant to the core function of the university”. While it will no longer share “statements of empathy” as it did for Ukraine and the attacks on October 7th by Hamas, it is also not becoming “neutral” on global issues, like the University of Chicago. Others, of course, believe that it’s impossible for a school such as Harvard to have true “institutional neutrality”. 

FAFSA ISSUES AND CHANGES IN JOB MARKET IMPACT COLLEGE  ENROLLMENT

Fewer job postings are listing formal educational requirements as employers have trouble filling positions. Listings with no degree requirements have gone up 4% over the last 4 years. A cascade of problems with the FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, this year, have seen a drop in the number of completed financial aid forms by almost 16%. The worry is that these two issues will have a stalling or even backsliding effect on what had been an increase in college enrollment over the last few years. While the numbers are not back to pre-pandemic rates, they are up 2.5% this spring after decades of decline. Some of the overall decline is due to lower birth rates and fewer students who may be attending college, but the increased price of four-year institutions has meant that the majority of that 2.5% increase is happening in community colleges. People are less willing to take on what can turn into life-long crippling debt just to attend a 4-year university.

WOMEN MAKE “FIRSTS” IN LEADERSHIP ROLES AT TWO UNIVERSITIES

Both Yale University and Winston-Salem State University hired their first female leaders in either school’s history. Dr. Maurie D. McInnis, former head of Stony Brook University, will become the new president of Yale University starting in July. She will be the first permanent female president of the school since its inception in 1701. 

The University of North Carolina Board of Governors elected Bonita J. Brown, an attorney,  to be the new chancellor of Winston-Salem State University. The HBCU, founded in 1892, is ranked as the number one school in the state for economic and social mobility (by the New York Times and US News & World Report. It is also considered a healthcare education powerhouse in the region. Congratulations to both!

AMERICAN UNIVERSITY ADDS EARLY ACTION

For students starting in the Fall of 2025, American University will offer Early Action application plans alongside their Regular, Early Decision I and Early Decision II plans. Unlike ED, EA is not binding; however, it allows applicants to apply early and get decisions early. This, in turn, suggests that students are interested and that they have done their research. For American University, EA will be due November 1 and EA applicants will receive their decisions by January 31.

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

Sonya recently reflected that she is so glad she didn’t grow up with social media or a smartphone. The pressure to conform at lightning speed and at such a granular level that apps like Snapchat and “Insta” apply to young people seems like such a daunting and bloody gauntlet to traverse, she explained. And to do it at the age when a person is probably at their most vulnerable and unsure of who they are and what they believe makes it a scarier prospect still.

(P.S. How do you even know if you grew up with social media or a smartphone? It’s not a completely cut-and-dry answer. I attended high school from 1999-2003, so I would think I qualify as having grown up with social media in its earliest forms, like AOL profiles and MySpace. Facebook came out during my freshman year of college, 2003-2004, and my peers were all just starting to get smartphones right around the time of our college graduation. This is on my mind right now because I am in the middle of reading The Anxious Generation, which you will find on our summer reading list soon!)

In any case, we found an interesting article which looks at teens around the country whose parents resisted pressure from the outside and inside the house to give their teen a smartphone, despite some being shown up to four slide deck presentations about the merits of doing so! Some had “dumb” phones for communication, but others didn’t even have that. I know that now it’s almost unimaginable to be out in the world without a smartphone, but this article suggests that their experience shows them to be more independent, more able to problem-solve and more capable of handling being bored and entertaining themselves. One of the more slightly ironic differences is that those without a phone also were able to be more “sociable” and had better coping skills when dealing with the public. Just the opposite seems to be the case for kids addicted to social media!

And staying on the theme of being sociable, dating as a teenager is also quite different now, in the age of smartphones, than it was ‘back in the day”: for better and/or worse. In this article about his son’s first girlfriend, the author talks about the generational differences in how we consume social media versus today’s teens; the impact that has had on attention spans; and ultimately how this has changed how young people communicate, compared to us “olds”!

In the last few posts we have talked about teens and summer jobs (and sometimes their first job) along with helping them navigate this new, adult responsibility. Nothing screams adult responsibility louder than taxes! Sometimes the expected amount of that first glorious paycheck and the reality of learning what net pay is can be stunning. This MarketWatch article shares the importance of talking to your teen about taxes and how this knowledge can lead to better overall personal financial management in the future.

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

Since many of our juniors have finished drafting their Common App (R) personal essays and are now on to their supplemental work, we started putting together our Class of 2025 Supplemental Essay Database this past week!

A number of colleges have already finalized their essay prompts for the coming application cycle, including Georgetown and the University of Georgia. As a reminder, we are vigilant about checking for updated prompts on a nearly-daily basis throughout the summer so that our students can write their essays earlier than the official August 1 release date.

And of course, we are still deep in behind-the-scenes Common App (R) essay edits — just because the juniors are done with their work doesn’t mean we are all done with ours! I say this every year, but there is nothing more exciting to me than the moment when the essay really clicks into place.

Usually, the man responsible for that amazing-ness is none other than Alan, our essay coach who works solely behind the scenes helping those final edits be just a little bit more sparkly than they otherwise would be. We are super lucky to have him on our team!

He has this magical ability to shift a student’s own writing and voice around into different and unexpected ways — it really is an art! I could never do as good of a job as he does.

Have a great rest of your week, everyone!

WANT MORE ON HBCUs? CHECK OUT THESE POSTS!

Weekly Update: May 30

Not long now, everybody! The end of the school year is almost here! Just hang on a little bit longer!

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

NORTHEASTERN: NYC STYLE

Marymount Manhattan College, a small liberal arts school in New York City known for their theater programs, just announced a merger with Northeastern University. After the merger, Marymount Manhattan will be renamed Northeastern University-New York City. This will probably open up more opportunities for Northeastern applicants, who are often given the option to begin their studies at Northeastern at an alternate campus if they aren’t admitted through the traditional process. The merger still needs approval from regulators and accreditation agencies, which could take up to two years.

WANTED: COLLEGE PRESIDENTS

It’s not a job for the “faint of heart”, says Rev. John I. (or as students know him, “Father”) Jenkins, head of the University of Notre Dame for the past 19 years. As he gets ready to step down next month, the school will be looking for new leadership — as are many schools across the country! Along with Harvard, UPenn, Yale, Cornell, and UCLA, among others, 12 of the 58 private colleges in Massachusetts are currently without a president. The pressure to be as politically savvy as possible and of the highest academic caliber as possible is a tough blend to find, but seems to be what is now needed to qualify. Few will make the cut, but will even fewer apply?

THE PRICE OF PROTESTING

The administration at Trinity College Dublin has now rescinded a bill they presented to the Student Union. They had originally claimed that students had cost the university €214K ($232K) in “lost revenue” due to student protests. The university asserted that the protests blocked the entrance to the Book of Kells, a 1,200 year old illustrated manuscript, which attracts over half a million tourists each year. Student groups decried the school’s attempt to silence student voices.

A COLLEGE AND IT’S PROTESTORS COMPROMISED AND CONGRESS DIDN’T LIKE THAT

After a week of protests at Northwestern University with an encampment on the school’s green, the president and the students found a compromise and the protest ended. Unlike many other campus’ protests, this one was fairly peaceful. Students disbanded, removing all the tents except for one aid tent, and no arrests were made. Apparently, the U.S. Congress did not like this and demanded that Northwestern’s president, Michael Schill, present himself before Congress this Thursday. Evidently, “some members are expected to rake him over the coals for making a deal with students instead of bringing the hammer down.”

COLLEGE ATHLETES MAY FINALLY GET THEIR DUES

We’ve covered issues relating to NIL (name, image, and likeness) for years, and the latest update comes in the form of an agreement stemming from three antitrust lawsuits alleging $2.8 billion in damages. Now, however, current and former athletes may soon get paid! That said, details are still in the works with the lawyers, and it could take months before the agreement is finally considered settled. The agreement does not take on the issue of employment — the NCAA will likely continue to try and persuade Congress to pass a bill that would keep athletes from becoming employees.

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

What does it mean to be a “sell out”? For a long time, the term had the connotation of being someone who has traded in their moral values or integrity in exchange for more immediate gratification — perhaps money, or something else just as vulgar. But, like all human thoughts and ideas, meanings change with time. This article in the New York Times points a post-structuralist finger at young people and examines how they are re-defining the notion of “selling out”. If you go straight for the big bucks in order to position yourself in a place of power and influence to someday help make the world a better place, have you really sold out?

And to rebel against the “old” ideas of what it takes or requires to make the world better — or even to decide what “better” is — is all part of dismantling the false notion of structuralism in the first place. And kids these days do seem to be doing just that!  Paging Foucault and Derrida! But seriously, given the instability in the world for the past 20+ years — 9-11, wars, recessions, political divisions, a pandemic, more economic uncertainty — it’s not unreasonable for young people to try and do everything they can to establish a little bit of security for themselves while also trying to balance their strong desire to also create something better. While this article focuses on “elite” college students, I would posit that the desire to have stability and the power to change things for the better is not only limited to the students who attend “highly rejective” schools.

Sticking with the idea about jobs after college, Jeff Selingo’s latest newsletter reflects on how now, more than ever, people are debating the “value” of college — perhaps even to the point of wondering if college could ever guarantee a job as part of their education!

As summer gets closer, are you lining up your summer reading? Are they beach books? Romance? Something with some international intrigue or an adventure to the other reaches of the solar system? Maybe it’s the time when you are free to dig into some dense classics or the long list of “should’ve read” books you keep tacked to your bulletin board. This piece in the Washington Post is a lovely ode to the joy of reading — something we hope everyone finds time to do.

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

Speaking of summer reading — did you know that some college applications ask students to share lists of books they’ve read recently? This is also a common interview question! The beginning of summer is a great time for rising seniors to get a head start and make sure they have a few books to discuss if needed.

Students shouldn’t just mention any books, though — It’s always really helpful if at least a few of the texts can be connected to their individual interests, as a way to strengthen their narrative. To make sure all of our rising seniors are prepared, we have been working on putting together our 2024 Summer Reading List, with recommendations broken down by interest — stay tuned for that!

Lastly, as this year’s admission cycle winds down, college offices around the country are already thinking about next year and what it will bring. As we have already mentioned a number of times, this year’s FAFSA nightmare (still ongoing) and last year’s Supreme Court ruling are likely to change the way admissions officers shape their incoming freshman classes.

One aspect that has become significantly more relevant in recent months involves geography, and zip codes in particular. I have never heard so many admissions officers discuss the impact of applicant zip codes as I have lately! No kidding, it’s a huge topic right now. I would bet that the average parent has absolutely no concept of what a big impact zip codes are having behind the scenes (the thought process is that students from certain zip codes have distinct advantages over those from other zip codes, and that incorporating zip codes into the decision-making process is a legal way to achieve a more diverse class).

I was happy to weigh in on this for U.S. News readers last week — check out How Your Hometown Could Affect Your College Prospects — it explores how colleges will use geographic methods to grow a diverse student body.

This is so Vienna-specific, but every time I hear the zip code discussion I think about the nuances of 22182 and it makes my head spin. For what it’s worth, the admissions officers have been very clear about how they are assessing applicants in the context of their home zip code, not their school zip code.

As a 22182 resident, I’m zoned to Colvin Run, Cooper, and Langley. Arguably some of the best schools in the state. I chose to live here specifically for the schools and the opportunities for my children.

Yet there is a whole other part of 22182 on the other side of Tysons that is so, so, different in terms of racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic diversity. And some students from that area attend an elementary school that is ranked 3/10 on GreatSchools. But it’s the same zip code!

While this is a local example, there have got to be so many other places like this across the country. It really makes me wonder about the consequences of this newfound emphasis on zip code and how it will impact students in zip codes like 22182. Only time will tell!

Can’t wait to start your reading? Look at some of these past posts; you’re sure to find a book you love!

Weekly Update: May 22

A long weekend is on the horizon. Wishing everyone a peaceful Memorial Day as we remember the men and women of our armed forces!

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

APPLICATION CHANGES AT UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN

The University of Michigan is always a popular choice for our students, and the school just announced some changes to the upcoming 2024-2025 application process. In addition to introducing a new B.S. program in Pharmaceutical Sciences and a new timeline for Urban Technology students, the change that will have the biggest impact on our applicants has to do with direct-entry admission to the Ross School of Business.

For those who are not aware, admission to Ross is VERY competitive. Previously, students were required to apply simultaneously for first-year admission to the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts and preferred admission to Ross. Those accepted to LSA would then undergo the Ross review process, but a student would not be rejected from the university as a whole if they were otherwise admissible to LSA. Now, students who are not directly admitted to Ross will not be admitted to LSA–they will simply be outright denied from the university.

This was just announced yesterday, and my understanding is that we do not yet know if the Ross application will continue to require a business portfolio, or if first-year applicants that didn’t initially apply to Ross will continue to have a leg up in the internal transfer process. Personally, I would suggest that first-year out-of-state applicants bypass Ross unless they have extremely high grades, test scores, and course rigor, as well as extensive business experience.

ANOTHER VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE AT A HIGH PROFILE UNIVERSITY

Columbia University President Minouche Shafik received a vote of no confidence from a portion of the undergraduate faculty. While there is no legal penalty, it does show that support for her is waning. The faculty who voted were from the school of Arts and Sciences, the largest of the 21 schools at the university, and make up about 20% of the full-time faculty. Faculty who did not support the vote of no confidence believe that Shafik did the best she could in a difficult situation.

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA WORKERS AUTHORIZE A CALL TO STRIKE

The 48,000-member union that encompasses ten UC campuses and the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory authorized their union to call for a strike in response to their disapproval of how the university handled the recent student protests. The strike authorization vote, which passed with 79% approval, came two weeks after student protesters were attacked by counter protesters without any police intervention or arrests. Later, riot police tore down the student encampment and arrested over 200 of those protesters.

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS BUTKER FACES BACKLASH AFTER COMMENCEMENT SPEECH

NFL kicker Harrison Butker delivered a stunning commencement speech at Benedictine College, in which he declared that a woman’s sole vocation was to be a wife and mother, among other things. The Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica, the founders and sponsors of the college, released a statement in response that surprised many. The nuns left no doubt that they wholeheartedly disagree with Butker, not only about his views on women and their role in society, but also with his views of what it means to be Catholic.

UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT MAKES A CHANGE

So far, it has been mostly private colleges and universities that have allowed students to declare their love for a particular school through their willingness to forsake all others if admitted Early Decision. Only a very small handful of public universities across the country offer the Early Decision option. And now we can add one more to that small handful: The University of Connecticut. While UConn is not a typical choice for students from our region, it is a great school–considered one of the top public research institutions in the U.S. As an out-of-state student, ED can be a significant advantage! As a refresher, ED is considered a “binding” in that students and their parents sign legally-binding contracts in the application materials, promising to attend the school if admitted.

WHAT DID YOU CALL ME?

Students graduating from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia last week had a slightly confusing time as they waited to walk up on stage to collect their diplomas. The person reading their names managed to mangle them so badly that students didn’t always recognize when they were being called up! The university official was reading from a list of phonetically spelled names that seemed to have no relationship to the actual names. One of the mis-pronounced names: Thomas! 🤷

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

As the school year comes to a close and students make their summer plans, a number of students will begin a summer job. For some, it may be returning to a place they have worked before, and for many others, this will be their first “real” job. Having a job will teach teens a lot of wonderful skills and life lessons about responsibility, time management, customer service, and how to take direction and constructive criticism in a mature manner. But sometimes the experience can be far more dangerous and scary. This article in the Wall Street Journal, The Surge in Young Workers Has a Dark Side: Sexual Harassment of Teens on the Job brings home the harsh realities some of our kids experience. “Young workers ‘often don’t know they have a right to say, ‘This isn’t OK,’ ‘ said Kimberly Rauscher, a professor of public health at Boise State University and one of the authors of the study." Even more concerning, Raucher noted that some teenagers feel “that sexual harassment is simply an odious but inevitable part of the job, especially in customer-facing roles.” As employers rely on more young workers, it’s important to have a serious discussion with your teen about what to do if they feel unsafe in their workplace. Encourage them to speak up, either to their supervisor or a trusted family member, without fearing that adults will not believe them.

As young people reflect on their future, some may be thinking about our robot overlords (kidding!) or at least about the role artificial intelligence will play in their lives. It’s already bumping up against so much of what we know and do right now–literature, research, art, science, manufacturing–and so it’s only natural to believe that it will become even more entwined in our lives in the future. Some schools have tried to ban the use of AI and software like ChatGPT in the classroom, and other schools have embraced the technology in an effort to help students learn how to wield it as an effective tool: beyond a way to simply get a robot to do their homework! AI has the power, if used right, to make peoples’ lives better and richer, perhaps even keeping bits of humanity from disappearing altogether.

As this years’ admission cycle comes to an end and students have chosen which institution they wish to attend–though thanks to the FAFSA snafu, some are still waiting to make that decision–thoughts are turning towards next year’s cycle and beyond. Each year, colleges and universities decide their criteria for admission, some of which they share (how they use holistic review to read an application) and some of which they hold a little closer to the vest–their “institutional priorities”. One of those items that they do share is their stance on standardized tests, the SAT and ACT. Right now, many schools are still test-optional, and some even test-blind, meaning that they don’t even accept or look at tests, but some are now once again requiring tests as part of a student’s application. The latest of these schools are several public colleges and universities in the state of Georgia. The University System of Georgia Board of Regents voted to rescind the temporary waiver of test scores they had put in place during the height of Covid-19. There will now be a minimum SAT and ACT score required at seven schools: the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, Georgia State University, Georgia College and State University, Augusta University, Kennesaw State University, and Georgia Southern University. This requirement will begin in the fall of 2026. 

It was unfortunate that just a few weeks prior, Georgia State University in Atlanta accidentally sent congratulatory admissions letters to 1,500 applicants who were not admitted, at least not yet. The same university made this same error with 1,300 students in 2018. Talk about a roller coaster of emotions!

The question of whether test scores help or hinder a student’s application or how colleges use scores in the admissions process is part of an ongoing debate as colleges ponder their testing policies. This article offers a deeper dive into that debate and asks questions about the future of test-optional admissions. Bob Schaeffer, public education director at the standardized testing reform organization FairTest, points out that with “over 1,900 schools extend[ing their] test-optional or test-free policies” and another “1,700 institutions hav[ing] test-optional and test-free policies with no expiration date”, it’s a question worth asking.

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

I started my college counseling career working at an independent school in a New York City suburb, and I still find it interesting to reflect on how regional preferences can impact college choices. There are certain “go-to” schools for kids in that area that students here rarely consider, and vice versa.

A great example of one of those schools is Fairfield University — in the Northeast, this is a practically given on every college list for kids who are interested in schools like Georgetown, Boston College, Notre Dame and Villanova - particularly if they want to pursue business or nursing. Yet for some reason, it doesn’t make a lot of lists here. When I was in Connecticut at the IECA conference, I decided to tour Fairfield for the first time in a number of years, and I have to say — this is really a hidden gem for DC students.

With approximately 5,000 students, Fairfield is a mid-sized Jesuit institution located in a beautiful New York City suburb. As are other Jesuit schools, Fairfield is dedicated to educating the whole person; however, it does a great job of blending that commitment (alongside its core curriculum) with excellence in pre-professional fields.

Rankings aren’t everything, but Fairfield is consistently named among the top 30 schools in the country for “Best Undergraduate Teaching” by U.S. News & World Report - it’s currently tied at #28 with Tufts and UNC-Chapel Hill. They have a similar placement in the publication’s “Best Undergraduate Business Programs” rankings, in the fields of Business Analytics (#16), Marketing (#17), Finance (#17) and Accounting (#28). There are approximately 20 students per class, so everyone really does get a lot of individualized attention.

Students live on campus for their first three years, and I found the campus to be particularly pretty — it’s not the newest you’ll see, but it’s so well-maintained and pristine, with lots of grass, trees and red flowers everywhere. And in addition to the ability to get into Manhattan in just over an hour, the best part of Fairfield’s location is the proximity to the BEACH! It’s located less than a mile from the Long Island Sound beaches, and students have so many fun traditions involving the beach — yes, even in the winter! Seniors traditionally live in beach houses off campus, which they all love (I took this picture at Jennings Beach, right near where most of the seniors live).

If you’re interested, check out the “Why Fairfield?” video on the school’s website and consider attending a virtual information session!

Interested in more about standardized testing? Check out these posts!