The college admissions process looks very different than it did even a few years ago—and parents play a key role in helping students adapt. In this post, we break down ten essential insights every parent should know about today’s admissions landscape, from test-optional policies and holistic review to finding the right college fit beyond prestige.
Read MoreDidn’t get into law school the first time around? In this What’s Next? feature, Cordel Faulk, former UVA Law Chief Admissions Officer and head of College Solutions’ law school advising program, explains how to turn a reapplication into a strategic advantage—showcasing growth, reflection, and renewed purpose in the admissions process.
Read MoreCurious about what makes Tufts University stand out among top research universities? In this Campus Spotlight, Senior Counselor Mattie Engel shares her firsthand insights from a recent campus visit—highlighting Tufts’ collaborative community, interdisciplinary academics, and the vibrant energy that defines student life in Medford.
Read MoreMaster your college interview with expert strategies for researching schools, preparing common interview questions, showcasing your strengths, and demonstrating genuine interest to admissions officers and alumni interviewers. This comprehensive guide covers essential college admissions interview preparation tips including understanding evaluative versus informational interviews, asking thoughtful questions, dressing professionally, staying authentic, and following up to leave a lasting positive impression.
Read MoreNavigate the college major selection process with expert guidance on self-reflection, exploring career possibilities, utilizing campus resources like career centers and academic advisors, and taking advantage of general education classes to discover your passions. This comprehensive guide helps undecided college students choose the right major through practical strategies including researching careers, shadowing professionals, considering double majors or minors, and understanding the difference between specialized and flexible degree programs.
Read MoreFormer UVA Law Chief Admissions Officer Cordel Faulk explores the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in law school admissions, explaining how applicants can ethically use AI tools for editing and brainstorming while maintaining authenticity in personal statements. Learn essential guidelines for responsible AI use in the law school application process, including when AI crosses ethical boundaries, how admissions offices are incorporating technology, and why transparency and human judgment remain critical to fair admissions decisions.
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Learn how to write a standout college personal statement with expert tips on brainstorming unique angles, crafting authentic stories, using vivid details, and demonstrating personal growth that impresses admissions officers. This comprehensive guide covers essential college application essay strategies including understanding prompts, developing a strong voice, proper structure, effective editing, and avoiding common clichés to create a killer personal statement.
Read MoreHave you ever considered applying to Davidson College? In today’s campus spotlight, College Solutions Counselor Sara Reddy recaps her most recent visit to this “hidden Ivy” and some of the many features that make Davidson a unique school worth considering.
Read MoreDiscover what to expect during college orientation, including meeting new classmates, learning about campus resources, registering for classes, exploring extracurricular opportunities, and attending practical information sessions on campus safety and student life. This comprehensive guide helps incoming college students and families prepare for orientation programs, build community connections, and establish a strong foundation for a successful college journey.
Read MoreFormer UVA Law Chief Admissions Officer Cordel Faulk explains what law school waitlist season means for applicants, emphasizing that waitlist admission is a normal part of the competitive law school admissions process and doesn't diminish your achievement. Learn essential waitlist strategies including writing a letter of continued interest (LOCI), staying appropriately engaged with admissions committees, and preparing for quick decision turnarounds when offers arrive.
Read MoreIn an increasingly competitive college application process, it can be hard to know what will make a lasting impression on admissions officers. In today's blog post, we outline our top five ways to make your college application stand out. Follow these tips to make your college application memorable.
Read MoreLearn when to start preparing for college admissions with this comprehensive timeline guide covering middle school through senior year, including key milestones for standardized test prep, college visits, extracurricular activities, and application deadlines. Discover how early preparation—beginning as early as middle school—can reduce stress and set your teen up for college admissions success through strong study habits, strategic course selection, and timely financial aid applications.
Read MoreVP and Senior Counselor Patrick Zylka provides an overview of a number of universities he toured in London.
Read MoreExplore the pros and cons of on-campus housing for college students, including proximity to classes, built-in community, access to campus resources, and structured support, balanced against costs, limited privacy, and potential distractions. This guide helps incoming college students and first-year students decide between on-campus and off-campus living based on personal priorities and financial considerations.
Read MoreFormer UVA Law Chief Admissions Officer Cordel Faulk guides prospective law students through making the final law school deposit decision after navigating one of the most competitive admissions cycles ever. Learn how to choose between law school offers by weighing scholarships, rankings, personal fit, and gut instinct… plus why waitlist acceptance can still lead to your dream law school.
Read MoreDiscover why Elon University in Burlington, North Carolina stands out with its focus on experiential learning, study abroad programs (90%+ participation), and tight-knit campus community of 6,400 students. Senior Counselor Anna Brown shares campus visit insights on Elon's unique traditions, state-of-the-art facilities, and signature experiential learning requirements that make this medium-sized university an excellent college choice.
Read MoreThe leap from high school to college marks a significant milestone in a student’s life. It’s a time of newfound independence, exciting opportunities, and, for many, challenges. Here are our top 10 tips for how students and parents can navigate this important step.
Read MoreTaking a gap year before college is becoming an increasingly popular choice for students who want to explore new opportunities, gain life experience, or recharge after high school. This post outlines how to make the most of a gap year and ensure it benefits your college journey.
Read MoreThe 2025 U.S. News & World Report law school rankings have arrived with major changes, including Yale and Stanford tied at #1, Cornell dropping out of the traditional T-14 to #18, and significant methodology shifts emphasizing employment outcomes and bar passage rates over LSAT scores. Former UVA Law Chief Admissions Officer Cordel Faulk breaks down what these law school ranking changes mean for prospective law students and why you should focus on tiers and fit rather than fixating on single-digit movements.
Read MoreVP and Senior Counselor Patrick Zylka provides an overview of a number of universities he toured in London.
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