College Solutions VP of Counseling and Senior Counselor Terry Hurley-Maciulewicz has visited a lot of campuses in her career (more than 200, to be exact! ). So she knows a special campus when she sees one. Today, she’s sharing her takeaways from a recent visit to the University of Richmond (UR).
Read MoreAvoid common college search mistakes parents make, including focusing too much on prestige and rankings, overlooking campus fit, taking over the application process, ignoring financial realities, and putting excessive pressure on students during this stressful transition. Learn how to support your teen effectively by encouraging campus visits, balancing reach and safety schools, starting early, celebrating milestones, and fostering independence while helping them find the right college fit for their unique goals and personality.
Read MoreUnderstand the evolving role of SAT and ACT scores in college admissions with this guide covering test-optional policies, test-blind schools, scholarship requirements, and how to strategically decide whether to submit standardized test scores based on your academic profile. Learn when SAT/ACT scores still matter for competitive colleges and merit-based scholarships, plus essential test preparation strategies and how to strengthen other application components like essays, extracurriculars, and letters of recommendation.
Read MoreDirector of Tutoring Dickson Benesh explains how personalized one-on-one math tutoring builds essential skills, boosts student confidence, fills learning gaps, and provides targeted SAT and ACT test preparation beyond just improving grades. Discover how individualized math instruction creates a supportive learning environment that develops critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, growth mindset, and lifelong skills that help students thrive academically and professionally.
Read MoreMaster college fairs with expert strategies for researching schools in advance, preparing thoughtful questions for admissions representatives, organizing your route through crowded venues, and making strong first impressions that demonstrate genuine interest. This comprehensive guide helps high school students maximize their college search experience by bringing essential materials, taking effective notes, staying open-minded to new schools, and following up with admissions officers after the event.
Read MoreLearn how to build a college list tailored for students with learning differences by researching disability services, learning resource centers, ADA accommodations, and understanding the three models of support. This essential guide covers evaluating campus size, assistive technologies, accessibility features, self-advocacy skills, and finding colleges that provide the right level of personalized support to help students with learning differences thrive academically and socially.
Read MoreAfter a recent visit to campus, College Solutions Counselor Taylor Conti brings back insights and impressions from Boston College. From academics to traditions, she highlights what makes BC stand out and why it might be a great fit for your college list.
Read MoreUnderstand the key differences between Early Decision (ED) and Regular Decision (RD) college applications, including ED's binding commitment and higher acceptance rates versus RD's flexibility to compare financial aid packages and multiple college offers. This comprehensive guide helps students and families weigh the pros and cons of each application timeline, considering factors like college readiness, financial aid needs, application deadlines, and alternative options like Early Action to make the best admissions strategy decision.
Read MoreFormer UVA Law Chief Admissions Officer Cordel Faulk advises high school students and college-bound students thinking about law school to focus on genuine intellectual growth, meaningful extracurricular involvement, and building strong character rather than trying to game the pre-law path. Learn why your undergraduate college choice, major selection, leadership experiences, summer activities, and personal integrity matter more to law school admissions than following a rigid "pre-law" checklist or attending a name-brand institution.
Read MoreMaster the Common Application platform with this step-by-step guide covering how to navigate Common App sections, including profile setup, activities lists, personal statement essays, supplemental essays, teacher recommendations, and college-specific requirements. Learn essential strategies for streamlining your college admissions process, organizing application materials, meeting deadlines, and tailoring responses to maximize your chances of admission to multiple colleges through one efficient platform.
Read MoreOur CEO, Margaret Bolton Baudinet, paid a visit to Sewanee, The University of the South, and discovered a campus that feels both timeless and deeply inspiring. From its expansive natural beauty to its standout creative writing program, Sewanee offers a one-of-a-kind college experience for students who think independently and dream big.
Read MoreLearn how to create a standout college application resume that showcases extracurricular activities, leadership roles, volunteer work, academic achievements, and work experience through clear organization and measurable accomplishments. This comprehensive guide covers essential resume-building strategies including proper formatting, using action verbs, tailoring content to specific colleges and programs, and highlighting impact to impress admissions officers and strengthen your college application.
Read MoreWe’re kicking off our new Tutor Talk series with a post from our Director of Tutoring, Dickson Benesh, a veteran math teacher with nearly three decades of classroom experience. In this feature, Dickson shares his student-centered approach to tutoring and how he helps students build confidence, master challenging material, and achieve their best on the SAT and ACT.
Read MoreSupplemental essays give us the chance to stand out by showing our authentic voices, values, and connections to each college’s community. In this post, we share our best tips for researching prompts, crafting focused responses, and writing standout essays that elevate your college applications.
Read MoreThe 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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