The Common App: Get Those Words on That Page, Part II

In our last post, we covered how to brainstorm and prepare to write. Our advice was to: Tell a compelling story. Write something! Write anything! Don’t beat yourself up! These things take time. Write down or record random thoughts. Now let’s consider some suggestions for how to tackle the...

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The Common App: Get Those Words on That Page, Part I

In recent posts, we provided a few strategies for brainstorming and mapping your admissions essay. In this post, we’ll cover some strategies for turning an idea into an essay. Tell a compelling story. Rather than writing an analytical essay like you would for a class assignment, focus on telling...

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NPR Morning Edition speaks with College Transitions

Washington, DC— NPR’s Morning Edition spoke with Andrew Belasco about his research on test-optional admission policies as they examine why colleges choose to go test-optional. Hosted by Cory Turner, the discussion features several prominent guests offering multiple perspectives on “Why Are Colleges Really Going Test-Optional.” Click here to listen to...

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Test-Optional Admission Policies – Podcast

Episode Description: In this College Transitions podcast, Andrew and Michael discuss the burgeoning test-optional movement and whether students should consider withholding their SAT and/or ACT scores when applying to test-optional institutions.

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AP Exams & The College Admissions Process – Podcast

Episode Description: In this College Transitions Podcast, Andrew Belasco sits down with Michael Trivette to discuss how AP exams factor into the college admissions process. Listeners will gain a better understanding of which AP scores to submit and how scores are interpreted and used by selective institutions.

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How Your High School Counselor Can Help You Get Into College: Confessions of a Private College Counselor

As private college counselors, we are well-versed in the criticisms of school-based counseling.  Unavailable, inexperienced, misinformed—these are the words that some within our industry often use to describe the professionals who work hardest to establish safe and supportive learning environments for our children.  Research consistently shows that school counselors...

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