Today, we are delving into a topic of utmost importance for high school students: the significance of connecting with college admissions offices. This engagement isn't for parents; it’s for your teen to actively communicate with colleges regarding their academic journey and aspirations.

At this critical stage, students have the opportunity to demonstrate their interest in prospective colleges, get their questions answered, and form relationships with admissions officers. Many colleges even track this interest as part of their admission process. As we enter the bustling college application season, it's crucial to encourage your teen to sign up for webinars, attend receptions, and make the most...

If you know me, you know I love writing. Teaching writing, reading writing and yes, simply writing is how I spend most of my day. We're here in September, right in the heart of college essay writing season, and if your teen has not already started their essay, it's crucial not to delay any further. Let's ensure that the wheels are in motion for the college essay process because, now more than ever, the college essay can make or break a college application.

To assist your teen effectively, let's break down the college essay process into four essential steps:

1. Brainstorming

The first step, brainstorming, is a collaborative effort. Both you and your teen have ideas, and it's important to discuss them...

Happy school year!

With college admissions season officially here, I understand that many parents begin to panic. The process can be a daunting time for both parents and students alike. At this juncture, it’s crucial to address a common concern: your child's college essay.

Chances are, you've read your child's essay, and you don't like it. You might even think it stinks or doesn't truly represent who your child is. I'm here to tell you that you're not alone. Many parents and students grapple with this challenge. However, the key is not to rewrite your child's essay for them; it's their journey, after all. Instead, let's work together to ensure your child's essay reflects them authentically.

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Hello there! I'm Shereem Herndon-Brown, the founder and Chief Education Officer of Strategic Admissions Advice. As we step into the new school year, it's crucial for parents to get a grasp on how to navigate the college application process effectively. This process involves various types of applications, each with its own set of deadlines and advantages. In this comprehensive guide, I'll walk you through the different application types and shed light on the benefits of rolling admission – a strategy that can significantly impact your child's college prospects.

A Plethora of Application Types

For parents of seniors or even juniors, understanding the distinctions between various application...

Welcome, parents of the class of 2024 rising seniors! As the excitement or nervousness sets in for your senior, it's crucial to address an important question: 

Has your school’s college counselor been in touch with you and your 12th grader?

With August nearly over and the college application process fast approaching, it's essential to ensure that you and your student are well-informed and prepared. In this blog post, we will discuss the significance of staying connected with your school counselor and how Strategic Admissions Advice can help facilitate this essential relationship.

Understanding the Importance of Communication: 

1.   Assisting Your School Counselor's Efforts: As...

As parents, we all want the best for our children, especially when it comes to their education. Ensuring that they have a well-balanced and aspirational college list is a critical step in the college admissions process. I want to guide you and your teen through the essential considerations for creating the right college list. By redefining success and focusing on your child's unique needs and goals, we can work together to build a list that is best for them. So, let's delve into the process of crafting the perfect college list! 

1. Partnership Between Parent and Child 

Before we begin discussing the college list, let's reiterate the importance of parent and child collaboration in this...

Welcome, parents of high school students in the class of 2024! As we embrace the exciting and crucial time of college essay season, I am delighted to connect with you. It's my favorite time of year because this is when your teens have the opportunity to authentically express themselves through their college essays, revealing who they are, what they value, and what sets them apart.

Why an Authentic College Essay Matters

With so many factors impacting the college admissions process, including the rise of test-optional policies and evolving affirmative action rulings, a student's college essay carries significant weight. This essay is more than just a piece of writing; it's a window into their...

Welcome, parents of high school students in the Class of 2024! As the CEO of Strategic Admissions Advice, I am thrilled to share some exciting news with you. August 1st has passed which marks a significant milestone in the college admissions process: the “rollover” of the Common Application. This event paves the way for students to start applying to colleges and universities.

In this week’s blog post, we will discuss the importance of this date, provide valuable insights, and offer guidance on how to navigate this crucial period successfully. As you embark on this journey with your child, remember that Strategic Admissions Advice is here to support you every step of the way. Let's...

Welcome, parents!

Let’s talk today about the ever-changing landscape of college admissions. It's a topic that affects your high school students and their future. From recent Supreme Court decisions impacting affirmative action to the rise of digital SATs and the growing influence of AI, so much is happening that demands your attention. I invite you to schedule a free Discovery Call with us, so we can help you navigate these changes and ensure the best possible outcomes for your child.

The Impact of the Supreme Court Decision 

You may be aware of the recent Supreme Court decision that has influenced affirmative action in higher education. As a parent, this development might leave you...

Happy summer day to you!

I want to continue our series on supporting our kids through the college admissions process. As a parent and educator, I understand how challenging it can be to strike the right balance between involvement and letting our children take the lead. That's why I want to share some essential do's and don'ts that I've learned as a college counselor and as a parent. By following these guidelines, you and your child can get on the same page and navigate this process with confidence.

Don't Write the Essay

One crucial "don't" in this process is to resist the temptation to write your child's college essay. It's important to let them take ownership of this vital piece of their...