Today, we're exploring a question that many parents have been asking as their teenagers prepare for college applications: Do interviews still matter?

This is a great question, particularly relevant as college admissions become increasingly competitive and multifaceted. The answer, however, is not straightforward. It depends on various factors, including the type of school and the nature of the interview itself.

Types of College Interviews: Informative vs. Evaluative

When discussing college interviews, it's essential to differentiate between two main types: informative and evaluative.

Informative Interviews: These interviews are primarily an exchange of information. They provide...

Many parents face a dilemma: Should their teenagers focus on gaining work experience or devote their time to community service? The answer is not an either/or situation. Both experiences are invaluable and complement each other in significant ways.

Building Work Ethics Through Employment

Having a job teaches students essential life skills. It instills a sense of responsibility, fosters teamwork, and helps them understand the value of earning money. A job requires students to wake up early, follow a schedule, report to a supervisor, and work collaboratively with colleagues. These experiences are vital in developing a strong work ethic and practical skills that will benefit them throughout their...

As we approach the end of June and step into July, the excitement of summer is in the air. It's also a pivotal time for high school students and their parents as they navigate the college admissions process. One of the most frequently asked questions I receive is, "What is a safety school nowadays?" With so many colleges admitting so few students, it's crucial to understand what constitutes a safety school and how to identify them effectively.

Let's first discuss what we mean by safety schools. Also referred to as likely or foundational schools, these are institutions where, based on a student's academic performance, extracurricular activities, and interests, they have a high probability of being...

College admissions can be a stressful and anxiety-provoking time for both teens and parents. Social media comparisons, pressure to get into prestigious schools, and the uncertainty of the process can all contribute to feelings of inadequacy, isolation, and overwhelm.

I emphasize the importance of teens avoiding the "comparison trap." Social media feeds are often filled with carefully curated portrayals of success, leading teens to feel they need to measure up to an unrealistic standard.

Strategies for Parents

Parents play a crucial role in shaping their teen's experience during college admissions. Here are some key takeaways from my advice:

• Manage Your Own Expectations: Let go of assumptions...

As a seasoned college admissions counselor and master strategist, I've guided countless students through the intricate college application maze. One critical aspect often underestimated? The power of a truly impactful essay.

Forget generic formulas. Today, we unlock four hidden gems: essay prompts that stand out in a sea of applications. These prompts empower your teen to showcase their unique experiences and remarkable qualities.

Beyond Rebellion: Unveiling Growth Through Challenge
(Prompt 3)

This prompt delves far deeper than mere dissent. It's about grappling with established ideas, fostering independent thought, and, ultimately, personal growth. Imagine an essay where your teen recounts defying...

Hello and Happy New Year to all the parents out there! 

As we usher in the new year, I want to extend my warm wishes, especially to parents of high school seniors. With graduation on the horizon, it's crucial to ensure that your child's college application journey is on the right track. 

In this week’s blog post, we'll discuss the importance of checking application portals and delve into the revamped Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Let's make 2024 a year of informed decisions and financial planning for your child's higher education.

The Application Portal Check

As parents, it's essential to play an active role in your child's college application process. Many...

Parents, 

Today, we're delving into a crucial aspect of the college application process that often goes unnoticed—the peril of selective and rejected colleges. In a world dominated by rankings and percentages, it's essential to guide teens away from colleges that too often take very few students.  

The Rejected School Conundrum: Unveiling the Odds

In a recent discussion, the prevalence of anxiety among parents about the US News and World Report rankings came to light. What exactly is a rejective school? It's a school that admits only 5% to 20% of its applicants, meaning the majority face rejection. While aiming high is admirable, it's crucial to understand the staggering odds and...

Welcome, concerned parents of the Class of 2024! It's a pleasure to have your attention once again. I'm Shereem Herndon-Brown, the founder and president of Strategic Admission Advice. 

Today, I want to emphasize a crucial aspect of the college application process – meeting deadlines.

In this fast-paced world of college applications, there's one universal truth: deadlines are everything. They can make or break your teen's chances of getting into their dream school. So, let's dive into why deadlines are crucial and how you, as parents, can help your teen succeed in meeting them.

The Significance of Deadlines:

Let's start by acknowledging the elephant in the room – college application...