College Hacks & Hot Takes
What NOT to Write About in a College Essay (And What Works Better)
Every year, we review college essays from students who are bright, thoughtful, and perfectly capable of writing something strong.
A...
How to Choose the Right Story for Your College Essay
Every year, we hear the same thing from students when it comes to college essays:
“I don’t know what to write about.”
Most students assume the h...
When Should Students Start Their College Essays? Why Junior Year Is the Best Time
Every year, we see the same pattern.
Some students start their college essays early and work on them gradually.
Oth...
Colleges Are Watching: How Your Online Behavior Could Be Costing You Aid
(No, we’re not paranoid—and you don’t need to be either. But this is worth paying attention to.)
It almost sounds like a co...
For many families navigating the college financial aid process, the CSS Profile can feel like an unpleasant surprise. Unlike the FAFSA, which is relatively straightforward, the CSS Profile dives deepe...
Don't Miss the Sweet Spot: A Guide to a Smooth Junior Year College Prep
As parents of a junior, you might be feeling a mix of excitement and, well, a healthy dose of "Oh no, college applications are ...