If you’re planning to apply to the most selective colleges (those with acceptance rates under 15%), there’s a a shift unfolding that you should be thinking about. While most colleges are still test-optional, some of the most competitive ones have returned to mandatory testing. Several...
Congratulations on your college decision! This is such an exciting milestone—one that deserves to be celebrated along with all the traditions of the season: prom, senior week and graduation. I hope you're enjoying these final weeks of high school with pride in all you’ve done...
We’re in the homestretch of the school year, and I know many juniors are juggling AP exams, finals, and perhaps another round of SAT or ACT testing. It’s a busy time, so keep your focus on finishing strong. Your performance now matters and sets the...
As we speed toward the end of the school year, I hope everyone's AP exams are going well and that you’re feeling ready to tackle finals. This is an important stretch, so stay focused on finishing strong. Take advantage of any review sessions your teachers...
In the homestretch of your first year of high school, keep your focus on finishing strong. Final exams and last-term grades are a valuable opportunity to boost your GPA, so it’s worth putting in the effort now. Start by checking in with your teachers about...
Congratulations to the Class of 2026! With admission decisions now in hand, this is an exciting moment. Whether you’re ready to commit or still deciding, take a moment to appreciate everything you’ve accomplished to get here. If you’re weighing multiple options, focus on what matters most...
As the Class of 2027 application cycle approaches, many students are eager to get a head start—and that’s a great instinct. The most important priority right now, however, remains your academics: finish the year strong and do your best on any AP exams. Still, there...
As you move through the second half of 10th grade, it’s a great time to start thinking more intentionally about what you want your college experience to look like—without the pressure of building a formal college list just yet. The goal right now is exploration...
My 9th grader took the PSAT 8/9 in March, sparking conversations about standardized testing. Although I typically don't talk much about the SAT and ACT until students are in 10th grade, I did get some questions from other parents, so I wrote a blog post...
I learned recently that my 9th grader will take the PSAT 8/9 this month. Most of my conversations about standardized testing are with 10th and 11th graders, so I thought I’d share some thoughts on what younger students (and their parents) might want to know. What...