Encourage your child to immerse themselves in the activities they love. When a student focuses on what genuinely interests them, not only does their natural motivation lead to greater achievements, but their happiness and satisfaction grow as well. Colleges appreciate applicants who show deep commitment and excellence in a few areas over those who spread themselves too thin. This doesn’t mean that other interests or explorations should be abandoned, but the heart of their application should be what they are truly passionate about. This focus allows for a deeper and more meaningful engagement in activities, which is exactly what admissions officers are hoping to see. Your child’s individual journey, the things they’ve learned about themselves, and the depth of their engagement are what make their application stand out. Colleges are looking for students who are ready to contribute to their campus community in their own unique ways. So, let your child lean into their strengths, embrace their passions, and let those be the guiding force of their application.

Our essay review process not only refines your child’s application essay for coherence and engagement but also emphasizes their authentic voice through personalized feedback. We provide tailored feedback to sharpen the essay’s clarity, impact, and authenticity, and we continue to refine it through subsequent reviews to ensure a compelling narrative. Our commitment extends beyond simple essay polishing; we aim to foster your child’s writing skills and confidence through a collaborative journey. To enhance understanding, we include video reviews where we talk through our comments, ensuring students grasp the nuances of our guidance. Moreover, we employ additional measures such as having students read their essays aloud, a practice that helps capture their natural voice more effectively. This holistic approach is part of our commitment to nurturing your child’s writing skills and confidence, providing clear communication and support at every phase of the journey.

Our first meeting is on the house, serving as a key moment for both of us to see if we’re a good match for your family’s ambitions and expectations! It’s more than just an overview of what we do; it’s a chance for us to dive into your child’s dreams and hurdles, setting the stage for a customized strategy from the get-go. This initial consultation is all about laying the groundwork for a partnership built on trust and mutual values—essential for smoothly sailing through the college admissions process. It’s our way of making sure we’re the right team to support your child’s distinctive journey.

I understand the question about SATs being truly “optional” can feel a bit like deciphering a secret code. While many colleges have adopted a test-optional policy, allowing you to decide whether to submit SAT scores, it’s a bit more nuanced than just optional or not. For students who excel in standardized testing, submitting a strong SAT score can be akin to adding a preferred qualification to one’s job application. It’s an opportunity to showcase another facet of your academic readiness and can complement your high school record, especially if you feel it reflects your capabilities well. But remember, if testing isn’t your strength, colleges truly mean it when they say “optional.” Admissions officers are looking for a complete picture of who you are—your passions, your growth, your dedication. There are so many ways to shine through your essays, your extracurricular activities, and your letters of recommendation. If a school you love is test-optional and you believe your SAT score is an accurate representation of your academic abilities, sending it in can underscore your commitment to excel. But if you feel your strengths lie elsewhere, trust that your application can stand tall on those merits alone. It’s about putting your best foot forward, whether that includes a test score or not. Whatever path you choose, it’s your unique journey, and schools are looking to see that authentic, dedicated student eager to learn and grow with them.