Saint Michael’s College: Vermont’s Hidden Gem for “B” Students
Lisa recently had the chance to visit Saint Michael’s College, just outside of Burlington, Vermont, and it left quite an impression on her. With just 1,100 undergraduates, Saint Mike’s is the kind of place where students are truly known. It’s a Catholic college with a strong service ethic (the only Edmundite institution in the country), and while it may not be a household name, it’s quietly doing something extraordinary: transforming potential into success. Three Advisors, One Goal: Helping Students Thrive What stood out most? Their three-tiered advising model. Every student is matched with: An academic advisor focused on their major [...]
What to Pack for College: What Your Teen Really Needs (and What to Skip)
It was move-out day at the University of Chicago, and the iconic gargoyles kept watch on the chaos below. Convocation weekend meant no parking. The new off-campus apartment was on the fourth floor (no elevator, naturally). The SUV was packed with a bed, mattress, desk, and chair, impossibly, but thankfully, packed into boxes courtesy of the geniuses at IKEA. This all had to be delivered to the new off-campus apartment so there would be space in the SUV to move the dorm items, including approximately 27 hoodies, out. The day was filled with emotions. Goodbye to cozy dorm life and [...]
The Ultimate Guide to College Admissions Interviews
There’s no sugarcoating it—college admissions interviews are intimidating. It’s one thing to hit “submit” on your Common App, but it’s a whole different kind of pressure to sit across (or Zoom across) from someone who might potentially have a say in your college future. Here’s some good news: most college interviews are primarily informational and won’t significantly impact your admissions decision. Here’s some more good news: admissions interviews aren’t about having all the right answers. They’re about giving you a chance to share more of your personal story. They’re a low-stakes (yes, really!) way for you to share more [...]
How to Pick the Perfect Common App Essay Topic
Choosing a Common App essay topic can feel overwhelming. After all, this is one of the few chances in your college application where you get to be completely yourself—no transcripts, no test scores, just you in 650 words. But here’s the thing: the Common App essay is not like most other writing you’ve done. It’s not an academic paper. It’s not a persuasive essay. And it’s definitely not a cover letter where you list your accomplishments to prove you’re a perfect fit for a school. Instead, your personal statement is a story—one that showcases your unique strengths, perspective, and personality [...]
College Review: University of Richmond
Some college campuses just take your breath away, and the University of Richmond is one of them. With its picturesque red-brick buildings, serene lake, and lush greenery, this Virginia gem is the kind of place that makes you pause and think, Yeah, I could see myself here. We had the chance to visit on a perfect, sunny day—ideal for exploring what makes this school truly stand out. Beyond its beauty, Richmond is a powerhouse in several academic areas, boasts an impressive commitment to study abroad, and continues to invest in state-of-the-art student resources. Here’s what we discovered. Academics: Strength in [...]
How to Ask for a Strong Letter of Recommendation for College
A strong letter of recommendation can elevate your college application, providing insight into your character, work ethic, and academic potential. But great letters don’t happen by accident—they result from thoughtful planning and respectful communication. If you want a recommendation that truly enhances your application, here’s how to approach the process the right way. Choose the Right Teacher Not all teachers write equally strong letters, so be strategic about whom you ask. The best recommendations come from teachers who know you well and can speak to your strengths beyond just your grades. Prioritize junior-year teachers. Colleges prefer recommendations from teachers who [...]