By: Lydia C. You’ve probably heard that admissions officers aren’t just looking at your grades. So the real question is: how do you make a strong first impression in the college process? In reality, admissions officers often spend only a few minutes on the first read of an application to figure out “what type of student is this,” “who is this student becoming,” and “what would they bring to our
By: Jennifer L. Starting high school can feel like a long way from college, but freshman year is a great time to begin thinking about what you might want from your college experience. You don’t need to choose a school—or even know what you want to study—yet. Instead, use this time to learn about yourself and explore your options. 1. What subjects or activities genuinely interest me? Think beyond the
By: Jennifer L. For many rising high school seniors, one of the most stressful questions about college is: What should I major in? The pressure to “pick the perfect major” can feel overwhelming, especially when students are also thinking about careers, financial stability, and long-term happiness. The good news is that choosing a college major does not have to be a final decision made at age seventeen. The best place
By Sarah M. For many college applicants, scholarships are a crucial way to ease the financial burden of higher education. While general scholarships can be highly competitive, niche scholarships—awards targeting specific interests, backgrounds, or talents—often offer better odds. Here are some practical tips to help you find and win these opportunities. 1. Start with Your Interests and Identity Niche scholarships often focus on unique qualities, such as your hobbies, heritage,
