When it comes to college admissions, extracurricular activities are a key part of what makes an application stand out. Admissions officers at top universities in the US aren’t just looking for students with perfect grades and high test scores—they want students who demonstrate passion, commitment, and leadership through their extracurricular involvement. However, a common mistake students make is focusing on quantity over quality, thinking that being involved in a long list of clubs and activities will impress admissions committees.

In reality, colleges value depth over breadth. A strong extracurricular profile is built on a focused set of activities that reflect your genuine interests and demonstrate meaningful growth and contribution. This guide will help you build a strategic extracurricular profile that strengthens your college application and highlights your unique strengths.

Achieving a strong SAT score is a pivotal step for many students aiming to attend college. With the rise of test-optional policies during the pandemic, many may wonder if the SAT is still essential. The reality is that standardized testing is once again taking center stage as colleges seek to assess a student’s readiness for higher education.

As a college consultant, one of my top pieces of advice for ensuring a successful college experience is to visit college campuses. While virtual tours are available, there’s no substitute for experiencing a campus in person.

Summer is a great time for you to explore new interests, develop skills, and dive deeper into subjects you’re passionate about. Whether you’re working a summer job, attending a pre-college program, volunteering, or taking specialized courses, these activities can enhance your college application while giving you valuable real-world experience.

Choosing your college major is an important component in your college journey. A major isn’t just a class schedule—it’s the academic path you’ll follow and, to some degree, the foundation for your future career.

Congratulations! You've been accepted to college and know where you're headed. The excitement is real, but it’s also completely normal to feel some anxiety about the transition.

On July 15th, 2024, the ACT organization announced significant changes to its structure, design, and timing. For students preparing for the ACT in the coming years, these changes will have a meaningful impact on how the test is administered and how it is approached.