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3 Tips to Keep in Mind When You Begin Your College Journey

Embarking on your college journey is a big deal, and getting started on the right foot can make all the difference. Whether you’re a freshman in high school or a rising senior, taking the time to plan your next steps strategically can set you up for long-term success. In this post, we’ll explore three essential tips for starting the college process, from early planning to application strategies. 

Here’s what to expect: we’ll break down effective college search tips, offer actionable college application advice, and cover foundational college preparation steps for high school students.

Start Early to Stay Ahead

Early college planning is no longer optional, it’s essential. The most competitive applicants begin thinking about their future well before senior year. In fact, the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) recommends that students begin exploring colleges as early as sophomore year to avoid last-minute stress and improve decision-making outcomes (NACAC, 2024).

  • Start by making a four-year academic plan. 
  • Choose courses that challenge you while reflecting your interests.
  • Participate in extracurricular activities that showcase leadership, commitment, and intellectual curiosity.
  • Use summer breaks for enrichment opportunities such as internships, volunteering, or college prep programs. These experiences not only enhance your resume but also help clarify your goals.

Pro Tip: Download our College Admissions Mastery Guide to jumpstart your planning. It includes timelines, checklists, and insider strategies to help you stay ahead from freshman to senior year.

Keep a college planning binder or digital folder with test scores, recommendation letters, resume drafts, and activity lists. Staying organized early in high school will save you hours of time when application season arrives.

 

Be Strategic in Your College Search

College search tips are everywhere, but not all advice is created equal. One of the biggest mistakes students make is focusing too heavily on rankings instead of fit. The goal isn’t just to get into a school, t’s to thrive there. When building your list, consider academic programs, campus culture, financial aid, geographic location, and career opportunities.

Use tools like College Board’s BigFuture or Niche.com to filter schools based on your preferences (College Board, 2025). Attend virtual info sessions or schedule in-person tours to get a feel for different campuses. Take notes after each visit; these impressions will be helpful when writing your “Why Us?” essays.

Make sure your final college list is balanced: include reach, match, and safety schools. Experts suggest applying to 8–12 colleges to maximize options without overwhelming yourself (U.S. News, 2025).

Feeling overwhelmed with the search? Our expert admissions consultants can help you craft a personalized college list tailored to your goals and strengths. Schedule a free consultation today to get started.

 

Master the Application Process

College application tips can be the game-changer during your senior year. The application is not just paperwork; it’s a narrative. It should reflect your growth, values, and potential. Be intentional with each component.

Start by creating a timeline for the Common App or other platforms you’re using. Identify deadlines for Early Action, Early Decision, and Regular Decision. Early applications can give you a competitive edge only if you’re fully prepared.

When it comes to essays, authenticity wins. Don’t write what you think colleges want to hear. Instead, focus on personal experiences that demonstrate character and resilience. Use specific anecdotes and revise with feedback from trusted mentors or admissions consultants.

Request letters of recommendation early, ideally by the end of junior year. Provide your recommenders with a brag sheet that includes achievements, extracurriculars, and goals so they can write a strong, personalized letter.

And don’t forget the practical side of applications. Proofread your submissions, track deadlines in a spreadsheet, and always have a backup plan in case of tech issues.

For students navigating this process with limited support, free resources like ScholarMatch and CollegePoint offer mentoring and college preparation 101 tools (ScholarMatch, 2025; CollegePoint, 2025).

Need help perfecting your essays, applications, or overall strategy? Our admissions experts have helped thousands of students get accepted into top-tier universities. Work one-on-one with a consultant who can elevate your entire application.

Final Thoughts

Starting the college process doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With early college planning, a thoughtful approach to the college search, and a clear application strategy, you’ll be well on your way to building a successful future. Remember: this journey is yours, so make it intentional and informed every step of the way.

Understanding College Admissions Timelines: Key Dates and Deadlines
Navigating the complex world of college applications can feel like running a marathon without a map, but understanding the key dates and deadlines is your starting line. So, let’s break down the essential components of your college application timeline.

Early Application Options

For students who have identified their top-choice schools, early application options offer a chance to demonstrate their commitment and potentially improve their chances of acceptance.
  • Early Decision Deadlines: These are binding agreements, meaning if you are accepted, you must attend. Typically, these deadlines fall around November 1st or 15th. “Early Decision deadlines are usually the first to arrive, so it’s crucial to be prepared well in advance” [1].
  • Early Action Deadlines: Similar to Early Decision deadlines, these deadlines are usually around November 1st or 15th, but they are non-binding. This allows you to apply early and receive an earlier decision without committing to the school.
  • Restrictive Early Action (REA) / Single-Choice Early Action (SCEA): These are non-binding but restrict you from applying Early Action to other private institutions. These deadlines also typically fall around November 1st.

Regular Decision Deadlines

For those who prefer to keep their options open, Regular Decision offers a more flexible timeline.
  • Regular Decision Deadlines: These deadlines generally fall between January 1st and February 1st. These deadlines allow you to submit your applications after the early rounds and consider multiple offers. “Regular Decision deadlines give applicants more time to refine their applications and test scores” [2].

Rolling Admissions Deadlines

Some colleges utilize a rolling admissions process, which means they review applications as they are received.
  • Rolling Admissions Deadlines: These colleges typically have a wide window for applications, often starting in September and continuing until the class is full. However, it’s best to apply early, as spots fill up quickly. “Rolling admissions deadlines provide flexibility, but early submission is highly recommended” [3].

Key Dates for College Applications

Beyond application deadlines, several other important dates should be on your radar.
  • Standardized Test Dates: SAT and ACT tests are offered throughout the year. Check the College Board (SAT) and ACT websites for registration deadlines and test dates.
  • Financial Aid Deadlines: FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) opens on October 1st. Many colleges have their own financial aid deadlines, which may be earlier than the federal deadline.
  • Scholarship Deadlines: Research and apply for scholarships early, as deadlines vary widely.
  • College Notification Dates: Early Decision and Early Action notifications are typically released in mid-December. Regular Decision notifications are usually released in late March or early April.

College Application Timeline

Creating a comprehensive college application timeline is essential for staying organized. Here’s a general framework:
  • Junior Year: Focus on standardized tests, exploring colleges, and building your college application checklist.
  • Summer Before Senior Year: Finalize your college list, write your personal statement, and gather letters of recommendation.
  • September-November: Complete early applications, finalize essays, and take any necessary standardized tests.
  • December-January: Focus on Regular Decision applications and financial aid forms.
  • February-April: Await admission decisions and compare financial aid offers.
  • May 1st: National College Decision Day.

College Application Checklist

A well-organized college application checklist is critical for staying on track. Your checklist should include:
  • Standardized test scores
  • High school transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement and supplemental essays
  • Completed application forms
  • Financial aid applications
  • Scholarship applications
It is crucial to stay up-to-date with important college dates. Regularly check the admissions websites of your target colleges for updates or changes. Keep at it, and don’t hesitate to reach out to us for any advice you might need along the way. With over 16 years of experience, we can help you understand and prioritize your college route for success in the admissions process.   
How to Use College Admissions Fairs, Forums, and Resources Effectively

Navigating the college admissions process can be overwhelming, with countless applications, deadlines, and competitive programs. One method to maximize your chances of success is to make the most of college admissions fairs, forums, and various online resources.

These platforms provide invaluable insights into the schools you’re considering, helping you make informed decisions about where to apply and how to strengthen your application. This blog will guide you through using these resources effectively, offering tips on preparation, maximizing interaction, and taking advantage of follow-up opportunities.

Key Takeaways

  • Prepare Ahead: Research schools and prepare specific questions before attending college admissions events.
  • Engage Smartly: Prioritize top-choice schools and have meaningful conversations with admissions officers.
  • Leverage Digital Tools: Use virtual fairs, webinars, and social media for additional insights and updates.
  • Follow-Up: Send thank-you emails to admissions officers to strengthen connections and show interest.

Prepare Before Attending Admissions Fairs and Forums

Preparation is critical when attending college admissions fairs and forums. These events are your chance to make a solid first impression on admissions representatives and gather information directly from the source. To make the most of the opportunity:

Research Attending Schools: Check which colleges and universities will be represented before the event. Make a list of schools you’re interested in, and review their programs, admissions requirements, and campus life. This background knowledge will allow you to ask informed questions and show genuine interest in each institution. It can also help you narrow down the schools that best fit your academic and personal goals.

Prepare Your Questions: Create a list of thoughtful, specific questions that go beyond the basic information you can find online. For example, instead of asking about general application requirements, ask about specific programs, campus culture, and unique opportunities like internships or study abroad programs. Some good examples of questions include: “What types of research opportunities are available for undergraduate students?” or “How does the school support students in finding internships related to their major?”

Organize Your Materials: Bring a notebook, a pen, and a folder to keep brochures, business cards, and other materials you receive. Many events may also offer digital resources, so be sure to have a smartphone or tablet handy to collect and organize information efficiently. Some students bring a résumé to leave with representatives, though this is typically more relevant for job fairs. However, having a one-page resume ready can still help you stand out.

Engage Effectively During the Event

Once you’ve prepared for the admissions fair or forum, making the most of your time during the event is essential. These events are typically crowded, so you need to be strategic about how you spend your time.

Prioritize Your Schools: Start by visiting the booths of the colleges and universities at the top of your list. Representatives are more likely to be available for in-depth conversations early in the event, and lines may be shorter. Once you’ve hit your top schools, use the remaining time to explore other options that could be a good fit for your needs but may not have been on your initial list.

Engage in Meaningful Conversations: When speaking with admissions officers, demonstrate your research by asking specific questions. Don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for the school—mention aspects of the university or college that you’re particularly drawn to and explain why. Engaging authentically will help admissions officers remember you when they review applications.

Network with Other Attendees: Don’t overlook the value of interacting with other students and parents at the event. Their questions might prompt valuable answers from representatives, and you can also share insights about schools and programs you’re considering.

Maximize the Use of Digital Resources and Follow-Up Opportunities

In addition to in-person admissions fairs and forums, many institutions offer virtual events and digital resources to support applicants. These online tools can be just as valuable, especially if you cannot attend in-person events or want to explore schools further after initial meetings.

Leverage Virtual Fairs and Webinars: In recent years, virtual college fairs and admissions webinars have become more prominent. These events often allow you to interact with admissions officers via video, chat, or email. The same principles of preparation apply. Research participating schools in advance and be ready to ask thoughtful questions. Many virtual events offer live Q&A sessions, which can provide unique insights into each school’s offerings.

Utilize School Websites and Social Media: Colleges and universities increasingly use social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter to reach prospective students. Follow the schools you’re interested in to stay updated on admissions deadlines, upcoming events, and campus news. Additionally, many institutions now offer virtual campus tours, which can be a helpful supplement if you can’t visit in person.

Follow-Up with Admissions Officers: After attending an event, be sure to follow up with the admissions officers you spoke with. Send a thank-you email reiterating your interest in the school and referencing any specific conversations you had. This helps keep you on the admissions officers’ radar and shows that you’re serious about the school. Be sure to submit any additional materials they may have requested during your conversation.

Conclusion

College admissions fairs, forums, and digital resources provide an invaluable opportunity to connect with admissions representatives and better understand the schools you’re interested in. By preparing thoroughly, engaging effectively during the event, and using follow-up opportunities, you can maximize these resources to strengthen your college applications and make more informed decisions about your future.

Balancing the Use of AI for the College Admissions Process

Georgia Tech proudly announced, “We believe there is a place for Artificial Intelligence tools to help you generate ideas, but your ultimate submission should be your own.” In fact, Georgia Tech is one of the first schools to provide an official statement on the use of AI college applications. Ironically, universities such as Georgia Tech are also experimenting with the use of AI in college admissions to manage the growing volume of applications, from automated application reviews to predictive modeling for enrollment management. Such use, however, raises real concerns about fairness, transparency, and the human element in decision-making.

In this article, we will explore how universities are leveraging AI, the utility and drawbacks of applicants’ use of it, and strategies for maintaining a healthy balance for the future.

Universities’ Leveraging AI for the Admissions Process

Many universities have embraced AI to streamline admissions processes. According to a survey by Intelligent, 8 in 10 universities will leverage AI in college admissions this coming cycle in 2024. The survey points out that the most common uses of AI in admissions are conducting interviews, communicating with applicants, reviewing transcripts, letters of recommendation, and even personal essays. Georgia Tech, for example, has been experimenting with using AI to sift through large data sets, evaluating thousands of applications more efficiently. NC State University is utilizing AI to process transcripts by extracting key information like student coursework and transfer credits.

While some view AI as a tool to streamline the admissions processes, others approach its adoption more cautiously, given the potential equity implications from AI biases that emerge when evaluating and selecting applicants. Indeed, the possibility of ‘depersonalization’ can result when AI-driven evaluations overlook more nuanced qualities crucial for a candidate’s holistic assessment.

The Pitfalls of Using AI in College Application Essays

Many applicants have shared how tools like ChatGPT have helped democratize the scholarship process, giving them a chance to express themselves in unimaginable ways. This is especially the case where applicants may lack access to support and assistance in the admissions process. In fact, Georgia Tech goes on to state in its official statement on AI: “Use it to brainstorm, edit, and refine your ideas.” Some education companies like Khan Academy are capitalizing on this by creating tools like Khanmigo to help applicants generate ideas. This is definitely a great use case for AI in terms of helping with ideation, stress-testing thoughts, and structuring essays in a clearer, more cogent manner.

As a company, we have worked with thousands of college and graduate applicants over the past 15 years and discovered that one of the most important parts of the application process is authentically conveying the story you tell. The main issue with the use of AI is the cliche, vague, and frankly generic emotions churned out by such platforms as ChatGPT, YouChat, or Bard. Many have complained of the dearth of ‘sensory’ detail and raw emotions that are missing from AI-generated essays. Not to mention, such machine-generated output completely undermines the introspective and cathartic nature of crafting application materials for college or even graduate studies.

In the Inside the Yale Admissions Office podcast by Dunn and Mendlowitz, the hosts state, “When students submit written content to colleges, they must sign a statement affirming that all work submitted is the applicant’s own. Submitting work written by ChatGPT or another generative AI model violates this affirmation.” This is because admissions committees still look far more favorably on a candidate who has taken the time to ideate, draft, and re-edit their materials in their unique voice rather than curate AI content that is copy-pasted and passed off as their own, raising ethical issues and undermining the integrity of the process.

“Note, it’s not hard for administrators to see the difference, especially with the rising use of tools like GPTZero, which helps distinguish between human and machine-generated content.”

Parting Thoughts

The AI revolution is just beginning, and its vast uses are critical for shaping the future. This is especially the case in education and even in the admissions space. However, AI requires careful navigation. Universities must balance efficiency with fairness and transparency, ensuring AI complements human judgment rather than replacing it. They must have a human-in-the-loop to ensure accountability in AI systems and only use them alongside human expertise to mitigate biases and oversights.

While no one can deny the democratizing nature of AI in helping students better reflect, ideate, and structure their thoughts, applicants must preserve the authenticity of their own application materials. We, therefore, anticipate, and frankly hope, that official statements such as Georgia Tech’s will become the norm, not the exception, to help reduce confusion for all those involved in the process. Further, there needs to be a balanced approach that combines AI with the human experience to harness its full potential while upholding the integrity of the application process for both applicants and admissions committees.

Changes in Test Requirements for College Admissions: What You Need to Know

The landscape of college admissions has shifted significantly, especially regarding test requirements. This blog post dives deep into the current state of college admission test requirements. We’ll explore the motivations behind reintroducing standardized tests and examine the alternatives some institutions offer. Understanding these trends can help students navigate their college application journey more effectively and maximize their chances of success.

 

  

Key Takeaways

  • Certain colleges are re-emerging with test score requirements.
  • Understanding the evolution of these policies aids in planning applications.
  • Many institutions still offer alternatives to standardized tests.

 

Back Story

Many institutions adopted test-optional or test-blind policies during the pandemic to accommodate applicants amidst widespread testing disruptions. However, some universities are now reinstating standardized tests like the SAT and ACT, sparking discussions about their relevance and impact on student selection.

With test score requirements reintroduced at several colleges, students, and educators must stay informed about these changes. Knowing which schools require tests and which do not can significantly shape application strategies.

Evolution of College Admission Test Requirements

College admission requirements have transformed significantly over the decades, especially concerning standardized testing.

Historical Perspective on Standardized Testing

The College Board established the SAT in 1926 to assess a student’s readiness for college-level academics. Introduced in 1959, the ACT quickly gained traction and spread to all states by 1961. Both tests provided a uniform measure to compare students from diverse educational backgrounds. By the 1970s, submitting test scores became essential for college applications, driven by studies emphasizing their predictive value for academic success.

Recent Shifts in Test Policies

Colleges have recently changed their view of standardized tests. Many institutions adopted test-optional or test-flexible policies, allowing students to choose whether to submit test scores. This trend is supported by evidence showing that high school GPA and coursework are robust predictors of college success. During the fall 2021 application cycle, many applicants chose not to submit standardized test scores, reflecting a shift in the perceived necessity of these exams. Indeed, changes in test score disclosure rates highlighted the evolving landscape of college admissions.

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated changes in test requirements. With test centers closing and exams being canceled, many colleges temporarily suspended mandatory test submissions. This shift addressed logistical challenges and sparked ongoing discussions about the equity and relevance of standardized tests. By the fall of 2022, some schools maintained these flexible policies, allowing students to apply without test scores. This period underscored the adaptability of institutions and their efforts to reduce barriers for prospective students during unprecedented times. The pandemic highlighted the need for more equitable and holistic approaches to evaluating college applicants.

Current Test Requirements and Alternatives

The landscape of college admissions is continually evolving, especially regarding standardized test requirements like the SAT and ACT. Various policies and approaches have been adopted to address accessibility, equity, and student needs.

  • Test-Optional Policies: Many colleges allow students to decide whether to submit their SAT or ACT scores (i.e. Johns Hopkins University). This approach aims to reduce stress and emphasize other aspects of the student application, such as GPA, essays, and extracurricular activities.
  • Test-Flexible Policies: These policies allow students to submit alternative test scores, such as AP exams, IB exams, or even state graduation exams, instead of traditional standardized tests (i.e. New York University). This flexibility caters to students with diverse strengths and academic backgrounds.
  • Test-Blind Policies: Colleges with test-blind policies do not consider standardized test scores, even if students submit them (i.e. University of California system-wide). These institutions focus entirely on other application elements, helping mitigate the disadvantages faced by students who may not perform well on standardized tests.

Parting Thoughts

As the landscape of college admissions continues to evolve, staying informed about changes in test requirements is more important than ever. Preparing for the possibility that more colleges and universities will reinstate standardized testing is crucial. 

Data from the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) shows that in the 2022-2023 application cycle, 55% of institutions were test-optional. Still, this figure is expected to decrease as more schools revert to pre-pandemic policies. This shift underscores the importance of understanding each institution’s requirements to tailor application strategies effectively.

By anticipating these trends and utilizing available resources, students can better navigate the complexities of the admissions process, ensuring they present the strongest possible applications and maximize their chances of success.

 

Strategies for Strengthening Your College Application Despite a Low GPA
Many students with a low GPA may feel discouraged or hopeless when applying to graduate school or other academic programs. While GPA is a critical factor in the admissions process, it is not the only one. Admissions committees consider various elements, such as test scores, extracurricular activities, leadership experience, and professional achievements. This Blog will cover what you can do to improve your candidacy by taking a holistic approach to your application, highlighting your strengths, and demonstrating potential in other areas to offset a low GPA.

Key Takeaways

  • A low GPA does not necessarily mean the end of your academic journey.
  • Admissions committees consider factors beyond GPA, such as test scores, extracurricular activities, leadership experience, and professional achievements.

Understanding the Impact of GPA on Admissions

A GPA is usually an indicator of a student’s academic ability and potential for success in an academic program. While other factors, such as test scores and letters of recommendation, are also considered, a high GPA can help a student stand out in a competitive applicant pool. Minimum GPA requirements vary across different institutions and programs. Researching the GPA requirements for your desired programs is essential to determine whether you meet the minimum qualifications. For example, the University of California system requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 for California residents and 3.4 for non-residents for admission to their undergraduate programs (though this can differ from university to university within the system). Conversely, highly selective institutions like Harvard University may require a minimum GPA of 3.8 or even higher.

Assessing Your Academic Record

When evaluating your academic record, take an honest and objective look at your transcript to identify areas of weakness and take steps to address them. Identifying Weaknesses in Your Transcript Review your transcript for patterns or trends in your grades. Seek feedback from teachers, guidance counselors, or academic advisors to gain valuable insight into your academic strengths and weaknesses and develop a plan to address any areas of concern. Calculating Your GPA for Target Schools Research the GPA requirements for the schools you are interested in. Use a GPA calculator to determine your GPA for each school. Keep in mind that GPA is just one factor in admissions, and other aspects of your application, such as extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation, are also important.

Strategic Academic Planning

Selecting Courses to Boost Your GPA Taking additional courses that align with your interests and strengths can boost your GPA. Choose challenging but manageable courses, and consider retaking courses in which you received a low grade to demonstrate your commitment to improving your academic performance. Utilizing Academic Support Resources Use academic support resources such as tutoring services, study groups, and academic coaching. Developing good study habits and time management skills can help you stay organized and focused, leading to better academic performance.

Alternative Evidence of Academic Ability

Applicants with a low GPA can still demonstrate their academic ability through alternative evidence, such as highlighting relevant coursework and projects and demonstrating competency through standardized tests. Highlighting Relevant Coursework and Projects Showcase your strengths by discussing how you excelled in specific courses or projects related to your field of interest. Highlight any research or publications you have completed, focusing on their relevance to your desired program.

Extracurricular and Leadership Activities

Extracurricular activities and leadership positions can significantly help overcome a low GPA. Admissions committees value well-rounded applicants who have demonstrated leadership, teamwork, and a commitment to their community. Showcasing Leadership and Teamwork Participate in extracurricular activities to demonstrate leadership skills and teamwork abilities. Highlight specific examples that showcase your role and the impact of your efforts. Community Service and Volunteer Work Community service and volunteer work demonstrate a commitment to your community and a desire to impact positively. Provide specific examples and quantify the impact of your volunteer work.

Effective Application Strategies

Crafting a compelling narrative can strengthen your application when you have a low GPA. Admissions officers want to see that you have overcome challenges and have a clear vision for your future. Writing a Persuasive Addendum Use the addendum as an opportunity to explain your low GPA and showcase your strengths. Be honest about any extenuating circumstances, focus on how you have overcome challenges, emphasize your strengths and achievements, and use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and experience. Remember to ‘explain’, not make excuses, as to why you do not have a high GPA. Make sure to check out our College Admissions Mastery Course for exactly how to create a bulletproof addendum! Securing Strong Letters of Recommendation Strong letters of recommendation can strengthen your application. Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths and potential. Provide them with specific information about your academic and future goals and any challenges you have faced to help them write a personalized and persuasive letter. Applying Early or Through Rolling Admissions Applying early or through rolling admissions can increase your chances of acceptance, especially if you have a low GPA. Early applicants are often reviewed before the application pool becomes too competitive. Rolling admissions allow you to submit your application as soon as it is ready, rather than waiting for a specific deadline.

Conclusion

A low GPA does not have to be the end of your academic journey. By taking a holistic approach to your application, assessing your academic record, strategically planning your courses, and highlighting your strengths, you can overcome a low GPA and strengthen your application. Focus on demonstrating your potential and commitment to academic success to increase your chances of acceptance into your desired program. Again, make sure to check out the College Admissions Mastery Course to ensure you have all the leverage necessary to overcome a low GPA and get yourself into your dream program!!
How to Stay Motivated as a Student: Checking in on Your Well-Being
Are you having trouble feeling motivated enough to finish out the school year? If so, you may need to examine your overall well-being. Here’s how to do a mid-semester wellness check-in:  

Wellness for Students

Wellness is not taught to students, so many times we feel like we are only surviving from semester to semester. Society’s constant need to work is causing ‘getting by’ day after day to become a dangerous norm. According to the BBC, overworking is actually killing people. It has become the largest occupational killer. Overworking causes a fight or flight response in the human nervous system.  We must stop these bad habits as students, to prevent ourselves from becoming victims to this socially acceptable way to die. Therefore, thriving must be our goal because surviving is no longer enough. As students, we must look at ourselves as whole beings and not just as work machines. A focus on wellness is the way to do this.  Understanding wellness also gets us away from the toxic side of self-love culture. It is a holistic approach that allows us to look inwardly and outwardly at ourselves. To get started on a wellness check-in there are four questions that I like to ask myself:
  1. How am I doing physically? 
  2. How am I doing socially?
  3. How am I doing emotionally? 
The answer to these questions will add up to give us an answer for how we are doing with our overall well-being. This may help in decerning what is the root of the motivation struggle.   

Physically

Physical wellness is ensuring that the best decisions are being made when it comes to taking care of our bodies. Most people choose one or two parts of their physical well-being to focus on and overlook the rest. Neglecting one of them will most likely harm the effects of another. Physical Wellness includes (but is not limited to): 
  • Nutrition
  • Physical activity 
  • Sleep
  • Skincare 
  • Haircare
  • Water intake 
  • Blue light screen time
 

Socially

UC Davis has a helpful guide to social wellness. Social wellness is cultivating meaningful relationships with proper boundaries and trust. As well as,  showing respect to everyone in your life. Social wellness includes (but is not limited to):
  • Proper Boundaries
  • Cultivating healthy relationships
  • Participating regularly in social interactions
  • Trying new activities
  • Meeting new people
  • Knowing and using your support system
 

Emotionally

How well we are able to handle feelings and emotions while adapting to changes and stresses in life is the core of emotional wellness according to the National Institutes of Health. College is a time of transitions and unknowns, so stress, anxiety, and depression are issues for college students. This is especially true after the pandemic. PBS News reported that 1 in 4 college students have considered suicide. Taking care of our emotional health is what we must do to continue living. Emotional Wellness includes (but is not limited to): 
  • Stress levels 
  • Happiness 
  • Coping with change
  • Acceptance of emotions
  • How you treat others 
  • The perspective you have of yourself
  • Managing difficult emotions
  • Having a purpose in life
  • Positive/negative self-talk
  • Gratitude 
  • Having a safe space to process
  • Getting professional help for mental illnesses
  In school, we will not be successful when these areas are off. If physical wellbeing is neglected then our brain has less capacity to process information. Our self-esteem plummets when our social lives are not healthily maintained. In addition, we will not have the necessary social skills to succeed in our professional life. Our emotional health can often be the foundation of our well-being, as unaddressed mental struggles can affect our functioning in life. So, as students, we need to check in with ourselves and make sure that we are wholistically doing well. If we are not, there are steps that we can take to get better. Stay on the lookout for more blogs discussing how to improve in each of these areas.     ~ Victorie Norman | WTA Communications Director
Alternative Ways to Pay for College
College Debt is everyone’s nightmare. The excitement of admissions fades one students think about how they are going to pay for college. If this is you,  you’re far from alone. Even high earners believe that the cost of college is out of reach. In fact, the Institute for Higher Education Policy says that families with incomes above $100,000 a year don’t believe they can pay for upwards of 6 in 10 U.S. universities.
Even when students can afford to pay for college, they’re still likely to graduate with a mountain of debt:
  • The average student loan borrower leaves college today with $37,172 in student loans – more than twice the amount of 2005 grads
  • The average monthly student loan payment has jumped by more than $150 over roughly the same period
Scholarships & Alternative Means to Pay for College No problem, you say. There are tons of scholarship and work-study opportunities out there. You merely have to know where to look for the ones that work for you. And, to an extent, that’s true. The operative word, though, is tons. For instance, whole books have been written about the FAFSA, an often-confusing online form required to get need-based aid. Even when you think you’ve filled out everything correctly, each school uses the information how they choose.

Alternative Means Education Financing Companies.

Fortunately, there’s another – saner – way. Alternative Means Education Financing companies, such as NextGenVest, can save you time, money, and aggravation. You leverage technology and the hive mind of your peers, plus company experts, if needed, to find and take advantage of every break you can – before the decision-makers dive into your numbers. “The scholarship hunt can be daunting and overwhelming, but with organization and preparation, it’s possible. I applied to the Marshall, Rhodes, and Gates-Cambridge scholarships at one time and researched to make sure I was a good fit. This provided me with the financial means to pursue my dream by studying at one of the top universities in the world!” ~ Nadine Jawad, Rhodes Scholarship recipient and Director of College Admissions at Write Track Admissions Think out of the box, maximize your time to research all financing possibilities out there, and make sure to tap into the expertise that exists to get that life-changing and affordable degree in your hand!   ~ Abhijith Ravinutala | Write Track Director of Professional Services & Graduate Admissions Expert   Contact Write Track Admissions to out how you can fund your dream degree!
All Things LSAT- A Practical Guide on Preparing for the LSAT
Reading Time: 4 minutes   Are you confused about all things LSAT? Do you feel unprepared and overwhelmed? Well, you’re not alone and we want to help. The next LSAT test date is fast approaching, and here are some study tips to make sure that you are successfully preparing. Most law school applications open any time between the end of August to the beginning of October. With this in mind, it’s safe to say that it’s time to start preparing, and Write Track Admissions has some tips to help you out. 

When to take the LSAT

It is best to get the test-taking done ASAP, for peace of mind and for the optimal admissions decision. Also, the longer you hold off on taking your LSAT, the later you finish your application. Law school has rolling admissions, so if  you wait to apply to your top choices, your chances of admission will have diminished. Taking the LSAT early, allows you to retake it, so that you can improve your score with time to spare.  There are several more LSAT testing dates available in 2021. Be sure to keep track of when you need to register.   

Hacks to Help you Prepare

To prepare yourself for the harsh reality of standardized testing, here are some LSAT prep tips from Write Track’s founder, Hamada:
  • TAKE PRACTICE EXAMS: Note the common mistakes you make in each set of questions and keep practicing them until you feel confident. 
  • REAL EXAMPLES: Don’t use anything but REAL past exam questions (also known as LSAT Direct Questions), because once you see and understand the patterns in real questions, you will be able to master anything they give you.
  • TESTING CONDITIONS: Make sure to simulate real exam conditions and timing. For example, do three sections back-to-back with a minute break. Then, take a 15 mins break and do two sections back-to-back. Also, use the same pencil, timer, and chair you will use/find in the exam. If they don’t allow ear plugs then don’t use them in the practice exams.
 

The Digital LSAT

The digital LSAT is being universally administered electronically on Microsoft Surface Go tablets. They have been pre-loaded with LSAC patented software that features a timer with 5-minute warnings, and interactive options such as answer elimination, text highlighting, and question flagging (so you can revisit those tough ones later).  The digital LSAT is comprised of Logical Reasoning, Analytical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, and Writing Sections. 

Here are some hacks that can help during the LSAT:

  • Figure out the question type to help you narrow down the answers.
  • The digital LSAT test allows you to flag questions. Skip ones that take you a long time to answer, and come back to them questions later. 
  • Use the text highlighting feature to flag the root of each question. The question is often hidden amongst a lot of other extraneous information. 
  • Read all the answers before selecting one to help you identify potential test, tricks, and red herrings.
  • Practice for speed, because often the exam comes down to technique, practice, and timing.
  • If all else fails, just skip hard logical reasoning questions, then come back to it at them at end.
If you follow this methodology, you will already be ahead of the game. And if for some reason you don’t score where you want to, keep a cool head and try again! Write Track’s Founder, Hamada, took the LSAT 3 times and still did not do great. However, by using storycrafting he managed to get into Berkeley Law. It is important to stay strong in the face of adversity, even when that face is the LSAT staring you down.  A strong application can help balance out test score weaknesses!

LSAT Scoring

While on the subject of test scores, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page regarding how, exactly, the LSAT is scored. Your LSAT score is comprised of a raw total of the number of questions you answered correctly. There are then converted into a score in the range of 120-180. The average LSAT score is 150… but if you have your sights set on attending a top law school, your score should be in the “well above 160” range.    If you are not meeting your LSAT score goals, contact Write Track for help with rounding out your application. We will use your story to craft a winning application, ensuring that you have the best chance at getting admitted to your dream law school, just like our founder, Hamada.     Aly Hartman | Write Track Communication Officer Write Track Admissions  
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