college admissions

Myth: Most Students Are Not Accepted into Their First Pick School

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

You might have heard how a surprisingly large percentage of college students aren’t attending their first choice schools. The number has been increasing steadily since 2006. In 2011, around 43% of students did not attend their first choice schools. That’s the lowest it’s been since UCLA began conducting the student survey in 1974. However, it’s …

college admissions

The Importance of College Admissions Interviews

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on November 28, 2023

Some colleges and universities will have interviews as part of their admissions process. Whether they’re required or recommended, college interviews are important. They shouldn’t be skipped, and students participating in them should always put their best foot forward. Here are some things you need to know about college admissions interviews and what you can expect …

ACT & SAT

Must-Know ACT and SAT Vocabulary Words: Part Two

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

Everyone knows that standardized tests love to “trick” you (the ACT, in particular, is known for this). One of the ways they do this is to use higher-level vocabulary. While questions such as “What is the definition of ____?” are few and far between, you’ll likely see many questions that want you to use context …

college applications

The Importance of “Show Don’t Tell” in College Application Essays

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

If you’ve ever taken a creative writing class, you’ve probably heard the classic line “Show, don’t tell.” This rule helps to remind writers that it is far more exciting (and engaging) to show readers how a character is acting rather than telling them how they feel. An example might be instead of saying “Character A …

ACT & SAT

Using the Process of Elimination on the ACT / SAT

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

When it comes to taking tests, you want to give yourself the best chance that you can. This means a lot of studying and knowing your facts. But there will be times when you don’t know something, or you can’t remember all the elements. Times like these call for educated guesses. Benefits of the Process …

college comparisons

Colleges With Impressive Orchestras

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

Whether you want to join one or just enjoy listening to the sound, university orchestras are often a wonder to behold. All those private lessons and practicing really pays off once you’re around other people who are similarly focused on music. The great thing is that few schools have orchestras that are purely music/performance major …

myths

Myths About College Upperclassmen

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

The class divisions in high school can be stark and unforgiving, and you might think that college will be more of the same. This really isn’t the case. Here are a few myths about college upperclassmen to break down for you. I won’t see any upperclassmen in my courses. While there are a few exceptions …

college comparisons

Colleges with Great Career Help Services

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

One of the hardest things about college is knowing that you’re going to need a job once you graduate. The job market isn’t the most promising right now: Colleges know this, and they try to help as best they can. Job fairs, alumni networking, internship opportunities-–all these help you to find employment in your field …

college comparisons

Top Ranked Colleges for Students Interested in International Studies and Study Abroad

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

The prospect of going abroad or learning about governments and cultures besides those in the USA can be a strong draw for some students. There are plenty of schools that offer great programs. Whether you want to travel the world, help teach languages, do international business, or something else entirely. If you’re interested in majoring …