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Time is Ticking: 8 Tips High School Students Need to Follow Now to Make Their College Dreams a Reality 

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Getting into the college of your dreams requires careful planning, dedication, and strategic actions throughout your high school years. Whether you have your sights set on an Ivy League school or a highly selective public university, the earlier you start preparing, the better your chances of being accepted. Here are several tips to help you build a strong college application:

1. Focus on Academic Excellence Early

Your academic record is one of the most critical components of your college application. Colleges typically begin looking at your grades as early as your freshman year. This means that every grade counts, and starting strong will give you a solid foundation to build upon.

  • Take Challenging Courses: Colleges like to see students challenging themselves academically. This includes enrolling in honors and Advanced Placement (AP) classes. Taking honors classes can also boost your GPA, making your application more competitive. Learn more about how honors classes boost your GPA to understand the benefits of these courses.
  • Aim for Consistency: Rather than aiming for perfection, focus on consistency. Maintaining a high GPA throughout high school is crucial. If you’re aiming for a school that accepts students with a 3.5 GPA or higher, check out these colleges that accept a 3.5 GPA to explore your options.
  • Understand Grade Expectations: It’s important to know when colleges start looking at your grades. Generally, they consider your performance from ninth grade onwards, but they pay particular attention to your junior year. Find out more about what grades colleges look at to ensure you’re on track.

2. Get Involved in Extracurricular Activities

Extracurricular activities are a great way to demonstrate your interests, leadership skills, and commitment to your passions outside of the classroom. They can also significantly strengthen your college application by showcasing your well-rounded character.

  • Choose Quality Over Quantity: While it might be tempting to join as many clubs as possible, it’s more effective to focus on a few activities that genuinely interest you and where you can make a significant impact. Colleges prefer depth over breadth in extracurricular activities. Learn more about how many clubs you should join in high school to maximize your participation.
  • Pursue Leadership Roles: Taking on leadership roles in your extracurricular activities can set you apart from other applicants. Whether it’s becoming the president of a club, leading a community service project, or captaining a sports team, leadership demonstrates initiative and responsibility.
  • Balance Your Activities: While it’s important to be involved, you should also maintain a balance between your extracurricular activities and your academics. Colleges look for students who can manage their time effectively and excel both inside and outside the classroom.

3. Build Strong Relationships with Teachers

Teachers can be invaluable resources when it comes to applying for college. Not only can they offer academic support, but they can also provide letters of recommendation, which are a crucial part of your application.

  • Engage in Class: Show genuine interest in your courses by participating in class discussions, asking questions, and seeking help when needed. Teachers are more likely to remember and write strong letters of recommendation for students who are engaged and proactive in their learning.
  • Seek Help Early: If you’re struggling in a particular subject, don’t wait until it’s too late to ask for help. Building a relationship with your teachers early on will show them that you’re dedicated to your education.
  • Request Letters of Recommendation: When the time comes, ask teachers who know you well and can speak to your strengths and character. It’s also important to give them plenty of notice and provide any necessary information they might need to write a compelling recommendation. For more detailed guidance, check out this resource on how to get letters of recommendation for college.

4. Prepare for Standardized Tests

While some colleges are moving towards test-optional admissions, standardized tests like the SAT and ACT are still an important part of the application process for many schools. Preparing thoroughly for these exams can improve your chances of getting into your desired college.

  • Start Early: Begin preparing for standardized tests well in advance. This gives you ample time to understand the test format, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and improve through practice.
  • Take Practice Tests: Taking practice tests under timed conditions can help you get used to the test format and identify areas where you need to focus more.
  • Consider Test Prep Courses: If you’re struggling with self-study, consider enrolling in a test prep course. These courses can provide you with strategies to tackle different sections of the test and help improve your score.

5. Plan Your College Search and Visits

Starting your college search early can help you narrow down your choices and ensure that you’re applying to schools that are a good fit for you academically, socially, and financially.

  • Research Early: Begin researching colleges as early as your sophomore year. Look into different programs, campus culture, location, and other factors that are important to you. This will help you identify what you want in a college.
  • Visit Campuses: If possible, visit the campuses of the colleges you’re interested in. This can give you a feel for the environment and help you determine if it’s the right fit for you.
  • Attend College Fairs and Info Sessions: College fairs and information sessions are great opportunities to learn more about different schools and speak with admissions representatives.

6. Develop a Strong Personal Statement and Application Essays

Your personal statement and application essays are your chance to showcase who you are beyond your grades and test scores. They allow you to tell your story, explain any discrepancies in your academic record, and demonstrate your writing ability.

  • Start Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to start writing your essays. Give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm, write, and revise your essays. A well-thought-out essay can make a big difference in your application.
  • Be Authentic: Write about something that is meaningful to you. Admissions officers can tell when an essay is genuine versus when it’s written to impress.
  • Proofread Carefully: Make sure to proofread your essays multiple times and ask someone else to review them as well. Spelling and grammatical errors can detract from an otherwise strong essay.

7. Plan Your Financial Strategy

Paying for college is a significant concern for many families, and planning your financial strategy early can alleviate some of this stress.

  • Apply for Scholarships: There are numerous scholarships available for high school students, ranging from academic to extracurricular-based awards. Start researching scholarships early and apply to as many as you can.
  • Fill Out the FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the key to accessing federal financial aid. Be sure to fill it out as soon as it becomes available in October of your senior year.
  • Consider Financial Fit: While it’s important to aim high, make sure to include some financially realistic schools on your list as well. This will ensure you have options when it comes time to make your final decision.

8. Stay Organized Throughout the Process

Applying to college involves managing many moving parts, from keeping track of deadlines to gathering necessary documents. Staying organized can help ensure you don’t miss any important steps in the process.

  • Create a College Checklist: List all the tasks you need to complete for each college you’re applying to, including deadlines for applications, tests, and financial aid forms.
  • Use a Calendar: Keep a calendar or planner to track important dates and deadlines. This will help you stay on top of everything and reduce the stress of last-minute preparations.
  • Keep Copies of Everything: Maintain copies of all your application materials, including essays, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. This will make it easier to keep track of what you’ve submitted and follow up if needed.

By starting early and following these tips, high school students can set themselves up for success and improve their chances of getting into the college of their dreams. Remember, the college admissions process is a marathon, not a sprint, so take it step by step and stay focused on your goals.

Make the most of a college visit this spring

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Berry College in Georgia, USA.

Unfortunately, too often, high school students visit colleges “cold,” meaning they do little or no research about the college before they set foot on the campus and rarely prepare for their time on a college campus. This attitude inhibits high school students from acquiring valuable information they need to make an informed college choice and prevents students from learning all they need to know about everything from available college majors or academic programs to first-year student dorms and overall campus life. Don’t visit colleges this spring without first taking the steps necessary to make the most of your visits. Below are six important college visit tips to keep in mind as you prepare to visit college campuses over the coming months.

1. Before you go – Plan Ahead


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2. Once You’re There – Engage

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3. Don’t Rush to Leave – Stick Around to Learn More

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4. Academics First – Get an Up-Close Seat

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5. What’s it like at Night? – See for Yourself

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6. Digest – Reflect

Once you do head home, or even before you arrive back home, you should digest everything you learned and reflect on what it all means to you. Ask yourself, “What did I think?” What were your impressions of students? Friendly? Appearance? Diversity? Intellectual? Down to earth? Were the students people you’d feel comfortable being around? Did people speak to you? Admissions staff pleasant and helpful? What were your impressions of campus? Attractiveness? Overall facilities? Social atmosphere? Programs available? Athletic facilities? Food? Classrooms? Dorms? Academic environment? School environment? Proximity to large city or rural? Social environment? Discuss your thoughts with your parent(s) and friends but don’t allow their views to color your views too much. At the end of the day, this is a place where you will be living for the next four years; you want to be sure that you make the right choice, and the only way to do so is by making the most of each and every college visit. Good luck.

Visit 26 American colleges all at once through Midwest College Showcase

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The American Midwest offers much more than just fertile and beautiful farmland.

Too many students and parents find it time consuming to sign up for in-person and virtual visits to colleges they are considering. Well, twenty-six colleges in the United States have joined forces to make it easier for you to learn a lot about diverse colleges in on action-packed two-hour period.

The Midwest College Showcase brings together twenty-six institutions with admissions officers ready to answer your questions about undergraduate life and the application process at their colleges.

The following colleges and universities will be represented:

Some of these colleges are quite selective while others are not, but one thing they all have in common is a focus on undergraduate education and the liberal arts.

Admissions officers will be with you LIVE, available to answer all of your questions about college including how to apply, how to earn scholarships, and what makes each institution right for you.

Mark your calendars for the two showcase times:

April 19, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Eastern (3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific)
April 20, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Eastern (4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Pacific)

To sign up for this free event, access this registration form and select your preferred date.

And just like that you no longer have an excuse to avoid virtually visiting some wonderful colleges located in the middle of the United States.

Williams College Fly-In Program Application Now Open

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The 2023 Windows on Williams (WOW) application is now available for rising high school seniors.

The WOW fly-in program provides about 150 high-achieving seniors an all-expenses-paid opportunity to visit Williams’ campus and experience the Williams community. WOW is a selective program open to rising seniors in the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and preference is given to high-achieving students who couldn’t otherwise afford to visit Williams.

According to Carolina Echenique, Williams’ Associate Director for Diversity Recruitment, WOW participants stay in dorms with current students, attend classes, meet with professors, and learn about the Williams admission process and its generous financial aid program.

Williams College is a private liberal arts college located in Williamstown, Massachusetts, in the northeastern United States. Founded in 1793, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious colleges in the country. Situated in a picturesque setting in the Berkshires, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, Williams is known for its beautiful architecture, including the iconic Hopkins Hall and the stunning Sawyer Library.

Interested students should apply here by either of two deadlines: July 1 or August 1.

Colorado State vs. CU Boulder: Digging Into What Sets Them Apart

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CSU Campus

Colorado State University (Colorado State or simply CSU) and University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) are two the major universities in Colorado that get interest from students and parents the world over when it comes time to research colleges. Although these public universities are located just fifty miles apart, they have different histories, missions, and campus experiences that set them apart that students and parents should be aware of as they finalize their college visit plans and college lists.

History and Mission:

Colorado State University was founded in 1870 as Colorado Agricultural College with the primary goal of providing education in agriculture and mechanical arts. Today, the university has expanded its programs to include over 150 majors and a diverse student population of more than 33,000 students (25,300 undergraduates). CSU’s mission is to provide access to high-quality educational opportunities for students from all walks of life, with a focus on research and community outreach.

On the other hand, University of Colorado Boulder was founded in 1876 and is the flagship campus of the University of Colorado system. The university has a long history of academic excellence and research achievements, and its mission is to become a leader in innovation and discovery, both locally and globally. CU Boulder has over 35,000 students (31,000 undergraduates) and offers a wide range of academic programs, with a particular emphasis on engineering, environmental science, and business.

Academic Programs for Undergraduates:

Both Colorado State and CU Boulder offer a wide variety of academic programs for undergraduates. CSU offers over 150 undergraduate majors, ranging from agriculture and engineering to liberal arts and business. Some of the most popular programs at CSU include animal science, biomedical sciences, and business administration. The university also has a strong focus on research, with many opportunities for undergraduates to work with faculty members on research projects.

CU Boulder offers over 300 undergraduate majors, with particular strengths in engineering, environmental science, and business. Some of the most popular programs at CU Boulder include aerospace engineering, environmental studies, and finance. The university is also known for its strong research programs, with many opportunities for undergraduates to engage in research activities.

Location:

Both CSU and CU Boulder are located in beautiful Colorado, with easy access to outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and rock climbing. CSU is located in Fort Collins, a vibrant college town that is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States. The university is surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, with easy access to hiking and skiing opportunities. Fort Collins also has a thriving music scene and a vibrant downtown area with many shops, restaurants, and cultural events. It takes about 66 miles or 1 hour by car to get from the airport in Denver to CSU’s campus

CU Boulder is located in Boulder, a city that is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States. The university is located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, with easy access to hiking and skiing opportunities. Boulder is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, with many museums, galleries, and performing arts venues. The city also has a thriving downtown area with many shops, restaurants, and cultural events. It takes about 38 miles or 34 minutes by car to get from the airport in Denver to CU Boulder’s campus

Another view of CU Boulder’s campus.

Campus Life Opportunities for Students:

Both CSU and CU Boulder offer a wide range of campus life opportunities for students. CSU has over 500 student organizations, ranging from academic clubs and service organizations to sports teams and social groups. The university also has a strong athletic program, with 16 NCAA Division I sports teams.

CU Boulder also has a wide range of campus life opportunities for students, including over 400 student organizations and a strong athletic program with 17 NCAA Division I sports teams. The university is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, with many museums, galleries, and performing arts venues. Students at CU Boulder can also take advantage of the university’s proximity to Denver, with easy access to cultural events and job opportunities in the metro area.

Campus in General:

Colorado State University (CSU) is known for its stunning physical campus that boasts a unique blend of historic and modern architecture, as well as a wealth of natural beauty. Here are some of the features that make CSU’s physical campus unique:

Another view of CSU’s campus.

The Oval: CSU’s iconic Oval is a grassy, tree-lined central gathering place that is often used for events and activities. It’s surrounded by some of the university’s oldest and most historic buildings, including the Administration Building and the University Center for the Arts.

Lagoon: A picturesque man-made lake surrounded by natural beauty, including large trees and plenty of open space. It provides a serene spot for picnics, studying or leisurely walks.

The “New” Chemistry Building: A modern, state-of-the-art building with sustainable features, such as an energy-efficient heating and cooling system and a green roof. The building is a hub for cutting-edge research and collaboration.

The Morgan Library: A distinctive building that houses one of the most extensive academic libraries in the region, with more than 2 million volumes and a variety of study spaces.

The Horticulture Center: This center is a hidden gem on campus and is home to a botanical garden and research facility where students, faculty and the general public can learn about horticulture and sustainable agriculture.

The UCA Building: The University Center for the Arts is a newer addition to the campus and a hub for creativity and the arts. It hosts events, performances and exhibitions, and offers state-of-the-art resources for students studying the arts.

The Rocky Mountains: Finally, one of the most unique features of the CSU campus is its location at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The views from campus are spectacular, and the mountains offer endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.

Overall, CSU’s physical campus is a blend of modern and historic architecture, surrounded by natural beauty and stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. It’s a unique and welcoming environment that inspires learning, creativity and a love of the outdoors.

Meanwhile, the physical campus of the University of Colorado Boulder is known for its unique blend of natural beauty and innovative architecture. Here are some of the features that make the CU Boulder campus unique:

CU Boulder Campus

Flatirons: One of the most iconic features of the CU Boulder campus is the Flatirons, a series of towering, jagged rock formations that rise up directly behind the campus. These natural landmarks provide a stunning backdrop for the campus and offer endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Old Main: One of the oldest and most historic buildings on campus, Old Main is a beautiful sandstone structure that was built in 1876. It houses administrative offices and a variety of academic departments, and its clock tower is a recognizable landmark on campus.

Norlin Library: A large, modern library that houses over 4 million volumes and offers a variety of study spaces and resources for students. It’s also home to the famous “Norlin Quadrangle,” a grassy area surrounded by trees and benches that is a popular spot for students to study and relax.

Engineering Center: The Engineering Center is a newer building that is home to a variety of research and academic programs in the engineering field. The building is designed to be energy efficient and sustainable, and features state-of-the-art technology and resources.

Fiske Planetarium: One of the largest planetariums in the country, Fiske offers a variety of educational and entertaining programs about astronomy and space science. It’s a popular destination for both CU Boulder students and the general public.

CU Art Museum: The CU Art Museum is a contemporary art museum that features a variety of rotating exhibitions and collections. It’s a hub for creativity and innovation on campus, and offers a variety of educational programs and events for students and the public.

Pearl Street Mall: Although not technically part of the CU Boulder campus, the Pearl Street Mall is a popular destination for students and the surrounding community. It’s a pedestrian mall lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers, and is a hub for entertainment and socializing.

Overall, the CU Boulder campus is a unique blend of natural beauty, historic architecture, and modern innovation. It’s a welcoming and inspiring environment that fosters learning, creativity, and a love of the outdoors.

Students:

The students attracted to CSU include:

Colorado residents: CSU is a popular choice for Colorado residents, with more than 70% of its students coming from within the state.

Out-of-state students: CSU also attracts a significant number of out-of-state students, particularly from neighboring states like Wyoming, Nebraska, and Kansas. The university’s location in Fort Collins, which is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities and quality of life, may be a draw for these students.

Diversity: CSU is currently quite committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and has a diverse student population. About 28% of students identify as students of color, and the university has a number of initiatives to support underrepresented students.

Academic interests: CSU offers a wide range of academic programs, including strong programs in agriculture, engineering, business, and veterinary medicine. Students who are interested in these majors and others offered by CSU may be particularly attracted to CSU.

Campus culture: CSU has a friendly and welcoming campus culture, with a strong sense of community and school spirit. Students who are looking for a supportive and engaging college experience may find that CSU is a good fit.

The students attracted to CU Boulder include:

Out-of-state students: CU Boulder is a popular choice for out-of-state students, particularly from California, Texas, Illinois, and New York. The university’s location in Boulder, which is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities and quality of life, may be a draw for these students.

Colorado residents: CU Boulder also attracts a significant number of Colorado residents, with about 60% of its students coming from within the state.

Diversity: CU Boulder is currently quite committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and has a relatively diverse student population. About 25% of students identify as students of color, and the university has a number of initiatives to support underrepresented students.

Academic interests: CU Boulder offers a wide range of academic programs, including strong programs in environmental studies, engineering, business, and the arts and humanities. Students who are interested in these fields may be particularly attracted to CU Boulder.

Campus culture: CU Boulder has a vibrant and engaged campus culture, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and social responsibility. Students who are looking for a dynamic and intellectually stimulating college experience may find that CU Boulder is a good fit.

Admissions:

Both of these colleges are statistically far easier to get into than most of their counterparts on the west and east coasts of the United States. CSU currently has an overall undergraduate acceptance rate of 90% while CU Boulder has an overall undergraduate acceptance rate of 79%. With that said, certain programs are more selective; therefore, if either of these universities end up on your final college list, you should double check with the university in question regarding the expectations of applicants to the major you want to pursue, as it may be far more difficult to join a major as a freshman than the overall undergraduate acceptance rate would lead you to believe. Yet, in overall context, these two Colorado universities are big and relatively unselective, which will turn off those looking for status driven by selectivity but will attract those looking to live on a campus where egalitarianism certainly predominates over elitism. To learn more about undergraduate admissions at CSU click here. To learn more about undergraduate admissions at CU Boulder click here.

In Search of New Mexico’s Most Beautiful College Campus

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Flag of New Mexico.

Today’s reader question comes from Jay in Flagstaff, Arizona:

Question: After living in Arizona with my mom most of my life, I’ve decided I want to go to New Mexico to college to live in the same state as my dad and my dad’s family. I am interested in history, philosophy, English, and maybe political science. But unlike a lot of guys, what’s really most important to me is beauty – I want to live on a beautiful college campus. I am very creative, and I am inspired when I am surrounded by beautiful things. So, what’s your pick for the most beautiful campus in New Mexico?

Answer: Well, this is an interesting question that I’ve never been asked, but I’ll give it a go by focusing on what I deem to be New Mexico’s best three colleges: New Mexico State University Las Cruces, University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, and St. John’s College in Santa Fe.

New Mexico State University (NMSU) is a land grant university located in Las Cruces, New Mexico. I would describe its campus as beautiful and sprawling. The university has a rich history and offers a wide range of academic programs to its students, so when you are not admiring your surroundings, you have a lot of academic options to choose from.

Las Cruces, New Mexico is home to NMSU.

The campus spans over 700 acres and is filled with lush green lawns, trees, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. The university has a mix of old and new buildings, with some of the buildings dating back to the early 1900s and others being recently constructed.

One of the most prominent buildings on campus is Corbett Center Student Union, which serves as a hub for student life and activities. The building houses a food court, a student lounge, meeting rooms, and a ballroom, among other facilities.

Another notable building is Milton Hall, which is the oldest building on campus and home to the university’s main administrative offices. The building features beautiful brick architecture and a clock tower that has become an iconic symbol of NMSU.

New Mexico State University’s campus looks good to me.

The university has several residence halls that provide on-campus housing to students, including Garcia Hall, Mohr Hall, and Zuhl Library. The residence halls are equipped with modern amenities and offer a safe and comfortable living environment for students.

The university also has a number of academic buildings, including O’Donnell Hall, which houses the College of Education, and the College of Business, which is located in Paul L. Kirkpatrick Hall. These buildings are equipped with state-of-the-art classrooms, labs, and facilities for students.

The campus also features several athletic facilities, including Aggie Memorial Stadium, the Pan American Center, and the Intramural Field Complex. These facilities are used by the university’s athletic teams and are available for student recreation and fitness.

Overall, the campus of New Mexico State University is a beautiful and well-maintained environment that provides students with all the resources and amenities they need for a successful college experience. A lot of films are also shot in and around Las Cruces because of the region’s natural beauty; therefore, you can experience a pretty environment on and off campus. Learn more about undergraduate admissions to NMSU here.

The University of New Mexico is located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and encompasses over 600 acres of land in the heart of the city. The campus is known for its distinctive southwestern architecture, including its iconic Hodgin Hall and Zimmerman Library, as well as its lush landscaping, which features lush greenery, colorful flowers, and plenty of open spaces for students to relax and enjoy the beautiful New Mexico weather.

At the center of the campus is the main quad, which is surrounded by many of the university’s key buildings, including the Student Union Building, the Fine Arts Center, and the Mitchell Hall administration building. The quad is a popular gathering place for students, and is often used for outdoor events, such as concerts and festivals.

The Duck Pond on UNM campus.

In addition to its beautiful outdoor spaces, the University of New Mexico is also home to a variety of academic buildings, which house a range of disciplines, including arts and humanities, sciences, engineering, and business. Some of the most notable academic buildings on campus include the Centennial Engineering Center, the Biology Building, and the George Pearl Hall.

The university also has a number of state-of-the-art athletic facilities, including the Dreamstyle Arena, the WisePies Arena, and the Isotopes Park baseball stadium. These facilities are used by both students and members of the community, and are a hub of activity for sports fans and fitness enthusiasts alike.

The view above University of New Mexico.

Overall, the University of New Mexico is a vibrant and dynamic campus, offering a wealth of resources and opportunities for its students, faculty, and staff. Whether you are exploring the beautiful outdoor spaces, participating in one of the many student organizations, or taking advantage of the cutting-edge academic and research facilities, there is something for everyone at UNM. Learn more about undergraduate admissions to UNM here.

Finally, St. John’s College in Santa Fe, New Mexico is a small liberal arts college that is known for its unique curriculum and focus on the Great Books of Western Civilization. Do note that the college has a sister campus in the capital city of Maryland: Annapolis. The Santa Fe campus is actually located on the outskirts of Santa Fe and is surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the southwestern United States.

St. John’s College Santa Fe Campus

The campus itself is comprised of a number of historic buildings, including the main administration building, which dates back to the early 20th century, and several smaller residential buildings that were built in the Spanish Colonial Revival style. The buildings are set among lush gardens and open spaces, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere for students and visitors alike.

One of the most distinctive features of St. John’s College is its commitment to a “tutorial” mode of instruction, in which students engage in one-on-one discussions with their professors and participate in small, seminar-style classes. This approach to learning is designed to foster critical thinking and close engagement with the texts, and is a hallmark of the St. John’s College experience. Based on your potential interest in majors, I think this college may really speak to you since its curriculum dives into “The Great Books.”

In addition to its academic facilities, the campus of St. John’s College in Santa Fe also features several student life amenities, including a dining hall, a student lounge, and a library. The library is an important resource for students, and is home to a collection of over 50,000 volumes, including many of the Great Books that form the basis of the college’s curriculum.

Another view of St. John’s College Campus in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

The campus of St. John’s College is also surrounded by the rich cultural heritage of Santa Fe, with its many museums, art galleries, and historic landmarks. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, and students at St. John’s College have access to a wide range of cultural events and activities, from classical music concerts to contemporary art exhibitions.

Santa Fe, New Mexico is known for some of America’s most distinctive architecture.

Overall, the campus of St. John’s College is a unique and inspiring place, offering a rich educational experience in a setting that is both intellectually stimulating and aesthetically pleasing. Whether you are a student, faculty member, or simply a visitor, you are sure to be impressed by the beauty and charm of this one-of-a-kind college. Learn more about undergraduate admissions to St. John’s College here.

Both of the state universities mentioned above are not only pretty – they are also relatively easy to get into. NMSU accepts roughly 57% of applicants while UNM accepts roughly 65% of applicants. St. John’s accepts a similar percentage of students but attracts a very small sub-set of applicants to begin with; let’s just say it has a far smaller appeal in today’s pre-professionally focused world of higher education. With that said, I love all of these colleges for the right student. While I know you are prioritizing beauty, at some point you may also want to consider cost of attendance and student life outside of the classroom as well. But, drumroll please…Here is my answer to your question: In my opinion, I think St. John’s College has the best campus for you because both the campus itself and its surroundings in Santa Fe are gorgeous. I’d probably rank NMSU second most beautiful campus and UNM third for beauty. Yet, really, they all are pretty easy on the eyes.

And, remember, beauty is in the eye of the beholder! Now that I’ve given my perspective, I strongly encourage you to take a road trip and see these three colleges for yourself, as I always say there is no such thing as a wasted college visit and you would always test drive a car before buying it so you should do the same with college you plan to invest your time and money into for the next four years of your life. Good luck.

How are Ohio State University and Indiana University Bloomington different?

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Indiana vs. Ohio State

Today’s reader question comes from Paulo in Los Angeles, California:

Question: I’m sick of living in LA and am determined to have a college experience in the midwest because I want the classic American college experience and I want to live with people who are friendly and down to earth in an environment that’s calmer and cleaner than what I’ve experienced growing up. I’m down to Ohio State and Indiana, both of which I got into in December. What would you say are the biggest differences between Ohio State University and Indiana University Bloomington from the perspective of an undergraduate student?

Answer: Ohio State University (OSU) and Indiana University Bloomington (IU) are both large, well-respected public universities, but they offer distinct experiences for undergraduate students.

Ohio State University is located in Columbus, Ohio, and is known for its large and diverse student body, as well as its strong academic programs in a variety of fields. OSU has a vast range of clubs, organizations, and activities for students to get involved in, and the campus is home to a vibrant student life, including Greek life and recreational opportunities. One of the key benefits of attending OSU is its size, as the university offers a huge range of academic programs and resources, which can allow students to explore different areas of study and find their passions.

Indiana University Bloomington, on the other hand, is located in the charming college town of Bloomington, Indiana. IU is known for its strong programs in the arts and humanities, and is particularly well-regarded for its music, theater, and creative writing programs. The campus is beautiful, with a mix of historic and modern buildings, and there are plenty of opportunities for students to get involved in campus life and make new friends. Additionally, the smaller size of IU’s student body compared to OSU can provide a close-knit community feel, where students have more opportunities to form close relationships with their peers and professors.

One of the biggest differences between Ohio State University and Indiana University Bloomington is the focus of each university. OSU is a large research university, which provides students with extensive research opportunities and access to cutting-edge facilities and resources. On the other hand, IU is more focused on the arts and humanities, providing students with a more well-rounded liberal arts education that emphasizes creativity and critical thinking.

In terms of student life, both OSU and IU offer a variety of activities, clubs, and organizations, but the atmosphere and feel of each campus can be quite different. OSU has a large, bustling campus, with a vibrant student life, including Greek life and recreational opportunities, while IU has a smaller, more close-knit feel, with a focus on the arts and humanities.

Ultimately, both Ohio State University and Indiana University Bloomington offer excellent educational opportunities for undergraduate students, but the choice between the two will come down to individual preferences and priorities – including your choice of major. If you are interested in a large, research-focused university with a wide range of academic programs and a vibrant student life, Ohio State University may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are interested in a somewhat smaller, liberal arts-focused university with a strong emphasis on the arts and humanities, but which still has school spirit, Indiana University Bloomington may be the right choice.

How does Rice University compare to Stanford University?

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Stanford

Today’s reader question comes from Alex in Sarasota, Florida.

Question: I have the opportunity to attend Stanford or Rice, and at either school I will be playing a sport that I love and have devoted my life to. In your opinion, How does Rice University compare to Stanford University? I’ve spoken at length to the coaches at both colleges but I haven’t visited either. Both seem pretty prestigious, but Stanford is better known, right? I’ve got to decide pretty soon.

Answer: Rice University and Stanford University are both highly regarded universities with strong academic programs and reputations. Yet, there are some differences between the two institutions that may make one more appealing to certain students.

Stanford is a larger university with a more extensive range of programs and resources, and is known internationally for its strong undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields, including the natural sciences, engineering, business, and humanities. The university is located in the heart of Silicon Valley, which provides students with access to a thriving tech industry and a wealth of internship and career opportunities.

Rice University, in Houston, Texas, while smaller, is known for its strong programs in the natural sciences, engineering, and humanities, as well as its highly selective and rigorous academic programs. Rice is also known for its close-knit and collaborative community, and for its strong focus on undergraduate education. The part of Texas where Houston is located is also a completely different climate than the climate experienced in Northern California’s Silicon Valley region.

Ultimately, the choice between Rice and Stanford may come down to personal preferences and academic interests. Both universities offer a high-quality education and a supportive community for students, but each has its own unique strengths and culture that can appeal to different types of students. It’s also worth considering factors such as location, campus size and resources, and program offerings when making a decision between the two universities. I strongly suggest you visit both before making your final choice. If you can’t get there in person, please engage in at least a virtual tour and/or information session with both colleges. Think about where you would be happiest and most successful environmentally, academically, socially, and ultimately professionally.

Regarding prestige, Both Rice University and Stanford University are highly selective institutions, and admissions to both universities is extremely competitive. Admissions criteria for both universities typically consider factors such as academic performance, extracurricular activities, test scores, essays, and letters of recommendation. In recent years, Rice has had an admission rate of around 11%, while Stanford’s admission rate has been around 4%. Do note, however, admission rates can vary from year to year and are influenced by a number of factors, such as the number of applicants and the strength of the applicant pool. Being admitted to either university is a significant achievement, so congratulations! Smart people know of both colleges very well, but you are right to say that Stanford is much better known among the masses. If you know what you want to major in, are you happy with the offerings available at both colleges? That could be a very important deciding factor for you to consider. And, if you get injured, which hopefully won’t happen, would you be happier at one of these colleges than the other? Both universities are committed to enrolling students who are not only academically talented, but also have demonstrated a passion for learning and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.  At the end of the day, though, you need to think about your goals and your future and not worry as much about generic thoughts on prestige, etc. Where do you feel happier? Where do you feel you will more likely be able to achieve your goals?

Rice

Make sure to visit this location on your college tours!

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Dorm rooms – especially those visited on college tours – all look quite similar. Dining halls are increasingly “Gucci,” while science labs look like science labs. Try spending some of your time on campus visiting a place that is far more important than all of those mentioned above!

What Needs to Change in College Admissions

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The ups and downs of the quarantine gave college admissions officers and school counselors a taste of application life to come, as the birth rate for high school graduates continues to slide, and the need to develop new approaches to recruit students increases.  As the profession continues to try and improve college access, and knowing that small differences can make a big difference, here are some considerations for both sides of the desk to ponder this summer over a well-deserved glass of lemonade:

Colleges—move your deadline dates.  November 1 (early applications), January 1 (regular applications), and May 1 (many deposits) are all big dates in the college application world—and they all fell on a Sunday or a holiday this year.  I don’t understand this, since the admissions offices weren’t open, and the vast majority of high school seniors had no access to counselors or other application helpers the day of and before the deadlines.

This needs to change.  Yes, students need to be responsible, and should learn to plan ahead—but perhaps that lesson is better applied to deadlines for things they’ve done before (like papers), not with things they are doing for the first time (like applying to college).  The first Tuesday in November, the second Tuesday in January, and the first Tuesday in May would solve this problem nicely, increasing the quality and quantity of applications to boot. Georgia Tech made the move, and they get kaboodles of applications.  It’s an easy, but important, change.

High Schools—stop working holidays.  Moving the January 1 deadline to a date when high schools are in session is also overdue for school counselors, who have taken a serious shellacking this year with all the student mental health issues arising from COVID.  School counselors have always been overworked, but never able to use the December holidays to recover, since they were expected to help their students make January 1 college deadlines.

It’s time to take a stand.  Assuming the colleges move their deadlines, counselors need to learn to let go.  Send a note to all senior families early in November, letting them know your vacation is—well, a vacation.  If you really can’t let go of your students for that long—or if the colleges unwisely cling to January 1– set two days of vacation for online office hours, and take a breath all the other days.  You have mastered online office hours this year.  Let them be your friend.

Colleges—keep innovating.  One (and perhaps the only) upside of the quarantine was the ability of college admissions offices to adapt major chunks of their traditional approach to recruitment. Test optional, drive-thru tours, and online high school visits suggested it might be OK for everyone to get their hopes up, that some real college admissions reform was in the air.

Yes.  Well.

In a post-vaccine world, we see more signs of returning to “normal” than creating new normal.  Reinventing the entire admissions process is no easy feat, to be sure, but how hard might it be for admissions offices to spend half a day this summer doing “What ifs” to one part of the application process?  Do that for five years, and you have a new admissions paradigm, and a more accessible one—the thing you say you keep wanting.

High schools— mental health and college access aren’t either/or.  I will legitimately blow my top if I read one more post from a high school counselor insisting that the increase in COVID-related mental health needs makes it impossible to do any effective college counseling.

School counseling as a profession has long been showing a mental health bias at the expense of quality college counseling, and this year just seems to have widened the gap.   Counselor training programs plant the seeds of this bias— training programs devote about 7 classes to mental health training, and none to college counseling—and all of this must stop, if only because the dichotomy is a false one.

Discouraged, depressed high school students light up like a hilltop church on Christmas Eve when I tell them college gives them a fresh start to life and learning, proof enough that college counseling affects mental health.  That, plus the American School Counselor Association says college counseling is part of the job.  Counselors truly are overworked, so they can’t do everything they want in any part of counseling.  That said, college can still be part of a key to a better self.  More counselors need to see that, and act on it.

Everyone—stop beating up on the Ivies.  The Ivies and their equally tough-to-get-into institutions largely decided to go test optional this year.  For some reason, this gave a lot of students with B averages the hope that they too could pahk the cah in the yahd, now that they didn’t have to reveal their test scores.

So—more students applied to the Ivies this year than last year.  The Ivies didn’t admit more students this year than last year.  That means their admit rate had to go down, and more students were denied.

That isn’t news—it’s math.  And if you want to blame the Ivies for encouraging students to apply who didn’t really stand a chance of getting in, you’re going to need to make a thousand more jackets for that club.  If you think the Ivies take too few Pell-eligible students, say that.  If you think they admit too many legacies, stay that.  But don’t beat them up for proving the laws of basic ratios.  Any other college in their shoes would have to do the same thing. (Besides, it’s the national media who has left our society with the impression that there are only 25 colleges in America.)

Everyone—about Kiddos.  It’s no secret that college is largely a time of youth, especially with the expansion of adolescence into the early twenties and beyond. But college is also a time to help young people embrace the opportunities of adulthood, skills and attitudes that sometimes require setting the desires of self to one side.

This goal would be more easily achieved if we saw students—and if they saw themselves– as capable of embracing a larger sense of self by referring to them as students, not Kiddos.  They don’t need to grow up in a hurry or, with the right kind of help, succumb to the media images of college choice as a high stakes pressure cooker.  But they also need something more than just a pat on the head and a verbal affirmation that’s the equivalent of a lollipop. Let’s try calling them students.