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Education While Traveling: The Benefits of Student Trips

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Today, students are increasingly interested in traveling and exploring new places while studying. Student trips have become an exciting and effective way to allow students to learn and experience the world firsthand. As students mature cognitively, the holistic nature of a school trip adds to their education because they allow young people practice skills like teamwork, empathy, and solidarity, among others. In essence, trips are an ideal way for them to apply in the real world many of the skills and competencies taught in the classroom.

What Is a Student Trip and How Long Does It Last?

A student trip refers to an educational experience conducted outside the classroom, where students have the chance to learn firsthand about various topics by visiting historical, cultural, or natural sites and engaging with local communities.

The main goal is to provide a more comprehensive and interactive learning experience, fostering the development of social, intercultural, and leadership skills through interactions with people from different cultures.

The duration of a student trip can vary depending on the program, theme, and objectives. Some trips last only a few days or even hours, while others can span months or even up to a year, as in the case of long-term exchanges.

Envoys is an organization that designs programs directly in collaboration with schools. Their motto is “a belief in the transformative power of travel-based education.” Their mission “is to foster a generation of global citizens who lead with empathy and understanding.”

For Envoys, student trips are structured around key pillars that transform these journeys into impactful learning experiences. In an increasingly competitive world, empowering students to recognize their role as catalysts for change is a significant advantage. Building environmental responsibility through experiential learning and encouraging community involvement not only provides valuable tools but also shapes them into better human beings.

Traveling, whether for a short-term or long-term period, can offer numerous benefits for students. Here are some key advantages:

Short-term Trips:

  1. Cultural Exposure:
    • Even a brief trip can immerse you in different cultures, languages, and customs, broadening your perspective and understanding of the world.
  2. Networking Opportunities:
    • Short trips, especially if they involve academic conferences, workshops, or study tours, allow you to connect with professionals, academics, or peers in your field.
  3. Stress Relief:
    • A break from the academic rigor can rejuvenate your mind, reducing stress and potentially improving your academic performance upon return.
  4. Practical Skills:
    • Quick trips can teach you to adapt quickly, manage time efficiently, and navigate new environments, all valuable skills in both personal and professional life.
  5. Resume Boost:
    • Experiences like international internships or short study abroad programs can distinguish your resume, showing future employers your initiative and adaptability.

Long-term Trips:

  1. In-depth Cultural Immersion:
    • Longer periods allow for a deeper understanding of culture, which can lead to fluency in a new language, a more profound appreciation of cultural nuances, and personal growth.
  2. Academic and Career Development:
    • Semesters or years abroad often include academic credits that can count towards your degree. Long-term study abroad or work experiences can also lead to job offers or further career opportunities abroad.
  3. Independence and Self-Discovery:
    • Living in a new country for an extended period fosters independence, resilience, and self-confidence as you tackle life’s challenges without the familiar support systems.
  4. Global Perspective:
    • Being away for an extended time helps you see your own culture and country from an outside viewpoint, enriching your global awareness and empathy.
  5. Personal Relationships:
    • Long-term stays enable the formation of lasting friendships and networks with people from different parts of the world, which can be invaluable personally and professionally.

Both types of trips encourage stepping out of your comfort zone, which is crucial for personal development in the college years. They also add unique experiences to your life story, enhancing your narrative in both personal and professional contexts. However, the choice between short-term and long-term would depend on your academic schedule, financial situation, and personal goals.

Education

Envoys collaborates with schools and local partners to ensure that its programs align with the school curriculum and home life for both parties. The key to this experience is teaching valuable skills and mindsets while promoting a deeper understanding of learning.

Development

Eighty percent of Envoys’ program providers are small, locally-owned businesses, and they prioritize partnerships with women-owned and women-led organizations whenever possible.

Envoys seeks to have a positive and sustainable impact on the communities they work with. Their goal is to address issues of equity and social justice and to develop capacity and empower all involved whenever possible.

Environment

The Envoys team examines and works to mitigate each program’s impact on the natural world, evaluating the relative benefits and costs of non-renewable resources and engaging with natural spaces. Additionally, they partially offset the impact of the study program through carbon offsets.

The Importance of Destinations and Programs

When choosing, there are two key aspects to consider: the type of program and the destination. For instance, if a student is more interested in the arts, they may lean toward a destination like Paris or London. Knowing a student’s preference is essential, as it will shape the entire trip. Envoys offers a broad range of destinations worldwide, both within and outside the United States.

Regardless of the choice, all programs are built on the same pillars. These criteria have been carefully selected to ensure transformative experiences that equip students with essential tools for personal development, university applications, and optimal career growth

Transformative Education: Envoys programs emphasize the importance of practical and immersive learning, equipping students with everything they need for personal transformation and to develop a global perspective.

Personalization and Flexibility: Envoys is committed to tailoring each program to meet the expectations of both the school and students, customizing itineraries and projects for the best experience.

Focus on Educational Outcomes: These programs focus on how travel reinforces the curriculum and fosters key competencies such as communication and leadership, both essential for students’ future success.

Social and Cultural Engagement: Programs integrate impactful social projects, promoting cultural understanding and community engagement. These skills help broaden students’ perspectives, providing them with meaningful tools for the future.

Washington, DC: One of the Most Sought-After Destinations

Washington, DC, is the birthplace of American history. It’s no surprise that student trips to Washington, DC, are among the most popular programs. This program begins by exploring the National Mall and its monuments, then moves on to focus on the successes and challenges of American democracy.

The trip focuses on historical legacies that students not only study theoretically but also explore through practical exercises that help them gain a deeper understanding of the country’s history. Some places include the National Mall, the Supreme Court, a guided tour of the Capitol, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture at the Mall.

The social aspect is also very important, so students visit the National Coalition for the Homeless, where they can learn about its work.

The World Belongs to Those Who Travel

In a world where information is rapid and unfiltered, visiting, studying, and experiencing is a unique way of learning. This teaching method aims to put into practice what students have previously seen in the classroom, preparing them to face the world as capable adults.

Of course, theory is not irrelevant. As in most areas of life, theory and practice are the yin and yang of learning: both are necessary to achieve the best results.

Envoys holds a commitment as its guiding principle: to act with respect, and purpose, and leave a positive impact. Traveling is more than just moving from place to place; it’s about creating experiences that shape people who leave a profound impact. Today’s youth is the foundation of tomorrow. Training them to carry that responsibility with dignity and seriousness is one of the goals of this journey.

Don’t submit your Common App until you…

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Many high school seniors race to submit their college applications in the days right before their deadlines. Sad to say, most high school seniors completing the Common App, even those submitting their apps by early deadlines, make a lot of mistakes that reduce their chances of admission.

The most frequent – and unnecessary – mistakes that I see from students that you need to avoid making include:

1. Neglecting the Quality of the Essay: Students might rush their Common App essay, leading to generic responses or missed opportunities to showcase their unique voice and experiences.

2. Sharing Incomplete or Inaccurate Information: Errors in personal information, such as contact details, dates, or academic history, can create confusion or lead to the disqualification of your application from admissions consideration at highly selective colleges.

3. Overlooking Specificity/Fit in Supplemental Essays: Failing to pay attention to specific prompts for individual colleges or submitting poorly recycled essays from other supplements can hurt students’ chances.

4. Ignoring Word Limits: Many students exceed word limits on essays and don’t even notice that all of their essay didn’t pate into the app! Or students fail to fully utilize the space available, missing the chance to elaborate on key points. As I’ve written before, on your Common App essay, size does matter!

5. Making Formatting Mistakes: Submitting essays or materials with inconsistent formatting, such inconsistent indentations (just use block paragraphs) or extra spacing issues, can be distracting and appear unprofessional.

6. Neglecting Extracurricular Activities: Underrepresenting or failing to explain the significance of extracurricular activities can diminish an applicant’s profile and not submitting a full extracurricular résumé when and where possible.

7. Having a Lack of Specificity/Humanity Overall: Writing vague responses about interests, experiences, or goals can make an application less compelling. Colleges want to see specific examples and insights. SHOW as much if not more than you TELL – not just on the essays, but also on the Activities page and other parts of the app where you squeeze in details about your accomplishments. The more generic an application becomes the more I find it will rely on overused phrases or topics that can make the whole thing feel unoriginal and cliché. I’ll throw into this category relying on artificial intelligence (AI) to write your essays for you! Admissions offices are increasingly willing and able to use AI detectors when assessing essays.

8. Missing Deadlines: Some students mismanage time and miss critical deadlines for submissions, recommendations, or tests.

9. Failing to Edit and Proofread: Simple typos, grammatical errors, or awkward phrasing can detract from the overall impression of the application.

10. Disregarding Instructions/Prompts: Ignoring specific requirements or guidelines outlined by the college can lead to incomplete applications. For example, an increasing number of colleges require additional materials beyond the common portion of the Common App (such as a completed Courses & Grades section on the Common App or the SRAR post-submission of the Common App).

11. Forgetting to Confirm Recommendations: Students sometimes forget to ensure that recommenders submit their letters on time or don’t follow up with them.

Yet, as bad as all these faux pas are, these ugly eleven mistakes are really just hit-and-run summaries and the tip of the iceberg. In the below videos, I share valuable information that builds upon the eleven no-no’s mentioned above. This is information that you must know and think about carefully before you submit the Common App to one or more colleges on your list so you can give yourself the very best chances of admission.

And remember, when you’ve finished your Common App and you want to know if it’s as strong as possible and whether or not, in its current condition, your chances of admission are impressive, inconclusive, or inadequate, you consider getting My Pre-Read.

Good luck!

12. Biggest Common App Mistake Even Smart Students Make

13. Beware of Ghost Essays on the Common App

14. Mind the Gaps in Your Common App Essay

15. Accentuate Your Honors on the Common App Education Page

16. How to Hide and Reveal Your Scores on the Common App

17. Why Sample “Successful” Common App Essays Actually Suck

18. Best & Worst Common App Essay Prompts

19. Most and Least Popular Common App Essay Prompts

20. Should I respond to the “Community disruptions such as COVID-19” prompt?

21. What GPA Should I Report on the Common App?

22. What Your Essay Is So Bad

23. Why Your Essay Is Awful

24. Secret to a Successful First Draft Essay

25. How to Conclude a “Why” This College Essay

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.

Achieving College Goals: Integrating Career Planning With Academic Success

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You have big career dreams, and to achieve those goals, you know you’ll need to work hard during your college years. Yet, academic success has different meanings to different people; the college goals you pursue will depend on the type of career you hope to build after you graduate.

Many ambitious students find it helpful to create a career plan to guide them through higher education and beyond. Career planning utilizes research and introspection to develop a strategic roadmap of goals that will lead you to present and future success. With a career plan in hand, you’ll have a clear picture of what you need to accomplish during the next few years to set yourself on the path toward realizing your biggest career dreams.

Creating Your Career Plan

The sooner you start developing your career plan, the sooner you can use it to work toward your ultimate career goals. Once you have even a small idea of what you want to do with your life, you can begin building a career plan.

Research Your Career

To start, research and explore your chosen career field online. This should help you understand the industries and roles associated with your field of interest, which in turn should point you toward the qualifications you’ll need to secure specific jobs. You can use resources like LinkedIn and Indeed to review the qualifications required for these jobs, and you can also consult the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook to better understand demand and salaries for your anticipated roles.

Outline Your Goals 

Once you have a good sense of the general steps required for your desired career path, you can develop more concrete goals. Early goals might include acquiring the necessary credentials for entry-level positions, which could involve getting a specific degree. You might need to set a goal for internships or networking in the near future. Your later career goals might be a bit more vague — such as earning a leadership position, for example — but you should include these goals in your career plan to drive you toward success.

Compile Your Documents

As you make your career plan, you should assemble a few crucial documents that will help you accomplish your goals. Your resume or CV should be at the top of the pile and easily accessible for updates and changes. Somewhere in your career plan, you might include contact information for members of your professional network. Additionally, you should save copies of relevant evaluations and feedback, which can help guide your decision-making throughout your career.

Career plans can become large and unwieldy, and you may find them difficult to understand and use unless you make an effort to stay organized. To ensure that your career plan is coherent and actionable, you might take advantage of career planning templates and other tools, especially while you are new to career planning as a practice.

Reflect

Self-reflection is an important component of career planning. While you conduct research, you should consistently ask yourself whether your chosen career path aligns appropriately with your interests, talents, values, and personal goals. You need to be honest with yourself — which may mean pivoting your plans or abandoning certain dreams if the reality of a career doesn’t align with your expectations. Especially in the earliest stages of career planning, you might consider journaling about your passions and dreams. Then, you can continue to reference these thoughts and feelings as you put your career plan into action.

Using Your Career Plan During College

Ideally, you will have a career plan in hand before you apply to college programs. Then, you can use your research to build a list of schools that will serve you best and choose your major based on the fields of study utilized in your determined career field. Your career plan should help you prioritize your college classes and projects, so you can appropriately allocate your energy to those tasks that will be most valuable to your future career.

Don’t Focus Exclusively on Grades

Though a high GPA is certainly not harmful to your career, it’s far from the only valuable component of your college education. To determine what matters most during your college years, you should relay the insights provided by your career plan. For example, if you know that you’ll be applying to graduate programs, your grades will be more important than if you’re hoping to launch your own business immediately after college.

Your career plan might also point you toward extracurricular activities that will boost your career success. Joining student organizations, completing internships, visiting conferences, and participating in other activities could be essential to maximizing your career impact during your college years. If you’re too focused on your GPA, you might miss powerful non-academic opportunities that would benefit your career.

Learn To Manage Your Time

To balance your pursuits outside the classroom with earning an adequate GPA, you’ll need to become adept at managing your time — a skill that will serve you well for the rest of your personal and professional life. Some useful time management tips that you can start practicing in your college years include:

  • Find your time management tools. Different people prefer different tools, so you should use college to experiment. You can try different digital calendars, planners, task managers, note-taking systems, and more.
  • Schedule every day. You might not follow your daily schedule to the letter, but having a plan for every day will keep you accountable to your goals.
  • Plan ahead. Try to make plans in advance if you can, and keep track of important dates and events, such as exams. Additionally, be sure to regularly make time to have fun during your college years.

Ultimately, what you do (or don’t do) during college could set the stage for what you do (or do not do) during your career. Putting effort into creating a comprehensive career plan before you enter higher education will give you the direction you need to achieve success during your college years, as well as after them.

Top 5 Benefits of Extracurricular Activities for High School Students

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For many high school students, it’s easy to overlook the importance of extracurricular activities. While academics are essential, engaging in projects outside of the traditional classroom has incredible benefits.

From sports teams and music bands to debate clubs and volunteer services, each offers unique opportunities for personal and professional growth. Not to mention they are a great way to enhance the chances of future personal and professional success.

Interested in learning more? Let’s discuss the top five benefits of extracurricular activities for high school students.

College Preparation

In the world of competitive college admissions, extracurricular activities play a role in distinguishing applicants. Many colleges look for individuals who have demonstrated commitment, leadership, and passion through their hobbies.

Highlighting your accomplishments showcases your dedication and initiative, making you more attractive to the admissions committee. It’s one of the simplest ways to make yourself stand out from the crowd.

In addition to providing more information about extracurricular selection for college admissions, Going Ivy can help you highlight your extracurriculars in the best light and greater your chances of getting into your dream school.

Enhanced Academic Performance

Some people believe that extracurriculars can distract from academics, but this is far from the case. Many studies have shown that students who participate in these activities often perform better in school.

The discipline, time management, and organizational skills developed through certain extracurricular involvement can enhance your academic success. You’ll have an outlet to reduce stress and will be able to focus and concentrate more effectively. 

Social Development

Extracurricular activities provide an excellent platform for students to enhance their social skills. They often require teamwork, communication, and collaboration – which are key components of social development.

Additionally, you’ll meet students and peers with similar interests, as well as mentors and professionals who can offer guidance and advice. These networking opportunities will carry on into other areas of your life.

Personal Development

Another great benefit is that certain activities can assist with personal growth. They offer students the chance to explore their interests, build self-esteem, and develop a sense of identity.

This development extends into adulthood, making you more well-rounded and resilient. They also allow you to discover your weaknesses and strengths, which can lead to better decision-making – especially when it comes time to pick your career path.

Physical and Mental Health

If you enjoy sports in school, don’t forget to consider the physical and mental benefits that come with attending practice. Regular exercise allows you to stay active and healthy which enhances your overall quality of life.

Even creative outlets such as art, music, or drama can greatly improve your well-being. They offer a way to express emotions and find relief from academic pressures.

Final Words

Extracurricular activities offer high school students a wealth of benefits that extend beyond the classroom. From improved academic performance to social skills and physical/mental wellness – the advantages are numerous and far-reaching. By engaging in the right activities, you will not only enrich your high school experience but set yourself up for success.

Tips for Applying to College

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Applying to college is a significant milestone in a high school student’s life. The process can be both exciting and daunting and filled with numerous tasks and deadlines. Successfully navigating this journey requires careful planning, research, and attention to detail, which is why it’s important to review practical tips for applying to college, helping you manage the complexities of the application process, and improving your chances of acceptance.

1. Start Early

Starting the college application process early is crucial. Early preparation also allows you to explore a broader range of colleges and programs, giving you a better chance of finding the best fit for your academic and personal goals.

Set a timeline for your application process, marking important dates such as test registration deadlines, college application deadlines, and scholarship deadlines. Breaking down the process into smaller, manageable tasks can help you stay organized and reduce stress. Additionally, starting early gives you more time to seek guidance from teachers, counselors, and family members.

2. Research Your Options

Thoroughly researching colleges and programs is essential to finding the right match for your interests and goals. Consider factors such as location, size, campus culture, academic programs, and extracurricular opportunities. Look beyond the college’s marketing materials and delve into student reviews, campus visits, and virtual tours.

If you have a specific career path in mind for after college, such as teaching English, research both undergraduate programs and graduate programs that align with your goals. For example, if you’re ultimately interested in teaching English to speakers of other languages, which is certainly an in-demand field these days, regardless of what you study as an undergraduate, you’ll want to consider an online TESOL Master’s degree in order to help you reach your goal. This degree can provide specialized training and open up various exciting career opportunities both domestically and internationally.

Take the time to explore different options and create a list of colleges that meet your criteria. This research will help you make informed decisions and increase your chances of finding a college where you will thrive academically and socially.

3. Understand Admission Requirements

Understanding the admission requirements for each college is critical to ensuring your application is complete and competitive. Each college is likely to have at least slightly different prerequisites, GPA requirements, and document submission expectations. Familiarize yourself with these requirements early in the process to avoid any last-minute surprises.

Typically, colleges require official or self-reported transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. Some programs may have additional requirements, such as portfolio reviews or interviews. Keep track of these requirements for each college you are applying to and ensure that you meet all deadlines.

Pay close attention to deadlines for early decision, early action, and regular decision applications. Missing a deadline can significantly impact your chances of admission. Use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of all important dates and tasks.

4. Prepare for Standardized Tests

Standardized tests, such as the SAT or ACT, are an important component of the college application process. These tests assess your readiness for college-level work and are used by colleges to compare applicants. Preparing for these tests requires time and effort, so start early.

Begin by familiarizing yourself with the format and content of the test you will be taking. Use practice tests and study guides to identify your strengths and weaknesses. Focus your study efforts on areas where you need the most improvement.

Consider enrolling in a test preparation course or working with a tutor if you need additional support. Taking the test early gives you the opportunity to retake it if you are not satisfied with your initial scores.

5. Write a Strong Personal Statement

Your personal statement is a key component of your college application, allowing you to showcase your unique qualities, experiences, and aspirations. A well-written personal statement can set you apart from other applicants and provide a deeper insight into who you are beyond your grades and test scores.

Start by brainstorming topics that highlight your strengths, challenges you have overcome, and experiences that have shaped your goals. Be genuine and reflective in your writing, focusing on what makes you a strong candidate for the college you are applying to.

Draft your personal statement and seek feedback from teachers, counselors, or family members. Revise your essay multiple times to ensure it is clear, concise, and free of errors. Remember to tailor your personal statement to each college, addressing why you are interested in their specific programs and how you will contribute to their campus community.

6. Gather Strong Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation play a crucial role in your college application by providing insight into your character, achievements, and potential from the perspective of those who know you well. Choose recommenders who can speak to your strengths and experiences, such as teachers, counselors, or employers.

When selecting recommenders, consider those who have witnessed your academic progress, leadership abilities, and personal growth. Provide them with ample time to write the letters and offer any necessary information, such as your resume or a list of accomplishments. This helps them write a detailed and personalized recommendation.

Requesting recommendations early in the process is important to ensure they are submitted on time. Follow up with your recommenders to thank them and remind them of the submission deadlines. Strong, supportive letters of recommendation can significantly enhance your application.

7. Highlight Extracurricular Activities

Extracurricular activities are an important part of your college application because they demonstrate your interests, skills, and commitment outside the classroom. Involvement in clubs, sports, volunteer work, and other activities shows that you are a well-rounded individual who can balance academics with other interests.

When sharing extracurricular activities on a college application, highlight those that showcase leadership, teamwork, dedication, and other characteristics that you want colleges to know that you are able and willing to demonstrate. Include details about your roles, responsibilities, and achievements in these activities. For example, if you were a captain of a sports team, mention how you led your team and any awards or recognitions you received.

Demonstrating long-term commitment to a few key activities is often more impactful than a brief involvement in many. Colleges appreciate depth of involvement and the development of skills and passions over time. Some colleges even allow you to upload a full PDF resume to their applications, in which case you’ll want to develop an extraordinary extracurricular resume in order to stand out for all the right reasons. 

Conclusion

Applying to college is a comprehensive process that involves careful planning, thorough research, and diligent preparation. By gathering strong letters of recommendation, highlighting extracurricular activities, preparing for interviews, applying for financial aid and scholarships, and double-checking your application, you can enhance your chances of success. These tips will help you present yourself as a well-rounded, motivated, and prepared candidate. Embrace the journey with confidence, and take each step with the goal of finding the college that best fits your academic and personal aspirations.

Now is the time to build an “Extraordinary Extracurricular Résumé”

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It’s the spring semester, you are a high school junior about to embark on the process of applying to America’s most selective colleges, and you haven’t completed an up-to-date and properly formatted extracurricular résumé? If you want to give yourself the best chance of getting into the colleges on your list later this year, I strongly recommend a course correction – quickly.

My fast and factual online course How to Build an Extraordinary Extracurricular Résumé teaches you the formula for success that up until just a few years ago I only shared with my private college admissions coaching clients. Now you can learn how to apply my startlingly simple and boundlessly customizable recipe for extracurricular résumé success on your college applications by taking How to Build an Extraordinary Extracurricular Résumé at your own pace and at the time and place of your choosing. Since we’re just a few months away from the opening of the 2025-2026 Common App, the time for action is now!

Whether you are an athlete, artist, actor, or all of the above, I strongly suggestion that you need to put together an extracurricular résumé for your college application(s) that will highlight all of your accomplishments if you are to have the best shot of earning admission to all of the colleges and universities on your list. How to Build an Extraordinary Extracurricular Résumé will help you determine the right words and develop the best layout in order to differentiate your extracurricular résumé from the competition. By the end of this course you will learn how to:

  • Create personalized and specific extracurricular résumés that will impress college admissions officers
  • Differentiate your college applications by learning how to and where to include details about your extracurricular activities
  • Brand yourself in ways that will make your college applications stand out from the pack
  • Leverage your résumés in various ways throughout the college admissions process; these résumés are not just for copying and pasting or uploading to the Common Application and other institutional applications
  • Clarify what separates an extraordinary résumé from a clichéd résumé

Best of all, the course is short (only roughly an hour) and cheap (only $33 for lifetime access). So, what are you waiting for? Purchase and learn How to Build an Extraordinary Extracurricular Résumé today!

Syracuse’s Summer College Gives High School Students Many Learning Opportunities

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For sixty-four years, Syracuse University has given rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors the opportunity to explore potential majors and careers through renowned summer pre-college programs.

This summer, high school students are able to choose from over 100 college-level courses offered on Syracuse’s campus, online, or in a hybrid format. Courses exist in a diversity of subjects – from Architecture and AI to Crisis Management and Sports Analytics or Management. Regardless of the course(s) one chooses, all Syracuse Summer College students build their resume or portfolio, enhance their college applications so they stand out to college admissions, and get to test out a subject before committing to their undergrad major. Students also have the chance to earn a Certificate of Completion, Syracuse University credit, or a noncredit transcript.

The scholarship deadline Syracuse’s Summer College is March 1, 2024, and the final application deadline is May 1, 2024, and applications are reviewed and accepted on a rolling basis. Yet, the most popular courses fill quickly, so if you are interested, apply soon. If you have any questions, you can call +1 315-443-5000 or email Syracuse to learn more.

Boston University offers 3 summer journalism programs to high school students

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High school students interested in pursuing a career in journalism, writing, communications, or photography, may want to research and apply to the Boston University Summer Journalism Academy, hosted by Boston University College of Communication.

According to Ermolande Jean-Simon, Student Programs Manager Boston University Summer Journalism Academy, for fourteen years, BU’s summer program has educated high school students about critical skills in news reporting, interviewing, and writing through courses taught by award-winning working journalists, including Pulitzer Prize winners Lara Salahi and Rochelle Sharpe. Students interested in visual storytelling also have the opportunity to learn from veteran photojournalist Stephen Haines of The Boston Globe.

Regardless of which program students choose, BU’s summer program challenges high school students to step outside their comfort zone and experience life as a working journalist through one of three course pathways:

  1. an on-campus residential program from June 24 to July 12, 2024 (for students with some journalism experience);
  2. an on-campus photojournalism program from June 24 to July 12, 2024 (for students interested in visual storytelling); or
  3. a two-week learn-from-home program for high school students at all experience levels, starting June 17, July 1, and July 15.

Applications for the on-campus session are due on April 19. Applications for learn-at-home sessions starting June 17, July 1, and July 15 are due on May 10. Students who apply, are accepted, and fully registered by March 8 can save $400 off the full fee for the on-campus academy or $200 off the full fee of the learn-from-home academy.

There are limited need-based scholarships and financial aid available to students; students should email BU for more information. For more information about the Summer Journalism Academy, visit www.summerjournalism.org.

High School Students Interested in Entrepreneurship Should Consider Babson Summer Study

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Babson College, which is located just thirty minutes from downtown Boston, Massachusetts, is an increasingly popular choice for high school students seeking to study entrepreneurship during their undergraduate careers. And what better way to get a taste of what a Babson undergraduate experience could be like than by taking part in a Babson summer pre-college program exclusively for high school students?

High-achieving high school students interested in engaging in an immersive multi-week experiential online summer program during which they are able to discover what it means to be an entrepreneur should certainly consider Online Babson Summer Study, which takes place from July 8 through July 29, 2024. The program helps high school students cultivate core career skills and a sharp entrepreneurial mindset for overcoming challenges in any setting and in any role while earning four college credits from Babson, which is often ranked as offering one of America’s best undergraduate programs for entrepreneurship.

According to Beth Goldstein, the Senior Director of Babson’s Youth Impact Lab, Babson Summer Study is specifically designed for rising high school juniors and seniors (current tenth and eleventh grade students) who want to participate in interactive online sessions with Babson faculty, world renown entrepreneurship experts, and Babson students while designing a social impact solution with peers from around the world. They will also learn how to apply Babson’s Entrepreneurial Thought & Action® framework for solving problems, and develop the leadership competencies needed to address real-world problems.

Additionally, through Summer Study, rising high school juniors and seniors learn how to assess their abilities and passions to determine which ones they want to strengthen, learn about the U.N. Global Goals and how they connect to challenges in their own communities, and develop prototypes, deliver a Rocket Pitch, and evaluate the feasibility of their team’s social impact solution.

Goldstein encourages prospective students and their families to participate in one of three virtual information sessions taking place over the coming weeks:

  • Wednesday, January 17, 2024, 7:00 PM Eastern Time
  • Tuesday, January 23, 2024, 9:00 AM Eastern Time
  • Monday, February 5, 2024, 8:00 AM Eastern Time

To learn more about the Online Babson Summer Study experience and to register for an information session, visit babson.edu/high-school-programs. The early bird application deadline is February 15, 2024 and the standard application deadline is March 15, 2024.