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How to Deal with Anxiety During College Admissions (Especially Now)

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If you’re a high school student going through the college admissions process right now, you’ve probably had this thought at least once (or, let’s be honest, a dozen times):

“This is too much.”

And you’re not wrong. The college admissions landscape is shifting so fast it can make your head spin. Test-optional policies are still in flux. AI-written essays are being debated in admission offices. Legacy admissions are being challenged. Some colleges are bringing back standardized tests, others are doubling down on holistic review. Financial aid packages seem less generous than before, and deadlines keep creeping earlier. It’s no wonder students are overwhelmed.

So first, let’s take a breath together. Deep inhale. Deep exhale.

Now let’s talk about how to actually manage the anxiety that comes with all of this. Because you can manage it. It won’t be perfect. It might still feel messy at times. But if you give yourself the time to plan, prepare, and take care of your mental well-being, you’ll not only survive this process — you’ll grow through it.

First: Acknowledge That This Is Hard

Let’s not sugarcoat it. Applying to college has always been stressful, but it’s more complicated now than it used to be.

You’re expected to juggle classes, extracurriculars, jobs, family responsibilities, friendships, and your mental health — all while trying to craft the perfect application narrative that captures “who you are” in just 650 words. That’s a tall order.

So if you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or like you’re falling behind, don’t beat yourself up for it. You’re having a very normal human response to a very high-pressure situation. Give yourself permission to feel what you’re feeling.

This isn’t a weakness. It’s awareness. And awareness is the first step toward getting through it.

Understand What You Can Control (And What You Can’t)

One of the biggest sources of anxiety is trying to control things that are out of your hands. Admissions decisions? Out of your control. Whether another applicant has a Nobel Prize? Also out of your control.

But here’s what is in your control:

  • How much time you dedicate to researching colleges that actually fit you
  • How early you start on your personal statement and supplements
  • How open you are to feedback on your essays
  • How well you plan out your application timeline
  • How you manage your sleep, screen time, and self-talk

Focusing on what you can control grounds you in reality. It keeps you from spiraling. You’re no longer trying to predict the unpredictable — you’re making the most of your own effort, and that’s powerful.

Start Earlier Than You Think You Need To

There’s a saying in marathon training: “If you wait until you’re ready, you’re already behind.”

The same applies to college applications. Anxiety spikes when everything feels last-minute. But when you spread out the workload — brainstorming essays in the summer, finalizing your list early fall, getting rec letters by September — it gives your brain space to breathe.

And honestly? That’s half the battle. So if you’re reading this in spring or early summer: amazing. Start now. Even something small, like journaling what you want in a college or jotting down ideas for your personal statement, is progress.

Preparedness doesn’t mean perfection. It just means giving yourself the best shot at success by staying ahead of the chaos.

Break the Process Into Tiny Pieces

When we look at college admissions as one giant mountain, it’s terrifying. But when we turn it into smaller steps, it becomes more manageable — and less anxiety-inducing.

Instead of thinking:

  • “I have to apply to 10 colleges by December and write 20 essays and get straight As this semester or I’ll never get in anywhere…”

Try this:

  • “Today, I’ll draft the intro to my Common App essay.”
  • “This week, I’ll research three schools I haven’t looked at yet.”
  • “This month, I’ll ask my teacher for a recommendation.”

Every little win builds momentum. And every time you check something off the list, you quiet that inner voice that says you’re not doing enough.

Build a Support Team (Seriously)

You’re not meant to go through this alone. And no, that doesn’t mean you need to have it all figured out or have a private college counselor on speed dial. But you do need people.

That might be:

  • A parent or guardian who helps you stay on track with deadlines
  • A teacher who’s willing to give you essay feedback
  • A friend who’s also applying and gets the stress you’re under
  • A school counselor who knows the admissions landscape
  • A mentor, neighbor, coach, or even an older sibling

Build your circle. Talk to them. Lean on them when you’re stuck or discouraged. Even just saying, “Hey, I’m feeling really anxious about college stuff right now,” can take a huge weight off your chest.

And if you feel like you don’t have that support yet? Seek it out. Start by having one honest conversation with someone you trust. You might be surprised how willing people are to show up for yollu.

Don’t Let Rankings Run Your Life

This might be controversial, but it needs to be said: chasing a school because of its ranking alone is a fast track to burnout and disappointment.

Rankings are based on weird formulas that don’t account for what you actually want. They won’t tell you whether a school is a good fit. They won’t tell you if you’ll thrive there emotionally, socially, or academically. And they certainly won’t tell you if you’ll be happy.

So ask yourself:

  • What kind of environment do I want?
  • What type of professors do I learn best from?
  • What’s my ideal class size?
  • Do I care more about prestige or belonging?
  • Do I want to be close to home, or far away?

When you choose schools based on what feels right for you, not just what looks good on paper, the process becomes less stressful — and way more exciting.

Watch Your Mental Habits

Here’s something no one talks about enough: the way you think about college can either fuel your anxiety or help you manage it.

If your self-talk sounds like this:

  • “If I don’t get into [dream school], I’m a failure.”
  • “Everyone else has better grades than me.”
  • “I’m not unique enough. My story isn’t special.”
  • “I’ll never be good enough for this.”

…then it’s no wonder you feel anxious. That inner dialogue is like carrying a backpack full of bricks.

So let’s reframe:

  • “College admissions is unpredictable, but I’m giving this my best effort.”
  • “I have strengths that matter, even if they’re not traditional.”
  • “There are hundreds of colleges where I can succeed.”
  • “This doesn’t define me. It’s just one part of my story.”

Train your brain to talk to yourself like you would to a friend. Gentle. Encouraging. Realistic. Over time, this rewiring can genuinely reduce anxiety.

Have a Plan B (And C, and D)

Let’s be real. Not every outcome will go your way. And part of what makes this process so nerve-wracking is the fear of what if.

What if I don’t get in anywhere? What if I don’t get financial aid? What if everything goes wrong?

So — what’s the antidote? Have a Plan B. And a Plan C. Not because you’re giving up on your dreams, but because you’re smart enough to prepare for multiple outcomes.

Maybe that means:

  • Including some financial safeties on your list
  • Exploring community college-to-transfer pathways
  • Looking at gap year programs or internships
  • Being open to colleges you hadn’t considered before

There’s power in being flexible. And knowing that your success isn’t tied to just one outcome takes the pressure off. You’re not failing if you pivot — you’re adapting. That’s real resilience.

Take Care of Yourself (Yes, Even During Application Season)

We get it. The essays feel more important than sleep right now. But hear this: a well-rested, emotionally stable version of you will write better essays, interview more confidently, and manage setbacks more calmly.

So please:

  • Get 7–8 hours of sleep a night, even during crunch time
  • Eat actual meals, not just snacks and caffeine
  • Move your body — walk, run, stretch, anything
  • Take intentional breaks (phone down, brain off)
  • Talk to someone if the stress feels like too much

You’re not a machine. You’re a human being. And the best applications come from students who are functioning like humans — not robots in panic mode.

Remember: You Are More Than Your Application

At the end of the day, your worth is not based on whether a college says yes.

You are not your GPA. You are not your SAT score. You are not your rejection letters.

You are a whole person with stories, strengths, values, and potential. The college process doesn’t define you — you define you.

So go into this season with that truth in your back pocket. Yes, do your best. Yes, aim high. But don’t lose yourself in the process. You’ve got so much more to offer than what fits on a college application.

Final Thought

If no one’s told you this today: you’re doing great. Even if you’re behind. Even if you’re confused. Even if you’re scared. You’re taking steps toward your future, and that matters.

This process is hard, but you’re not alone. Keep going. Keep asking questions. Keep being kind to yourself. And remember — preparation is your best friend. The more you plan, the more confident you’ll feel.

The future is still yours to shape.

You’ve got this.

Yale Receives 1,000 Fewer Early Action Applications

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Yale announced early this year that it would return to being a test-required institution for first-year applicants during the 2024-2025 admissions cycle, so it should come as no surprise that Yale received 1,000 fewer Single-Choice Early Action applications this fall than it did last fall. Middling athletes, development cases, legacies, and underrepresented applicants are the hardest hit by Yale’s decision to yet again require standardized testing as part of its application review process.

This is what Affirmative Action and Test-Optional looks like at University of Wisconsin-Madison

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What does a decade’s worth of increasingly identity-based admissions look like at University of Wisconsin-Madison? You’re about to find out. But formal Affirmative Action, which was outlawed by The Supreme Court of the United States last year, is just part of the story.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison has seen a notable rise in popularity among first-year applicants in recent years driven by several factors including, but not limited to:

Academic Reputation
UW-Madison is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the U.S., known for its strong programs in fields like engineering, business, education, and the sciences. Its research output and faculty achievements have bolstered its appeal.

Diverse Offerings
The university has expanded its academic programs and research initiatives, attracting students with varied interests. New interdisciplinary programs and innovative majors have broadened its appeal.

Campus Experience
The vibrant campus life, with a rich array of extracurricular activities, cultural events, and a strong sense of community, has drawn students looking for a well-rounded college experience.

State and National Recognition
Increased visibility through national media and success stories of alumni have enhanced the university’s reputation. The Badger sports teams also contribute to a sense of pride and community.

Affordability and Financial Aid
Competitive tuition rates for in-state students, along with robust financial aid programs, make UW-Madison an attractive option for many families.

Strategic Enrollment Efforts
The university has implemented targeted outreach and recruitment strategies, including diversity initiatives, to attract a wider range of applicants.

Location
Madison, known for its quality of life, cultural vibrancy, and outdoor activities, is an appealing location for students seeking both academic and personal growth.

As a result of these factors, the number of first-year applicants has surged, leading to increasingly competitive admissions processes in recent years. This trend reflects not only the university’s strengths but also a broader demand for high-quality education and campus experiences. Yet, with more demand, comes lower acceptance rates and harder calls for admissions officers who are also deputized to increase the university’s undergraduate student diversity in an environment increasingly focused on identity.

The result is that University of Wisconsin-Madison has made significant strides in increasing diversity based on race, ethnicity, and the college going history of students’ families. The student body reflects an increasing mix of racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. To make this happen, University of Wisconsin-Madison has prioritized:

Recruitment Initiatives
UW-Madison has launched targeted recruitment programs aimed at high schools with significant populations of underrepresented students. This includes partnerships with community organizations and outreach to diverse communities.

Diversity and Inclusion Offices
The university has established offices dedicated to diversity and inclusion, which work on initiatives to support underrepresented students and foster an inclusive campus environment.

Scholarships and Financial Aid
Increased funding for scholarships aimed at underrepresented groups has helped to make the university more accessible. Programs like the Wisconsin Covenant provide opportunities for students from low-income backgrounds.

Cultural Centers
UW-Madison has various cultural centers, such as the Multicultural Student Center and the Black Cultural Center, which provide support, programming, and community for students from diverse backgrounds.

Curriculum and Training
The university has incorporated diversity training into its faculty development programs and has encouraged the inclusion of diverse perspectives in course offerings.

Retention Programs
Initiatives aimed at supporting the success of diverse students, including mentorship programs, academic support, and community-building events, have been implemented to improve retention and graduation rates.

Test Optional Admissions
Under the guise of COVID-19, the university went test optional in 2020, but the pandemic is long gone and UW Madison remains test optional.

Increasing Use of Affirmative Action
The video below illuminates how the university’s admissions officers increasingly harnessed Affirmative Action to grow certain demographics’ presence on campus through the 2022-2023 admissions cycle.

With the results of the Class of 2028 census now in, we can now look holistically at ten years worth (all the way back to the 2014-2015 admissions cycle) of admissions and enrollment data from first-year applicants/students at University of Wisconsin-Madison, which I dissect below. Only time will tell how diverse (in all ways) the university will be over the coming years in our brave new post-Affirmative Action world.

ACT making Science section optional in 2025

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The ACT is changing in two majors ways starting in 2025.

First, students will have the ability to choose whether to take the Science section, which up until now has been a required section of the test. English, Reading, and Math remain will continue as the core sections of the ACT test that will result in a college-reportable score. Like the Writing section, which is already optional, Science will be offered as an additional section. This means students can choose to take the ACT, the ACT plus Science, the ACT plus Writing, or the ACT plus Science and Writing.

As a result, the ACT Composite score will be the average of the English, Reading, and Math scores. The Composite and section scores will continue to be reported on the same 1-36 scale, and those behind the ACT believe that colleges will continue to use these scores as “powerful indicators of achievement and college readiness.”

Students will also continue to be able to take the test online or with paper and pencil.

Second, ACT has also reduced the length of the test by up to one-third, depending on which version of the test students take. The new core test will last just two hours, compared to three hours for the current test. To achieve this, the test will include shorter passages on the Reading and English sections and fewer questions in each section (44 fewer questions total), which will allow students more time to answer each question.

Both of these major changes, along with other enhancements to modernize the test, will roll out starting with National online testing in Spring 2025 and then for school-day testing in Spring 2026. So, members of the high school Class of 2026 and later are most impacted by these changes to the ACT.

As part of the announcement, Janet Godwin, ACT CEO shared, “I’m thrilled about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead for us and those we serve. Our unwavering commitment to meeting the evolving needs of students and educators drives us forward. These enhancements are just the beginning, and we are eager to continue revolutionizing how we prepare learners for future challenges and opportunities. For more than 65 years, ACT has embraced innovation, and we are focused forward on delivering our vision to transform college and career readiness pathways so that everyone can discover and fulfill their potential.”

ACT, which was formally part of a non-profit organization, was purchased by the private equity firm Nexus Capital Management in April.

David Blobaum, co-founder of Summit Prep, notes that the ACT’s Science section was always named incorrectly. “How many students have chosen not to take the ACT because it has a so-called ‘Science’ section? Countless. Incorrectly naming this section probably cost the ACT a billion dollars (or more) over its 70 year history.” Blobaum argues the Science section should have been named “Reading Graphs and Tables” long ago. “That’s more accurate and less scary.”

In addition, Blobaum shared that he “can’t see any way that students won’t score higher on the new ACT tests. If the content is the same (and the ACT has promised it will be) and students get more time per question…then how will students not do better?”

Only time will tell whether student performance on the ACT actually improves. Also up in the air are which colleges will continue to require or recommend the newly-optional Science section and which colleges will be perfectly happy to require or recommend the ACT with only its new core sections. Stay tuned.

Dartmouth to Request SAT or ACT for First-Year Applicants Again

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Dartmouth College

Dartmouth College has announced that it will yet again require high school students in the United States to share either an SAT or ACT score as part of their application for admission. The change takes effect for students applying for Fall 2025 admission (those students who will begin their applications in Summer or Fall 2024).

“The reactivation [of the test-required policy] has been modeled on a very comprehensive research study by a group of faculty,” said Lee Coffin, Vice President and Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid, in an interview with The Dartmouth.

“We’re getting more and more applications from all around the world, and so in order to find high achieving students, test scores turn out to be a really helpful tool,” said Bruce Sacerdote, Dartmouth Class of ’90, who was part of the research group of faculty. “Our analysis shows that we potentially miss out on some great applicants when we don’t have [test scores].”

“Social science has a concept called the ceiling effect,” Coffin said. “When you plot people in a curve, there’s a cluster at the top of the curve. That’s our applicant pool. Most of the people who apply to Dartmouth are straight A students.”

The New York Times has shared more motivations for the decision, here is the working group’s report, and Dartmouth’s full updated standardized testing expectations for first year applicants, which actually are different depending on whether an applicant goes to high school in the US or goes to high school outside of the US. To learn more about what this means going forward, get my thoughts in the video below.

The 5 Most Ridiculously Underrated Colleges in America

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When one works in college counseling for as long as I have, it’s hard not to pick up on patterns – most notably patterns in the colleges that are most attractive to the vast majority of students and parents.

Many of the students and parents with whom I work every year are mesmerized by some or all of the following:

While I respect and appreciate the value students and parents place on these characteristics, and in many cases my students would be very wise to populate their college lists with colleges that meet one or more of the criteria listed above, doing so doesn’t leave a lot of room for some truly exceptional colleges that many students should also be strongly considering.

As a result, in recent years, I’ve taken note of which colleges I find myself most vociferously encouraging students and parents to research in order to augment their college lists with smart and savvy but below-their-radar options. And over the years, these colleges have changed as the world around us has changed.

While a lot has changed over the years (most popular majors, in demand careers, the economy as a whole, etc.), the three guiding principles of return on investment (ROI), academic and preprofessional fit, and values alignment have informed and will continue to inform my professional practice when recommending colleges to families.

Return on Investment
ROI serves as the foundational reason why I recommend certain colleges far more than others. For an edifying and enjoyable experience alone, one should read a good book or go on vacation; college is first and foremost an investment.

Academic and Preprofessional Fit
Yet, a student’s specific academic aptitudes/interests and professional goals should and do often come in tied for first with ROI or at least a close second when I consider which colleges I recommend to students and parents.

Values Alignment
Rounding out the top three characteristics that I consider quite important when matching students with right fit colleges: the student should be excited to engage with students, professors, and others within his or her college community. For all the talk of diversity in the world of college admissions, at the end of the day, there does need to be something that binds a college’s students and staff together, and this is where values alignment beyond academic and career interests comes into play.

Which brings us to the five colleges that, in 2023, I believe are the most frequently unconsidered without prompting and therefore ridiculously underrated by students and parents attempting to cobble together smart and savvy college lists. Without further ado, let’s begin our countdown, which will allow me to explain why these are the colleges that I’m most frequently promoting with my families at present.

Santa Clara University’s campus in Santa Clara, California, USA.

5. Santa Clara University
Santa Clara, California

Santa Clara University (SCU), which I’ve proudly plugged here before, weighs in at a respectable #55 in US News’ Best National University Rankings; yet, in my estimation it’s still severely underrated because of what it is and where it is and the fact that its ROI is on average quite excellent.

In a state dominated by big and bureaucratic (UCs, CSUs), hyper-selective (Stanford, USC, UC Berkeley, UCLA), and/or really unimpressive (shall remained unnamed) institutions, Santa Clara University, in California’s famous Silicon Valley, represents a refreshing best of all worlds environment. It’s not too big and not too small, it has extremely well-regarded liberal arts and preprofessionally focused majors, it has a lovely and relatively safe campus, and it’s all nicely packaged in Jesuit wrapping. At a time when career-oriented majors like engineering, computer science, business, and anything to do with innovation are in high demand, it’s nice to find all of the above and more on one campus fortified by time-tested values.

Some cool Santa Clara University traditions that underscore the institution’s values include:

The Bronco Statue: The Bronco statue is a prominent landmark on campus, located near the entrance to the Leavey Center. Rubbing the Bronco’s nose is considered a tradition for good luck before exams or other significant events.

Mass of the Holy Spirit: At the beginning of each academic year, Santa Clara University holds the Mass of the Holy Spirit, a tradition that dates back to the university’s founding in 1851. This Mass is a symbolic way of invoking the guidance and blessings of the Holy Spirit for the upcoming year.

Golden Circle: The Golden Circle is a tradition that honors alumni who graduated 50 or more years ago. During commencement, these alumni lead the graduating class into the ceremony, passing on the legacy of SCU to the next generation.

Midnight Breakfast: As finals week approaches, the university hosts Midnight Breakfast, where faculty and staff serve breakfast to students late at night in the campus dining hall. It’s a way to provide some stress relief and support during the exam period.

Red Rally: Red Rally is an annual event that takes place during Welcome Week, celebrating the start of the new academic year. Students, faculty, and staff come together for a night of music, games, and performances.

24-Hour Play Festival: The 24-Hour Play Festival is a unique theater event where students write, direct, and perform short plays within a 24-hour time frame. It showcases the creativity and talent of SCU’s theater community.

Tunnel of Love: Before Valentine’s Day, the campus walkway between the Mission Church and the library is adorned with hearts and decorations, creating a “Tunnel of Love.” Students and visitors often walk through this festive display.

Chimes Tower: The Chimes Tower, located at the center of campus, plays the SCU fight song and other tunes at various times throughout the day. It’s a familiar and cherished sound on campus.

Campus-Wide Day of Service: Santa Clara University emphasizes a commitment to service and social justice. The university organizes a campus-wide Day of Service, where students, faculty, and staff engage in various community service activities in the local area.

Santa Clara University from above.

Overall, I’m consistently and particularly impressed by Santa Clara University’s:

Jesuit Tradition: One of the key aspects that sets Santa Clara University apart is its Jesuit tradition. As a Jesuit institution, SCU emphasizes a well-rounded education that incorporates both academic excellence and a commitment to social justice and service. The university places a strong emphasis on ethics, moral development, and the formation of responsible and compassionate leaders.

Academic Breadth and Depth: Considering it only has roughly 6,000 undergraduates, Santa Clara University has quite the diversity of majors taught by high quality faculty. Popular majors include Business Administration (including concentrations like Finance, Marketing, and Entrepreneurship), Engineering (including disciplines like Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Electrical Engineering), Psychology, Biology, Communication, Economics, Political Science, Computer Science, Finance, and Applied Mathematics

Small Class Sizes and Personalized Attention: SCU’s relatively small student population allows for smaller class sizes and more personalized attention from professors. This creates a conducive environment for student-faculty interaction, fostering mentorship and individualized learning experiences.

Silicon Valley Location: The university’s prime location in the heart of Silicon Valley provides unique opportunities for students. Santa Clara University benefits from its proximity to numerous tech companies, startups, and innovative organizations, offering students access to internships, networking events, and potential job opportunities.

Commitment to Social Justice: Santa Clara University’s commitment to social justice aligns with its Jesuit values. The university encourages students to engage in service-learning and community involvement to address real-world issues and make a positive impact on society.

Diverse Campus Community: SCU prides itself on maintaining a diverse and inclusive campus community. Students from various backgrounds and cultures come together, enriching the overall learning experience and fostering an environment of understanding and acceptance.

Extracurricular Opportunities: SCU offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations to cater to diverse interests. Whether it’s sports, arts, cultural clubs, or academic organizations, students have ample opportunities to get involved and explore their passions beyond the classroom.

High Employment Rates: Santa Clara University has boasted high post-graduation employment rates for its graduates. A significant percentage of students secure job offers or pursue further education within a few months of completing their undergraduate degrees.

Competitive Starting Salaries: Graduates from Santa Clara University often receive competitive starting salaries compared to national averages. The university’s location in Silicon Valley, with its thriving tech industry and other lucrative sectors, contributes to the higher earning potential for many graduates.

Strong Alumni Network: The university boasts a robust and supportive alumni network, which can be instrumental in helping undergraduates with career guidance, job opportunities, and networking connections. SCU’s alumni network is known for its support and networking opportunities. Many graduates find professional success with the help of the connections they make through this well-established network.

Internship Opportunities: Santa Clara University’s proximity to Silicon Valley provides access to a plethora of internship opportunities in various industries. These internships can often lead to job offers and provide valuable work experience.

Engaged Career Services: The university’s dedicated career services office works closely with students, providing guidance, resources, and assistance in securing internships and job opportunities. This support can significantly impact post-graduation employment outcomes.

Graduates in High-Demand Fields: SCU offers programs in fields that are in high demand in the job market, such as engineering, business, computer science, and other STEM-related disciplines. Graduates in these areas tend to have strong career prospects.

ROI / Payscale Data: College Salary Report Performance: #8 | College ROI Rank: #36
28% of degrees are awarded in STEM. The medium salary from alumni with zero to five years of experience is nearly $76,000 and the medium pay for alumni with ten or more years of experience is nearly $155,000.

Learn more about Santa Clara University here, and visit its undergraduate admissions office here.

Students and a fountain at Santa Clara University.

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Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology’s campus in Terre Haute, Indiana, USA.

4. Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Terre Haute, Indiana

Okay, Terre Haute, Indiana is isolated, but it’s only an hour and fifteen minutes from Indianapolis and two and a half hours from St. Louis by car. If you are not interested in STEM, forget about it; however, if you are interested in STEM, read on.

For some rankings-focused students and parents, the institution doesn’t even exist (ha!) because it’s not included in the main rankings provided by U.S. News & World Report. Yet, if you dig a little deeper you will find that it is ranked #1 in the U.S. News rankings for best undergraduate engineering programs at institutions that don’t offer doctorate degrees. It beats out better known Harvey Mudd College, the US service academies, Bucknell, and Cooper Union in this regard. Pretty impressive if you ask me.

Getting back to location: Rose-Hulman is near the Wabash River and surrounded by lush landscapes and rural areas, the area generally feels youthful and optimistic. With a significant student population, Terre Haute has a college town vibe, especially during the academic year. This brings a mix of cultural events, restaurants, cafes, and activities catering to students and young adults. Terre Haute boasts a variety of historic architecture, reflecting its past as a manufacturing and railroad hub in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Some neighborhoods feature beautiful historic homes and buildings. Considering the city is home to only 60,000 people, it certainly punches above its weight in terms of the range of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, theaters, and music venues that it offers residents and visitors alike. Community events and festivals are held throughout the year, which add to the city’s cultural scene.

Meanwhile, for nature enthusiasts, Terre Haute offers several parks and outdoor recreational areas. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and exploring nature trails. Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology’s isolation is a huge positive in terms of costs. Terre Haute is known for its relatively affordable cost of living, making it an attractive option for students, young professionals, and families. Best of all, Terre Haute is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The city’s residents are generally approachable and willing to engage with newcomers.

Some cool Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology traditions that underscore the institution’s values include:

Munchie Madness: Munchie Madness is an annual late-night event where students can take a break from their studies and enjoy free snacks, food, and drinks. It typically takes place during midterms or finals week, providing a much-needed break and some stress relief.

Field Day: Field Day is a long-standing tradition that takes place during the spring semester. It is a day full of friendly competition among students, with various games and activities held on the campus lawn. Field Day fosters camaraderie and team spirit among students.

Freshman Plunge: During Freshman Orientation, incoming students participate in the Freshman Plunge. This tradition involves diving into the campus swimming pool to symbolize the beginning of their college journey at Rose-Hulman.

Spirit Week: Spirit Week is a week-long celebration leading up to Homecoming. Throughout the week, students, faculty, and staff participate in themed dress-up days, games, and other activities to show their school spirit and enthusiasm.

Fight Song Sing-Off: The Fight Song Sing-Off is an annual event where student groups compete to perform the school’s fight song, “Alma Mater” in the most spirited and creative way possible. It’s a fun and entertaining showcase of school pride.

Rose Parade: Each year during Homecoming, the Rose Parade takes place, featuring elaborately decorated floats made by various student organizations. The parade winds through the campus, and it’s a colorful display of creativity and school spirit.

Lighting of the Letters: The letters “RHIT” (Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology) at the front of the campus are illuminated during special occasions and events. The lighting of the letters is often associated with significant accomplishments or celebrations.

Engineering Olympics: The Engineering Olympics is an annual event where engineering students compete in various engineering-themed challenges and games. It’s a fun way for students to showcase their engineering skills and knowledge.

Engineering Fountain: The Engineering Fountain is a favorite gathering spot for students. It’s a place where students celebrate various milestones, such as passing difficult exams or completing challenging projects, by being tossed into the fountain.

Vigo County Courthouse is a courthouse in Terre Haute.

I’m consistently and particularly impressed by Rose-Hulman’s:

Specialized STEM Education: Rose-Hulman is solely dedicated to STEM education, focusing on disciplines such as engineering, computer science, mathematics, and the natural sciences. This specialized focus allows students to immerse themselves deeply in their chosen fields and receive comprehensive, cutting-edge education. Popular majors include: Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Industrial Engineering, and Mathematics.

Rigorous Academic Programs: The institute is known for its challenging and rigorous academic programs. Students are pushed to excel in their studies and develop critical problem-solving skills. This prepares them to become well-rounded professionals and leaders in their respective industries.

Small Class Sizes and Personalized Attention: Rose-Hulman’s small student-to-faculty ratio ensures that students receive individualized attention from professors. This fosters a close-knit learning environment, where students can actively engage with faculty, ask questions, and collaborate on research and projects.

Hands-On Learning: The institute emphasizes hands-on learning experiences, giving students the opportunity to work on real-world projects and apply their knowledge in practical ways. This approach enhances their understanding of theoretical concepts and prepares them for real challenges in their careers.

Collaborative Community: Rose-Hulman promotes a collaborative and supportive community among students, faculty, and staff. The inclusive environment encourages teamwork, open discussions, and the exchange of ideas, creating a positive learning atmosphere.

State-of-the-Art Facilities: Rose-Hulman invests in modern and state-of-the-art facilities, labs, and technology to support hands-on learning and research activities. Students have access to advanced resources, enhancing their academic and practical experiences.

Focus on Soft Skills: In addition to technical knowledge, Rose-Hulman places importance on developing students’ soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and leadership. These skills are crucial for successful careers and effective collaboration in the workplace.

Personal Development: The institute values personal growth and character development alongside academic achievements. Rose-Hulman aims to produce well-rounded individuals with strong ethics and a commitment to serving society.

Alumni Success: Rose-Hulman has a successful and accomplished alumni network, which provides valuable mentorship and support to current students. Graduates often maintain strong ties with the institute and contribute to the success of future generations.

High Post-Graduation Employment Rates: Rose-Hulman has consistently reported high rates of post-graduation employment for its undergraduate students. A significant percentage of graduates secure full-time employment or pursue further education within a few months of completing their degrees.

Strong Industry Connections: Rose-Hulman has built strong relationships with various industries, leading to numerous internship and job opportunities for its students. These connections help facilitate a smooth transition from education to the professional world.

Supportive Career Services: Rose-Hulman’s career services office is dedicated to helping students with their career development. They provide guidance, job search resources, interview preparation, and networking opportunities to enhance students’ employability.

High Retention and Graduation Rates: Rose-Hulman boasts high retention and graduation rates, indicating that students are well-supported and engaged throughout their academic journey. This can translate to a more successful transition to the workforce upon graduation.

ROI / Payscale Data: College Salary Report Performance: #23 | College ROI Rank: #20
97% of degrees are awarded in STEM. The medium salary from alumni with zero to five years of experience is $80,500 and the medium pay for alumni with ten or more years of experience is $146,500.

Learn more about Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology here, and visit its admissions office here.

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology

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Kettering University’s campus in Flint, Michigan, USA.

3. Kettering University
Flint, Michigan

While Rose-Human’s Terre Haute, Indiana is small and relatively unknown, Flint, Michigan, home of Kettering University, has a reputation that precedes it. And let’s be frank: it’s not a great one. Well past its car manufacturing heyday, Flint, which is about an hour north of also past-its-prime Detroit, has endured urban blight for decades and a water quality scandal that more recently drove headlines and flipped upside-down many residents’ lives. All of which makes Kettering University that much more of a diamond in the rough!

Many parents have no idea what Kettering is because it only took on its current name in 1998. It has had various former names, including that of General Motors (GM) Institute to pay homage to the company that for a time basically owned and operated the place. These days Kettering is named for well-regarded engineer Charles Kettering who served as the director of GM’s research division for decades. It is a not-for-profit institution that regularly gets notice for all of its engineering programs, though it has other interesting STEM and business programs as well. And as you may expect from its location, the university is a true standout in the realm of automotive engineering.

As a huge believer in learning by doing, I’m particularly fond of Kettering University’s various co-op and experiential learning programs, which allow students to gain valuable work experience while they pursue their degrees. Best of all, in a rough and tumble city of 80,000, Kettering’s undergraduate population is only 1,500 students! That’s an amazingly small number at a college with such a strong and high quality focus on engineering and business.

Its complete lack of name recognition within the overall US population combined with it hometown’s negative reputation means that Kettering has a far higher acceptance rate than it should considering the quality and value-added of its undergraduate degree programs. As the years pass, I fully expect more of the general public to give Kettering the recognition it’s due, but note that in the professional circles that matter most, Kettering is already known for its strong curriculum and as a top producer high quality students, inventors, innovators, and overall professionals.

Some of Kettering’s best attributes and traditions that underscore the institution’s values include its:

Co-op Experience: The most distinctive aspects of Kettering University’s undergraduate programs is its co-op program. Instead of traditional semesters, students at Kettering participate in a unique 2.5 to 5-year co-op program. This enables students to alternate between periods of academic study and paid, full-time work experience related to their field of study. The co-op experience is highly valued and prepares students for successful careers upon graduation.

Founder’s Day: Founder’s Day is an annual tradition that celebrates the university’s history and the contributions of its founder, Albert Sobey. It typically includes various events, ceremonies, and activities on campus.

Great Race: Kettering University’s Great Race is an annual event where students build small, motorized vehicles and race them around a designated course on campus. The Great Race fosters teamwork, creativity, and engineering skills among students.

Student Design and Build Projects: Kettering University encourages students to participate in hands-on design and build projects. These projects, often done in collaboration with faculty and industry partners, allow students to apply their engineering knowledge and skills to real-world challenges.

Homecoming: Like many universities, Kettering University celebrates Homecoming each year. Students, alumni, faculty, and staff come together for a week of activities, including a parade, athletic events, and various social gatherings.

Student Organizations and Clubs: Kettering University has a variety of student organizations and clubs, catering to different interests and fields of study. These organizations offer opportunities for students to engage with peers, network with professionals, and enhance their personal and professional development.

K-Day (Kettering Day): K-Day is an annual celebration of the beginning of the academic year at Kettering University. It features various campus activities, including games, music, and food, to welcome new and returning students.

Senior Design Showcase: As part of their senior year, engineering and other majors participate in a Senior Design Showcase. Students present their final projects, which often involve solving real-world problems and creating innovative solutions.

I’m consistently and particularly impressed by Kettering University’s:

Co-op Program: I can’t emphasize enough that Kettering’s cooperative education (co-op) program is a standout feature. It offers students the opportunity to gain substantial work experience while pursuing their degrees. By alternating between periods of academic study and full-time paid employment related to their field of study, students develop a deeper understanding of their chosen profession and graduate with significant hands-on experience.

Focus on STEM Education: Kettering University specializes in STEM fields, emphasizing engineering, computer science, and other related disciplines. This specialized focus allows students to delve deeply into their chosen areas of study and prepares them for successful careers in technical industries. Popular majors include Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Industrial Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Business Administration, Automotive Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering, and Manufacturing Engineering.

Strong Industry Connections: The university has close ties with various industries and companies, including automotive, manufacturing, and technology sectors. These connections provide students with extensive networking opportunities, access to internships, and potential job placements after graduation.

Small Class Sizes and Personalized Attention: Kettering’s relatively small student-to-faculty ratio ensures that students receive individualized attention from professors. This fosters a collaborative learning environment where students can actively engage with faculty and receive personalized mentorship.

Experiential Learning: Beyond the co-op program, Kettering University emphasizes experiential learning throughout its curriculum. Students engage in hands-on design projects, research initiatives, and practical coursework, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges.

Entrepreneurship Opportunities: Kettering supports an entrepreneurial spirit among its students. The university offers resources and programs that encourage innovation and startup ventures, allowing students to explore their entrepreneurial ideas.

Access to State-of-the-Art Facilities: Kettering invests in modern and state-of-the-art facilities, laboratories, and equipment to support hands-on learning and research activities. Students have access to advanced resources, enhancing their academic and practical experiences.

Collaborative Campus Community: The close-knit campus community at Kettering fosters collaboration and teamwork. Students often work together on projects, clubs, and community engagement activities, creating a supportive and inclusive atmosphere.

Strong Alumni Network: Kettering University’s alumni network is actively engaged and supportive of current students. Graduates often return to campus to mentor and share their industry expertise with the next generation of students.

Emphasis on Professional Development: Kettering provides resources and workshops to enhance students’ professional development. This includes career services, resume-building support, interview preparation, and networking events.

ROI / Payscale Data: College Salary Report Performance: #61 | College ROI Rank: #19
75% of degrees are awarded in STEM. The medium salary from alumni with zero to five years of experience is $75,700 and the medium pay for alumni with ten or more years of experience is $130,300.

Learn more about Kettering University here, and visit its undergraduate admissions office here.

Flint, Michigan from above.

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Stevens Institute of Technology’s campus in Hoboken, New Jersey overlooks Manhattan.

2. Stevens Institute of Technology
Hoboken, New Jersey

Stevens Institute of Technology is the best New York City college you’ve never heard of. Okay, it’s not literally in New York City, but it’s right across the Hudson River from New York’s Chelsea and Greenwich Village neighborhoods. You can be in NYC in twenty to thirty minutes depending on your mode of transportation; yet, you have some space to yourself in calmer, cleaner, and somewhat cloistered Hoboken. No New York City school offers its students a better view of Manhattan.

With only 4,000 undergraduates, Stevens Institute of Technology makes being in a megalopolis manageable. While other New York area colleges and universities feel quite impersonal, Stevens feels like a nice community distinct from the hustle and bustle of NYC. Most importantly for the purposes of this ranking/countdown, Stevens is a great academic institution for those looking for in demand majors, experiential education, and living and learning in and around America’s largest city.

Some cool Stevens Institute of Technology traditions that underscore the institution’s values include:

Castle Point Day: Castle Point Day is an annual celebration of the university’s founding. It typically takes place in the spring and includes a series of events, such as games, performances, club showcases, and a carnival-like atmosphere. The day brings together the Stevens community to celebrate its history and achievements.

Lighting of the “S”: At the start of each academic year, the large “S” on Castle Point (the hill overlooking the Hudson River) is lit up for the first time. This tradition marks the beginning of the new academic year and symbolizes the spirit and pride of Stevens students.

Stevens Regatta: The Stevens Regatta is a long-standing tradition that takes place on the Hudson River. Students build and race cardboard boats, showcasing their creativity and engineering skills. It’s a fun and competitive event that fosters camaraderie among participants.

Can Castle: The Can Castle competition is an annual event where student organizations build structures using canned food items. The cans are later donated to local charities, making it a philanthropic and creative tradition.

Stevens Innovation Expo: The Innovation Expo is an annual event where students present their senior design projects, research initiatives, and innovative ideas to the Stevens community and industry professionals. It’s an opportunity for students to showcase their skills and accomplishments.

Duck Day: Duck Day is a fun and quirky tradition where students place rubber ducks throughout campus, often incorporating creative themes and displays. The event brings smiles and surprises to the campus community.

Stevens Lorelei: The Stevens Lorelei is a statue located on campus, and it’s considered good luck to kiss the statue before exams for good grades.

Stevens Traditions Night: Stevens Traditions Night is a campus-wide event that introduces new students to the university’s unique traditions and history. It helps integrate new students into the Stevens community and creates a shared sense of identity.

Stevens “Mugs”: Engineering students at Stevens receive a ceremonial mug known as a “mug” when they complete their first semester. The mug often becomes a cherished symbol of their journey at Stevens.

Students taking part in a pre-college program on the campus of Stevens Institute of Technology.

I’m consistently and particularly impressed by Stevens Institute of Technology’s:

Strong Focus on STEM: Stevens is renowned for its strong focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics disciplines. The institute offers a wide range of cutting-edge programs in these fields, providing students with rigorous and specialized education. Yet it also offers majors in business and even law. Popular majors include Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Business and Technology Management, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Cybersecurity, Civil Engineering, Software Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering.

Proximity to New York City: I know I’ve already mentioned it, but it’s worth emphasizing.

Co-op and Internship Opportunities: Stevens emphasizes experiential learning through co-op programs and internships. Students have the chance to gain practical work experience with industry-leading companies, contributing to their professional development and future career prospects.

Entrepreneurial Focus: Stevens supports an entrepreneurial spirit among its students. The university offers resources, programs, and competitions to encourage innovation and startup ventures, allowing students to explore their entrepreneurial ideas.

Research Opportunities: Undergraduate students at Stevens have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research alongside faculty members. This hands-on research experience contributes to their academic growth and potential publications.

Small Class Sizes and Personalized Attention: Stevens maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring that students receive individualized attention from professors. This fosters a close-knit learning environment, where students can actively engage in discussions and projects.

Stevens Honor System: The Stevens Honor System is a student-run code of academic integrity, emphasizing trust, honesty, and respect among the student community. It fosters a culture of academic integrity and mutual respect.

Interdisciplinary Approach: Stevens encourages an interdisciplinary approach to problem-solving. Students have the flexibility to explore diverse fields and integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines to address real-world challenges.

Active Campus Life: Stevens offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, clubs, and events. There are ample opportunities for extracurricular involvement, leadership development, and social engagement.

Engaged Alumni Network: Stevens has an active and supportive alumni network, providing valuable connections and mentorship opportunities for current students. Alumni often return to campus to share their experiences and support students’ professional growth.

ROI / Payscale Data: College Salary Report Performance: #15 | College ROI Rank: #15
76% of degrees are awarded in STEM. The medium salary from alumni with zero to five years of experience is $80,400 and the medium pay for alumni with ten or more years of experience is $150,900.

Learn more about Stevens Institute of Technology here, and visit its undergraduate admissions office here.

Stevens Institute of Technology campus.

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Colorado School of Mines’ campus in Golden, Colorado, USA.

1. Colorado School of Mines
Golden, Colorado

When most students and parents first hear the name, they think of Snow White and the seven dwarfs or the mine train ride at Walt Disney World. But, I persist by explaining that students and parents should be excited about adding Colorado School of Mines to their evolving college lists for a multitude of compelling reasons. For instance, Mines’ strong focus on science, engineering, and applied mathematics translates into a world-class education that prepares students for successful careers in cutting-edge industries. With a top-ranked engineering program and a reputation for producing highly skilled graduates, attending Mines opens doors to lucrative career opportunities.

The university’s close-knit campus community fosters a supportive and collaborative learning environment, which allows students to form lasting connections with their peers and faculty. Moreover, the picturesque location at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains provides an unparalleled backdrop for outdoor recreational activities, which encourages a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

For parents in particular, Colorado School of Mines promises to be an investment in their child’s future. The university’s strong industry connections and emphasis on experiential learning, such as co-op programs and undergraduate research opportunities, ensure that students gain valuable hands-on experience while studying. Mines’ commitment to student success is evident in its small class sizes, personalized attention from faculty, and robust career services that support students in their professional development. Moreover, Mines’ safe and secure location in close proximity to Denver provides access to a thriving job market and city with so much to do, offering reassurance that students will have ample internship and job opportunities upon graduation and interesting diversions during their four years living and learning on campus.

Oh, did I mention that the price tag is amazing? As a PUBLIC university, Colorado School of Mines is cheap, cheap, cheap for Colorado residents, but even for out of state students tuition is the lowest of any college on this list (the others are all private colleges, and Kettering University comes closest in retail cost to the out of state tuition at Mines, which together with Kettering, is still roughly $10,000 cheaper than the next closest college on this list).

Some cool Mines traditions that underscore the institution’s values include:

M Climb: The M Climb is a time-honored tradition at Mines. Before the start of the fall semester, incoming freshmen, also known as “E-Days Babies,” hike up nearby Mount Zion to whitewash the large white “M” on the mountainside. The event symbolizes the students’ official welcome to the Mines community and represents their commitment to the university.

E-Days (Engineering Days): E-Days is a three-day celebration of engineering and applied science that takes place in the spring. The event features various activities, games, competitions, and social gatherings organized by different student groups. E-Days fosters camaraderie and school spirit among Mines students.

Oredigger Camp: Oredigger Camp is a unique orientation program for new students before the start of the academic year. It offers an opportunity for incoming students to bond, make new friends, and become familiar with Mines’ campus and traditions.

Blaster’s Ball: Blaster’s Ball is an annual formal dance held by the Associated Students of Colorado School of Mines (ASCSM). It brings together students for an evening of celebration and dancing.

Star Wars Lightsaber Duel: Every year, students participate in a large-scale Star Wars-themed lightsaber duel on the green space near the Student Center. It’s a fun and spirited event that allows students to release some stress during finals week.

Geology Field Camp: Geology students at Mines participate in a summer field camp, where they embark on hands-on geological fieldwork. This tradition is highly regarded and prepares geology students for real-world field experiences.

Oredigger Buddies: Oredigger Buddies is a mentorship program where upperclassmen are paired with incoming freshmen to provide guidance, support, and a friendly face during their transition to Mines.

Ore Cart Pull: During Homecoming, students participate in an Ore Cart Pull, where teams compete to pull ore carts filled with various objects across campus. The event promotes teamwork and school spirit.

Senior Design and Capstone Projects: At Mines, senior students from various disciplines participate in capstone design projects, where they work on real-world engineering and research challenges. The culminating projects showcase the students’ skills and knowledge gained throughout their undergraduate education.

Golden, Colorado

I’m consistently and particularly impressed by Colorado School of Mines’:

Specialized Focus on STEM: Mines is renowned for its strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. The university offers a comprehensive range of programs in engineering, geology, geophysics, computer science, applied mathematics, and other STEM fields. Popular and strong majors include Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Geology, Environmental Engineering, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, and Applied Mathematics and Statistics

Top-Ranked Engineering Programs: Mines may be quite niche, but for those who do the hiring, the institution is consistently ranked among the top engineering schools in the United States. Its graduates are sought after by leading companies and industries.

Size: Size matters! Mines has only 5,500 undergraduates taking advantage of some of the best facilities and minds in the disciplines offered on campus. This is a dream come true for those who want access to amazing resources and personalized attention.

Location: Golden is a charming city with a rich history and a small-town atmosphere. It is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, historic downtown area, and proximity to the mountains. Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, students get stunning views year round. The natural environment with scenic landscapes, clear blue skies, and abundant wildlife is particularly picturesque during the fall when the leaves change colors, which creates a stunning backdrop for the campus. With Golden being located about 15 miles west of downtown Denver it’s convenient for students to access the amenities, cultural attractions, and job opportunities of the big (for Colorado) city. Denver is a vibrant urban center with a diverse range of dining, entertainment, and recreational options. The Mines campus itself is well-maintained and integrated with the surrounding landscape. The buildings blend harmoniously with the natural environment, providing a unique and welcoming atmosphere for students, faculty, and visitors. The location in Golden, Colorado, is also significant for Mines because the city has a rich mining history. The university was originally founded in 1874 to support the state’s mining industry. While Mines’ focus has expanded to other STEM disciplines, its mining heritage remains an integral part of its identity. Though the focus of the university’s academic programs has expanded, I think it’s nice that it hasn’t changed it to a more boring or conventional name.

Hands-On Learning and Research Opportunities: Mines provides abundant opportunities for hands-on learning and undergraduate research. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, labs, and equipment, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges.

Strong Industry Connections: Mines has close ties with various industries and companies, especially those in the energy, mining, and environmental sectors. These connections provide students with ample networking opportunities, access to internships, and potential job placements after graduation.

Outdoor Recreational Opportunities: Located near the Rocky Mountains, Mines offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking. Students can enjoy a beautiful natural setting and engage in recreational activities throughout the year. The only reason I did not mention it my ranking of top colleges for smart skiers and snowboarders is because it doesn’t have as great of a diversity of majors as the colleges included on that list.

Supportive Campus Community: Mines has a close-knit campus community with a strong focus on collaboration and teamwork. Students often work together on projects, research, and extracurricular activities, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

Research and Innovation: Mines is involved in cutting-edge research and innovation. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to collaborate with faculty on research projects, contributing to advancements in various scientific and engineering fields.

Career Services and Internship Opportunities: Mines’ dedicated career services office supports students in their career development journey. The university’s location in a hub of engineering and energy industries provides numerous internship and job opportunities.

ROI / Payscale Data: College Salary Report Performance: #19 | College ROI Rank: #7
96% of degrees are awarded in STEM. The medium salary from alumni with zero to five years of experience is $79,300 and the medium pay for alumni with ten or more years of experience is $148,700.

Learn more about Colorado School of Mines here, and visit its undergraduate admissions office here.

Colorado School of Mines

Yale Releases 2023-2024 Supplemental Essay Prompts

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Yale is the second Ivy League college to officially release its 2023-2024 supplemental essay prompts for first-year applicants. Dartmouth released its supplemental prompts earlier this month. As most high school seniors applying to Yale do so through the Common Application, most Yale applicants will also need to respond – and respond well – to one of the Common App’s main essay prompts in order to be considered for admission at Yale.

All first-year applicants to Yale will complete several Yale-specific short answer questions; yet, the required questions are slightly different based on the application platform an applicant chooses. All of the 2023-2024 Yale-specific questions for the Coalition Application, Common Application, and QuestBridge Application are detailed below.

This year’s Yale supplemental prompts are a mix of new and old questions.

The news comes as admissions offices at most highly selective universities have been slower than usual in releasing their supplemental essay prompts for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle as a result of having to reassess their practices in a new post-affirmative action environment. For instance, a few days ago, University of Virginia released an out-of-character new supplemental essay prompt that seemed to be created specifically in response to affirmative action being ruled unlawful.

Without further ado, here are Yale’s prompts for students applying for Fall 2024 entry.

Yale’s 2023-2024 Short Answer Questions

Applicants submitting the Coalition Application, Common Application, or QuestBridge Application will respond to the following short answer questions:

  • Students at Yale have time to explore their academic interests before committing to one or more major fields of study. Many students either modify their original academic direction or change their minds entirely. As of this moment, what academic areas seem to fit your interests or goals most comfortably? Please indicate up to three from the list provided.
  • Tell us about a topic or idea that excites you and is related to one or more academic areas you selected above. Why are you drawn to it? (200 words or fewer)
  • What is it about Yale that has led you to apply? (125 words or fewer)

Applicants applying with the QuestBridge Application will complete the questions above via the Yale QuestBridge Questionnaire, available on the Yale Admissions Status Portal after an application has been received.

Applicants submitting the Coalition Application or Common Application will also respond to the following short answer questions, in no more than 200 characters (approximately 35 words):

  • What inspires you?
  • If you could teach any college course, write a book, or create an original piece of art of any kind, what would it be?
  • Other than a family member, who is someone who has had a significant influence on you? What has been the impact of their influence?
  • What is something about you that is not included anywhere else in your application?

Yale’s 2023-2024 Essay

Applicants submitting the Coalition Application or Common Application will respond to one of the following prompts in 400 words or fewer.

1. Reflect on a time you discussed an issue important to you with someone holding an opposing view. Why did you find the experience meaningful?

2. Reflect on your membership in a community to which you feel connected. Why is this community meaningful to you? You may define community however you like.

3. Reflect on an element of your personal experience that you feel will enrich your college. How has it shaped you?

For expert advice on how to get into Yale, including strategies on how to tackle Yale’s latest supplemental short answer and essay prompts above, watch my “How to get into Yale” video below:

Video Highlights:

How to Build a Strong Foundation
Those serious about getting into Yale will first read my article “How to get into the Ivy League – Ethically.” This article sets the table for how to maximize one’s chances of getting into any hyper-selective college or university.

How to Differentiate Your Accomplishments
Take my How to Build an Extraordinary Extracurricular Resume short course.

Yale Supplement (Expert Tips Included in Video)
See prompts above the video.

Potential Interview Invite
It’s worth noting that you should do everything in your power to INTERVIEW with Yale if you are invited to do so! Don’t say no to the offer to interview! While interviews are not required, they are sometimes offered for Yale’s admissions team to get to you know you better. Watch some of my past videos specifically about college admissions interviews.

Bonus: How to Differentiate Your Common App Essay Videos
Best & Worst Common App Essay Prompts
Most & Least Popular Common App Essay Prompts
Why Your Common App Essay Is Awful
Why Your Common App Essay Is So Bad

Good luck getting into Yale!

Common Application Essay Prompts for 2023-2024 Confirmed

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Amid growing chatter about the ease with which students can paint an entirely inaccurate picture of their critical thinking and persuasive writing skills by using AI-powered applications like ChatGPT, the Common App (known formally as The Common Application) quietly announced Tuesday afternoon that it is keeping its essay prompts and format the same for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle.

Though no announcement was forthcoming on the Common App’s News or Blog pages as of late in the day on February 28, 2023, if one searched long and hard enough, one could find by late afternoon confirmation within the Common App’s Student Solutions Center – https://appsupport.commonapp.org/applicantsupport/s/article/What-are-the-2023-24-Common-App-essay-prompts – that the prompts would stay the same for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle.

This is the first mention on the Common App’s website that the application’s prompts will remain the same in 2023-2024 as they were in 2022-2023.

As one can see from the image above, the Common App is also maintaining its optional COVID-19 short essay question.

Thus, starting on August 1, 2023 and throughout the 2023-2024 admissions cycle, the seven prompt options first-year applicants will have to carefully choose from in order to write one strong essay of up to 650-words will remain as follows:

  1. Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
  2. The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
  3. Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
  4. Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
  5. Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
  6. Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
  7. Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

In addition, certain counselors who get email newsletters from the Common App received an email late Tuesday confirming that the prompts would stay the same while also mentioning that the Common App wants “to learn more about who is choosing certain prompts to see if there are any noteworthy differences among student populations.”

As this site has previously pointed out, there are vast differences in popularity between prompts among all applicants, which smart and strategic students can and should use to their advantage. Yet, the quote above from the Common App’s counselor email sounds like the Common App could be setting the table for making changes to its prompts in future admissions cycles by arguing that some prompts may be unfair to or create inequitable outcomes for certain demographic populations. The Tuesday email from the Common App to counselors made no mention of the recent proliferation of AI tools such as ChatGPT.

Today’s confirmation of the Common App essay prompts for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle gives the powers that be at the Common App roughly twelve months to decide upon and clarify the reasoning behind making any changes they want to make to the application for the 2024-2025 cycle. This is all happening as higher education administrators and employees in general and undergraduate admissions personnel in particular are currently stuck in a major holding pattern in anticipation of the Supreme Court of the United States’ rulings on affirmative action in college admissions. Those rulings are expected to be delivered by June 2023.

Ultimately, The Common Application serves (and exists) at the pleasure of its college members, as Common App is a non-profit organization that provides a standardized college application platform for roughly 1,000 colleges and universities in the United States and abroad. The Common App allows students to fill out one application form online and submit it to multiple colleges, streamlining the college application process.

While the application includes a variety of components, including basic information about the student, educational history, and an extracurricular activities page, it is the Common App’s essay page that has traditionally caused high school students the most consternation. Some colleges and universities require additional materials through their Common App supplements, such as supplemental essays or portfolios, which can be submitted through the Common App as well.

By using the Common App, students can save time and effort in the college application process and have a more organized and streamlined way of applying to multiple schools. Yet, it’s important to note that not all colleges and universities accept the Common App, and even some Common App member colleges may require additional application materials be submitted after students submit their Common App. A handful of the biggest-name universities in the US have held off massive peer pressure to adopt the Common App: such colleges include MIT, Georgetown, and all colleges that are part of the UC system, such as UC Berkeley, UCLA, and UC Santa Barbara.

Also on Tuesday, the Common App announced that it has created two new senior-level roles for Constituent Engagement and Product. The hires come as the Common App aims to “expand beyond the application to empower more students to access, afford, and attain postsecondary opportunities.”

Jonell Sanchez and Dr. Ileana Rodriguez are joining the Common App.

Dr. Ileana Rodriguez will begin on March 14, 2023 as the new Senior Vice President for Constituent Engagement. In her new role, Dr. Rodriguez will lead Common App’s college and university member, student, and counselor engagement, enabling coordination across current constituencies. As Common App expands its services “to support more students, this role will also build relationships with partners in new markets to ensure those services have the desired impact.”

Dr. Ileana Rodriguez joins Common App from Colectiva, LLC. As Founder and CEO, Dr. Rodriguez provided customized strategic consulting services to non-profit organizations to navigate growth and change while advancing diversity, equity, and inclusiveness across all of their systems and practices. Prior to founding Colectiva, Dr. Rodriguez held senior leadership positions at Teach For America, The College Board, and Triton College.

“Educational equity is a centering force for my professional purpose,” said Rodriguez. “I’m excited to be joining Common App as it engages colleges, universities, counselors, teachers, and partners in its pursuit of access and equity in the college admission process, vastly expanding opportunity for all students.”

Jonell Sanchez will begin on March 14 as the new Senior Vice President of Product. In this role, Sanchez will help to identify new products and services and establish strategic partnerships “that will increase the number of underrepresented students who use Common App’s platform–not just to apply for opportunities, but to afford them and complete them successfully.”

Jonell Sanchez joins Common App from Sanchez Strategic Advisors. He provided organizations strategic executive consulting services in product development, business transformation, go-to-market and scaling growth in the U.S. and global for organizations like Educational Testing Service (ETS), Ness Digital Engineering, and others. Prior to joining ETS, Sanchez held senior leadership positions at ACT, the National Student Clearinghouse, Pearson Global, and The College Board.

“Common App’s vision and mission align with my personal experience as a childhood immigrant from Cuba and student from an underserved community and with my professional values and commitment to educational opportunity, access and impact at scale in the U.S. and abroad,” said Sanchez. “I am honored to join the team at this crucial point in the higher education landscape and to help expand Common App’s products and services to lower the barriers to college access and attainment, especially for historically underserved students.”

Sanchez and Rodriguez will join the Common App team as the organization moves into what it refers to as “its next chapter, focused on revolutionizing the entire college-going process to increase equity” with solutions that “show students all of the different opportunities available to them, streamline both the first-year and transfer process, help them pay for those opportunities, shift information and choice to the hands of students and, help organizations and colleges that provide opportunities find and support people to enroll and achieve their personal aspirations.” This comes after Common App launched “Direct Admissions,” which is basically colleges applying to students (as opposed to the traditional students applying to colleges), during the 2022-2023 admissions cycle.

12 Reasons Scattergrams Lull Students Into a False Sense of Security

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Scattergrams, the ubiquitous x/y axis graphs that have caught on like wildfire over the last twenty-five years because of their inclusion in Naviance, MaiaLearning, Cialfo, and other online college counseling tools used by thousands of American high schools. Scattergrams purport to show a student’s chances of admission at different colleges and universities by plotting previous students from a particular high school on an x/y axis graph based on such students’ GPAs on one axis and their test scores (ACT or SAT) on the other.

Below is an example of a scattergram for a particular high school showing current students (and parents) at that high school how alumni from that high school fared when applying to University of Maryland College Park from 2010 through 2014.

Two images of scattergrams are included below. On the first one, from Naviance, please note that the scattergram plots the SAT on the x-axis using the old 2400 SAT scale; however, the SAT these days is scored out of 1600. Similarly, the first scattergrams’s high school clearly plots GPA based on a 4.0 scale, but some schools’ scattergrams will have very different numbers of the y-axis because scattergrams can have any sort of GPA scale on them (100, 20, 6, etc.) depending on a school’s grading scale.

The second scattergram image is from Cialfo and captures data for Reed College. It at least shares whether the data plotted represents students who applied Early Decision vs. vs. Early Action vs. something else (which at Reed would be Regular), which some scattergrams don’t share.

The typical student seeing the first of the two  scattergrams above assumes, if he or she has a 3.6 GPA and an SAT score of 1860 he or she is definitely going to get into University of Maryland College Park. Most of the rest of students with that combination of grades and scores would assume, after seeing the above scattergram, that Maryland is at least a huge safety college for them. After all, all students from this high school in the past few years who land in that GPA/score range got into Maryland, as illustrated by all of those green squares.

STOP RIGHT THERE!

The problem is a student with this GPA/score combination could easily get rejected from University of Maryland College Park for any number of reasons that a scattergram will not be able to display. The most common reasons scattergrams lull students into a false sense of security are as follows:

  1. Many selective colleges get more selective every passing year, rendering antiquated past years’ admissions statistics.
  2. Scattergrams don’t show the quality of past applicants’ extracurricular resumes.
  3. Scattergrams don’t show the quality of past applicants’ essay writing skills.
  4. Scattergrams don’t show past applicants’ demographics (rich, middle-class, poor, black, white, Hispanic, Asian, International, etc.). College admissions officers for American colleges – especially selective institutions – often care quite a lot about their applicants’ demographics.
  5. Scattergrams don’t show incredibly important (again, in the eyes of college admissions officers) background information about past applicants’ beyond their demographics. Here we are talking about characteristics like an applicant’s legacy status (Did a past applicant’s mom or dad attend the same college?), athletic prowess (Was a past applicant a highly-sought athletic recruit?), and/or his or her parents’/grandparents’ proclivity for giving money to the college on the scattergram in question.
  6. Most high schools set their scattergrams to hide from current students/parents whether or not past applicants to the college in question applied Rolling Decision, Early Decision, Early Action, Priority Admission, and/or Regular Decision. That’s important information! This is because colleges that offer different admissions plans/deadlines often have very different standards for each such plan/deadline. You can also forget about a scattergram showing whether a past applicant applied for and/or was accepted to the college for fall, spring, or winter term (if such varied options exist at the college in question).
  7. Scattergrams don’t show the quality of past applicants’ teacher and counselor recommendation letters/evaluations.
  8. Scattergrams likely don’t account for whether or not past applicants submitted their ACT scores, SAT scores, both, or neither (in the case of test-optional colleges) to the colleges’ scattergrams on which they are plotted. This is a huge issue in a college admissions environment where there majority of colleges continue to be test-optional.
  9. Unless the scattergram’s GPA axis is a weighted GPA, the GPA axis is not capable of communicating to students and parents the past applicants’ curricular rigor.
  10. Scattergrams don’t show past applicants’ grade trends in high school (colleges care so much about this).
  11. Scattergrams show past applicants’ final GPAs in high school, not their GPAs when they applied to college (usually in the beginning of a student’s senior year). Senior slumps in the final months of past applicants’ senior years often slightly (and sometimes greatly) deflate their final GPAs relative to what their GPAs were in October of their senior years.
  12. Directors of college counseling (the leaders of college counseling offices) can be applicants’ best advocates or worst enemies depending on whether or not these directors have written a strong and compelling high school profile and done everything else they can do to encourage particular colleges to accept their students. Scattergrams don’t note when certain directors’ regimes began and ended; therefore, in a field where many directors of college counseling only stay in their roles for a few years before moving on, a five- or ten-year scattergram could be capturing admissions statistics for students applying from a particular high school under very different college counseling regimes. Some directors write bang-up high school profiles (which are sent to all colleges to which students apply in a particular admissions cycle) and some don’t. Sadly, at some schools, the high school profile is written and designed by the communications team and/or individuals in the admissions, advancement, development, head of school, principal, and or central office! The further removed from college counseling the writers of the high school profile are the more likely the profile will not provide college admissions officers the information they are looking for in a high school profile. Meanwhile, some directors of college counseling make calls for their students or their colleagues’ students, others simply don’t. Some are on a first-name basis with Ivy League admissions officers, some don’t know any. Some act as PR agents for their students, others are real in their recommendation letters, which leads to such letters carrying more weight with admissions officers than those that only share glowing reviews. Scattergrams lull students and parents into thinking (just like point #1 above) that each student plotted on the scattergram had the same college counseling team behind him or her and faced the same college admissions rates from year to year. The fact is, high schools change and colleges change, and as a result, scattergrams fail at capturing subtle or quite large subjective changes to students’ chances from year to year based on how high schools and colleges change.

In summary, so much of what colleges will ultimately base their admissions decisions on is NOT captured in scattergrams; therefore, don’t use them as the end all be all when it comes to determining whether a particular college on your list is a Safety, Possible, or Reach. Any college counselor, student, or parent who tells you otherwise has no idea what he or she is talking about.

I frequently get irate parents telling me that I am too pessimistic about their student’s chances at a particular college or university based on what the family sees on a particular college’s scattergram on Naviance, MaiaLearning, or Cialfo. I remind them that I often know the back story on each applicant on the scattergram and/or that there are at lease twelve reasons why the scattergram is only part of the story – especially at the country’s most selective colleges and universities. Sadly, this does not often calm the parents down, and as a result, a few parents hold months-long bouts of resentment towards me – usually until all admissions decisions are released in April, at which point reality sets in – for good or ill. With that said, I am happy when I have a student get into a college that I classified as a Reach that the parents and student thought I should have classified as a Possible or a Safety. It’s my job to help turn all colleges on a student’s list into offers of admission; yet, I need the student’s cooperation and effort if I can make this happen. Sometimes that happens, and sometimes it doesn’t.

Scattergrams are trustworthier for colleges that primarily base their admissions decisions on applicants’ grades and scores only. Theses types of colleges were usually those that accepted over 50 of applicants and/or large state universities that asked for the perfunctory essay and extracurricular list but which didn’t have the actual manpower to review these subjective aspects of students’ applications. Such colleges simply defaulted to determining whether or not to accept a student based on his or her scores and grades. Yet, such colleges are increasingly rare because of the current trend of test-optional admissions that is sweeping the nation. Even in such cases where grades and test scores make of the majority of a college’s admissions decision, a student who is quite deficient or exceptionally strong in one or more of the twelve areas listed above could easily become an exception to the rule that the scattergram seems to convey.

Bottom line: strong college counselors always explain this important, complex, and as you can now see, somewhat time-consuming information to students and parents. Such college counselors tend to lean towards being more conservative with their Safety, Possible, and Reach classifications for colleges on their students’ lists than those college counselors who take a relatively two-dimensional approach (x,y axis, anyone?) to college acceptance/rejection prognostication. If you are a student or parent going through the college application process now or in the future, please remember to be skeptical of scattergrams. Though they have valuable data on them, scattergrams only capture some objective data, and they certainly don’t capture the subjective strengths or weaknesses of past college applicants or their college applications.

University of Southern California Adds Early Action Admissions Deadline

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The University of Southern California, a selective private university in Los Angeles, has announced that it is introducing a November 1 Early Action admissions deadline for the 2022-2023 admission cycle.

This is a big change for a university that had long held the line on notifying candidates of their admissions decisions no earlier than spring of each year. Now, those students applying Early Action this fall will learn of their admissions decision by mid to late January 2023.

The new November 1 deadline is non-binding (Early Decision, which USC does not offer, is binding) and non-restrictive, which means that students can apply to other colleges Early Action at the same time. Students can even apply to one other college Early Decision at the same time, but of course would need to commit to their Early Decision college if admitted.

Yet, Early Action is not available for students applying to majors in the School of Architecture, School of Cinematic Arts, Kaufman School of Dance, School of Dramatic Arts, Roski School of Art and Design, Iovine and Young Academy, and Thornton School of Music should. Students applying to these schools should apply by December 1 using USC’s Regular Decision plan.

USC has become increasingly selective since going test optional. During the 2021-2022 admissions cycle, USC, which is the largest private university in California, only accepted roughly twelve percent of first-year applicants.