At its core, Irena Smith’s job as an independent college counselor means being a writing coach. With a PhD in comparative literature, the former Stanford admissions officer helps her teenage clients ...

Writing college essays that stand out is a critical step in the college admissions process. College admissions officers read thousands of essays each year, and a compelling essay can make a ...

Start the essay by sharing a specific detail or moment that brings the reader into the story. As the essay unfolds, explain ...

Hadassah Betapudi, the co-founder of Esslo, a platform that gives students feedback on their college admissions essays, shared insights about the college admissions essay. The responses have been ...

As the college essay program manager for Write the World, a nonprofit writing organization for teens, I oversee a group of advisers who guide students through the essay writing process. I have seen ...

These strategies can guide your high school senior through brainstorming, drafting and polishing a strong personal statement.

It's officially college essay season, and with the new role that AI will be playing in their college experience, students may be looking for a little guidance with their essays. Personal branding and ...

College admissions in the U.S. have never been more competitive. With limited spots at top universities and thousands of students applying each year, standing out is tough. Grades and test scores ...

Need advice on selecting personal insight questions or writing any college application essay? Get insights from UC Davis Admissions Director, Robert Penman and Admissions blog editor, Abigail Loomis.