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Are Pre-College Summer Programs Worth It? | What Colleges Really Value

As summer approaches, a familiar question begins to surface in households across the country: Are pre-college summer programs really worth the time and money? For students and families navigating the path toward higher education, the decision isn’t always clear-cut. Some programs come with steep price tags, while others promise academic immersion, college exposure, and potential…

How to Get Mental Health Accommodations in College: Know Your Rights & Take Action

For many college students, managing coursework, social expectations, and life transitions is demanding enough. But for those navigating mental health conditions, these challenges can be amplified. The good news is: support exists, and more importantly—you have the right to access it. Imagine stepping onto campus not with apprehension, but with a sense of preparedness. You’ve…

DIY Summer Project That Impresses Colleges: Step-by-Step Guide for Students

Welcome to this companion masterclass focused exclusively on how to create, execute, and showcase a powerful DIY summer initiative. While pre-college programs offer structure, designing your own initiative puts you in the driver’s seat—proving independence, creativity, and a sense of purpose that colleges truly notice. This is about more than filling time—it’s about building a…

How Music Strikes a Chord in College Admissions

I recently had the privilege of attending the All District Chorus Festival, hosted by the Conejo Schools Foundation as part of their 21st Annual All District Music Festival. This beautifully orchestrated event brought together choirs from elementary, middle, and high schools in a harmonious celebration of student talent and community spirit. One of the highlights…

Your Federal Student Loan Is At Risk Of Going Into Default

A number of families have sent me this notice after receiving an email from Federal Student Aid. Most are in panic mode and others are frustrated after waiting on hold to speak with their loan servicer and never getting to speak with a real person. If a federal student loan borrower is receiving a notice…

How Hannah Got Into UCLA for Biology – Her Journey & Tips!

Meet Hannah, a high school student who turned her passion for biology into an impressive academic resume—earning her admission to UCLA’s General Biology program! In this video, we break down Hannah’s journey step by step, from the classes she took to the extracurriculars that made her stand out. Meet Hannah, a high school student who…