Raj Hamlai Raj Hamlai

The One Thing AI Can't Fake in College Essays

AI can help you clean up grammar—but it can’t uncover the moment that changed your path or show how you’ve grown. In this post, we break down why great college essays require something no tool can fake: real reflection.

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Raj Hamlai Raj Hamlai

Common App Opens Soon: 5 Things to Do Before August 1

The Common App goes live August 1—but the smartest applicants are already getting started. From finalizing your college list to drafting essays and connecting with recommenders, this post outlines five key steps to take now to stay ahead, reduce stress, and submit a standout application. Start early, apply smarter.

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Natalie Baltimore Natalie Baltimore

How to Optimize University Tours

A campus visit is more than just a stroll through quad life—it’s a vital step in choosing where you'll thrive. This post shares how to make every college tour count, with smart prep tips, insightful questions, and common pitfalls to avoid. Whether you're just starting or finalizing your list, learn how to turn tours into clear, confident decisions.

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Natalie Baltimore Natalie Baltimore

The 2025 Visa Shake-up and Your Future

Major visa policy changes are upending the plans of international students across the U.S. This post breaks down key events—from mass SEVIS terminations to Harvard's decertification—and the legal battles that followed. If you're an international student or planning to study in the U.S., this is your essential guide to understanding what’s happening and what to do next.

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Raj Hamlai Raj Hamlai

Do Colleges Actually Read Your Essay? Here’s What Yale Says

Curious how Yale reads applications? In their candid Inside the Yale Admissions Office podcast, admissions officers share how every application — including the essay — is read cover to cover. This post breaks down why your voice matters, what makes an essay stand out, and common mistakes to avoid. If you're applying to selective colleges, this is advice you don’t want to miss.

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Raj Hamlai Raj Hamlai

Summer Plans That Impress Admissions Officers

A strong summer doesn’t require travel—it requires purpose. Discover five impactful ways students can build meaningful experiences over break, with tailored suggestions by academic interest.

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Natalie Baltimore Natalie Baltimore

Adapting to the New U.S. Education Landscape

The U.S. higher education system is evolving, with shifts in admissions, curriculum, and priorities reshaping the college path. This blog discusses these changes and how students can prepare for success in the new landscape.

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Raj Hamlai Raj Hamlai

Is Dual Enrollment Right for You?

Explore dual enrollment benefits: enhance academics, reduce college costs, and ease the transition to higher education. Discover advantages, tips, and insights for students and parents to improve college readiness.

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Natalie Baltimore Natalie Baltimore

AI and Admission Essays: A Cautionary Guide

Explore the complexities of using AI for college admission essays with our guide. Understand the importance of authenticity in personal narratives and the risks of AI detection in the admissions process.

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Raj Hamlai Raj Hamlai

Banning Legacy Admissions: What It Means

Several states are removing legacy and donor preferences from college admissions, leading to a more competitive process. Students now need to focus on strong applications that highlight their unique strengths and achievements.

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Raj Hamlai Raj Hamlai

Is Applying Early Decision the Right Move for You?

Applying Early Decision can boost your chances of getting into your dream school, but it comes with a binding commitment. This post helps you weigh the pros and cons of ED, ensuring you make the right choice for your college application strategy.

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