College Expert

09/05/2026

In our September issue, we cover 7 application mistakes you don’t want to make, including stretching the truth and taking advice from strangers on the internet. Some are more common than you think, and they can hurt your chances.

In our September issue, we cover 7 application mistakes you don’t want to make, including stretching the truth and taking advice from strangers on the internet. Some are more common than you think, and they can hurt…

07/09/2026

Congratulations Class of 2026! 🙌 Saying good bye and good luck to one class as we shift our attention to another is always bittersweet. But more than anything right now, we are proud and excited about your choices, your opportunities and your futures! We will be rooting for you always! - The College Expert Team

Saying good bye and good luck to one class as we shift our attention to another is always bittersweet. But more than anything right now, we are proud and excited about your choices, your opportunities and your futures! We will be rooting for you always!

06/16/2026

After a November visit to California Polytechnic University (Cal Poly), essay expert Kris Olson understood one of the reasons why a student from the upper Midwest would want to apply – sunny 80-degree weather! But even more impressive was Cal Poly's commitment to hands-on learning across disciplines. Read more about Cal Poly.

After a November visit to California Polytechnic University (Cal Poly), essay expert Kris Olson understood one reason a student from the upper Midwest would want to apply – sunny 80-degree weather! But even more impressive was Cal Poly's commitment to hands-on learning across disciplines. Read mor...

06/01/2026

Your summer activities should feel purposeful, not performative. Before signing up for programs or internships, reflect on what you’re genuinely interested in, not what you think will impress admissions. For more tips for planning a productive summer, check out our June issue.

05/20/2026

Our Class of 2026 rose above the challenges of this year’s admission cycle. Their unique, personal essays and applications showed such character and heart! We are thrilled to see them head off to a diverse list of destinations where we know they will thrive and have fun. Bravo seniors! (And thank you, parents, for your support and partnership.) Check out our blog to see where our students are headed in the fall!

Our Class of 2026 rose above the challenges of this year’s admission cycle. Their unique, personal essays and applications showed such character and heart! We are thrilled to see them head off to a diverse list of destinations where we know they will thrive and have fun. Bravo seniors! (And thank ...

05/08/2026

The University of Miami makes Ryan's Top Ten list of beautiful campuses, but its appeal doesn't end there. Interested in a selective research university that also serves up plenty of sunshine and Division I sports? Check out Ryan's UM Spotlight and read about his visit to the Sunshine State!

The University of Miami makes Ryan's Top Ten list of beautiful campuses, but its appeal doesn't end there. Interested in a selective research university that also serves up plenty of sunshine and Division I sports? Check out Ryan's UM blog and read about his visit to the Sunshine State!

05/03/2026

Parents naturally want to help smooth the path to college, but there is a big difference between offering support and taking over the process. In this issue, we offer advice for finding the right balance.

04/08/2026

If you’re interested in a college filled with scholars, artists and activists, check out our April college spotlight. In addition to being at the forefront of social progress, the campus is strong in the sciences and its music conservatory is among the best in the nation. Read more about this progressive Ohio campus in our College of the Month blog – and see if Oberlin might be a good fit for you!

If you’re interested in a college filled with scholars, artists and activists, check out our April college spotlight. In addition to being at the forefront of social progress, the Oberlin campus is strong in the sciences and its music conservatory is among the best in the nation. Read more about t...

04/01/2026

What is the “best” kind of community service? Something that matters and feels important to you. When you volunteer with intention and an awareness for what brings you joy, it is much more impressive than just logging hours. In this issue, read more about community service from a college admissions perspective.

What is the “best” kind of service? Something that matters and feels important to you. When you show up in your community with intention and awareness for what brings you joy, it is much more impressive than just logging hours. In this issue, read more about “service” from a college admissio...

03/19/2026

We love to hear from our college freshmen, especially when they are as excited about their college experience as Meredith. She joined the “work-hard play-hard” Georgetown University campus last fall as a neurobiology + pre-med major, and she loves the accessibility of downtown D.C., dorm life, her running club, and volunteering at the American Red Cross at Walter Reed. Read Meredith’s blog to find out what else she has learned about this challenging and charming D.C. campus.

We love to hear from our college freshmen, especially when they are as excited about their college experience as Meredith. She joined the “work-hard play-hard” Georgetown University campus last fall as a neurobiology + pre-med major, and she loves the accessibility of downtown D.C., dorm life, h...