This summary of the video was created by an AI. It might contain some inaccuracies.
00:00:00 – 00:33:41
The video discusses various aspects of college admissions, including Score Choice, test scores, early decision, personal statements, extracurricular activities, recommendation letters, campus visits, and financial aid. Key points include the importance of submitting test scores, crafting authentic personal statements, choosing meaningful extracurricular activities, requesting recommendation letters strategically, interacting with colleges, and staying informed about financial aid. It emphasizes standing out in applications and following college instructions closely to maximize admissions chances. Georgetown, Harvard, Stanford, FAFSA, and Cornell are mentioned.
00:00:00
In this part of the video, the host introduces Ashley from ACM College Consulting, who has over 10 years of experience helping students with college applications. They discuss Score Choice versus sending all scores for college admissions. Georgetown is mentioned as the only school requiring all test scores, while other schools often super score. Students are encouraged to send both scores as schools want to see the best version of the student. Fairtest.org is recommended for up-to-date information on test-optional schools.
00:05:00
In this segment of the video, the importance of submitting test scores for college admissions is discussed. It is highlighted that students who submit scores have a higher chance of getting admitted compared to those who do not. The return of test requirements by selective schools like Harvard and Stanford is mentioned due to the issue of GPA inflation. The discussion also covers the differences between applying early action and early decision, emphasizing that early decision can significantly increase acceptance odds. The segment ends with advice that applying early decision should only be done if one is fully committed to the school, as it is a binding decision, with little room for negotiation on financial aid packages. Information on using net price calculators to estimate costs before applying is also provided.
00:10:00
In this part of the video, the main points discussed include using net price calculators for colleges to estimate the expected financial aid, crafting a standout personal statement for college applications, avoiding cliché topics in personal essays, and receiving assistance with essay writing and brainstorming. The importance of being authentic in sharing personal stories is emphasized, as well as the need to differentiate generic topics in a unique way. Additionally, advice is given on choosing essay topics and structuring content effectively with the help of a consultant. The video also touches on the significance of supplemental essays versus personal statements in college applications.
00:15:00
In this segment of the video, the speaker discusses the ranking and importance of personal statements and supplemental essays for college applications. They emphasize investing time in personal statements, especially for schools with a lot of supplemental essays. The speaker advises against including generic facts and figures in supplementals and suggests focusing on personal connections.
The discussion shifts to extracurricular activities, which are considered important but ranked below grades, rigor, and essays in college admissions. The importance of quality over quantity in extracurricular involvement is highlighted, encouraging students to show active participation and contribution. The speaker also mentions the benefit of shaping a strong extracurricular resume early on to differentiate oneself in college applications. The concept of having a “hook” or strong passion is mentioned as a potential asset in applications but is not considered mandatory.
00:20:00
In this segment of the video, the speaker discusses recommendation letters for college applications. They recommend students take their resumes to the people writing the letters to provide them with information about themselves and their goals. It is suggested to ask teachers with whom students had strong relationships for recommendations. Timing for requesting letters is also important, ideally before the summer of junior year. The importance of campus visits during the academic semester is emphasized to grasp the atmosphere and campus vibe. Attending information sessions and official tours is advised to show demonstrated interest to colleges that consider it in admissions decisions.
00:25:00
In this segment of the video, the speaker highlights important questions to ask when considering colleges, such as class sizes and registration processes. The impact of COVID-19 on campus visits is discussed, emphasizing the value of experiencing the campus vibe during the academic year. Tips for interacting with current students, like talking to tour guides and engaging with students in various campus locations, are shared. The segment also covers guidance for students on deferrals and waitlists, stressing the importance of following college instructions and providing updated information to demonstrate continued interest.
00:30:00
In this segment of the video, the speaker discusses how to stay in contact with a local admissions representative to maximize chances of getting off a waitlist. They mention a rare event where a student was accepted off the waitlist at Cornell as their top choice. The conversation then shifts to the financial aid fiasco with FAFSA, causing delays in award notifications and resulting in schools pulling students from the waitlist due to uncertain financial situations. The video emphasizes the importance of staying informed about financial aid processes and concludes with a reminder to subscribe to the channel for more content.