College Admissions: More Than Just Luck

The college application process often feels overwhelming, especially with all the pressure to apply to as many schools as possible. But here’s the truth: this isn’t a lottery. Admissions are about strategy, not luck. As someone who spent years reviewing applications at a top-tier school, I can tell you that thoughtful planning far outweighs sheer volume.

Quality Over Quantity

I’ve seen too many students applying to 20, even 30 schools, assuming more applications equal better odds. It’s not true. If you spread yourself too thin, the quality of your applications suffers. What worked for successful applicants was a focused approach—targeting a mix of safety, target, and reach schools. By knowing which schools align with your strengths, interests, and goals, you stand a far better chance of getting in.

Get a Head Start

Starting early is key. I often advise students to begin visiting colleges in ninth grade. It’s never too early to get a feel for the types of schools you might like. Keep an open mind. I had a student once who was fixated on MIT, but after visiting several smaller liberal arts colleges, she realized they offered more of the close-knit academic environment she wanted. Expanding your options can open doors to schools you hadn’t previously considered.

What Colleges Really Look For

Admissions teams aren’t just scanning for grades and test scores. They want depth. Have you shown dedication in extracurriculars? Taken on leadership roles? Do your application essays reflect genuine self-awareness? One thing I always looked for was the story a student’s application told about their growth and potential. For students applying to competitive majors, like engineering or business, it’s crucial to show why that field resonates with them personally.

Changing Admissions Landscape

It's no secret that college admissions have gotten more competitive, especially in the past decade. Schools that once had relatively high acceptance rates now have razor-thin ones. I used to encourage students to apply to Northeastern as a safety option—now, it’s a reach for many. You have to adjust your strategy accordingly. Don’t just shoot for the stars without having a solid backup plan. Be realistic, but don’t lose hope.

Don’t Forget About Transfers

You’d be surprised how many students end up transferring to their dream school after a year or two elsewhere. I remember one student who was heartbroken when she didn’t get into her top-choice school but excelled at a smaller college. By sophomore year, she was ready to reapply and was accepted as a transfer. This path isn’t talked about enough, but it’s a valid and sometimes even better route to getting where you want.

Boost Your Test Scores

Let’s talk about test scores. I know standardized tests are a point of stress for many students, but strong scores can really bolster your application. I often saw students improve dramatically after working with a private tutor. Personalized tutoring can target specific weaknesses and help boost your confidence.private act tutoring, for example, can provide that extra edge, allowing you to meet or even exceed your target scores.

Focus on What Matters

In the end, applying to colleges shouldn’t feel like a game of chance. It’s about understanding your strengths, researching the right schools, and being strategic. Take it from me—spending years reading applications taught me that a thoughtful, well-rounded application will always outshine one that’s rushed. So, take a breath, focus on what truly matters, and remember that college admissions, while unpredictable, are anything but random.