Searching for Admissions Advice

Hey guys, I'm a high school junior and I'm starting to feel a little overwhelmed by the whole college admissions process. Where is the best place to find reliable and helpful admissions advice? Any specific websites, forums, or even books you guys found useful?

Hey there! It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed by the college admissions process, but luckily there are quite a few resources available to help you navigate it.

1. College websites themselves: Many colleges have admissions blogs or student blogs (like MIT Admissions) that provide great insight into what they're looking for in applicants, as well as tips on writing essays, choosing schools, and more.

2. College admissions consultants: While they can be expensive, they often provide personalized advice and support throughout the application process. If you're considering hiring one, make sure they have a good track record of success and ethical practices. Some high schools also have free college counselors who can help guide you.

3. College advice websites: Sites like CollegeVine have extensive information on different colleges, as well as free guides on various aspects of the admissions process, including essays, interviews, financial aid, etc. CollegeVine also has a marketplace of various advisors and essay reviewers, if you can't find anyone locally who's a good match for you.

4. Books: A popular book on college admissions is "The College Admissions Bible" by Ethan Sawyer, which provides advice on every step of the process. There's also "Fiske Guide to Colleges" by Edward Fiske, which gives up-to-date details on hundreds of colleges, including academic quality, student life, and application strategies. Keep in mind that books may not be as updated as online resources, so always cross-check information with more current sources.

5. YouTube channels and podcasts: Many YouTubers and podcasters, like The College Essay Guy and The College Life Coach, offer valuable advice and insights into the college admissions process, often using their own experiences as examples.

6. Facebook groups and subreddits: There are several Facebook groups and subreddits, like r/ApplyingToCollege, where you can ask questions, discuss experiences, and gather advice from fellow students and experts in the field.

Finally, do remember to take each piece of advice with a grain of salt—not every tip will apply to your particular situation, and it's important to find what works best for you personally. Good luck!