Our Blog
Explore the latest insights, expert advice, and step-by-step how-to guides that empower students (and parents) on their learning journey.
Stop Writing About the Campus Fountain: How to Nail Your ‘Why Us?’ Essay
Imagine you’re on a date and the other person asks, “So… why do you like me?” If you say, “Because you’re popular,” or “Well, you’re hot,” that date’s over. The key is that you need to show how you and the school fit together.
Early, Regular, or Rolling the Dice: How to Pick the Right College Application Plan
Colleges give you choices: Early Decision, Early Action, Restricted Early Action, Regular Decision, and Rolling Admissions. They sound similar, but each one changes your timeline, your odds, and even how much financial aid you might see.
Past, Present, Future (and a Dash of Specifics): The Secret Recipe to a Killer ‘Why This Major?’
You don’t have to prove that you’ve figured out your life at 17. A strong “Why This Major?” essay is a miniature story of curiosity, growth, and direction. If you can capture that in 200-350 words, you’re golden.
UCAS Made Easy: The Fun, Zero-Jargon Guide for International High School Seniors (2026 Entry)
So you’re aiming for the UK in 2026? Amazing choice. This playbook is your no-stress, step-by-step guide—from “wait, what’s UCAS?” to “hello, unconditional offer!”
The Ultimate 2025–2026 Common App Playbook for International Students
This guide will walk you through every section of the Common App for the 2025–2026 cycle, with special notes for international students on what to watch out for, what to prepare ahead of time, and how to avoid common mistakes.
What Should My Personal Statement Be About? Three Brainstorming Exercises That Actually Work.
This is one of the biggest (and scariest) questions students face when starting their college essay. You want to impress. You want to be original. You want to stand out. But how?
Lost? Not Really. How to Build a College List When You’re Majorly Undecided
Most students start college unsure of their major. And even those who think they know often switch after a semester or two. You’re still figuring out who you are, and college is the perfect place for that.
The Ultimate Pre-College Guide for International Freshmen (and Their Parents)
Use this guide as your family’s checklist. With the right prep, you can leave home feeling confident and excited for the adventure ahead.
Student Visas Are Back, But With New Rules That Might Surprise You
As of June 18, 2025, embassies and consulates are once again processing F, M, and J visa interviews. While this is a step forward, there are some important changes and a few new challenges you need to be ready for.
Major TOEFL Changes in 2026—Are You Ready?
The updates are designed to make the test smarter, shorter, and more in line with how students actually use English in real university classrooms. This guide explains what’s new, why it matters, and how to prepare the right way.
The U.S. Just Paused Student Visa Interviews — Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’re an international student planning to start college in the US, this news probably hit like a brick: the U.S. government has paused all new student visa interviews worldwide. Let’s break down what’s going on, how it could affect you, and what you can do about it.
Why Summer Is the Best Time to Start Your Personal Statement
Writing your college personal statement isn’t exactly how you dreamed of spending your summer break. But if you're a high school senior aiming for colleges in the US, this is actually the smartest (and least stressful) time to get started.
How to Choose Which College to Attend: Real Talk for Students and Families
If you're choosing between offers, you're already winning. Let's make sure you keep winning by picking the right place for you — not just the "famous" one, or the one your neighbor's kid is bragging about.
UCAS Just Changed the Personal Statement—Here’s How to Crush It!
UCAS is shaking things up in a big way. Gone are the days of the dreaded one-page, freeform personal statement. Sound scarier? Maybe. But don’t worry—I’m here to break it all down with specific strategies to acing your personal statement.
How Extracurriculars Can Make or Break Your College Application
So, you’re thinking about college applications and wondering, “Do extracurricular activities really matter?” The answer: YES—but maybe not in the way you think.
College Prep for 9th~11th Graders: How to Stand Out in College Applications
If college is on your radar, don’t wait until senior year to start thinking about applications. The earlier you start preparing, the more options you’ll have—and the less stressful the whole process will be.
A Simple Guide for International Students Applying for Financial Aid in the US
So, you’re dreaming of studying in the US, but there’s just one big question on your mind: How do I pay for it?
Why "Finding Your Passion" Is Overrated—and How You Can Develop It Instead
Passion isn’t hiding somewhere, waiting for you to “find” it. It’s something you grow by being curious, putting in the work, and sticking with things—even when they’re hard.
Crap, You’ve Been Deferred, Now What?
If you find yourself disappointed and confused in this position, I want to assure you that it’s completely normal. Rest assured, you’re not out just yet. Writing a compelling letter of continued interest might just boost your chances.
How to Wow Your College Admissions Interviewer
How you actually prepare and practice does make a difference. In this post, I’ll spill on how I would prepare for a college interview, with tips and strategies along the way.