College Essays
What is the primary goal of a personal statement?
To showcase personality, experiences, and values beyond grades and test scores.
What does SAT stand for?
Scholastic Assessment Test.
What does FAFSA stand for?
Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
What does “quality over quantity” mean in extracurricular activities?
Colleges prefer meaningful involvement over a long list of random clubs.
What’s one key factor students should consider when choosing a college?
Location, size, majors, financial aid, or campus culture.
True or False: You should use fancy words to sound smarter in your college essay.
False. Essays should sound authentic and natural.
What’s the difference between a test-optional and test-blind school?
Test-optional schools consider scores if submitted; test-blind schools ignore them entirely.
What’s the deadline for submitting the FAFSA?
It varies by state, but the federal deadline is typically June 30.
Who is the best person to ask for a letter of recommendation?
A teacher or mentor who knows you well and can highlight your strengths.
What’s the difference between Early Action and Early Decision?
What is one common mistake students make in their essays?
Writing a résumé-style essay instead of telling a personal story.
If a school is test-optional, should you still submit SAT/ACT scores?
Yes, if your score is above the school’s average, it can boost your application.
What’s the difference between grants and loans?
Grants are free money; loans must be repaid with interest.
How can you make sure your teacher writes a strong recommendation?
Give them specific examples of your achievements and a résumé.
What’s the benefit of attending a liberal arts college versus a large university?
Name two topics to avoid in a college essay
True or False: A perfect SAT/ACT score guarantees admission.
False. Colleges consider holistic factors like essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations.
Name one place students can find outside scholarships.
Websites like Fastweb, Scholarship Owl, or Niche.
True or False: Work experience and family responsibilities can count as extracurriculars.
True. Colleges value responsibilities outside of school.
True or False: Your major determines your entire career path.
False. Many careers don’t require a specific major.
What does “show, don’t tell” mean in a college essay?
If you have a low GPA, name one way to strengthen your application.
Show an upward trend, take rigorous courses, or highlight strong extracurriculars/essays.
True or False: The FAFSA only considers your family’s income when determining aid.
False. It also considers family size, assets, and the number of students in college.
What is an academic spike, and why is it important?
A deep focus in one area of expertise that shows passion and dedication.
What is a “safety school,” and why is it important?
A school where you are likely to be admitted in case other choices don’t work out.