Over the past year, education has been upended. Because students and families have been largely displeased with online classes, colleges and universities are eager to return to normal. With many institutions announcing their plans to reopen in the fall, it seems that’s where we’re headed — normalcy (or something close to it). The California State University System and University of California (UC) are both planning to return to in-person classes in the fall. “As the University continues to monitor the evolution of the pandemic, we are also carefully planning a safe return to in-person classes,” said UC President Michael V. Drake. “Current forecasts give us hope that in the fall our students can enjoy a more normal on-campus experience.” Due to the size and influence of these institutions, the decision to return to in-person instruction has created a ripple effect, with many other colleges and universities following their lead. A few Ivy League schools have announced their fall plans: Dartmouth is planning on a “normal fall term”, Brown expects a return to in-person classes and research, and Yale believes they will be bringing “all students back to campus”. Almost all of the Big 10 Universities, such as Indiana University, Ohio State University, Michigan State University, the University of Wisconsin, Penn State University, the University of Maryland, and Purdue University are all preparing to return to in-person learning in the fall. Other large public universities that have released their fall reopening plans include the University of Kansas, Louisiana State University, the University of Mississippi, the University of New Mexico, and the University of Wyoming. Of course these reopening plans come with caveats, like a continued downward trend in infections and an upward trend in vaccinations, but it seems that U.S. colleges and universities are as hopeful as the rest of us that life is heading back to normal.

You are facing a big decision. It is completely natural to question whether this is the right step for you - change is hard. Although society expects you to make difficult decisions (such as where or what to study) quickly and correctly, this isn't how it often works in reality. Don't beat yourself up about it. Whether or not you end up studying in a new school is not a decision you have to make today or tomorrow; you have a few months to consider it. And being offered admission by a university doesn't mean you have to accept. When I work with transfer students, I ask them to consider a few things: their personal values, the expectations they had for their university and major when they started, how those expectations and/or personal values aren't being met in their current program, and how those expectations and/or personal values will be met in a new university. Let me give you an example: Personal values: Challenges; intellectual stimulation; growth; collaboration The expectations you had for your current program: I wanted to study marketing at University X because it has a strong business reputation, and I looked forward to working under Professor Y. I expected a challenging and comprehensive education along with hands-on experience. How are those expectations are NOT being met: The program is very easy for me, and I don't feel intellectually stimulated. While I thought I would be able to study under Professor Y and gain practical experience, he isn't able to work with undergraduate students. In fact, most of my marketing education has been book- and test-oriented, which doesn't align with my learning preferences. How studying at University X will be better for me: Because University X offers Program Z, I will be able to work with my peers and professors in an experiential learning environment. I have reviewed the course load for marketing majors, and I know it will challenge me academically. 85% of students at University X are placed in business-related internships, so I know I will be able to grow my skills outside of the school setting. Although I use this information to help my clients craft a strong transfer application, it's also a good process for self-discovery. I suggest you consider these questions yourself. Think over your reasons for wanting to transfer. Be patient with yourself. And then wait for your offers of admission to come in. Once you have received your offers, then you can review the universities alongside your needs and goals. Ask yourself: Is this university a good fit for me? Why? Is the timing right for me? Dig deep on the university websites and http://niche.com to see if the school excites and inspires you. And remember there is no wrong decision. Although it might not feel like it now, whether or not you study in a different school is NOT going to completely determine the rest of your life. Your time as an undergraduate is merely one chapter in your life story. I wish you the best of luck! Feel free to contact me if you need help.

As a college consultant, one of the most common questions (if not the most common question) I receive from prospective applicants is: “What are my chances of getting into University XX?’’ I am not a fortune teller, but I can make an educated guess based on my understanding of the school’s preferences, historical data, and professional resources I have at my disposal. One of the best free resources available is College Data’s College Chances tool. By inputting your personal and academic data, this resource predicts your chances of admission on any of the schools included in the site. The prediction is not 100% accurate; however, it can serve as a great starting point in your college search by indicating how selective your target school is and whether it should be considered a reach, match, or safety institution for you. ➽➽➽For a deep understanding of the US college admissions process and approach to the application requirements, view my FREE workshop: North American undergraduate study abroad application strategy: how to win the competition and enter the best universities in the United States ➽➽➽If you would like more help with your application or your child’s application, consider working with me directly. I create applications that are strong, attention-grabbing, and worthy of any of your target schools. Read more about me, view my packages, or add me on WeChat at kvanderweert to arrange a free 20 minute consultation. I look forward to discussing how I can help.

Lots of things have been changing in admissions as a result of Covid-19. Standardized testing has been shelved, domestic applications have been soaring while international applications are plunging, and profile development opportunities are shifting in unprecedented ways. But for those of you who are in the process of or planning to transfer this spring, you’re probably quite interested in how Covid-19 is impacting admissions. Last fall, several higher education organizations released a call to action to overhaul the transfer admissions process — a long-overdue step toward fairness, in my opinion, and a reminder that Covid-19 is, in fact, bringing some positive change. In short, the call to action calls on institutions to modify their transfer credit policies to maximize the number of transferable credits, thereby reducing overall student expenses. This movement portends a shift in transfer admissions, though it’s too soon to discuss its impact. Already released statistics, however, currently show a dip in transfer applications. If you applied to transfer in the fall, your chances of admission are higher than normal. Will this continue into the spring? Probably. Higher education has been greatly disrupted, and I don’t anticipate it will change until, perhaps, next year. Anecdotally, I have seen interest in transferring drop by about 50% from last year, though one must bear in mind that I work primarily with international applicants, and international student applications have dropped dramatically across the board. For those students interested in moving up to more elite institutions, the road is likely to remain difficult. Simply, students at top-tier schools don’t tend to leave and open up spots, even during a pandemic. So if you are eyeing a transfer, we are here to help. There are obviously fewer spots for transfers than for Freshmen applicants, so it is vital that you stand out from the competition. 💗💗💗 If you want assistance with your transfer application, please reach out. We help many students successfully transfer into their dream schools every year, and we can do the same for you! We offer hourly services, 3 different transfer packages, as well as a Fundamental Transfer Plan that includes a personalized transfer analysis, a 1-hour strategy call culminating in a formal transfer road, and 5 hours of transfer application guidance. Here’s what past transfer clients have had to say: “I just want to let you know how thankful I am for your help. I'm able to make progress toward my degree because of your help in the process of transfer applications. Given my situation, it was amazing how many schools I got into! This wouldn't have been possible without your help.” “I just wanted to share that I’ve been admitted to NYU!! You definitely exceeded my expectations and made me think deeply about things I had never thought about before. Thank you so much for your honesty and guidance. It helped me a lot.” Thank you for reading my post. I hope it has been helpful for you!

Do I need to be published to successfully apply to Ph.D. programs? This is hands-down the most common question I receive from future graduate applicants, but it is worth worrying over? In short, the answer is no. Publications are not required to apply to Ph.D. programs; however, you do need to show that you will be a strong researcher. Research skills are the number one thing admissions committees or principal investigators look for in an applicant — and publications are a strong indicator of this — but they are not the only way you can demonstrate research aptitude. Rather than focusing on publications, gain research experience. Present at an undergraduate conference, work in a lab, win research awards, or find an industry-specific internship. Such exposure to research will help you develop strong, marketable skills, secure compelling letters of recommendation, and make you a promising applicant. For more ideas, read Dry goods: As an undergraduate, how can I gain research experience that is conducive to postgraduate applications? If you are uncertain where to start or how to make yourself competitive for graduate school, contact us at World Awaits. We help applicants maximize their potential and attend top-choice schools in the US, UK, and Canada. We: Accept only a small number of clients so we can offer attentive, targeted assistance Strategically build comprehensive applications based on our insider-knowledge and experience as former admissions officers and graduates of top universities Contact us directly on WeChat at kvanderweert or email to set up a free advisory session. We will discuss exactly what you can do to improve your chances and share valuable insights into the competitive world of Ph.D. admissions.

For some, pursuing a Ph.D. abroad is daunting; however, there are many benefits — both career and personal — that make it a strong decision. Develop a better understanding of different research methods and systems Earning a Ph.D. is a significant step in developing yourself as a researcher and academic. Studying abroad can give you opportunities to explore different research methods, experience different educational environments, and improve your approach to your own research or career goals. Grow a global network Having an expansive professional network will open doors for you. By studying abroad, you gain access to different research opportunities, projects, and professors — all of which can enhance your own experiences and goals. Expand your skill set By moving abroad, you must adapt to a new culture and educational system. The experience demands flexibility and determination, and you will exit your program with stronger soft skills, such as problem-solving, language, and communication skills, than you’re likely to acquire at your home institution. If you are considering doing your Ph.D. abroad and want to explore your options, discuss whether it’s a good path for you, or learn how to maximize your application, reach out to World Awaits directly on WeChat with username kvanderweert to arrange a free 20 minute consultation. The graduate school admissions process is competitive, and every year schools receive far more qualified applicants than there are spaces. You must take action to differentiate your application from the competition, and we are here to help you do just that.

Waitlists have been growing year-after-year, but with applicants applying to more schools than ever before, you can expect university waitlists to be significantly larger for the class of 2025. New York University, for example, received over 100,000 applications for 6,000 spots, and as senior vice president for enrollment MJ Knoll-Finn says, this year “will be a nail-biter.” With disrupted standardized testing, course offerings, and extracurricular opportunities, U.S. colleges and universities are expected to rely heavily on waitlists to craft their 2025 classes. It is predicted that many students will find themselves in the unenviable position of being placed on at least waitlist, and it could take until summer to be moved off of them. So if you are one of those students, you are not alone, and you can expect a long wait. Here’s what you need to do to improve your chances of moving from a waitlist to and admitted list: 1) Follow the directions Many schools require an applicant to formally accept their position on the waitlist. You will want to do this. Some schools ask that you update them with any new information about your grades or experience, while others explicitly tell you not to. Be sure you follow directions. Not doing so will likely get you rejected. 2) Call the university If it isn’t already reported in your waitlist email or the university website, it can help to find out your chances of being moved off a waitlist. By calling the school, you also show interest. Ask these questions: How many people are on the waitlist? How many people tend to move from the waitlist? When will you be making waitlist decisions? Do you rank the applicants on the waitlist? And, if so, where do I fall? Then email the person you spoke with a quick thank you, and you can reference them in the next step, the LOCI. Write a letter of continued interest (LOCI) Let’s start by addressing who you should email. Universities get many letters from interested applicants, and if you want yours to really stand out, you should email your regional admissions counselor. Sometimes finding your regional representative is easy, and sometimes it is difficult. Here’s what you do: Start with the university website. If you can’t find the regional counselors quickly on the admissions page, you can do an internet search for “[university name] admissions counselor by region”. If that only turns up the representative’s name, you will need to find their email. Go to the faculty directory on the university website for that. If you are still unable to find the email of your regional counselor, download hunter.io. Then go to linkedin and search for “University Name admissions.” Scroll through the individuals who come up until you find your representative. If you are still unsuccessful, email the dean or another person in the admissions office. When it comes to writing the LOCI, the more personal, the better. I have two templates that you can look over, but they must be personalized. Template 1 Dear (regional admissions counselor), Thank you for taking the time to review my application for the (year) school year and for offering me a place on the waitlist. I am writing to reiterate my interest in University Name and to assure you that, should I be moved from the waitlist, I will immediately withdraw my other applications. Aside from (one thing you love about the school), University Name perfectly aligns with my (academic / personal) interests. Specifically, I am interested in (course / professor’s work / program / club / campus tradition) because (why). In addition to (above mentioned factor(s)), I am confident that I will bring a unique perspective to University Name. Due to my (relevant background / experiences / interests), I will bring (something no one else has) to the school community. I also want to take this opportunity to update my application. Since my submission in (month), I have (completed a research project / earned perfect fall semester grades / started volunteering in my community / accepted an internship / started working part time / won an award / raised X for my club / something NEW and INTERESTING about you). (Why is this important and interesting?) University Name remains my top choice. The (major) program aligns perfectly with my (career) goals, and I can see myself fitting in on campus because (why). From the virtual campus tour I took in the fall, to the alumni interview I had with (name), to my most recent conversation with (name) in the admissions office, every interaction I have had with University Name has been enjoyable, and I look forward to continuing these positive experiences should I be offered a position off of the waitlist. Thank you very much for your time. Sincerely, Eager Applicant Template 2 Dear (regional admissions counselor), Last week I (talked with a current student / interviewed with an alum / found a new program that interests me / discovered a new campus tradition / something NEW that excites you about the school). I was impressed with (why). Now I love University Name even more. Although I have been waitlisted, I am excited to have the opportunity to prove University Name is my first choice and that I would be a good contribution to its (descriptor) campus. As my favorite university, I will immediately withdraw my other applications if I am accepted from the waitlist. Since submitting my application in (month), I have (completed a research project / earned perfect fall semester grades / started volunteering in my community / accepted an internship / started working part time / won an award / raised $X for my club / something NEW and INTERESTING about you). (Why is this important and interesting?) Thank you very much for your time. I am excited to have the chance to attend University Name, and I wish you a restful summer. Sincerely, Eager Applicant *** Don’t give up! If you are struggling with being placed on a waitlist and want an expert to help you with next steps, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’ve helped many students move to the admitted pile and can do the same for you. Add me on WeChat under kvanderweert.

In a return to normal, CollegeBoard and ACT have released their testing dates and deadlines for 2021-2022. As college and university consultants, we are often asked which test is best — and the answer to that question is not always an easy one to answer. Obviously, you should take the test that plays to your strengths, and to help you figure that out, here’s a breakdown: SAT Sections and Timing Reading: 65 minutes; 52 questions (75 seconds per question) Writing & Language: 35 minutes; 44 questions (83 seconds per question) Math: 80 minutes; 58 questions (83 seconds per question) ACT Sections and Timing Reading: 35 minutes; 40 questions (52.5 seconds per question) English: 45 minutes; 75 questions (36 seconds per question) Math: 60 minutes; 60 questions (60 seconds per question) Science: 35 minutes; 40 questions (52.5 seconds per question) Your job is to determine which test is going to make you more competitive in the eyes of admissions officers. At first glance, it appears that the SAT is easier, but it is very important that you remember these admissions tests are graded on a curve. This means that your score is determined by comparing your performance against that of the other test takers. So, while the SAT may be “easier”, it is easier for everyone who takes it. And since the ACT is harder for everyone who takes it, this is something you can use to your advantage. If you are able to work quickly and excel in science reasoning, then taking the ACT will probably give you a huge advantage over your competition. If, on the other hand, you prefer to take your time and think through your answers, the SAT is likely the better option. So what now? Should you take the ACT or the SAT? I suggest starting by taking complete, timed practice tests for both of them. Then you can consider which test you prefer and perform better on. It is important that you are done with your testing by the start of your senior year so that you can focus on maintaining your grades and extracurriculars while dedicating yourself to your applications. The last thing you need is a stressful test weighing on you. And — should you perform poorly on the test you choose — you will have time to retest if necessary.

If you’ve been following my posts, you’ve probably noticed that I regularly report on or link to past articles I’ve written on the steps your application takes once you’ve submitted it to a college or university. This is important information that you should use to your advantage when crafting your student profiles and applications. Today, let’s take a look at Harvard College, specifically. Though their process follows the path outlined in the article linked above, there are a few more insights I can share with you, thanks to the transparency revealed through their national lawsuit a few years ago. Step 1 The applications are divided into categories based on location. This ensures they are reviewed by a regional admissions officer who is familiar with the schools and educational opportunities in the designated area. Step 2 Admissions officers — and sometimes faculty — read each application in full. They use score cards to rate the application / application materials on a scale of 1-6 (with 1 being the best and 6 being the worst) in four general categories: Academics (i.e. grades, test scores, winning nationally-recognized awards) Extracurriculars (i.e. community service, clubs, family commitments) Athletics (i.e. athletic accomplishments, awards) Personal Qualities (i.e. intellectual curiosity, specific talents, capacity for leadership) Harvard reports taking up to 200 variables into consideration: (source: Wall Street Journal) Step 3 Applications that made it through the first review are assessed and voted on by a subcommittee, much like this: Inside the Decision Room. Step 4 Finally, all the applications that are approved by a subcommittee receive one final yes/no vote from the full 40-person admissions board. Overall, Harvard seeks a diverse campus, and each year the qualities they look for shift, at least somewhat, as they shape each incoming class. While this makes it challenging to exactly assess one’s competitiveness, it’s important to note that almost all applicants are highly qualified, with many thousands reporting perfect GPAs and SAT/ACT scores. (Source: Harvard University) Because of this, you must focus on your extracurriculars and — more importantly — your personal qualities. Why? Because most applicants underestimate the personal qualities metric, making it the best avenue to set yourself apart from the competition. Use the essays, letters of recommendation, and interview to show how you: Will contribute to your campus and class Are poised to do amazing things as a student and, later, a Harvard graduate Fit in with the Harvard community Remember, Harvard openly admits that they shape each incoming class to bring together a set of students who are not only academically capable but diverse, unique, and offer different opinions, life experiences, perspectives, and interests. So highlight those things about yourself to stand out from your competition. Want help applying to Harvard, or any other college or university? We're here to help. Schedule a free 20 minute consultation and let's get started!

The Common Application introduced a new prompt this year, replacing this prompt: Describe a problem you’ve solved or a problem you’d like to solve. It can be an intellectual challenge, a research query, an ethical dilemma — anything of personal importance, no matter the scale. Explain its significance to you and what steps you took or could be taken to identify a solution. With this prompt: Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you? In my opinion, this change reflects an emerging emphasis — likely the result of Covid-19 and a growing political divide in the US — on kindness and civic-mindedness. As ever, universities are interested in students who care about a greater good. How do you answer the new Common App prompt in a way that interests admissions officers, inspires them to keep reading, AND conveys the information they’re searching for in your writing? Read on. Common App Prompt #4 The trap students fall into with this prompt fall into one (or more) of three categories: 1) Waxing philosophical about the importance of gratitude, 2) Focusing on a trite person, object, or experience, 3) Spending too much of the essay in summary mode. To tackle this essay successfully, keep the story personal and focused on you, and avoid excessive summarization. Admissions officers don’t care so much about the object, scenario, or person you choose to write about; they care about how it has impacted you and your place in the world. 👉👉 Go small. Write about an interaction you witnessed, a seemingly insignificant event, or a conversation you had. 👉👉 Use a unique format or framing device. 👉👉 Take the reader in an unexpected direction. Have fun! Just make sure your essay is about you. Keep it personal. Keep it positive, Make sure it reveals your values, passions, and qualities you want admissions officers to know about you.Do you need help responding to this prompt in a compelling way? Let World Awaits help! We will start by getting to know you — your unique qualities, interests, values, and goals — to narrow down the best approach. We will then guide you step-by-step through the brainstorming, outlining, and editing processes to create a captivating essay that encapsulates you and your accomplishments. Reach out to us today!

If I reapply to a graduate program, will admissions review my old materials? It depends on how long ago you applied and how large the program is, but yes, probably. What might surprise you, however, is that this is usually a good thing. By applying to the same program, you are demonstrating not only your commitment to your field of study but the specific program as well. You can also try your luck at reaching out to admissions or the department to see if they are willing to tell you what was weak in your previous application. This is a long-shot, in my opinion, but it’s worth the effort. No matter what, you must submit new application materials. If your application didn’t work for you in the past, why would it be different this round? You want to update your applications, highlighting how you’ve continued to develop your profile and reflecting on the insights you’ve gained since your previous submission. Update your CV, rewrite your statement of purpose and supplemental essays, and have your recommenders write new letters (or, at the very least, change the date). If you want help with your applications, reach out to World Awaits directly to arrange a free 20 minute consultation. The graduate school admissions process is competitive, and every year schools receive far more qualified applicants than there are spaces. You must take action to differentiate your application from the competition, and we are here to help you do just that.

It is so, so upsetting to get “the small envelope”. You have put in a tremendous amount of energy, effort, and time to give yourself a chance at the top-tier. Everyone sees that. But please remember that’s all it was — a chance. Top-tier schools accept 4-15% of their applicants, which means that 75-96% of applicants don’t get in. You did not get in, and many, many others did not get in. This is not because you are not good enough, nor because you aren’t worthy of attending the top tier; it’s because the numbers weren’t on your side. A fact that is completely out of your control. So, no, you didn’t receive “the big envelope”. You’re allowed to be upset. But look at it from a different perspective: As you reached for the top, you made yourself an unbelievable person. You spent hours studying, learning new languages, leading your fellow students, playing the violin, programming video games, volunteering with vulnerable children, collecting Covid supplies, cleaning beaches, etc. And you know what? That matters. You’re still in the top percentile of highschoolers around the world. You will still get into schools that millions of other students only dream of. Heck, you may even find some financial aid because of it. But most importantly, you’ve developed skills, qualities, and an outlook that is beyond your peers — skills, qualities, and outlook that will make you successful in life, no matter where you attend school. So: 1) Be proud of yourself. You have every reason to be. And 2) What are you going to do now so that you win next time?