What Colleges Look For

Four Trends Shaping College Admissions

Posted on by College Expert
College admissions is a changing landscape. Each year trends emerge as a result of new technology, new practices and shifting priorities. For example, years ago the introduction of the Common App streamlined the process and drove up applications. And after Covid, test optional became the norm rather than the exception. It’s important to consider trends like these as part of the college pl...
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May College Expert Newsletter

Posted on by College Expert
Studying abroad is not only fun, some colleges require it – whether it’s a short stay, internship or extended immersion program. Wondering about your options for an international experience? Read our May issue! Other articles include: Focus on Majors/Molecular Biology – A path that leads to careers in research, medicine and bioengineering. Financial Matters – AP classes, employment an...
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Rochester Student Develops App to Support Peers Who are Struggling

Posted on by Barb Buchholz
Nandini facing camera smiling with laptop turned toward viewer showing SafeSphere app she developed
During her freshman year, Nandini noticed how isolation during the pandemic was affecting her own mental health as well as that of her peers. To elevate her mood, she turned to journaling, running and working out with her brother. She also began to think about how many people didn’t only struggle with mental health during the pandemic, but throughout their lives, and considered ways she could hel...
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Making the Most of Your Summer

Posted on by College Expert
Are you longing for summer as much as we are? While you’re dreaming of warmer days, you should also start looking ahead for summer opportunities either close to home or on a college campus. While summer programs are completely optional, they are a great way to dive deeply into one of your interests, and colleges like to see how you’ve engaged with something you love outside of c...
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December College Expert Newsletter

Posted on by College Expert
December 2022 College Expert Newsletter
Considering an honors program or college? The benefits go beyond a diploma designation. Read about the perks of undergraduate honors. Other articles include: Focus on Majors/Biomedical Engineering – An aging population is driving demand in this field. Financial Matters – Writing your way to a college scholarship. Early Admission Decisions – What you need to do once early decisions rol...
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November 2022 College Expert Newsletter

Posted on by College Expert
November College Expert newsletter
While they may not ask specifically, colleges want to know how you’ll contribute to campus. Read our tips for making your case. Other articles include: Focus on Majors/Peace and Conflict Studies – A field that’s part theory, part hands-on experience. Financial Matters: Do you need to submit the CSS Profile? Impact – It’s an admissions buzzword, but what exactly are they looking ...
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October 2022 College Expert Newsletter

Posted on by College Expert
October 2022 College Expert Newsletter
You want to provide a complete picture, but should you address low grades or a learning disability in your application? Here are some guidelines to help you decide. Other articles include: Focus on Majors/Kinesiology – A field for those interested in science, health and exercise. Financial Matters: It’s Time for the FAFSA. Avoiding College Application Mistakes – How to avoid careless mis...
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September 2022 College Expert Newsletter

Posted on by College Expert
What do college admission officers really look for? Hint: It’s more than grades and test scores. Read our tips for making the most of high school. Other articles include: Focus on Majors/Chemistry – A field for problem solvers and analytical thinkers. Financial Matters – Studying out-of-state at in-state prices. Do Safety Schools Really Exist Anymore? – Why you should treat every school l...
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Character Counts: Why Personal Qualities are Gaining Importance in College Admissions

Posted on by College Expert
Female high school student helping younger student with homework
While admittedly subjective, “character” counts in college admissions. With many colleges abandoning or making optional SAT and ACT test scores, assessing applicants holistically has become an even greater focus, and a student’s ability to demonstrate character has become just as important as demonstrating leadership, intellectual curiosity and achievement. While character is an abstract c...
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February 2022 College Expert Newsletter

Posted on by College Expert
Just like with love, there is more than one college match out there if you’re open to possibilities. Read more in our February issue. Other articles include:  Focus on Film Studies – A major for dreamers, activists and storytellers. Financial Matters: Your ROI – Assessing the costs and benefits of college. Should You Take AP Tests? – College credit is only one...
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November 2021 College Expert Newsletter

Posted on by College Expert
The right “why this college” essay response shows admissions you’re a serious applicant. Read our tips for standing out. Other articles include:  Majoring in Nursing – A healthcare degree with abundant opportunities. Financial Matters: Merit Awards – Private colleges could be more affordable than you think. Social Media: Think Before You Post – What trigger...
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Character Counts!

Posted on by sueluse
At College Expert, Ryan and I are honored to help students find the best matches between their personalities and campus cultures. Extensive research, college visits, and conferences enable us to put our fingers on the pulse of future happiness. We are experts at helping students develop academic, testing, and activities plans for high school. Recently, in response to the new focus colleges...
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WCCO Radio 2nd Half of Education Roundtable with Sue Luse

Posted on by CE
Listen to the second half the Education Roundtable on WCCO’s News and Views with Roshini Rajkumarof when Sue Luse enters the roundtable. This recording (18 minutes) does not contain the entire 1PM show with Roshini Rajkumarof. It starts with the introduction of Sue Luse. Sue Luse on WCCO Radion Education Roundtable To listen to the podcast in its entirety (1 hour) on iTunes, go to yesterday'...
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Sue on WCCO Podcast

Posted on by CE
If you missed Sue Luse on WCCO's News and Views with Roshini Rajkumar, the host for Education Roundtable, you can listen to the May 12 show on podcast. Select the 1 PM show featuring Sue Luse, Dale Kurschner (Editor-in-Chief, Twin Cities Business Magazine), and Amy Hertel (Mineapolis Foundation). Sue appears in the second half of the show at time: 18:04. The image below is how it appears on the ...
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