Tips and Resources for Students & Parents

Expert college essay advice for students and parents. Tips and resources to help families navigate the college admission essay.

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November 16, 2021

Susan Knoppow

“Answer the Prompt,” Lifton Tells CollegeXpress

Wow's President walks through some of the top college essay Q&A's for writing effective college essays.

February 23, 2021

David Bersell

Joan Didion Essay About Being Rejected by Her Top College

Originally published in 1968, this essay by acclaimed author, Joan Didion, describes the rejection from her first-choice college.

February 23, 2021

Kim Lifton

Mundane Moments Make Great College Essays

Frequently, we learn our enduring life lessons during ordinary moments.That's why some of the best college essays we read focus on the most mundane moments.

February 23, 2021

Susan Knoppow

What Do You Want Colleges To Know About You?

Something personal, simple but detailed. These are the keys to standing out with your college essay.

August 18, 2020

Kim Lifton

The New COVID-19 Prompt is an Opportunity

The COVID-19 essay prompt is new, and it is also an opportunity. Learn how to leverage it in your college essay.

May 4, 2020

Kim Lifton

How to Get Started on the College Essay

Getting started on a college essay is all about having a process and a plan. Putting that together isn't always easy.

April 13, 2020

Susan Knoppow

Is an “A” English Paper a College Essay?

No, a good paper from English class won't get you into college, and it doesn't make for a good college essay.

March 20, 2020

Kim Lifton

Should your child start writing a college essay now?

When is it time to start on the college essay? Do you have a plan, or a process? Ask the right questions to know when to begin.

March 1, 2020

David Bersell

Help Your Child Without Taking Over the College Essay

Getting involved while your child is writing their college essay is nice, but when is too much. Do you know how to help, while staying out of the way?

September 10, 2019

Kim Lifton

MSU Admissions Director Shares Tips for Getting In

We interview MSU's Director of Admissions and Recruitment, John Ambrose, to get an inside look at the college's admissions process.

August 27, 2019

Kim Lifton

An Inside Look at College Admission from the Industry’s Top Official

We interview Stephanie Niles, President of the National Association of College Admission Counseling, to get an insider's look at the college admissions process.

May 14, 2019

Kim Lifton

The Best College Essay Prompt

Find out what colleges want to know about and how to choose the best admissions essay prompt for you.