Collegeadvice's Weblog

Early or Regular Decision

collegeadvice — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:08:27 +0000

With some schools’ elimination of early programmes, there is renewed confusion surrounding whether one should apply early or regular. “If my first choice doesn’t have early, should I hedge my bets with a few others?” “Will my chances be generally better if I apply early?” Those are just a couple of the questions that swirl about. Unfortunately, the answer to both (if not most) is yes… and no.

The answer to the first really flows from the second. Statistically, sure, your chances probably are generally better if you apply early. That is, since fewer students generally apply early, a higher percentage are admitted. The raw number really changes though. If a school only accepts about 500 students early, that’s going to be the same if it receives 1500 early apps or 3000 early apps. So, Churchill’s adage holds true: “You have lies, damned lies… and statistics.” You must also bear in mind that the students applying early to the top schools are usually the top students. So, placing yourself in competition with that pool can cause you to fade a little. Still, if it’s where you want to be and you know it early, the numbers are on your side.

So, is an early application (or two) a good way to hedge your bets. It can be. But, keep in mind that getting in early and not going to a school usually means you’ve taken the spot of someone who really wanted it. And, as I said, your stock may slip quite a bit when measured against the best of the applicant pool

I hope that provides some insight, and, as always, I’m available for more specific questions at scott [dot] clarke at aya [dot] yale [dot] edu.

Choosing the “Right” School

collegeadvice — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 05:19:09 +0000

I do remember researching schools and being utterly confused as to where I would be happiest. Every one of them claimed to be the perfect institution for me. I scanned their pamphlets carefully, looking for that one unhappy looking student. Alas, I’m sure he was cropped out. So with all these competing claims of the perfect four-year experience out there, how do you narrow down just one will meet your goals, have great parties, and provide the perfect setting to make you smart as a whip and ready to take the world by storm?

Well, for one, try to take some of that pressure off of it. No school is going to provide a perfect experience. Yes, it does rain sometimes. No, they won’t show you photos of students staying up all night to write a paper, missing that party, and grabbing a quick cup of coffee to do it again the next day. Part of your challenge is finding the environment where you won’t mind those not-so-great times that has others with whom you can commiserate during those times.

But it’s not all a downer either. You want to find a campus that offers activities you’ll enjoy outside of class time, both on and off campus. You want to find a campus with students similarly motivated so there isn’t always pressure to party when you’re trying to work and vice versa.

Don’t forget to take into account whether you love your cities or your small towns. Does this school have the majors I’m interested in? How easy will it be to switch majors when I’ve changed my mind for the sixth time?

Basically, can I study what I want and can I occupy myself in productive ways when I’m not studying, and can I do it all in weather that won’t drive me mad?? Those are the big questions you need to answer for yourself. Once you get past those, I think you’ll find a significantly narrowed list of options for where to spend your next four years. Oh, and don’t forget to ask yourself if it’s far enough from mom and dad…

As always, I’m available for more specific questions. Just email me at scott [dot] clarke [at] aya [dot] yale [dot] edu for information on rates and scheduling.

-Scott

Welcome to College Advice

collegeadvice — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 06:01:34 +0000

I suppose a first entry should introduce me and the purpose of this blog. So, here goes!

As a graduating Yalie, I was looking for a way to serve Yale for a bit and do something interesting. I found that opportunity in undergraduate admissions. As Assistant Director, I read many thousands of applications by a lot of really great students. Unfortunately, we could never take them all. So what did it take to get in? That’s the big question on everyone’s minds, and probably the only reason you’re reading this blog!

Both while I worked for Yale and since, I’ve noticed the disturbing frequency with which individuals (almost always those who have never worked in admissions) claim to have all the answers and then sell them for an extremely high price. I don’t believe this process should be as difficult as it can be. So, over time, I hope to post on topics you’ll find both interesting and helpful whether you’re a student applying, parent of a student, teacher, counselor, or someone trying to help a friend.

Of course, you can email me, add comments and all that good stuff that comes with blogs. You should also know that I am available to answer individual questions in more detail than you’ll find here. I can work with you as an individual consultant on any one part or on the whole application with you. Just contact me directly for more information on that.

I look forward to working with you in this process and hopefully making it a little easier.

Cheers,

Scott