Blog
Test-Optional Admissions Continues to be a Thing
I'm taking a slight detour from talking about essays (or am I?) to talk about the Test-Optional wave. The latest news: The LSAT will no longer be required starting in 2025! The fine print, of course, is that the ABA voted to not make it mandatory, but individual...
2022 Update: What’s New With the Common App? And How Can You Get Ready for 8/1?
Every year, I look forward to sharing updates to the Common App, especially those related to the writing sections. Here’s the scoop for the 2022-23 cycle. Applications via the Common App launch 8/1. I recently attended a Counselors Webinar and have some news to share....
Any Idea Can Lead to a Great Essay – What’s Yours?
Early in my career, I led a "Business Writers Group" where I brought monthly speakers to inspire local writers. One week, we started talking about books and how to develop ideas that would be marketable. Members were scared to share their ideas, and I'll never forget...
Coalition App Announces NEW Prompts for Class of 2023
I haven't seen a change in the Coalition App prompts in a while, and this year, wow! A lot of changes. I didn't consider their old prompts very enticing, and regardless of the portal my students use, I've favored the Common App prompts for eliciting unique ideas,...
Common App Main Essay Prompts Announced for 2022-23 + COVID Impact Question Returns
Sharpen those pencils, because I've got big news for the Class of 2023! The Common App just announced the main essay prompts, and they are STAYING THE SAME as last year! These are just IDEAS to spark your #1 headline. Your main essay (up to 650 words) should be the...
What’s New with the Common App in 2021-22?
The Common App recently shared “What’s New with Common App,” outlining changes we’ll see this year. I’ve summarized some of the key changes you’ll see in this year’s Common App below: Main Essay prompts. They deleted one (problem you’ve solved) and added one (about...