College admissions can be a daunting process, especially when there are so many myths and misconceptions out there. That's why we're excited to introduce our 3 part video series, featuring our expert college counselor and guide Patrick, who will debunk 12 common college myths and provide his advice on how to best navigate around them.
One of the myths that Patrick tackles is that colleges always prefer well-rounded students. While it's true that colleges want to see a variety of extracurricular activities, they also want to see depth and commitment in one or two areas. Patrick advises students to pursue their passions and showcase their achievements in a particular area, rather than spreading themselves too thin.
Another myth that Patrick debunks is that standardized tests like the SAT and ACT are no longer necessary. While some colleges have become test-optional in recent years, many still require or recommend these tests. Patrick emphasizes the importance of preparing for and taking these tests seriously, as they can still be a significant factor in admissions decisions.
Patrick also addresses the myth that college acceptance rates depend on your major. While it's true that some majors may be more competitive than others, acceptance rates are not solely determined by your intended major. Patrick encourages students to choose a major that they are passionate about and that aligns with their academic strengths, rather than solely focusing on acceptance rates.
Finally, Patrick tackles the myth that you need recommendation letters from impressive people. While impressive recommendations can certainly help, Patrick emphasizes that the most important thing is to choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your character and abilities. He advises students to build strong relationships with their teachers, mentors, or coaches, and to provide them with the necessary information and materials to write a compelling recommendation letter.
To learn about the rest of the myths and to see what advice Patrick has for each, check out the videos above. We hope that our video series will help students navigate the college admissions process with confidence and clarity.
