How to Request A Strong Letter of Recommendation

A strong letter of recommendation can serve as the push institutions need to accept your application. With the number of highly qualified applicants, this letter can provide more insight into your edge, who you are, and what you can offer. However, not everyone can recommend you wholeheartedly, which is why you need to select the right people. This article can serve as your ultimate guide on how to get strong recommendations.

What Makes a Strong Letter of Recommendation

A strong letter of recommendation showcases your strongest qualities and helps institutions know you better outside of your transcripts and resume. The more detailed the information, the better. Generic letters are generally considered weak.

Here are some achievements to highlight when seeking a recommendation letter:

  • Best courses, highest grades, and overall grade point average
  • Top attributes and how you’ve demonstrated them 
  • Extracurricular activities you’ve participated in
  • Volunteer work or relevant work experience
  • Notable hobbies or special interest projects
  • Improvements you’ve made along the way

When to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation

You should give people two to four weeks to write your letter of recommendation. It takes time to write a strong letter, and a good recommender will likely need time to think about what makes you a great candidate. Give them a deadline so they can manage their schedule. If you need a letter of recommendation on short notice, you can still ask for one in the time that you have. However, the more time your recommenders have, the more thoughtful your letter will be.

Who to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation

Your recommendation letter should be written by someone who knows you well academically or professionally. They can easily identify the qualities that make you a strong candidate. They can also write specific accomplishments, such as a brilliant paper you wrote, and why it stood out from the rest of the class. 

Recommenders can be your: 

  • Teachers or professors with whom you’ve built a relationship
  • Guidance counselor whom you’ve conversed with about your goals
  • A supervisor who has seen your growth at work
  • A coach or club advisor who has witnessed your great performance
  • A leader in your volunteer group who has worked with you firsthand

If you believe that there isn’t anyone who knows you enough to write the letter in detail, consider scheduling a meetup with your prospects. Talk to them about your goals and prepare a “brag sheet” that lists your key accomplishments. 

Note that the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) highlights counselor and teacher recommendations as important factors in admission decisions.

How to Get a Letter of Recommendation

To ask for a letter of recommendation, follow these steps:

1. Ask for References in Person

It’s common courtesy to ask people for recommendation letters in person if possible. This also helps you get a good idea of whether they are confident about doing so and can craft a strong recommendation. Avoid asking people who seem hesitant or unsure. Some people may not be comfortable writing recommendation letters, and the reasons may not be personal to you.

An institution may require two to three letters of recommendation. Having backup options can be a good idea, but you need to ensure that supplemental letters are acceptable to the institution.

2. Prepare Your “Brag Sheet” or Resume

Your brag sheet contains your relevant experiences that can help your recommender write your letter. Even if you’re asking someone who already knows you, the brag sheet can still serve as a good reference and reminder of your accomplishments. If you’re applying for an internship, your resume should highlight your achievements and might be a suitable replacement for a brag sheet.

3. Send a Formal Letter of Request

Send a formal letter of request through email and include your brag sheet or resume. Customize this email for each recommender. You should also provide more details about your goals and the purpose of the recommendation letter. 

Here are some examples of information to share with your recommender:

  • Information about the school, scholarship, position, or opportunity you’re applying for
  • Your relevant skills and accomplishments
  • Why they’re the right person to write the letter
  • Any requirements they should know about
  • The letter’s deadline
  • How to submit the letter of recommendation
  • Instructions for reaching you with any questions

4. Follow-up on Your Request

If your recommender has not submitted the recommendation a week before the deadline, you can politely follow up and ask if you can offer more information to help them complete the letter. In some cases, they could have forgotten the deadline or lost your information in their inbox. That said, you should only follow up once. If you still don’t receive confirmation from them, it’s time to move on to your backups.

5. Thank Your References for Writing the Letter

After your references have submitted their recommendation letters, thank them for their time and effort through a personalized email. You can also inform them later if your application has been successful and tell them how they played a role in that success.

Why a Letter of Recommendation Is Essential

You may be asked for a letter of recommendation for:

  • College applications
  • Scholarship applications
  • Internship or job applications
  • Volunteer opportunities
  • Special programs or honors
  • Transfer applications
  • Personal statements or portfolios

These recommendation letters are essential because they help institutions get a glimpse of your strengths, personality, and whether you’re a great fit for their community. Assuming all applicants have high grades, recommendation letters will include the information that can make you stand out.

Common Mistakes in Letters of Recommendation

Although you can’t control what your reference will write, there are common mistakes with recommendation letters that you can avoid on your end.

Mistakes to Avoid When Requesting

When asking people to write your recommendation letter, avoid:

  • Selecting someone who doesn’t know you well: You’ll need someone who can speak positively about your abilities and provide specific examples of how you showcase your strengths.
  • Asking too many people at once: Remember that some institutions strictly limit the number of recommendation letters to accept. You should also be selective when choosing your references.
  • Waiting until the last minute: Rushing the request can lead to generic or poorly written letters. If you don’t have two to three weeks, ensure you provide sufficient information for your reference to write a thoughtful letter despite the time constraint.
  • Failing to provide context: Inform your recommenders about details of the program, job, or scholarship and why you’re interested. Indicate the qualities or achievements you want them to highlight to ensure your letters align with your goals.
  • Disregarding formatting requirements: Ensure your reference understands the formatting and submission requirements of the institution you’re applying to.

Mistakes to Avoid During Follow-up

After you’ve made the request, there are a few follow-up mistakes to avoid:

  • Neglecting to follow up: The first mistake is not following up at all. Even if you’ve informed your references of the deadline, a polite follow-up can be a helpful reminder. This also helps you avoid rushing a letter at the last minute.
  • Ignoring the importance of gratitude: Failing to thank your recommender after they’ve submitted the letter can damage your relationship. Always express your appreciation, whether in person or through email.
  • Forgetting to update recommenders: Inform your recommender about the outcome of your application to keep them informed. This shows that you value their support.

Prepare for the Future With Insight Education

 

Since 1999, Insight Education has been helping students and families with their college admissions journey. If you need help creating a standout request for your recommendation letters, we offer personalized and comprehensive guidance to craft a compelling application to your dream school. If you’re ready to get started, request an initial consultation today.

How to Showcase Your Strengths in College Essays

If you are a high school junior or senior in the process of applying for college, you know that writing compelling college essays is an important part of the college application process. Your college essays must authentically showcase your strengths, qualities, and potential while strategically addressing weaknesses.

There are various factors colleges look for in a college essay. In particular, they want to know who you are and what makes you unique beyond your grades. One way to achieve this is to use the show vs. tell strategy in your college essays.

Read more for practical advice and concrete examples to make your college essays stand out, increasing your chances of admission to your desired college.

Why Your Strengths Matter in College Essays

These days, it is quite tough to stand out in a competitive applicant pool, making it important to identify the skills and strengths that set you apart. College admissions officers want to know what you have to offer that can positively contribute to the campus community.

Understanding Your Unique Strengths

You first need to understand your unique strengths before you can identify skills for college applications. Strengths are often grouped into four respective categories:

  • Academic: Academic strengths are usually easy to identify as they often directly relate to your college application. Consider which subjects are your strongest subjects — do you excel in mathematics or languages, or perhaps both? Once you have identified your strongest subjects, it may guide you in determining your top academic strengths, such as problem-solving or critical thinking skills.
  • Interpersonal: Interpersonal skills usually refer to your natural ability to take the lead, work well in a team, and communicate effectively. Colleges usually value those with strong interpersonal skills, as these individuals can positively contribute to the campus culture.
  • Character: Character entails all your personal qualities that set you apart from other applicants. These qualities include resilience, empathy, integrity, accountability, and emotional intelligence. Individuals with strong character and good personal values are scarce. For this reason, colleges usually value these applicants as they are often successful in relationship-building and shaping the campus culture positively.
  • Unconventional: Unconventional strengths refer to any other additional characteristics you may possess, such as creativity, curiosity, adaptability, and humor. You can view these qualities as the proverbial “cherry on top,” as they may give you that extra edge to be considered by colleges.

How to Write About Strengths

You may want to consider how you can showcase your strengths in a way that will resonate with college admissions officers the most.

The Power of “Show, Don’t Tell”

You can use the “Show, Don’t Tell” writing technique when communicating your strengths in your college essay. This technique shows the reader why you have certain strengths without telling the reader outright. Examples of “telling” vs “showing” strengths include:

  • Leadership: Instead of saying you are a leader, describe a situation where you previously succeeded in a leadership position.
  • Creativity: Instead of saying you are creative, describe a creative project you were involved in and how you contributed to its success.
  • Resilience: Instead of saying you are resilient, describe a setback you overcame successfully and what you learned.

You can use action verbs and vivid language to create a narrative that will leave a lasting impression. It is also important to use specific and unique stories. 

Write a Compelling Biography

A biography or a personal statement is a great way to highlight your strengths using the “Show, Don’t Tell” technique. Use storytelling to compellingly highlight your background and experience and communicate how you can positively contribute to the campus community.

College extracurricular activities, such as sports, choirs, clubs, and societies, often play a prominent role in most students’ lives. Use your biography to showcase any sports or clubs you contributed to at the school level.

You can also use this opportunity to demonstrate how your past experiences have shaped you into who you are today and how you have grown personally and academically.

Connect Your Strengths to Your Goals and Studies

It’s ideal if your strengths complement your studies and future goals, as it will give the admission officers confidence in your ability to succeed at their university. If you applied for Actuarial Sciences, you may want to demonstrate how your mathematical and analytical skills relate to the field. 

Additionally, you can mention other strengths beyond the scope of your studies. This will emphasize that you are multi-dimensional and can add value in multiple ways. Highlight your leadership experience in your college application and place emphasis on your ability to take initiative. Colleges often look for strong leaders who can think outside of the box.

How to Write About Weaknesses

Acknowledging weaknesses may be seen as a strength. You may succeed in connecting with the reader better if you make yourself vulnerable. We are all human, with strengths and weaknesses, and we relate to other humans.

When you write about your weaknesses, it is almost like writing about overcoming obstacles. This is often referred to as the “Lessons Learned” approach. Showcase how you turned areas of growth into opportunities to glow. You can adjust your tone from negative to positive by discussing and extracting valuable lessons from failures and setbacks.

Use a Strong Hook and Conclusion

A final tip is ensuring your essay has a strong hook and conclusion. You want to keep the college admission officers’ attention until the very end. You can achieve this with a strong, attention-grabbing hook and a conclusion that leaves the reader wanting to know and learn more about you. Be honest, authentic, and real in your writing, and reference letters of recommendation to add credibility to your essay.

Navigate the Complex Process of Applying to Colleges With Insight Education

Navigating the college admissions process can be overwhelming for students and their families, often involving complex and high-stakes decisions. Insight Education offers personalized, expert guidance that simplifies this journey, helping students stay focused, organized, and confident as they prepare for college.

Whether you are a freshman just starting or a senior finalizing your application, the experienced counselors at Insight Education are ready to provide tailored one-on-one guidance to help you navigate the college admissions process with clarity and purpose.

With decades of experience and a deep commitment to student growth, we empower students and parents to achieve their educational goals. Every essay, every application, and every decision is reviewed carefully by our dedicated team.

Join a community that listens, understands, and invests in your success from start to finish. Schedule your initial consultation today, and let us help you turn potential into possibility. We are in for the long haul!

Class of 2025: It’s Not Too Late to Apply to College—But You Need to Act Fast

University of San Francisco - Unigo.com

Class of 2025: It’s Not Too Late to Apply to College—But You Need to Act Fast

While many colleges have finalized their admissions decisions, hundreds of schools across the U.S.—and even abroad—are still accepting applications for Fall 2025. If you’re rethinking your current offers or didn’t apply earlier, now is the time to take action. There are still great options available, but the window is closing quickly.

At Insight Education, we’ve helped students navigate every stage of the college process for over two decades. If you’re feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, or just late to the game—we’re here to guide you.

Step 1: Identify Colleges Still Accepting Applications

As of May 7, 2025, the following colleges/universities are still seeking applicants, including many featured in the Forbes Top Colleges list and The Princeton Review’s Best Colleges. Here’s the full list:

The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) also updates its College Openings list, which currently shows over 280 colleges still accepting applications for freshmen and transfer students.

If you need help identifying the right fit schools based on your academic profile and goals, don’t guess—reach out to us for personalized support.

Step 2: Prepare and Submit Your Applications

Once you’ve built your list of schools, here’s how to move forward:

1. Check Deadlines

Many colleges are using rolling admissions, which means they’ll review applications until they’ve filled all available spots. Time is of the essence—submit as soon as possible.

2. Craft a Strong Application

Your personal statement and short answers are a college’s first introduction to who you are. Don’t rush. Write with care, and revise with purpose. If you want expert help polishing your essays, Insight counselors are just a call or click away.

3. Test Scores

Use the scores you already have—or focus on test-optional schools. Not sure how your scores stack up? Contact us for a quick review of your options.

4. Letters of Recommendation

Ask recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths. Be respectful of their time—and follow up with a genuine thank you.

5. Submit Your Transcript

This is your responsibility, too. Coordinate with your school counselor to ensure official transcripts are sent right away.

Final Thoughts: Your Journey, Your Future

It’s okay if your timeline looks different from others’. What matters most is finding a school that fits you—your goals, your learning style, your future.

Applying now might not be what you imagined, but it can still be the beginning of something amazing.

And you don’t have to do it alone.

Call us at (408) 252-5050
Email us at info@insight-education.net
Or fill out our quick contact form and we’ll get back to you right away.

Let’s take the next step together. You’ve got options—and we’re here to help you make the most of them.

A New Freshman in High School

It’s that time of year- the countdown has officially begun! 

The first day of school is just here, and for those students entering their freshman year in high school, this is no ordinary first day of school. The first day of high school marks an important life transition in so many ways. How is it that so much can change in just a few months between eighth-grade graduation and the beginning of high school? Students who once felt that they could commit to memory every deadline and exam date often find that they drop the ball on small assignments, forget to study for an upcoming test, or encounter unforeseen conflicts between schoolwork and extracurricular commitments. These experiences speak to the accelerated pace, significantly heavier workload, and emphasis on inquiry-based learning that students encounter in high school.

In this month’s article, I will offer some key suggestions and words of advice to students and their families in navigating this exciting and challenging transition.

As students enter high school, my hope is that they approach the challenges they face with what I like to call a “growth mindset.” This approach to learning is based on the research findings of Dr. Carol Dweck at Stanford. Dr. Dweck’s research has shown that students who attribute their academic successes to hard work and persistence perform better in the long run than students who attribute their success to being “smart” or “talented.” Indeed, contemporary neuroscience tells us that the brain is more like a muscle that gets stronger when we exercise it. Students who have a growth mindset are not afraid to try hard problems and fail because they understand that, like lifting weights, exercising their brains is what builds intelligence.

The growth mindset approach underpins another important transition students will face in high school. My colleagues and I have observed that many of our students at the high school level struggle with critical reading, both on standardized exams and in the classroom. As students learn about literary devices, syntax, and essay structure, I find that many students mistake the elements of good writing for the meaning of the text itself. At the high school level, students are expected to use what they know about effective writing to support their own opinion regarding the meaning of the text. That means students need to have opinions about what they are reading. A great way to support this development at home is to choose an article or current event to discuss around the dinner table each week. Students need to be encouraged to take intellectual risks and express opinions that may be unpopular; this will support their success in the classroom setting and foster their capacity to read critically.

Last, but not least, an article about transitioning to high school would be incomplete without a note on time management and organizational skills. Each year, most students receive a planner directly from school. And most students will use this to write down homework—that is, if they use it at all. I cannot overstate that proactive planning is often what separates the top students from the rest of the crop. Don’t just write down your assignments; write down WHEN you are going to complete them.

Beyond time management skills and hard work, my hope is that Insight students learn to meet the inevitable challenges on their academic journey with greater patience and self-confidence, rather than with a “grit your teeth and bear it” kind of attitude. What the top universities in this country are looking for, as explicitly stated in their application questions, is intellectual vitality and curiosity. That means: work hard, but don’t forget to have fun while you’re learning. High school may just be starting for freshmen, but it will be over in a flash—enjoy it!

Start your high school journey with confidence! Schedule an initial consultation to learn how Insight Education can help you build a strong foundation for future college success.

ACT Logo with answer sheet in the background

Understanding the ACT: Structure, Benefits, and Ideal Candidates

The ACT (American College Testing) is a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States, and in some cases, international schools as well. Understanding its structure and benefits can help students make an informed decision about whether it’s the right choice for them.

The ACT is divided into four main sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science, with an optional Writing section. Each of these sections is designed to assess different skills:

English: This section tests grammar, punctuation, and rhetorical skills. It consists of 75 questions to be completed in 45 minutes.

Math: Covering a range of mathematical concepts from algebra to trigonometry, this section includes 60 questions with a 60-minute time limit.

Reading: Students read passages and answer questions to demonstrate their comprehension and interpretation skills. This section features 40 questions to be completed in 35 minutes.

Science: This section evaluates scientific reasoning and interpretation skills through 40 questions in 35 minutes.

Writing (Optional): Students can choose to complete a 40-minute essay that evaluates their writing skills and ability to articulate complex ideas.

Why should a student consider taking the ACT? The ACT is known for its straightforward question format and emphasis on problem-solving and critical thinking. It’s also generally considered more flexible with its content, covering a broad range of subjects that may align better with a student’s strengths. For students who perform better under time pressure, the ACT might be a good choice, as it requires quicker responses per question compared to the SAT.

Why should a student consider taking the ACT? The ACT is known for its straightforward question format and emphasis on problem-solving and critical thinking. It’s also generally considered more flexible with its content, covering a broad range of subjects that may align better with a student’s strengths. For students who perform better under time pressure, the ACT might be a good choice, as it requires quicker responses per question compared to the SAT.

Ultimately, the decision between the ACT and SAT depends on the student’s strengths, test-taking style, and abilities, and the college admissions requirements imposed by the universities they are targeting. The ACT may be particularly advantageous for students who excel in science and prefer a test that integrates multiple subjects in one assessment. It can also be a good option for those who are looking for a test with a more straightforward format compared to the SAT.

It is always a good idea to take practice tests for both exams to see which aligns better with your skills. While both the ACT and SAT are valuable for college admissions, the ACT’s unique structure is attractive to many students. Just like Coke vs. Pepsi, the ACT and the SAT offer similar yet very different options that can both quench your thirst and help you achieve your college dreams.

Ready to tackle the ACT with confidence? Sign up for our ACT Boot Camp or personalized tutoring sessions with Insight Education.

Zoom to Find Your Fingerprint Story

Over the years, I have been asked hundreds of times what a student can do in order to write a compelling and unique personal statement about a popular or common activity. On the one hand we tell kids to be themselves and write about the things they value most and on the other hand we tell them not to follow the crowd and work hard to craft essays that are the first of their kind! 😉

No matter how popular or common your activity or experience may appear to be on the surface, never forget that the way you experienced it is like a fingerprint. No two experiences are alike.

Take the time to peruse through your memories of the many wonderful, challenging, disappointing or all of the above moments that you lived with this activity (let’s say it is soccer). This may seem overwhelming but being thorough will really help you find the perfect story and you may find it to be quite enjoyable as well.

Once you believe you have catalogued your soccer journey, you will need to decide how close you want to zoom in or out of the topic. When I say zoom in or out try and imagine a time when you went to Google Maps to search for the helicopter view of your house. If you carefully decide how close or far you want to set your zoom position for the map, you will see your house, the car in the driveway and maybe even smaller details like the trees or bushes or your dad mowing the lawn! If you zoom in too close you will simply see a pixelated screen. If you zoom all the way out you will see all of Planet Earth.

Taking this analogy and applying it to a popular activity like soccer (or even a seemingly less common one for teens like crocheting), if you zoomed all the way out you could probably recount your entire soccer journey since your parents first signed you up for AYSO all the way through to yesterday’s Varsity Team practice. Since maximum word counts are fixed (650 for the Common App Personal Statement), the more you zoom out, the less details you can offer and the less you can dive in deeper or reflect – this means we will learn less about YOU when you attempt to cover too much! Zooming all the way in could be compared to describing your favorite soccer ball or cleats like an Amazon product page. In this case 650 words is way too much and there is nothing deep or reflective to dive into. Adjusting your zoom intelligently and keeping in mind that the point of this essay is to help the admissions reps learn more about who you are, maybe you focus on the journey towards learning how to perform a bicycle kick or possibly a conversation with a coach that led you to better understand yourself and thus how to improve as a soccer athlete and a leader on the field. Conversations (or moments) are great because they serve as anecdotes that do not consume tons of words yet they offer the possibility to dive in and really share a unique fingerprint story with soccer in the background. The story doesn’t even have to be explicitly tied to playing or training for soccer.

In the end, writing a personal statement about a common activity like soccer comes down to authenticity and perspective. It’s not about finding the rarest topic, but about digging deep into your own experiences and sharing the fingerprint moments that have shaped you. Whether it’s learning a challenging skill or technique, a pivotal conversation, or a small but meaningful victory, those moments—and how they affected you and how you reflect on them—offer insight into who you are beyond the surface of the activity. By thoughtfully adjusting your focus and sharing your unique “fingerprint” story, you’ll establish a powerful and profound connection with your reader and reveal the personal journey that sets you apart.

Uncover your unique story and stand out in your college applications. Schedule an initial consultation with Insight Education to craft a compelling personal statement that highlights your true fingerprint!

 

This article was written by Insight’s Co-Founder, Ajit Jain.

 

Digital SAT Test Dates 2024-2025

2024-2025 SAT Test Dates and Registrations

SAT TEST DATE REGISTRATION DATE SCORES RELEASE DATE SUGGESTED PREP DATES
August 24, 2024* August 9, 2024 September 6, 2024 Start June 2024 
October 5, 2024 September 20, 2024 October 18, 2024 Start July 2024 
November 2, 2024 October 18, 2024 November 15, 2024 Start September 2024
December 7, 2024 November 22, 2024 December 20, 2024 Start October 2024 
March 8, 2025 February 21, 2025 TBD Start November 2024 
May 3, 2025 April 18, 2025 TBD Start January 2025 
June 7, 2025 May 22, 2025 TBD Start February 2025 
August 23, 2025* TBD TBD Start June 2025 
October 4, 2025* TBD TBD Start July 2025
November 8, 2025* TBD TBD Start September 2025
December 6, 2025* TBD TBD Start October 2025 
March 14, 2026* TBD TBD Start November 2025 
May 2, 2026* TBD TBD Start January 2026 
June 6, 2026* TBD TBD Start February 2026 

*Anticipated test date

REGISTER TO TAKE THE OFFICIAL DIGITAL SAT HERE.

Get ahead of the curve with expert SAT prep! Check out our upcoming Digital SAT boot camps and 1:1 tutoring options to prepare for your chosen test date—sign up today and boost your readiness!

Do I need to share past trauma in my college essays?

As the college application process becomes more competitive every year, students are looking for ways to make their applications stand out from the rest. One way to do this is by writing a compelling personal statement that showcases their personality, strengths, and achievements. However, there is a common misconception that to write a successful personal statement, a student must have experienced personal trauma or hardship. This is simply not true.

While it’s true that some students may have experienced personal trauma that has shaped them into the person they are today, this is not a requirement for writing a strong personal statement. In fact, many successful personal statements are about everyday experiences, hobbies, or passions that have shaped a student’s character and influenced their goals and aspirations.

It’s important for students to understand that personal story that highlights the hardships that they may have faced does not define them or their ability to succeed in college. Admissions officers are looking for students who can contribute to their campus community, and who have the potential to succeed academically and personally. A personal statement is an opportunity for a student to showcase their unique qualities and strengths, regardless of their life experiences. The whole idea is to share a facet of the student’s life that can really paint a compelling portrait of the personality and character.

So, what should a student write about in their personal statement if they haven’t experienced personal trauma? Here are our insights and ideas:

Share your personal journey:

Begin your personal statement by sharing your personal journey, including your background, experiences, challenges, and achievements. Highlight how these experiences have shaped you into the person you are today and how they have influenced your desire to attend college.

Highlight your unique qualities:

Share your unique qualities, skills, and talents that make you stand out from other applicants. This could include your leadership skills, creativity, problem-solving abilities, or any other characteristics that demonstrate your potential to contribute to the college community.

Discuss your community involvement:

Share your involvement in your community, such as volunteer work, community service projects, or leadership roles in clubs or organizations. Explain how these experiences have helped you develop a sense of civic responsibility and a commitment to making a positive impact in your community.

 

Share your future goals:

Discuss your short-term and long-term goals and how attending college will help you achieve them. Highlight your aspirations and what you hope to accomplish during your college years and beyond.

Address challenges and adversity:

If you have faced challenges or adversity in your life, discuss how you have overcome them and the lessons you have learned. Share how these experiences have shaped your character and resilience, and how they have prepared you for the rigors of college life.

Discuss your cultural or diverse background:

If you come from a diverse cultural or ethnic background, share how it has influenced your perspectives, values, and identity. Discuss how your cultural background has shaped your worldview and how it has prepared you to thrive in a diverse college environment.

Reflect on your interests and hobbies:

How do you choose to spend your free time? Share your passions and hobbies and how they have influenced your personal growth and development. Discuss how these interests have shaped your character, skills, and goals, and how they will contribute to your college experience.

In summary, a student does not need to have personal trauma to write a compelling personal statement for college applications. Admissions officers are looking for unique qualities and strengths that a student can bring to their campus community. Best of Luck and happy writing!

Not sure how to make your college essays stand out? Schedule an initial consultation with Insight Education to get expert guidance on crafting a compelling personal statement

What is a Good SAT Score?

In the intricate world of college admissions, the perennial question that looms over high school students and parents is, “What is considered a good SAT score?” The answer, however, is far from a simple number. It depends on your academic profile, college list, and intended major. In this article, Insight Education Head of Counseling Purvi Mody will delve into the nuanced assessment of SAT scores and share her insights into what’s a “good” SAT score.

 

1. You Academic Profile and GPA Matter

Good SAT scores can add to your GPA and convey academic readiness to college admissions officesYour SAT score reflects your academic rigor. When you decide whether to re-take the SAT or submit your score, consider elements like your high school curriculum and GPA. If your SAT score indicates a stronger academic readiness than your GPA, then it is a good SAT score. A student who has challenged themselves with a rigorous academic coursework, excelled in extracurricular pursuits, and received glowing recommendations might not require an exceptionally high SAT score to shine as a strong candidate. Conversely, a less robust profile may need to submit a strong SAT score to bolster their application.

 

2. Your College List and the School’s Testing Policies

The SAT score expectations differ from one college to another. It’s paramount to research the admission policies of the institutions on your radar. Are they test-optional, test-flexible, or do they specify certain score requirements? Some universities ask students not to submit their SAT scores unless it is 1500 or higher. Some college admissions offices must review SAT scores if it is submitted.

 

common data set showing ACT and SAT scores submitted and score distributionIn the quest to define a “good” SAT score, it is imperative to understand how your preferred colleges assess test scores in their unique admissions processes. A good resource is the Common Data Set. If you search “(College name) common data set,” you will find information on SAT score ranges, the percentage of students who submitted test scores, and whether the admissions office considers test scores an evaluative criterion. A thorough research can offer valuable insights into each college’s approach to standardized testing, and whether or not you should share your SAT with this school.

Check out our list on 2023- 2024 Test Optional Colleges and Score Reporting Policies

 

3. Your Major Choice Plays a Role

The choice of your major also plays a pivotal role in evaluating the significance of your SAT score. For instance, if you intend to major in Engineering or Business, you want to share a good SAT math score with the admissions offices. In contrast, liberal arts colleges may favor a strong score in the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) section. When we help our students decide which school they will submit their SAT scores to, we factor in their declared major choices and their test scores relative to their peers and to the applicant pool.

 

Should You Submit Your SAT Scores?

With the evolving landscape of college admissions, students often face a conundrum: whether to submit their SAT scores or choose test-optional. Here are some key considerations:

 

1. Check College Websites:

Visit the official websites of the colleges you intend to apply to. Most institutions explicitly state their test score submission requirements. The admissions office should be your primary source of information.

 

2. Tailor Your College Application to Each University:

As college admissions become more competitive, customize your application to every college with more thought and care. It is common for students to submit their SAT scores to one school but not the other. At Insight Education, we holistically assess your SAT score within the broader context of your college application. Does the test score add positive data to your profile? Will the college you are applying to view your SAT test score favorably? Is your score competitive in the context of your high school and the rest of the applicant pool?

 

3. Score Improvement:

If you are a sophomore or a junior, you may plan to take the SAT multiple times. Set a goal and study plan for yourself. If you are unsure about taking the SAT, the ACT, or neither, we recommend taking full-length diagnostic exams before deciding your testing strategy.

Learn more about ACT vs. SAT: Which Test Should You Take?

 

4. A Holistic Approach:

Remember that most colleges assess applicants holistically. Your GPA, academic history, college essays, recommendation letters, and extracurricular activities all play pivotal roles in the admissions process. Focus on building a comprehensive, powerful narrative of you and your uniqueness will maximize your chance in college admissions.

 

 

 

In summary, there is no magic number for a “good” SAT score. It hinges on your profile, college list, and intended major. As the college admissions landscape adapts to changing times, many institutions now offer flexibility concerning ACT or SAT score submission. Ultimately, your decision should be rooted in a thorough evaluation of your strengths and weaknesses as an applicant. Your SAT score is merely a piece of the puzzle, so ensure that your complete application paints a compelling picture of who you are and what you will contribute.

Still unsure about your SAT score? Contact us today to schedule a 1-hour personalized college planning session or a diagnostic exam to see where you stand!

How to Fight Procrastination for a Happier You!

You procrastinate. And, worse yet, you feel terrible about it. You feel that it is inevitable. You might even feel guilty or have fights with your parents about this. Procrastination isn’t your destiny. It’s something you can hack. Yes, the scientific evidence shows that you can change your brain – and you can change from being “a procrastinator” into someone who can feel good about completing tasks. What do neuroscientists and behavioral economists know, and that you might not?

 

1. Calendar Your Week – Record Your Time

keeping track of your time and calendar how your week is structuredWhere does your time go? Many high school students don’t realize that they are possibly busier than adults because of the time they spend in classes, homework, extracurricular activities, working, volunteering, and hanging out with friends and family. Who has time for simple things like sleeping and drinking water?

 

 

How much of your time is already spoken for? Figure out how much time you are actually busy – and then block off that time on your calendar. Mark down your entire week, seven days. Yes, this means when you are leaving home for school – your transportation – and the actual time you spend in classes, your breaks, and your return home. Mark all of your time, including your social time with friends and family. Mark your chores, exercising time, volunteering, or working. And mark the regular time you spend on homework – for this step, break down the amount of time you actually spend on each class, on the various days of the week.

 

Note: If one week feels too long, just fully mark one school day.

 

Read more: Back to School: Get ready for a great academic year!

 

2. Reflect on What You “Got” Out of Your Time

    • Do you feel good about how you spent the time?
    • Did you relax?
    • Did you learn something?
    • Did you accomplish some task you wanted to tackle?
    • Did you spend time on the relationships you treasure most?

 

If you were not satisfied, which could be the case if you were hanging out on Discord / YouTube / TikTok, the good news is – you have the power to CHANGE how you spend your time.

 

So, think about whether you want to make any changes to the ways in which you are spending your time. For example, one of my students put her least favorite class’s homework at the end of the night. How well do you think she could focus then? By marking all her time and seeing how effective his routine was, and where she could improve it, then, she moved that classwork earlier in the day so that she could approach it with a fresher brain.

 

Reflecting is the most important thing. One of my students told me that he wanted to spend more time with his parents because he realized that he would be attending college, and those family dinners that he was taking for granted now will be a precious thing he will miss when he is older. Wow!

 

Reflect, reflect, reflect – and you may notice some patterns! Use those patterns to inform how you want to set goals and ultimately schedule your life.

 

3. Now, Timebox Everything You Do

plan out your task and prioritizeWhat is Timeboxing? And why would this help you? “Timeboxing” refers to mapping a specific time to a specific task. That’s it. So, now – timebox all of your activities that you definitely want to spend time on, each week. Try to map out the next 7 days. Think about – how would you like to spend your time?

 

Really. Timebox it all. Having very clear boundaries about how much time you spend on each activity will actually help increase your motivation. This also helps you prioritize how you spend your time. What if you want to attend a party? You will have to timebox it, and that might mean you move around other stuff. One of my students uses the “label” feature on the Clock app on his iPhone to clearly manage his time. This is one of the things he has done to have a smoother school semester.

 

The research shows that timeboxing helps reduce stress and distractions and increase focus! But is it all work and no play? That brings me to my next and perhaps most important point: reward thyself.

Read more: Setting up Routines for High School

 

4. Put A Reward into Your Weekly Calendar to Hack Your Motivation

This might seem like a weird thing for me to discuss – fun – but if you want to hack your brain, neuroscience research shows that if you have a reward system that reinforces good habits, you are more likely to be successful in changing your habits. Some of my students like to play sports with friends, lift weights for “me” time, or even schedule a regular trip to the mall with friends.

 

Why would I encourage such habits? Hopefully, when you were reflecting on step #2, you figured out how much of your time you dedicate to activities that are truly rewarding, fulfilling, and fun. But in case you didn’t, I am calling this out as a step of its own to make sure you don’t forget to build in a reward – because it’s not intuitive. But it IS important – and the science bears this out.

 

Because then, you are looking forward to something in your week. Better yet, it would be ideal to have something you look forward to doing, every single day. Neuroscience research studies showed that even anticipating a reward – not even receiving it yet – releases dopamine and improves performance.

 

 

Examples (these are real-life ones, drawn from actual former students of mine):

 1. Working out at a gym with friends immediately after school
 2. Keeping Friday nights open for friends and family
 3. Walking to the park with the family dog
 4. Solo biking for miles and miles
 5. Playing with video games old friends each week at the same time to stay in touch
 6. Movie night with family

 

5. Why This Works: The Brain Science of Rewards

First of all, self-control is not infinite – you have a finite quantity. Yes, just like pennies and minutes, you only have so much impulse control – it truly is a concrete thing. In fact, every time you push yourself to do something, you are engaging in “impulse control fatigue” – a fancy way of saying that you get tired of doing stuff you don’t enjoy doing – and are more likely to take impulsive actions – like binge-ing on video games, YouTube or terrible snacks – out of sheer exhaustion because you have been doing actions which require you to behave yourself. Does this sound familiar?

 

To counteract this impulse control fatigue, you can hack your brain by pairing a “reward” like the examples I listed above, with the things you find difficult to do (but which might be better for you in the long run). This can help motivate you so that you are better able to focus on your tasks – because you are focused on the fun.

 

You can also do this on a super small scale, for particular actions you find difficult, not just your schedule. One economist Dr. Katy Milkman coined the term “temptation bundling” to describe what happens when you pair something you find difficult to do, in her case, hitting the gym, with something enjoyable, such as audiobooks. Once she set out a “rule” that she could only listen to audiobooks when she was at the gym, she found that she started to look forward to going to the gym to find out – what would happen next? And as a result, she built a steady habit of working out.

 

5. Continue to Reflect and Refine Your Routine

This is something you can adjust at least once each semester. Be ready to make adjustments along the way.

 

To reiterate:

 1. Calendar Your Week
 2. Reflect
 3. Timebox Everything
 4. Include Rewards
 5. Reflect and Adjust

 

I hope you enjoyed reading about your brain and productivity and hope you found it empowering. You can do it!!!

At Insight Education, our counselors do more than just help you with your college list, college essays, and applications. We help you build stronger study habits and life skills – Learn more and schedule a meeting with one of our expert counselors today!

 

Written by Meilin Obinata

This article is written by Insight Senior College Admissions Counselor Meilin Obinata.

Meilin Obinata is a Senior College Counselor who enjoys learning from her students. She believes education is a creative endeavor and creates a space that allows students to explore new ideas. As a Bay Area native who grew up in Santa Cruz, she is familiar with the local schools. Read her full bio here.