MatchPoint College & Career Services

Worried about AI-generated essays in college applications? Remember, tools like ChatGPT can't capture your unique voice and experiences. Focus on hyper-specific personal details that no AI could replicate - admissions officers are looking for authentic stories that reveal the real you, not generic narratives that could apply to anyone. https://lnkd.in/gSFyumJK

In the late 1800s, five universities - Wisconsin-Madison, Yale, Columbia, Hampton and Cornell - educated key leaders of the growing labor movement, advancing ideas around workers' rights. Thinkers like Richard Ely, William Sumner, Samuel Gompers, Henry George and Booker T. Washington were nurtured at these schools. By developing this intellectual core, the universities helped drive progress in bargaining, power balance, and conditions for industrial and farm workers. Their legacy shows how education can ignite social change. https://lnkd.in/ggPnB9Dz

Many colleges are facing tough decisions as they navigate rising costs, leading to cuts in courses and majors. With the end of COVID relief funds and fewer students enrolling directly from high school, budget constraints are impacting offerings, leaving some students without their desired programs. The added challenges of a more complex FAFSA and a strong job market further influence students' choices, making this a pivotal moment for higher education. https://lnkd.in/eB_FqzQX

High school seniors should consider applying to schools with direct admit programs because it simplifies the application process and increases access to higher education. Direct admit can boost confidence by offering admission based on academic qualifications without the traditional stress of applying. This approach can help students who might not have considered certain colleges before, opening doors to more opportunities. Ultimately, it makes college more accessible, especially for first-generation or low-income students. https://lnkd.in/e5eEVeTM

As UT Austin's Longhorns make their SEC debut this season, they're not alone in facing fierce competition—the university ranked 10th most popular among high schoolers, driving record applications for fall 2024. This isn't just a senior year sprint: from freshman year onward, students must excel academically and pursue meaningful extracurriculars. Like the football team's SEC preparation, hopefuls should start early and go deep to stand out in UT's competitive admissions process. https://lnkd.in/ec4au9dq

Crafting a standout personal statement (alos referred to as Essay A) is crucial for college applications to Texas A&M. It offers students a unique opportunity to share their personal stories, challenges, and triumphs that can't be captured in a resume alone https://lnkd.in/gwvWdVgR

Are you falling into the "resume trap" with your college essays? At College MatchPoint, we've seen how forcing every essay to fit a predetermined narrative can limit your ability to showcase your true self. Remember, colleges want well-rounded individuals - don't be afraid to embrace stories that highlight different facets of your personality, even if they seem "off-brand" for your intended major. https://lnkd.in/g7W7vt4f

Crafting a standout personal statement is crucial for UT Austin applications. Our 5-point scorecard helps students ensure their essays shine by focusing on their main character role, showcasing values, emphasizing recent experiences, demonstrating growth, and looking towards the future. Aiming for a score of 20 or above can make your application essay memorable. Ready to make your essay stand out? Let's get started. https://lnkd.in/g--3rrJc

As students targeting the competitive engineering majors at the Cockrell School of Engineering at UT Austin begin the fall semester, they should prioritize creating a clear activity plan. While strong grades and test scores are important, a well-thought-out plan for engaging in engineering-related extracurriculars can set you apart in the admissions process. Starting the fall with a focused activity plan will not only strengthen your application but also highlight your commitment to becoming an exceptional engineer. https://lnkd.in/gJji6AZV

A new Common App report shows a big rise in college applications from underrepresented minority groups, first-generation students, and those from low and middle-income families during the 2023-24 school year. Applications from minority groups went up by 11%, with the biggest growth among American Indian, Latinx, and Black students. Asian students are still more likely to apply to highly selective colleges, showing different trends across racial groups. https://lnkd.in/gvHVh5ua