CollegeSmartboard

77 colleges and universities said YES to our students this cycle, and that’s just the admissions list. 🎉

Our Class of 2025 was awarded over $4.3 million in merit aid and scholarships combined. We are so proud of every single student who trusted us with their journey. 🎓
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Junior year is wrapping up, and that means one thing, essay season is almost here.👀

Before you start typing, make sure your topic isn’t one that admissions officers have already seen a thousand times. The sports comeback. The mission trip. The essay about grandma. They’ve read them all 📚

Your essay is your one chance to show them who you actually are beyond the grades and the resume. That means one real moment, one honest voice, and zero exaggerating. The students who stand out aren’t always the ones with the most impressive stories. They’re the ones who tell their story the best. 🎯
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Still on the fence about starting college this fall? You’re not alone, and you have more options than you think. 💭

If you’re considering a gap year, the first thing to look into is whether your school offers deferral. Deferral lets you lock in your acceptance and delay your start date, usually by one year. Sounds simple, but there are conditions; some schools won’t let you take classes elsewhere, and your financial aid package may not carry over.

The most important thing? Have a purpose behind your gap year. Travel, work, volunteering, or personal growth are all valid, but going in without a plan can make re-entry harder. 🎓
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Senior year is wrapping up fast 🎓 and there’s more to do than just show up to graduation.

Before May 1 hits, make sure your deposit is paid, your financial aid is accepted, and your transcripts are requested. These steps are easy to forget in all the excitement but skipping them can cause real headaches before you even step on campus.
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