Comprehension falters—I don’t know what the word means. The significance of the sentence hinges upon its meaning. The computerized definition is vague. I reach for my Merriam-Webster. Suddenly it all makes sense. I tack on word and definition to the ever- growing list by my desk, and then search synonyms to integrate semantic subtleties into context. Some of these synonyms are new too; my list grows. Words enthrall me. They are simply combinations of sounds varying in length...

A good essay is one that shows who you are and why you are special. Try to avoid common, repetitive topics. The personal statement is, in my opinion (and the opinion of my college counselor), the most important part of a college application. It is your one shot to make yourself stand out from the crowd as someone who has something interesting and unique to bring to the school you are applying to. The essay is what separates a good...

I used a private college counselor in my area who I found extremely helpful. There are many advantages to this and I...

There are so many great things about Northwestern, not the least of which is its location. Evanston is a great college town with endless restaurants, bars, stores, entertainment, etc. Having a CVS, Whole Foods, Cinemark, and a...

I think that what set my application apart was how well rounded it was. It is great to have really good grades...

Find important figures in your life that know you well to write your letters of recommendation. It is good to have very different people write them so that colleges...

The factors that ultimately went into my decision to come to Northwestern were: academics, size, location, culture, and opportunities. You want to go to a school that will give you a great education in whatever field you are interested in. I wasn't (and am still not) sure what I'm interested in, and NU has phenomenal...