• Debunking the Biggest Myths About College Admissions

    Debunking the Biggest Myths About College Admissions

    The college admissions process can feel like navigating a maze of advice, rumors, and high stakes. With so much conflicting information and nuances between every school, it’s no wonder that myths around the college admissions process exist. At Premium Prep, they believe in demystifying the college admissions process so students and families can have a…

  • How to Choose a College That Aligns with Your Values: Navigating Campus Culture and Political Climate

    How to Choose a College That Aligns with Your Values: Navigating Campus Culture and Political Climate

    When students begin their college search, they often have a checklist of must-haves and nice-to-haves. Some want bustling urban campuses; others are drawn to quiet, rural colleges. Some hope to stay close to home, while others dream of a fresh start in a new state. Alongside factors like Greek Life, campus size, and internship opportunities,…

  • 5 Common College Application Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

    5 Common College Application Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

    The college application process can feel overwhelming, and with so much at stake, it’s easy to make simple mistakes that can hurt your chances of getting into your dream school. However, understanding these common pitfalls — and knowing how to avoid them — can set you up for success. We’ll cover five of the most…

  • Leyla Brittan: From Storytelling Student to Published Novelist

    Leyla Brittan: From Storytelling Student to Published Novelist

    Leyla Brittan’s journey from a Harvard graduate to a published author exemplifies how embracing one’s unique narrative can lead to extraordinary success. After earning a bachelor’s degree in English with a secondary in computer science from Harvard in 2019, Brittan explored diverse fields, from rock climbing journalism to television production. In 2023, she received her…

  • How to Turn Your Interests into Strengths for College Applications

    How to Turn Your Interests into Strengths for College Applications

    As college admissions become increasingly competitive, students are faced with a challenge: how do you stand out? One of the most effective ways to differentiate yourself in the applicant pool is by demonstrating genuine interests and passions. While academics are crucial, colleges want to know who you are and what you enjoy outside the classroom.…

  • How to Secure Strong College Recommendations: The Power of Brag Sheets

    How to Secure Strong College Recommendations: The Power of Brag Sheets

    The college admissions process can often feel overwhelming, especially when you’re competing against thousands of applicants for a spot at your dream school. One of the most important things you can do is advocate for yourself to ensure you showcase all of your best qualities and accomplishments. But how do you do that effectively? One…

  • How to Write Standout College Essays: Tips for Success

    How to Write Standout College Essays: Tips for Success

    Six hundred and fifty words. It doesn’t sound like much. Yet, the simple length of a common app college essay can be overwhelming for so many students. At Premium Prep College Counseling, we believe writing these essays is one of the most exciting and critical parts of the college application journey. It’s your chance to…

  • Why SEC Schools Are So Popular: Exploring Football, Greek Life, and Southern Charm

    Why SEC Schools Are So Popular: Exploring Football, Greek Life, and Southern Charm

    There’s no denying it — SEC schools have become a cultural phenomenon. The Southeastern Conference (SEC), comprised of powerhouse schools like the University of Alabama and Auburn University, holds a magnetic appeal that continues to draw students from across the country. While the South isn’t for everyone, and some might find the conservative culture or…

  • How to Discuss Politics on Your College Application: 4 Key Strategies

    How to Discuss Politics on Your College Application: 4 Key Strategies

    “It’s not polite to talk about politics” — a phrase many students have heard throughout their lives. And, in some ways, it can be risky to discuss a hot-button issue on your college application. After all, you never know who is going to pick up your application file and what their own values system might…

  • 3 Key Factors to Finding Your Perfect College Fit

    3 Key Factors to Finding Your Perfect College Fit

    Choosing the right college is more than just picking a name off a list — it’s about finding the right place for your academic journey and one that will best benefit your personal growth. Considering there are thousands of colleges for students to choose from during application season, this is no easy task. The concept…

  • Considering College Athletics: Tips for the College-Bound Student-Athlete

    Considering College Athletics: Tips for the College-Bound Student-Athlete

    From a pool of over 8 million high school athletes, more than 520,000 go on to play for almost 20,000 college teams. Division III teams, alone, include over 200,000 student-athletes. The relationships built, memories made, and lessons learned through competitive sports are life-changing for many student-athletes. If you’re wondering about whether to continue to play…

  • The Role of Personal Character in the College Admissions Review Process

    The Role of Personal Character in the College Admissions Review Process

    Have you ever thought about how much YOU matter during the admissions process? The answer to this question will vary depending on where you are applying, but as a former admissions counselor for a large public state institution, I can assure you that personality and character do not go unnoticed during the application review process. …

  • Navigating the Hyper-Competitive World of College Admissions

    Navigating the Hyper-Competitive World of College Admissions

    In Greta Gerwig’s 2017 film Lady Bird, a memorable scene depicts Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson checking her college admissions results. When she discovers her acceptance to only one college, she reacts with frustration. This scene resonates deeply with today’s college applicants, highlighting the intense and increasingly competitive college admissions landscape. But while the landscape has…

  • Discovering Hidden Gems: Premium Prep’s Favorite Under-the-Radar Colleges

    Discovering Hidden Gems: Premium Prep’s Favorite Under-the-Radar Colleges

    Finding the right college is about more than just rankings and name recognition. It’s about discovering a place where you can thrive academically, socially, and personally. At Premium Prep College Counseling, our mission is to help students find the best college fit for them. While Ivy League schools and other high-profile universities often dominate the…

  • Dorm Decor Done Right: Tips from a College Counseling Pro

    Dorm Decor Done Right: Tips from a College Counseling Pro

    Moving into a dorm room is more than just a move; it’s a rite of passage. It’s also big business. College students spend about $27 billion on back-to-college shopping, according to a 2022 report from Deloitte, and with growing companies like Dormify offering to help students make their spaces social media ready, the stakes seem…

  • Finding Your Voice: Tips for a Memorable College Essay

    Finding Your Voice: Tips for a Memorable College Essay

    Despite the discussions around AI, the college essay isn’t going anywhere anytime soon; nothing can replace the authenticity and humanity of an honest student voice. The essay is the primary way for applicants to speak directly to admissions officers, showcase their distinctive qualities and experiences, and make a case for why they belong at a…