Just Admit It!

Many of the most selective institutions either have already gone back to requiring standardized test scores or will be reinstating the requirement soon. In this episode, IvyWise counselors Claire (formerly at the University of Chicago) and Tasha (formerly at USC and Boston University) chat with IvyWise Master Tutor Carl about how to create a testing strategy.

Course rigor refers to the difficulty of the student's curriculum. In this episode, IvyWise counselors Abdiel (formerly at Harvard University) and Tasha (formerly at USC and Boston University) discuss the importance of strategic course selection.

A student's transcript is the single most important qualifying or disqualifying element of their application. In this episode, IvyWise counselors Anthony (former Assistant Director of Admission at Princeton University) and Tasha (formerly at USC and Boston University) unpack how admissions committees evaluate grades.

University isn't just harder than high school — it's a completely different academic and social experience. From classroom expectations to independence and self-advocacy, IvyWise counselor Amy (formerly at Harvard) and host Tasha (formerly at Boston University and USC) break down what students should expect when transitioning to college life and how to set yourself up for success beyond admissions.

Host Tasha (formerly at Boston University and USC) and IvyWise counselor Juaquin (formerly at Occidental College) discuss the importance of depth, commitment, and impact — and how to tell a cohesive story even when your passions don't fit neatly into one box.

Feeling pressured to pick a "forever" career path before you’ve even graduated high school? Host Tasha (formerly at Boston University and USC) and IvyWise counselor Alecia (formerly at Duke University) share expert advice on exploring majors, navigating the "undeclared" route, and demonstrating intellectual curiosity even if your academic interests are still evolving.