I'm Dr. Andrew Hoffman, a former admissions director and officer, and I'm launching this YouTube channel to help you through the college admissions process. In this video, you will get to know me and why I'm starting this channel and website - specifically, to help parents and families through your student's college admissions journey.
Not sure where to begin with the college search process? In this video, I walk you and your family through the first steps you should take when starting to research colleges. From setting up a dedicated email to identifying your student’s priorities, you'll learn how to stay organized, make informed decisions, and reduce the stress of choosing the right college.
Thinking about visiting colleges with your high school student? Wondering when to go, what to ask, or how to make the most of your campus visits? In this video, I break down everything you need to know about college visits. We're talking all things college campus visits — why they matter, how to schedule one, what to look for, and how these visits can even impact your student’s college admissions chances through something called demonstrated interest.
Wondering how to help your high school student create a strong college list? Not sure what makes a college a “reach,” “target/match,” or “likely”? In this video, I’ll guide you step-by-step through building a well-rounded, strategic college list that sets your student up for success.
Is your student thinking about applying early to college? Wondering whether Early Decision (ED), Early Decision 2 (ED2), Early Action (EA), or Restrictive Early Action (REA) is the right move for your student? In this video, I break down the pros, cons, and critical fine print of each early admissions option—so you can make a confident, informed decision as a family.
You've probably heard about college admissions "hooks", or institutional priorities. This video explores and defines different hooks - what are they, why are they important, and how does your student get an edge in the admissions process? I'll also cover how you MIGHT be able to tell what specific institutions prioritize in the college application review.
What is demonstrated interest in the college admissions process, and why can it be so important? What are the ways in which admissions offices track interest? And how do you know if colleges care about demonstrated interest? This video explores all of these college admissions topics for you and your family.
In this video, I break down how you, as a parent, can best support your student through the college admissions process — from offering financial guidance and emotional support to encouraging independence and avoiding common pitfalls like micromanaging or projecting personal preferences. Learn how to strike the right balance between guiding and empowering your student on this college admissions important journey.
Wondering how to pay for college without breaking the bank? In this video, I explains the key components of college costs and how parents can make higher education more affordable. Learn about financial aid, scholarships, the FAFSA, CSS Profile, 529 college savings plans, and tips on the financial aid timeline. Whether you're just starting the process or deep into planning, this video gives you the essential strategies to maximize aid and minimize stress.
Thinking about hiring a private college counselor or Independent Education Consultant (IEC)? In this video, I explain what IECs do, how much they cost, what to look for when hiring one, and how to avoid common red flags. You'll also learn whether hiring an IEC is right for your family — or if you can navigate the process on your own with the right resources.
Are you a parent of a high-achieving student aiming for top colleges—but wondering how to pay for it? In this video, I break down 10+ prestigious, competitive merit scholarships that can cover full tuition, room & board, and even summer enrichment at some of the most selective colleges in the U.S.
Is your student interested in attending college in California -- but merit scholarships are essential to making it happen? In this video, I cover several merit scholarship programs at public and private colleges and universities in America's largest state (as well as the very popular need-based aid program: Cal Grant).
In this video, I cover merit scholarship opportunities at colleges and universities in Texas, including UT-Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Christian, Southern Methodist and others.
Interested in merit scholarships across the state of Florida? Confused about Bright Futures? In this video, I cover some of the most generous merit scholarships at Florida's public and private colleges.
Wondering about merit scholarships at New York University, Fordham, Syracuse, and the University of Rochester? What about Stony Brook, Binghamton and other SUNY/CUNY schools? I cover all of these and several other private and public colleges and universities in New York City and upstate, plus New York's statewide need-based aid programs.
Common App is officially open! Here's your comprehensive walkthrough - the first in a series of videos to get your student across the finish line and applying to college.
Common App is officially open! Here's the second video in your comprehensive walkthrough - covering the education and testing sections.
Common App is officially open! Here's the third video in your comprehensive walkthrough - covering the extra-curricular activities, personal essay, and additional information.
Common App is officially open! Here's the fourth and final video in your comprehensive walkthrough - covering courses, recommendations, and supplements.
Hey, teachers! Here's a video for you - what do admissions officers expect to see in letters of recommendation? What should you avoid? And how does all of this logistically work?
Are you an international student (or parent of an international student), and you're not sure where to begin the U.S. university admissions process? Check this video out.
Struggling with your college supplements? Confused about their purpose or what you're supposed to write? This video should get you started. If you'd like me to review your supplements (and the rest of your application), sign up for an Application Review session here: https://www.askdrhoffman.com/application-review
You've worked extensively on building your balanced college list, identified some early options, and worked hard on your application. So, do you just... you know.. submit the application and hope for the best? Before doing so, watch this video and make sure you check all of these boxes before the confetti flies.