What should you put in the Common App Additional Information section—and what should you leave out? In this video, I walk through the Common Application’s Additional Information, Challenges and Circumstances, and Responsibilities and Circumstances sections from the perspective of a former admissions officer. I’ll explain how admissions officers use this information, when students should provide additional context, and when it’s better to leave the section blank.
The Common App Honors section gives students just five spaces and 100 characters to describe each honor or award. So what should you include—and which awards should make your top five? In this complete Common Application Honors & Awards walkthrough, I explain how to approach this section from an admissions officer's perspective.
The Common App Activities and Experiences section has changed for the 2026–27 application cycle—and one seemingly simple change could affect how admissions officers read your activities. In this complete Common Application Activities walkthrough, I’ll show you what changed and explain how to approach this section strategically.
Completing the QuestBridge National College Match application can feel overwhelming—but understanding how admissions officers actually review your application can make all the difference. In this comprehensive walkthrough, I guide you through each major section of the QuestBridge application while explaining what college admissions offices at QuestBridge partner colleges are really looking for.
Common App is officially open! Here's the fourth and final video in your comprehensive walkthrough - covering courses, recommendations, and supplements.
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 second video in your comprehensive walkthrough - covering the education and testing sections.
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.