Is it really just a game?

Applying to college isn’t just about submitting forms: it can be a carefully crafted strategy. The admissions process feels like a game, where understanding the rules (yes, they are changing all the time!) and playing smart can make all the difference.
Before working with clients, I wanted to ensure I was truly proficient in the ever-evolving landscape of college admissions. Certification courses, conferences, podcasts, conversations with seasoned experts…yet even with that knowledge, one thing became clear: there is not one single formula for making this process predictable.  
College admissions is like a game, but a unique one. There are only a few rules, yet the strategy is complex. You can do everything “right”, get within a few inches of the finish line, and still not “win”. But maybe winning isn’t just about crossing that finish line? Maybe it’s about playing smart, adapting, and knowing how to best position yourself.

It helps to start by knowing your true goal. Are you seeking an institution that specializes in your future career? Chasing the prestige of the university’s name and reputation? Prioritizing a strong Greek life or particular campus culture? Whether your preferences are highly specific or still evolving, defining what matters most to you is the first step.  
I can help navigate the maze of coursework, building a balanced college list, testing requirements and more, but ultimately, this is just guidance. What happens on the other side of an application is out of our control. While college admissions professionals do their best to assemble a class of students who will carry on the school’s legacy and thrive in their programs, the process remains an educated guess. They read applications, assess high school profiles, evaluate essays, all while trying to predict which students will create a well-rounded and successful incoming class.

Despite their best efforts to be objective, admissions decisions are deeply subjective. It may feel like it’s entirely about you and your submitted forms; the reality is that it’s mostly about what they need at that moment. How many other students with a similar profile have applied that year? What qualities make you stand out? Sometimes, at a particular institution in a particular year, being artistic helps. Other times they may need more male students, STEM majors, or student-athletes.

You will never fully know which moment you are stepping into when you apply. But what you can control is the path you’ve created up to this point. Your experiences, your passions and how you present yourself authentically in your application will define your approach. By curating a list that aligns with your true goals, you ensure that, regardless of the outcome, you have options that set you up for fulfillment and success.