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Navigating a Tough Entry-Level Market (and the AI Factor)
If your job search feels slower than expected, you’re not imagining it. The entry-level market in 2025 is tough — and AI is part of the reason. Job postings are down, applications are up, and many “starter” roles are being redefined or automated. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. It means you need a sharper strategy. Understand What’s Changing AI isn’t just taking jobs — it’s transforming them. Roles that previously involved data entry or fundamental analysis now requ
melissatrager
4 days ago2 min read
Skill-Based Hiring Over Degrees — How to Position Yourself in an Interview
For decades, job seekers believed a college degree was the golden ticket. But today, the hiring world is changing — and fast. More employers are saying, “Show me what you can do,” not “Show me your diploma.” That’s what skills-based hiring is all about. So, What Does This Mean for You? Whether you majored in English or Engineering, what really matters now is your ability to demonstrate value. Can you solve real problems? Can you use tools and technologies relevant to the rol
melissatrager
Nov 32 min read
Why This Fall’s College Admissions Cycle Feels Different (And What You Can Do About It)
If you’re a high school senior applying to college—or a parent helping your student through the process—you may already sense that something is different this year. And you’re right. The 2025–26 admissions cycle is being shaped by several key shifts that make planning and strategic decision-making more important than ever. Let’s break down what’s changed, why it matters, and how you can take smart action now. What’s changing Here are three major trends to know: 1. More compe
melissatrager
Oct 273 min read
Should You Submit SAT/ACT Scores When Schools Are Test-Optional Again?
Every fall, this question makes a comeback — and in 2025, it’s getting trickier to answer: If a school is test-optional, should you still send your SAT or ACT scores? Here’s what’s new. A growing number of colleges are reinstating test requirements after dropping them during the COVID pandemic. Even at test-optional schools, a large chunk of admitted students still submitted scores — sometimes as many as 70–80%. And to make things even more interesting, the ACT changed format
melissatrager
Oct 212 min read
Cracking the Code: The Most Common Supplemental Essay Types (and How to Approach Them)
Just when students finish the main Common App essay and start to relax, the supplemental prompts appear. These school-specific prompts...
melissatrager
Jul 282 min read
Which Common App Essay Style Is Right for You? A Breakdown of Montage and Narrative Approaches
When it comes to writing the main Common App personal statement, high school students often get stuck on one big question: How do I tell...
melissatrager
Jul 212 min read
Ace Your Next Interview: The 5 Questions You’ll Definitely Be Asked
Preparing for a job interview? While every company and role is different, certain questions come up again and again. Hiring managers want...
melissatrager
Jul 142 min read
The 60-Second Intro That Can Open Doors: Mastering Your Elevator Pitch
Whether you’re applying to college, interviewing for internships, or attending a networking event, you need to be able to answer one...
melissatrager
Jul 72 min read
Building Your College Application Persona: Start Early, Go Deep
When it comes to college applications, it’s not about checking every box—it’s about telling a clear, memorable story. Admissions officers...
melissatrager
Jun 302 min read
10 Spots, 150 Characters: How to Maximize the Common App Activities Section
Colleges don’t just want to know what you do in class—they care about what you do with your time beyond it. That’s where the Common App...
melissatrager
Jun 232 min read
Breaking Down the Common App: What Students Need to Know
For many high school seniors, the Common App is the central hub of the college application process. It allows students to apply to...
melissatrager
Jun 162 min read
From Draft to Final: Editing Tips to Strengthen Your Personal Statement
You’ve written a draft of your college personal statement—but you’re not done yet. The difference between a decent and a strong essay...
melissatrager
Jun 92 min read
What Not to Write: Overdone College Essay Topics and How to Avoid Them
Every year, admissions officers read thousands of personal statements. Some stand out for their insight and voice—others, unfortunately,...
melissatrager
Jun 22 min read
No Big Moment? No Problem. What to Write About for the College Essay
When it comes to college applications, the Common App personal statement is one of the most important pieces—and for many students, one...
melissatrager
May 262 min read
How to Start Your Common App Personal Statement: Essay Hooks That Work
Let’s be real—starting your Common App essay (or any essay for that matter) is the worst . You know you need a great hook, something that...
melissatrager
May 193 min read
How to Brainstorm Your College Essay: 5 Exercises to Get You Started
If you’re a rising high school senior staring at a blank page, wondering how to start your common app personal statement, you’re not...
melissatrager
May 123 min read
Maximizing Your Common App Activities List: What Admissions Officers Want to See
The Common App activities list is one of the most important sections of your college application. It’s your chance to showcase what...
melissatrager
May 52 min read
Does Your Major Choice Affect College Acceptance? What You Need to Know
As a rising high school senior, one of your biggest decisions is choosing which major (or college within a university) to apply for....
melissatrager
Apr 283 min read
Common Interview Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but making a few key mistakes can hurt your chances—even if you're the perfect candidate on paper. The...
melissatrager
Apr 212 min read
The Best Interview Questions to Ask (So You Actually Learn About the Job)
Job interviews aren’t just about answering questions—they’re also an opportunity for you to evaluate the company. Asking smart,...
melissatrager
Apr 142 min read
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