"A is for Admission" by Michele A. Hernández is an illuminating and comprehensive guide that provides valuable insights into the competitive world of college admissions in the United States. As a former admissions officer at Dartmouth, Hernández offers a unique perspective, offering tips and strategies to help students navigate the complex process and increase their chances of acceptance into top-tier universities.
From the start, the book debunks common misconceptions about college admissions and delves into the factors that admission officers consider when reviewing applications. Hernández emphasizes the importance of presenting a well-rounded application, providing advice on how to effectively showcase one's unique qualities, passions, and accomplishments. Additionally, she offers guidance on resume building, interview preparation, and ways to make standout essays and personal statements.
One of the standout features of the book is Hernández's insider perspective on what admissions officers are really looking for in prospective candidates. By providing a clear understanding of the selection process, she helps students align themselves with the right colleges. Throughout the book, the author shares personal anecdotes that illustrate various scenarios, making the information relatable and engaging.
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Hernández also addresses the often controversial topic of standardized testing, offering advice on when to take tests, effective studying techniques, and the importance of scores in the overall application. She also provides guidance on financial aid and scholarships, ensuring that students and families are well-prepared for the cost of a college education.
Overall, "A is for Admission" is an invaluable resource for high school students and their families, as well as guidance counselors and college advisors. With its practical advice, real-life examples, and comprehensive coverage of the college admissions process, the book equips students with the knowledge and tools necessary to successfully navigate this highly competitive journey. Whether you're just starting the college admissions journey or seeking to enhance your application, this book is an essential companion.
What are readers saying?
"A Is for Admission: The Insider's Guide to Getting into the Ivy League and Other Top Colleges" written by Michele A. Hernández, has gained extensive acclaim for its valuable insights and advice for students striving to gain admission into prestigious universities. The reviews for this book highlight its practicality, honesty, and effectiveness in guiding students through the highly competitive college admissions process.
Many reviewers highly appreciate the author's firsthand experience and expertise as a former admissions officer at Dartmouth College. They find her insights into the admissions process extremely valuable and commend the book for providing a realistic perspective on what it takes to stand out among thousands of applicants.
The book's emphasis on personal essays and applications has received praise from reviewers, who find the tips and examples provided by Hernández immensely helpful. Readers appreciate the practical advice on presenting unique qualities and experiences in a compelling manner, increasing their chances of admission.
Reviewers also mention that the book provides a comprehensive overview of the Ivy League admissions process, with dedicated chapters on standardized tests, extracurricular activities, recommendations, and interviews. Many find this organization particularly useful as it allows them to navigate through different aspects of the application process systematically.
Hernández's straightforward and honest approach is well-received by readers, who appreciate her debunking of commonly held misconceptions and her emphasis on authenticity in applications. Several reviewers mention that her advice helped them avoid common pitfalls and present themselves in the best possible light to admissions committees.
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