Synopses & Reviews
Smarten Up—It's Time to Choose the Right CollegeThink that your life's growth, success, and happiness depend on which college you attend? The higher-profile school, the better, right? Wrong! Neither is true.
Written by, yes, a Harvard grad, Harvard Schmarvard rebuts the perception that image is everything when it comes to college and emphasizes this simple fact: What you will be measured by in life is your talent and energy, not your college's name. Packed with practical information and insider tips, this must-have guide will help you determine which school fits you. Inside, you'll find:
·How to survive the application process without losing your sanity or sense of humor
·Tips on writing essays, visiting campuses, and keeping cool during your college interviews
·The truth about search letter scams and the early admissions game
·Plus loads of other invaluable insight!
So take a deep breath and exhale your worries and fears. Let Harvard Schmarvard debunk the myths, expose you to the truth, and clear your mind so you can weigh what's really important.
Synopsis
For the millions of high school students -- as well as their parents, teachers, and school counselors -- who search each year tot the perfect college, here is a reality check! Written by, yes, a Harvard grad, this back-to-earth guide rebuts the perception that image is everything and emphasizes the truth: People are measured by their talent and energy and not simply by the name and reputation of their chosen educational institution. The bottom-line emphasis encourages students to seriously consider less-exclusive schools with outstanding programs and qualities that offer countless opportunities. Practical information and insider tips include:
-- The Hidden Gem List: The top 100 underappreciated universities that get great reviews from students
-- A one-of-a-kind, personal questionnaire to determine the right college for each student
-- Tips on filling out applications, writing essays, visiting campuses, and surviving the admission process
-- The truth about rankings in the U.S. News & World Report and other magazines
-- And much more valuable insight!
About the Author
Jay Mathews is an education reporter and columnist for the Washington Post. He has been an alumnus recruiter for Harvard for 20 years and lives in Bethesda, Maryland.
Table of Contents
The dust clears: what really matters about choosing a college -- Relax: there's no such thing as the wrong high school -- The SAT and other high school stresses -- The role of your high school counselor -- The search letter scam -- Rankings, SAT scores, and finances: What to consider in selecting your college -- Finding the right fit: the importance of life outside the classroom -- The fun begins: how to survive the application process with your family intact -- Essays, directions, and other details: filling out the application -- The early acceptance game -- Forced marches through the quad: the campus visit -- How to smile through your college interview -- The truth about wait lists -- Slipping in at the last minute: mid-year admissions -- Where do heroes go to college? -- April angst: admit weekends and other tales -- Jake and Stephanie take a year off: delaying college -- Returning your college to the store: transferring -- Make your own Harvard.