Lynne at the NACAC Baltimore Conference

I recently had the privilege of attending the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) Conference at the Baltimore Convention Center in Baltimore, MD. This convention is annual gathering of educators, college counselors, and admissions professionals from across the world. It was an enlightening experience that provided a wealth of information and invaluable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of college admissions. 

During this four-day bonanza comprised of 7,000 admissions professionals from both sides of the desk, I attended discussions with the College Essay Guy, listened to a talk called Courage to Lead: A Conversation with U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona and Maryland Governor Wes Moore, a thoughtful discussion on It is Time to Reimagine the College Admissions Process?, another on The Canadian University Application Process, a beautiful discussion with Jay Shetty, and listened to an incredible talk on Navigating the Path to Earning a UK Degree.

What I knew already and had it reinforced tenfold is that there is so much to keep up with in college admissions and having professionals who take the time to invest in their development, collaborate, connect, and expand their network is essential.

In this blog post, I want to share some key takeaways from the conference that I believe will be beneficial as you navigate the college application process.

Holistic Admissions are All Around

One of the recurring themes at the NACAC Conference was the continued importance of holistic admissions at most universities. Most colleges are not just looking at your grades and test scores; they are interested in who you are, how you think, and how you will leverage their resources if admitted. Most want to understand your unique story, passions, and the impact you have had on your community. This means that your essays, recommendations, and extracurricular activities are crucial in showcasing who you are beyond your academic achievements.

Test-Optional Doesn't Mean Test-Irrelevant

Many colleges have adopted test-optional policies in recent years, allowing applicants to decide whether or not to submit standardized test scores. However, it's essential to understand that being test-optional doesn't mean that test scores are irrelevant. If you have strong test scores and believe they enhance your application, by all means, submit them.

Conversely, if your scores don't reflect your abilities, you now have the option to focus on other aspects of your application. What has happened in the world of test-optional is now students with very high scores are the only ones applying and that is causing numbers across the board to inflate even further at most universities. When deciding to submit or withhold your scores it is important to do the calculation to determine how best to highlight your skills going forward.

The College List Matters

Crafting a balanced college list is a critical step in the admissions process. The NACAC Conference emphasized the importance of finding schools that are a good fit for your academic, social, and personal needs. Please don't just chase the most prestigious colleges; consider factors like size, location, academic programs, campus culture, retention and graduation rates, opportunities for internships and co-ops, how extensive are career services, and any other programs that you want to explore during your college experience.

When spending the afternoon at UMBC ten minutes from the inner harbor, I learned that they start career services with their students on Day 1 which is a rarity at most schools. Remember that there are numerous colleges and universities that can provide an excellent education and the right environment for your growth, it is essential to determine what are the factors that will contribute to your best experience.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Understanding the financial aspects of college admissions is just as crucial as the academic side. Attendees at the conference discussed various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, especially in the wake of the FASFA simplification act.

It is essential to research options early and apply for scholarships diligently. In fact, I learned about www.collegeraptor.com as a terrific resource for families looking for a free cost calculator early in the process.

Finally, many institutions offer merit-based scholarships, so your achievements can directly impact your affordability and you are often automatically considered just as long as your application is in ahead of an established deadline.

The Application Process is an Art

Creating a compelling college application is an art form. The NACAC Conference highlighted the significance of personal statements and finding your authentic voice. Spend time reflecting on your experiences and goals, and ensure that your application materials convey your unique qualities and aspirations. Reflection on who you are and spending time writing in a reflective manner throughout your high school career will only make writing your personal statement easier.

The College Essay Guy, Ethan Sawyer, offered a terrific series of talks with his amazing resources and books during the conference. The best part, he offers his ideas for free. It is a terrific way to start on your introspective and reflective journey.

Start Early and Stay Informed

The college application process can be overwhelming, but starting early and staying informed can alleviate much of the stress. Attend informational sessions, visit college campuses (both in person and remotely), and engage with college representatives (at your school, through college fairs, on campus, and during virtual sessions). Utilize online resources and connect with college counselors to stay up-to-date on programming changes and requirements.

Mental Health and Well-being

College admissions can be a stressful time for both students and their families. It's important to prioritize mental health and well-being throughout the process. Seek support from counselors, friends, and family members, make dedicated time to get outside, walk and soak in some Vitamin D is essential. Remember that your worth is not defined by the college you attend, and there are many paths to success.

In conclusion, the NACAC Conference 2023 provided valuable insights into the complex world of college admissions, it was also wildly overwhelming for me. Just like heading off to school, being surrounded by the thought leaders in the industry can be overwhelming.

It made me think of my students and their families as they embark on this process, you have a whole network of supporters, lean into who lifts you up and helps you remain focused. Remember that the college admissions process is not just about getting into a school that is your best potential bumper sticker, but finding a place where you can grow, learn, and thrive.