THE COLLEGE SCOOP - VOL. 5
EDITOR’S NOTE
As mid-February rolls in, we’re reminded just how quickly this year is flying by!
For those of you navigating the college prep journey, now is the perfect time to check in on your progress and plan for the months ahead. Whether you’re exploring ACT/SAT prep options, finalizing campus visits, or simply looking for ways to stay on top of deadlines, The College Corner is here to guide you every step of the way.
Here’s to a successful season of prep and planning — and Happy Valentine’s Day!
WHAT TO EXPECT IN THIS EDITION
• News You Can Use – Legacy Admissions Has Dropped
• Tips & Tools – The College Corner Connect Matching Service
• The College Corner Curators – Guided Shopping Experience
• The Travel Corner – UT Austin
• The Style Corner – Jet Set Style
DATES TO LOOK OUT FOR
• 2/12 – University of Vermont
• 2/12 – Colby College
• 2/13 – American University
NEWS YOU CAN USE
LEGACY ADMISSIONS HAS DROPPED
While many people believe legacy status boosts college admission chances, a new study reveals that the share of four-year institutions considering an applicant’s family ties to alumni has dropped by half since 2015.
Read more about it HERE.
THE COLLEGE COURSE EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT
Students at the University of Maryland are racing to get into Michael McMillan’s personal finance class. No — it’s not about artificial intelligence or Taylor Swift — it’s about money management, and Gen Z students are more interested than ever.
Read more about it HERE.
CHANGES TO THE ACT
Beginning in April 2025, students taking the ACT online will see a shorter, updated format with the option to exclude the science section, offering greater flexibility while maintaining accuracy and reliability.
Read more about the changes HERE.
TIPS & TOOLS
THE COLLEGE CORNER CONNECT
We’re finalizing details for The College Corner Connect — our new matching service designed to help families find the right college expert.
If you’re currently looking for a higher-ed professional, reach out to us at info@thecollegecorner.com. We’ll be sharing more details about this one-of-a-kind program very soon.
We’ll also be hosting monthly workshops with our partners, covering everything from test prep to essay writing and more.
Our first workshop will take place in early March — stay tuned for the exact date, topic, and signup information!
ASK THE EXPERTS
INSIDE ACCESS TO COLLEGE EXPERTS
Here are the experts’ answers to last week’s student questions:
Question #1
Should I take challenging classes next year or take it easy since it’s my first year of high school?
For most students, it’s a good idea not to take things too easy during freshman year. Including a few challenging courses helps you adjust to higher academic expectations while still allowing time to settle into a new environment.
That said, every student is different. Consult your middle school guidance counselor and current teachers to find the right balance based on your learning style and goals.
Question #2
How can I stay organized while balancing sports and schoolwork?
Balancing academics and activities can feel overwhelming, but strong organization from the start makes a big difference.
Helpful tips:
• Use a calendar to track practices, games, and assignments
• Block specific times for homework and studying
• Communicate openly with teachers and coaches about conflicts
• Use free periods wisely and limit distractions like social media
• Avoid over-scheduling — learn to say no
• Stay flexible and adjust what isn’t working
Click HERE to submit a question for our experts.
COLLEGE CORNER CURATORS
YOUR GUIDED SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
We’re thrilled to introduce College Corner Curators — think of it as your personal college celebration shopper.
After receiving incredible feedback on our Bed Party Checklist, we created a dedicated team to help you plan:
• Bed parties
• Table parties
• Acceptance celebrations
• Or curated access to must-have college goodies
All without the stress or guesswork.
Simply click below and check off your favorite items in each category — easy as 1-2-3! Be sure to share your list with friends and family.
FABULOUS FINDS
We love discovering unique businesses — and Candi3Gen is one of them!
What’s better than three generations of women crafting candy sushi 🍣🍱
Even better? A portion of their sales supports the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation.
You can customize candy sushi for any school.
Click HERE to shop.
THE TRAVEL CORNER
SCHOOL OF THE WEEK — UT AUSTIN
Thinking about touring UT Austin? We have exactly what you need.
Click the photo below for recommendations and tips to make the most of your visit.
THE STYLE CORNER
JET SET STYLE
Whether you’re flying home for break, heading to a game-day weekend, or embracing your jet-set era, a solid travel outfit is non-negotiable.
Comfort? Essential.
Style? A given.
Vibes? Immaculate.
We’ve rounded up must-have pieces to keep you cozy, cute, and effortlessly cool from security check to touchdown.
STYLE BLOG
Styled by Addy Hiller, Wayne, NJ
PHOTO OF THE WEEK
Credit: Cape Cod Times
Sun lover or snow lover — we’re obsessed with this photo of a woman watching the waves roll in on a snowy Cape Cod beach.