THE LATEST INFO & iNSPO - VOL. 7
EDITOR’S NOTE
Can you feel the energy in the air? Spring is just around the corner, and with it comes a burst of activity across high schools and college campuses.
As we step into this vibrant season, we’re excited to bring you the latest news, updates, and stories from the college world. There’s a lot happening right now — upcoming workshops, new partnerships, and so much more — so let’s dive right in!
We’d also love to learn more about you and what you want from us. Please take a moment to fill out this short questionnaire HERE so we can continue providing exactly what you’re looking for.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN THIS EDITION
• News You Can Use – Common App Applications Up
• Tips & Tools – First College Corner Connect Workshop (3/11)
• Admissions Advice – College Essay Musts by Sara Robbin
• The Travel Corner – Boston University
• Vendor Spotlight – Kerri Egozi, Bejeweled Bottlez
DATES TO LOOK OUT FOR
• 2/28 – University of Illinois
• 3/1 – University of Washington
• 3/4 – University of Tennessee
NEWS YOU CAN USE
COMMON APP APPLICATIONS UP 41 PERCENT
According to recent Common App data, the number of applications submitted through the platform has increased 41% compared to the 2019–20 academic year — a significant surge for the 2024–25 admissions cycle.
This year is considered the last admissions cycle not heavily impacted by the pandemic. Reports show the increase was largely driven by applications from underrepresented minorities, first-generation students, and students from low-income backgrounds.
HAMILTON COLLEGE IS A TOP FULBRIGHT PRODUCER
For the 21st consecutive year, Hamilton College has been recognized among the colleges and universities with the most students selected for the Fulbright U.S. Student Program.
For the 2024–25 cycle:
• 36 students and alumni applied
• 13 were named semi-finalists
• 6 were awarded Fulbright grants
• 2 were selected as alternates
Recipients will pursue English Teaching Assistantships in Peru, Taiwan, the Czech Republic, Germany, and Kazakhstan.
Read more about Hamilton HERE and learn more about the Fulbright Program HERE.
10 COLLEGES WITH WINEMAKING CLASSES
Can you say wine not!? 🍷
These schools train students to enter the wine industry through hands-on programs. If your passion goes beyond the glass — to grape varieties, soil science, climate, and fermentation — a college winemaking program could be your first step toward a dynamic, hands-on career.
Read more HERE about 10 colleges offering winemaking programs.
ADVICE CORNER
COLLEGE ESSAY MUSTS
By Sara Robbin
Admissions officers read hundreds of essays a day — so grabbing attention immediately is key.
Avoid giving away your entire topic in the first sentence. Instead, create intrigue so the reader feels compelled to keep reading. For example, Sara still remembers the opening line of her own college essay over 20 years ago:
“I have never cried at a commercial — until yesterday.”
The goal was to spark curiosity and emotional connection, drawing the reader in to learn more.
Read more of Sara’s essay tips HERE.
TIPS & TOOLS
THE COLLEGE CORNER CONNECT
ACT vs. SAT WORKSHOP
Confused about which test to take? Join our upcoming workshop and get the clarity you need.
WHAT WE’LL COVER:
✅ Key differences between the SAT and ACT
✅ Which test may be right for you
✅ Sample questions from each exam
✅ Scored analysis
✅ Personalized recommendations
✅ Live Q&A session
✅ Hosted by Edison Prep
Learn more & sign up HERE
Submit questions for the Q&A HERE
CO-HOSTED BY:
Brian Eufinger, Edison Prep
Test prep expert with 25,000+ students served
VENDOR SPOTLIGHT
BEJEWELED BOTTLEZ — KERRI EGOZI
Is there anything better than a blinged-out bottle? Meet Kerri Egozi, the founder behind Bejeweled Bottlez — offering intricately detailed, totally blinged-out college bottles.
Kerri also creates:
• Blinged tumblers
• Cowbells
• Stadium purses
• Hats & shirts
• Graduation caps
• Candy jars & candy tackle boxes
What would people be most surprised to know about you or your business?
KE: I’m a lawyer by trade!
If you could have lunch with one entrepreneur, who would it be and why?
KE: Judith Leiber — the queen of bling. I’d love to learn how she built such an iconic brand.
Best advice you’d give your younger self?
KE: You’re never too young or too old to keep reinventing yourself.
Click HERE to shop.
THE COLLEGE CORNER CURATORS
Get direct access to curated finds from the best college shops — all in one place. Click the shopping bag to start browsing, and don’t forget to share your wishlist with friends and family!
THE TRAVEL CORNER
SCHOOL OF THE WEEK — BOSTON UNIVERSITY
Thinking about touring Boston University? We have exactly what you need.
Click the photo below for recommendations and tips to make the most of your campus visit.
THE TRAVEL CORNER SUBMISSIONS
Want to submit a travel guide for your school? Click the envelope icon and fill out the survey to be considered. You can also email info@thecollegecorner.com for more information.
PHOTO OF THE WEEK
Photo Credit: Rob Dobi, Getty Images
People who block internet access on their smartphones spend more time on activities that improve overall well-being. Click the image to learn more.