Reviewed by the Davidson Institute for Talent Development.

Admission Matters: What Students and Parents Need to Know About Getting into College is a practical tool that answers your questions with regard to the college admissions process. This book covers topics such as putting together a well-rounded, reasonable list of colleges; how to find colleges that fit your interests; early admittance options; what to do if you’re waitlisted or accepted; what to do if you’re homeschooled; the Common Application; when you should visit colleges; standardized testing; the interview; your essay; paying for college; and much more.

As many of you have experienced, or are currently discovering, the college admissions process is, indeed, a journey. There are many resources that tell you what you can do to get into your dream school. But, are these resources accurate? You can do everything recommended and still not get in. Admission Matters: What Students and Parents Need to Know About Getting into College is a realistic tool that both you and your parents will benefit from. It was written by Sally Springer, Ph.D.; Jon Reider, Ph.D.; and Marion Franck, M.A., all of whom are knowledgeable professionals with years of experience in the college admissions field. When you read Admission Matters: What Students and Parents Need to Know About Getting into College, you will learn about and receive honest and realistic perspectives regarding college admissions from the admissions officer, student, and guidance counselor standpoints. This will give you the opportunity to learn about college admissions from a wider perspective.

Admission Matters: What Students and Parents Need to Know About Getting into College also provides fantastic questionnaires that will help you plan your future by assisting you with putting your priorities in order. What do you want out of your education? How do your SAT and ACT scores match up to the requirements of the university you’re considering? Do you want to go to a large or small university? Is there any part of the country that is not an option for you? What do you need to get the ball rolling? Admission Matters: What Students and Parents Need to Know About Getting into College is a great tool for you, parents, and other students who are just beginning this journey or are close to the finish line.

With more students heading off to college, universities are becoming more competitive. It’s important for students and parents to have a realistic perspective on where they choose to apply, as well as to stay on task and have options in mind. Also, in Admission Matters: What Students and Parents Need to Know About Getting into College, students often commented, “I would start earlier, and not procrastinate” (p. 239). Applying to college takes a lot of planning, work, and effort. One of the biggest mistakes students make is submitting applications that look hurried. Teenagers need guidance throughout this process to avoid making such mistakes. Some students are fortunate to have the support of a strong guidance counselor who has time to meet with them, parents, and peers; but, as we all know, this isn’t always an option. Admission Matters: What Students and Parents Need to Know About Getting into College is a fantastic, realistic tool that will help students cover all bases to ensure they are prepared to proceed with their college journey.

Admission Matters: What Students and Parents Need to Know About Getting into College should be recommended to all parents, students, and counselors who are thinking about college, are in the process of applying, or are strengthening their knowledge of this field.

Permission Statement

This article is provided as a service of the Davidson Institute for Talent Development, a 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to supporting profoundly gifted young people 18 and under. To learn more about the Davidson Institute’s programs, please visit www.DavidsonGifted.org.