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Reviewed by the Davidson Institute for Talent Development.

College Planning for Gifted Students is a user-friendly guide which delineates the steps necessary for successful college preparation. This book covers topics including: early entrance college programs, college planning resources, SAT and ACT guidance and resources, career planning, the application process, guidelines for writing a college application essay, college cost and much more. Berger begins the book with a “College Planning Timeline” providing hints and tips on what students and parents can do to prepare for college in each grade. Berger recommends the college planning process begin in seventh grade (because many gifted students begin taking the SAT and ACT for talent searches during that time), but also offers advice for those who are planning for college later on in the educational process.

Throughout the book, Berger guides the reader toward the following questions: what does the college have that I want, what do I have that they want, and what makes me different? She emphasizes the importance of individual discovery through “questions to consider” sections; highlighting self-exploration and self-awareness. These sections guide the gifted students and parents through the decision making process. Topics include college searches, the application process, early entrance college programs, SAT and ACT hints and resources, contests and competitions.

Topics regarding college planning for parents include: twice exceptionality, underachievement, homeschooling, extracurricular activities, multi-potentiality and sensitivity to expectations. She also provides practical advice for: writing college application essays, requesting letters of recommendation, visiting colleges and acing the college entrance interview. Berger stresses the importance of self-advocacy throughout her commentary. She shares her unique professional experience with the hope that students diversify their searches, and set themselves up for success.

College Planning for Gifted Students is recommended for counselors, as well as parents and students 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 he Davidson Institute for Talent Development programs, please visit www.DavidsonGifted.org