The Progressive Corner
How to Create a Computational Biology Theme: A Stanford, Caltech Success Story
The Story Richard was a biology super star at his school. He was the top student in the Biology Olympiad since the 9th grade at his school and recently qualified as a USABO finalist. He had attended a Catholic boarding school on the East Coast...
How to Create a Research Leader Theme: A Stanford Success Story
I reluctantly took the meeting with David’s mom. While many consultants try to take 20-30 students a year, I focus on taking 8-9 of the very best students I can find. Students whom I can help and that will work hard towards goals we both...
Why being Well-Balanced is a Negative Approach: A University of Pennsylvania Success Story
Theme vs. Well-Balanced Many consultants, high school teachers, counselors and parents think that because happiness in life requires a well-balanced approach, so success in college admissions does as well. Not so. This philosophy has been...
IvyZen’s Complete Ivy League Application Checklist
The college admissions process was always a stressful one; now, it’s both stressful and complicated! Applying to the top 10-15 colleges is even worse. There are so many options now within common application and slideroom and so many more essays than before.
How to Make Your Extracurricular Clubs Great
Founding, leading and participating in his own clubs are one of the best extracurricular activities a student can engage in. It demonstrates leadership, initiative, social skills and a passion for a certain area. The last part is particularly...
6 Myths about Ivy League Admissions
Applying to college can be a daunting task. What makes it worse is that, often, students and parents find themselves bombarded with conflicting information about the best way to apply. While it does take hard work, getting admitted to a top...
The 8 Biggest Myths about Ivy League Admissions
The 8 Biggest Myths about Ivy League Admissions (for Rising Seniors) Applying for college can be a complicated task. Students and parents alike may find themselves bombarded with conflicting information while wondering what to do. Truthfully,...
What if I don’t get into my early decision school?
“What if I don’t get into my early decision school?” As students prepare to choose their early decision schools, they may feel a sense of panic. After all, if they don’t get into their early action, then their college dreams are crushed, right? Wrong! Although about...
Building the perfect theme for future math majors
Settle in, all you math wizards, because this is a long one. If you are interested in attending college to major in mathematics, then there are many things you can do now to prepare yourself for admissions. Like every IvyZen theme, your plan of attack will be divided...
To supplement or not to supplement: the importance of extra materials in the college application
To supplement or not to supplement: the importance of extra materials in the college application With application season just around the corner, you are probably considering ways to set your application apart from the others. Have you thought about which supplemental...