Beyond the Application: Embracing Authenticity in the Age of AI

The college admissions landscape is evolving at warp speed. It's easy for students and families to feel overwhelmed. But amidst all the change, one thing remains constant: authenticity is your most valuable asset.

For years, I've guided families through the college admissions process, and I've seen firsthand what truly resonates with admissions committees. It's not about checking boxes or crafting a flawless fa?ade. It's about showcasing who you genuinely are and what you're passionate about.

That's where the College Admissions X-Factor? comes in. I encourage students to develop deep expertise in a specific area – something that truly excites them – and align that expertise with their college goals. This isn't just about padding your resume with another extracurricular; it's about diving deep into your interests and using that knowledge to make a meaningful impact. This can be the "secret ingredient" that transforms your applications. What problems do you want to solve? How can you leverage your unique talents and knowledge to do that? The beauty that is created from answering and acting on these questions creates your "X-Factor."

Of course, we can't ignore the elephant in the room: Artificial Intelligence. Tools like ChatGPT can be tempting shortcuts, offering seemingly effortless essay assistance. However, I urge students to resist the urge to let AI tell their story. Use AI as a tool – to brainstorm, to refine your writing, to research – but never to replace your own critical thinking and authentic voice. Colleges want to know you, not a regurgitated avatar of you.

The college admissions journey shouldn't be a source of stress and anxiety. Instead, view it as an opportunity for self-discovery. What are you passionate about? What impact do you want to make on the world? By focusing on your long-term goals and embracing your authentic self (see my book Get Real and Get In), you'll not only create a compelling application but also set yourself up for success long after you receive your acceptance letter.

Let's shift our mindset:

• Focus on growth, not perfection.
• Cultivate your College Admissions X-Factor? – expertise, impact, and intellectual vitality.
• Use AI ethically and strategically, preserving your authentic voice.
• See the admissions process as a journey, not just a destination.

The college admissions process has changed, but our mission of empowering students to feel confident and prepared remains the same.

What is your experience of AI in college admissions? What problems can AI solve or create?