College Selection | Great College Advice

Great College Advice Blog

Commuting to Campus: Admissions Expert on the University of Miami

April 13, 2016

Mark visits the University of Miami to talk about its high commuter population and how it affects campus life. Something to think about when searching for the perfect college.

How to Choose the Best College For You?

December 21, 2015

With over 4,000 colleges in the USA, how do you know which one is the perfect fit for you? College admissions expert Mark Montgomery will use his encyclopedic knowledge of American colleges to guide you to the right direction.

Get Into the Best Colleges For You

December 11, 2015

College admissions expert Mark Montgomery can help you find the college of your dreams, and will use his insider knowledge to guide you through the admissions process.

university building in the back of tress

Getting Into Top Universities

December 9, 2015

Mark Montgomery is a college admissions insider: that means he knows the ropes, and can offer invaluable help in your college search.

College Admissions Counseling to Map Your College Journey

Educational Consultant on Study Abroad: Get Your Money’s Worth

July 12, 2015

Mark gives his expert advice on study abroad programs.

Educational Consultant on Co-Ed Bathrooms: You Get Used to ‘Em

April 3, 2015

Mark takes the mystique out of co-ed bathrooms, which are being adopted by many schools with no apparent ill effect.

A street sign that says " College Just Ahead"

Educational Consultant Says Explore Your Options

March 18, 2015

Mark uses the University of California in Santa Barbara as an example of a school that gives students multiple avenues to getting a degree.

college counseling for international students

Educational Consultant on Religious Colleges

March 16, 2015

Mark speaks about the options for religious students searching for colleges to attend.

Educational Consultant on Picking a School: Consider the Surroundings

March 6, 2015

Mark advises students to consider the surroundings when picking a college.

Educational Consultant Says Research the Research Program

February 25, 2015

Mark advises students not to take “research” at face value when considering a college.

a girl looking at college admission essays

Dance With An Admissions Officer: Eight Steps to Get You Admitted to College

October 23, 2023 / Jared Hobson

Good communication with admissions counselors can make or break it for some students. Know when to make the right moves and how to avoid stepping on toes.

You're college application is deferred. Now what?

What to do when you are deferred from your first choice college

October 17, 2023 / Jared Hobson

You've been deferred from your first choice Early Action college. Now what?

accept and reject text written on switch

Is It “Easier” to Get In If You Apply Early Decision?

October 10, 2023 / Andrea Aronson

Everyone wants to do whatever they can to get into the college of their choice. Does applying Early Decision actually help the cause?

Does Applying for Financial Aid Hurt My College Admissions Chances?

October 6, 2023 / Andrea Aronson

New Jersey Educational Consultant gives her take on the relationship between applying for financial aid and getting accepted to college. Should you check that "YES" box for financial aid or

Young tired and stressed student working on his homework, masters feeling desperate and frustrated asking for help. In over Education, learning difficulties, finals exams and emotional stress concept.

How to Write The College Essay for The Common App on Failure

September 28, 2023 / Jared Hobson

One of the new Common Application prompts asks you to recount a time in which you failed. This essay requires that you show both humility and maturity.

Great College Essay Advice for the Common App – The Personal Growth Prompt