I have the privilege and pleasure of visiting many private schools and colleges across the country, and sitting down with admissions counselors, directors, and representatives. As we chat, we compare notes about the fast-changing landscape of admissions, how schools and students are adapting, and what factors best predict a successful application. It’s important to remember that admissions teams are there to answer your questions, as well as to assess the fit between the school population...

By Deb Rooney, M.Ed. As soon as I utter the words “writing assignment” a look of panic appears on my students’ faces. Their hands shoot up like rockets and the questions immediately start: “How long does it need to be? Does spelling count? When is it due? What happens if I don’t finish on time?” The teens don’t even know what they are writing about; however, that is not what is important to them. As I begin to enthusiastically explain the assignment, I know my students are not listening to...