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Should Students Do Whatever It Takes to Maximize ACT and SAT Scores · The Cult of Pedagogy Podcast

The Cult of Pedagogy Podcast

69: Three Surprising Reasons Students Don't Get into Top Colleges

For many students, getting into a highly competitive college drives most decisions about where to spend their time and energy. But what if some of these decisions actually hurt their chances of getting in? My guest Shirag Shemmassian, who helps students get admitted to highly selective colleges, shares the three mistakes students make when trying to make…

Notes

  1. Who Is Shirag Shemmassian at 3:29

    He helps high school students get into top colleges like Princeton, Stanford, MIT, etc. He received his undergraduate degree from Cornell and his PhD from UCLA. Full answer

  2. What Is the Current Situation of Students Trying to Get Into Their Most Desired College at 6:42

    Parents and students don't know where to go for high-quality information or how to really stand out. Full answer

  3. What Is a Key Mistake Applicants Make That They Believe Will Help Them but Ultimately Does Not at 8:24

    Enrolling in every difficult course their high school has to offer. Top schools are looking for students who challenge themselves academically. Full answer

  4. Do Admissions Officers Weigh a Student's Fit? at 13:03

    Yes, definitely. There are many ways to demonstrate fit, which begins well before the application process. Full answer

  5. Should Students Do Whatever It Takes to Maximize ACT and SAT Scores at 15:22

    Students feel pressure to make the highest scores possible. This is a mistake because colleges reject students with high scores every year. Full answer

  6. How Should Students Prepare for Standardized Tests at 16:18

    Students should study hard for a semester (3-6 months) and then take an exam 2-3 times. Full answer

  7. Should Students Join as Many Clubs and Teams as Possible and Pursue Leadership Opportunities at 19:29

    No, this is a mistake. Colleges are looking for applicants that will collectively create well-rounded student bodies. Full answer

  8. How Can Students Become Specialists in Their Area at 23:00

    It starts very small with things that a student is interested in (art, sports, hiking, etc.). Full answer

  9. How Can Students Determine Which Activities Stand Out and Which Ones Don't at 25:46

    The failed simulation effect states that accomplishments that are hard to explain can be much more impressive than accomplishments that are simply hard to do. Full answer

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