California Polytechnic State University Degrees and Academic Programs
California Polytechnic State University, also known as “Cal Poly,” is one of the most respected polytechnic institutions in the U.S. Known for a “Learn by Doing” philosophy, Cal Poly offers a range of degrees and majors designed to prepare students for success with hands-on learning and industry engagement. Cal Poly offers more than 150 undergraduate […]
Paying for College in 2025: Books Every Family Should Read for Regular Decision Applications
By Lindsey Kundel, Editor in Chief, InGenius Prep The class of 2025 faces the most unpredictable tuition landscape in decades. October is a pivotal month for families navigating the college admissions process. While some students are finalizing Early Decision or Early Action applications, many are turning their attention to upcoming Regular Decision deadlines. No matter […]
How to Stand Out in College Applications: The Application Persona Explained
The Application Persona: 8 Examples and How They Help You Stand Out in College Applications You may have heard that it’s better to be angular rather than well-rounded when building your profile for your college applications. [1] This generally means that it’s more strategic to have a few key areas of focus for both your […]
College Admissions Trends 2025: What’s Changing and Why It Matters
Each fall, the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) Conference brings together admissions leaders, counselors, and educators from around the world to share insights about where college admissions is heading. This year, one topic dominated the conversation. Almost every session incorporated a focus on artificial intelligence—how it’s being used by students, counselors, and admissions […]
Does Demonstrated Interest Really Matter to Colleges in 2025?
By Lindsey Kundel, Editor in Chief, InGenius Prep Ava pauses at her laptop, unsure if signing up for a college info session will actually help her chances. She wonders if attending events and visiting campuses is worth the effort—or just a waste of time and money. This article will explain when demonstrated interest (DI) matters […]
Optimizing Your School Activities List for Ivy League and Top 30 Universities
By Lindsey Kundel, Editor in Chief, InGenius Prep The Most Overlooked Two Minutes in Admissions Ten lines. 150 characters each. That’s all the Common App gives you to capture four years of your life outside the classroom. Most students treat the college application activities list like an afterthought — something to fill in quickly after […]
Best Books to Read When Choosing a College
If June is for writing, then July is for researching—and rethinking. Whether your student has already drafted a dream list or has no clue where to start, this month’s picks are designed to broaden perspectives and challenge assumptions. Because a strong college list isn’t just about prestige—it’s about purpose, fit, and future possibilities. These three […]
H-1B, Trump’s $100,000 Fee, and What International Students Should Do Next
Written by: Joel Butterly, Cofounder & CEO, InGenius Prep H-1B, Trump’s $100,000 Fee, and What International Students Should Do Next If you’ve glanced at the headlines lately, you’ve probably seen the latest bit of political theater: the Trump administration wants to slap a $100,000 fee on companies sponsoring H-1B visas. It sounds catastrophic, and if […]
A Guide to the UChicago Supplemental Essays
Supplemental essays are an essential part of any college application, but UChicago stands out among the top schools for its unique and sometimes mind-bending essay prompts. [1] These prompts change each year and ask students to think in ways they likely haven’t for their college applications. Each is designed to give Admissions Officers insight into […]
How to Make Your Extracurriculars Stand Out in High School
How to Make Your Extracurriculars Stand Out Throughout Your Time in High School As you settle into high school, you should think about how to prepare yourself for the eventual college application process. Of course, you don’t have to get a head start on all of the components in ninth grade. But planning out how to […]