The College Admissions Edge

Are elite colleges prioritizing wealth over merit? In this episode, we dive into The New York Times’ bombshell report accusing Georgetown University and Ivy League schools of favoring wealthy applicants in their admissions processes. Join Andy as he breaks down the controversy, explores its implications for students and families, and shares insights into what this means for the future of college a...

College advisor Andy Lockwood walks you through how to improve odds of admission to a college that deferred you. Originality an online workshop (see LockwoodCollegePrep.com/deferred) on December 5, 2024, topics included: What does “deferred” mean? Why do students get deferred? What happens if you were deferred by your ED college? What should you do if deferred (and you still want to go to that col...

In today's video: Learn how to manage application deadlines and stay organized with proven tips for college success. Whether you’re juggling essays, scholarship applications, interviews, or extracurricular commitments, this guide is packed with practical strategies to help you stay on track. Discover how to prioritize tasks, beat deadlines, and create an effective schedule to reduce stress and ach...

College interviews can make or break your application, and preparation is key. In this video, college expert Andy shares essential college interview tips, proven strategies for students, and answers common questions about how to stand out in college interviews. Learn how to make a lasting impression, what to say, and how to approach even the toughest interview questions. Whether you're a high scho...

In today's episode, we reveal the insider insights you won't get from your guidance counselor on how early applications can increase your admission chances and give you an edge. Wondering if applying Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA) really boosts your odds of getting into your dream college? We’ll dive deep into the differences between Early Decision and Early Action, why applying early ma...

In this week's FAQ Us Friday, we go beyond the basic advice to show you how letters of recommendation can be a game-changer in your college application. Learn why these letters aren’t just a formality—they’re a powerful way to set yourself apart from other applicants. We’ll uncover how admissions committees actually use recommendation letters to gauge your unique strengths, character, and potentia...

In today’s episode, we dive into the top SAT and ACT prep strategies that can help you reach high scores and stand out in college applications—tips you won’t get from your average guidance counselor! From time-tested study techniques to effective test-taking strategies and the best practice resources, we cover everything you need to know to prep like a pro. Discover time management tips, learn how...

In this episode, we dive into the best strategies for researching and selecting colleges—the kind of advice you won’t hear from your guidance counselor! Learn how to create a college list, use college search tools, and explore colleges based on your academic goals, financial needs, and campus culture preferences. We’ll cover everything from college rankings and admissions requirements to evaluatin...

In today’s episode, college advisors Pearl and Andy Lockwood discuss whether applying through Early Decision, Early Action, Restricted Early Action, or other early application types affects your chances of getting financial aid and scholarships. Learn how each application method could impact your financial aid package, what to expect from the college financial aid process, and the pros and cons of...

Wondering how to stand out in your personal statement for college applications? This video will show you exactly what it takes to write a strong personal statement that catches the attention of admissions officers. We’ll dive into key strategies for making your college personal statement shine, including how to emphasize your unique qualities, tell your story effectively, and align with college ad...

Not sure when to start preparing for college? In this video, we’ll guide you through the perfect college prep timeline to ensure you're ready for the college admissions process. Starting your college admissions preparation early can give you a huge advantage, whether you're in your freshman, sophomore, or junior year. We'll cover essential steps in high school college preparation, offer a college...

Wondering how important standardized test scores are compared to GPA in the college admissions process? These days, it seems like almost every student has a high GPA, making it harder to stand out. A lot of the advice you hear, even from your guidance counselor, is outdated. In this video, we break down the real value of GPA vs. standardized test scores and what colleges are actually looking for n...

Curious about what extracurricular activities have the biggest impact on college admissions? In this video, we’ll reveal the top extracurriculars colleges look for—beyond the typical suggestions from guidance counselors. Often, students are advised to pursue activities that don’t actually strengthen their college application as much as they think. We’ll guide you through which activities have the...

Want to avoid the common college application mistakes that can hurt your chances of getting accepted? This guide breaks down the college application errors and mistakes students make on college applications—things your guidance counselor might not fully cover. We’ll highlight the top college application mistakes and share insights on the application errors to avoid so you can submit with confidenc...

Looking to understand the key factors colleges look for in applicants ? This video dives deep into the college admissions requirements and college application criteria that can make or break your application. We reveal the top factors colleges look for and provide insights into what makes a strong college application . Learn essential tips on how to meet these college admissions criteria and enhan...

FREE Guide at 👉https://www. LockwoodCollegePrep.com/how2hide - #commonapp #collegeessays 🕒 In This Video (originally a webinar at LockwoodCollegePrep.com) college consultant Andy Lockwood walks through the worst mistakes college essay writers make, and how to avoid them, so that you can dramatically increase odds of being accepted to your Dream College. Topics covered: The weird way to overcome...

Originally a webinar aired July 17, 2024... College consultant Andy Lockwood of Lockwood College Prep grills head tutor Marissa U on the latest suprise-not-surprise announcement about the ACT. See LockwoodCollegePrep.com and LockwoodTestPrep.com for webinars and more information about our college advisory and SAT and ACT prep offerings.  

Originally broadcast on College Coffee Talk, 7-15-24 (Mondays 10am EST, Facebook.com/lockwoodcollegeprep): College consultants Pearl and Andy Lockwood discuss a handful of mistakes to avoid in the financial aid and college essay writing process. More information about the Lockwoods' college advising, financial aid and scholarship consulting and SAT and ACT prep offerings is available at their webs...

Originally broadcast on College Coffee Talk (Mondays, 10am EST, Facebook.com/lockwoodcollegeprep) College advisors Pearl andy Andy Lockwood yak about the applications and essays, including mistakes to avoid, when to get what done, the truth about applying to college today, more. See the Lockwood's website, LockwoodCollegePrep.com for more information about their college advising, financial aid con...

From College Coffee Talk (Mondays 10am EST, Facebook.com/LockwoodCollegePrep ): College advisors Pearl and Andy Lockwood discuss: *How to ruin a financial aid appeal * "Secret" skills not taught in college (that should be taught) See LockwoodCollegePrep.com for more info, and subscribe/follow us on Facebook, Youtube or this podcast channel to be updated when we come out with more advice for colleg...

Originally aired on College Coffee Talk (Mondays 10am EST Facebook.com/lockwoodcollegeprep), college advisors Pearl and Andy Lockwood discuss common application essay mistakes, and the problem with magical thinking. Plus, Pearl introduces a new segment, Don't Do That! (This one had Andy speechless. Seriously.) Info about our essays and applications bootcamp can be found at www. LockwoodCollegePrep...

Originally broadcast on College Coffee Talk, June 3 (Facebook.com/lockwoodcollegeprep): Pearl and Andy Lockwood discuss even more annoying and frustrating FAFSA problems. Plus, child behavior we'd like to change.

College Coffee Talk, April 24, 2024. (Live 10am EST, Facebook.com/lockwoodcollegeprep): Another blow to test-optional, the latest on student loan "forgiveness" developments. See LockwoodCollegePrep.com for more information on our college advisory, financial aid consulting, test prep and other programs.

4/1/24 episode of College Coffee Talk (Mondays 10am EST Facebook.com/lockwoodcollegeprep): The FAFSApocalypse - signs of relief? Harvard - Safety School? The first 100K per year college (not a sick April Fool's joke) More! For 11th graders: Get College Ready Summer Applications and Essays Bootcamp: LockwoodCollegePrep.com/bootcamp

Originally a live webinar on 3/20/24, college consultants Pearl and Andy Lockwood revealed how to comfortably afford college -- without cutting back on your lifestyle or racking up tens of thousands in high rate, high fee college debt (on your kid or you) -- by taking advantage of legal and ethical "loopholes" buried in the financial aid regulations. Topics included: How six figure and seven-figur...