We asked counselors about the commonly asked questions they received. Their helpful insights coupled with feedback from our virtual and in-person travel, led us to create of a series of (very) short videos affectionately called “Ask the (College) Experts” tackling the following questions:

• Where do I start?
• How should students talk to their families about the college search and application process?
• How should families support their students during the college search and application process? (Spanish version)
• What does ‘Liberal Arts’ mean?
• What does ‘Early Decision’ mean?
• What should I know about financial aid?
• How do I connect with a college?
• What makes a “good” college application essay?
• What if I can’t visit?
• What does “test-optional” mean?
• How should I fill out the activities section of my application?
• How do I navigate college admissions after the Supreme Court’s 2023 decision?
• What happens after I submit my college application?
• I got in! How do I choose where to go?

These videos are neither meant to provide all of the answers, nor are they meant to focus solely on Bates. Rather, it is our hope that these small bites of information will be a helpful starting point for you on your unique college search process. At the very least, we hope to introduce you to the real people in our office.

Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!