Author: Maggie Martin Juniors everywhere will be taking the SAT this weekend and then enduring two weeks of anxious waiting for their results. Many will face the same question: do these numbers help me or hurt me?  With more colleges now embracing test-optional policies, the calculus has changed but that doesn't mean the decision has gotten easier. If anything, it requires more strategic thinking than ever before. Here's the honest truth: there is no universal right answer. W

We've received the news we were largely expecting - the Common Application Personal Essay Prompts will remain unchanged for 2026-2027. What does this mean for our current HS juniors? It means that they can get started on their personal essay whenever they are ready! We typically recommend juniors get started on this essay in April. And trust us - starting early is key reducing stress in this process!   Here are the essay prompts: Some students have a background, identity, int

By: Maggie Martin, Foundry Admissions Senior College Advisor I walk into our hotel room on the edge of campus and put my bags down. As I do at each school we visit, I find myself wondering, “Is this it? Is this where I’ll stay when visiting my child after they’ve flown the nest?” For many high school parents across the country, Spring Break means trading beaches for brochures and setting out to explore potential colleges with your student. If this is your plan, let me offer a

For years, the college application process revolved around transcripts, essays, and activity lists. But increasingly, colleges are giving students the invitation to submit a resume  as part of their application. This isn’t a coincidence. Admissions offices are looking for clearer, more holistic ways to understand how students spend their time, take initiative, and grow beyond the classroom. A well-crafted resume helps them do exactly that. The key word here is well-crafted .

Teacher recommendations are one of the most personal parts of your college application. Grades and test scores show what you’ve achieved, but recommendation letters help colleges understand who you are in the classroom—as a learner, a contributor, and a person. Choosing the right teachers (and asking them at the right time) can make a real difference. Here’s how high school students should think about selecting teachers for college recommendations. Start Thinking About Reco

When students think about summer planning, they often jump straight to one question:  “What will look good on my college application?” Here’s the truth: the best summer plans don’t start with impressing colleges, they start with discovering yourself . Colleges aren’t looking for a checklist of flashy programs. They’re looking for students who show curiosity, initiative, and growth over time. Your summer is a powerful opportunity to explore interests, test ideas, and build mom

Choosing between the ACT and SAT is one of the most common (and confusing) questions students face during the college admissions process. The good news? All U.S. colleges accept both exams equally.  One test is not “better” than the other across the board—the right choice depends on a student’s strengths, testing style, and comfort level. Below is a breakdown of the key differences, advantages, and decision-making strategies to help students choose wisely. 1.) What Do the ACT

Choosing the right college isn’t just about rankings or prestige—it’s about fit. Effective college research helps you move beyond surface-level impressions and make informed decisions that align with your academic goals, personal values, and future plans. Here’s how to do it well (without getting overwhelmed). 1. Start With Your Priorities Before diving into college websites, get clear on what matters most to you. Are you focused on a specific major? Class size? Location? Cos

When colleges review applications, they look beyond GPA. One of the most important factors in admissions decisions is academic rigor : the level of challenge in a student’s high school course load. Simply put, colleges want to see that students push themselves academically , especially in ways that prepare them for their intended major. Here’s what academic rigor really means and how it affects college admissions decisions. What Is Academic Rigor? Academic rigor refers to the

The start of a new year always brings fresh energy—new classes, new goals, and new possibilities. For high school students, especially those in 9th, 10th, and 11th grade, this moment is more than just a reset. It's a powerful opportunity to get ahead in the college admissions journey— before  stress, confusion, and missed opportunities creep in.   Too often, students (and families) believe college admissions only matter junior year or even senior year. In reality, the stronge

If you’ve just opened a decision letter that says “Deferred,” you’re probably feeling a confusing mix of disappointment, anxiety, and uncertainty. It’s not a yes, but it’s not a no either. And that gray space can feel heavier than a rejection. Let’s start with the most important truth: A deferral is not the end of the road. It is  a signal that the college saw enough strength in your application to keep you in consideration. How you respond matters. First: What a Deferral Act

On January 7 th , we will kick off our first cohort session of 2026 . These cohorts – which typically consist of 4-6 students – are an excellent way for high school freshman, sophomores, and juniors to get a jump on the college admissions process. Here are some additional details to review as you consider joining us: What are Foundry Cohorts?  Small group (5-10 students/parents) sessions that will meet once per week for 1.5 hours over a six-week block of time. Kenny (Founder

Junior year of high school is truly when the majority of college admissions tasks begin (I always describe it as the steep part of the...

Universities have found some creative ways to fill their class ranks while not overcrowding residence halls. Increasingly, colleges are...

If you're applying to colleges that ask for a self-reported transcript, you'll likely be using a platform called SRAR (Self-Reported...

Written by Maggie Martin The Common Application is getting its biggest refresh in years — and we’re here to walk you through the updates...

Guest Post Author: Foundry Senior Consultant, Maggie Martin Like many families, I’m planning on taking my high school children on a few...

For most high school juniors (and some sophomores and freshmen!), Spring Break is a time to visit college campuses to learn more about...

College costs continue to rise, making financial planning more important than ever. The good news? Many colleges offer substantial...

Over the past few weeks, I have spent time with my Foundry Families helping them to understand their financial aid offers and also...