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We have a unique approach at ESM Prep College MatchPoint. It all begins and ends with our ultimate goal: for our students to thrive in their selected college.
The college application process can feel overwhelming, no matter how strong the student. But at ESM Prep College MatchPoint, we believe it should be organized, personal, and even fun, and we provide a framework that reduces the stress throughout the journey.
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Highly Selective Colleges
Applying to a highly selective college can be daunting, but if your student has their heart set on one, there are some guidelines they can follow to help them stand out from the crowd. This guide discusses what highly selective colleges look for in students, how to achieve "depth" in activities, and the importance of having a specific application strategy for the most selective schools.
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For years, calculus has been considered the gold standard of high school math. Many students and families have treated it as a must-have for college admissions, especially at selective universities. But as more schools expand their course offerings and more students explore different academic paths, the question is shifting. Does calculus still matter? And what do top colleges actually want to see on a student’s math transcript?
A summer job can be one of the most valuable experiences a teenager has in high school. It offers a real-world setting to practice responsibility, solve problems, and work with people of all ages. Teenagers who show up with curiosity and purpose often build skills that shape their confidence, character, and future plans. The right mindset can turn even a simple job into a powerful story of growth.
Texas A&M University has long been a top choice for students across Texas. But this year, the competition is tougher than ever. With nearly 75,000 applications for Fall 2025, an increase of 79 percent since 2019, Texas A&M is now capping the size of its freshman class. That means applying early is no longer just smart. It is essential. If you are planning to be an Aggie, you should aim to submit your completed application by late August or early September. While the official deadline is December 1, A&M reviews applications on a rolling basis. Applications are reviewed in the order they are received, and seats in popular programs are filled as decisions are made. Waiting to apply could mean missing out on your top-choice major or, in some cases, admission altogether.
At College MatchPoint, one of the most common misconceptions we encounter is the belief that a college essay must end with a perfectly tied bow. Many students feel pressured to present a narrative where they've completely overcome a challenge or fully processed a difficult experience. This often leads to unrealistic or inauthentic conclusions that don't truly reflect the student's ongoing journey.
We often encounter students who believe their college essays must fit seamlessly into a predetermined narrative. This misconception can lead to missed opportunities and essays that feel forced rather than authentic. Let's explore why this approach might be holding you back and how to break free from it.
At College MatchPoint, we often encounter students who fall into the perfectionism trap when writing their college essays. This is especially common among highly anxious students applying to their top-choice schools. They become so focused on crafting the "perfect" essay that they struggle to finalize their work, getting stuck in an endless cycle of tweaking and second-guessing.