How Top Admissions Consultants Help Students Convey Their Most Authentic Self

One of the most significant mistakes students make when applying to college is creating applications that lack authenticity and fail to convey who they truly are and what genuinely matters to them.

This is problematic for two reasons. First, it squanders the opportunity to show admissions officers what makes them unique and what they would contribute as individuals to the incoming class. Second, it can actually undermine their chances of admission altogether.

Each application season, admissions officers review thousands of applications from hopeful high schoolers. Through this process, they develop a keen sense for spotting inauthenticity, often within minutes. Admissions officers want to see the real you, but expressing that can feel challenging—especially to someone sitting in an office hundreds of miles away. The temptation to present yourself as the person you believe they want to admit can be tough to resist.

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Consultants Help Students Express Personal Narratives

Some argue that college admissions consultancies only make this issue worse by editing, embellishing, and restructuring students' profiles until the end result feels artificial. However, the truth is that knowledgeable, experienced, and dedicated consultants can play a key role in preventing students from crafting a disingenuous version of themselves. Instead, they help students showcase why they would be a uniquely valuable addition to a college campus.

Great counselors take the time to explore a student's passions. They ask questions about what drives them, what excites them, and how they envision their future. They remind students that college applications aren’t about listing accolades or fabricating interests, but about uncovering personal narratives and communicating them authentically to admissions officers who genuinely care about building a cohesive cohort.

For example, if you have a passion for history or languages, don’t force yourself to come across as a physics enthusiast. If you see yourself as a future marine biologist, avoid crafting an application that suggests your dream is to work on Wall Street after graduation. Authenticity is key.

In reality, many families turn to reputable consultants to help their children express themselves honestly. As a busy high school senior juggling coursework and extracurriculars, you might not have much time to reflect on what truly excites you. Students often think they have “nothing interesting to say” until their counselor helps them discover and articulate their interests with confidence.

It’s Common Practice for Admitted Students to Use Consultants

While some universities express frustration over the prevalence of private admissions support, the truth is, it's common practice. For instance, a recent survey of Princeton's Class of 2028 revealed that nearly a quarter of all admits used outside consulting services in addition to their high school's resources. Among students from independent schools, that number rises to over 32%. It would be unfair to assume that this significant percentage of Princeton’s incoming class submitted applications that were inauthentic or lacking in character.

In conclusion, the most important thing to remember is that admissions officers want to know who you are—not who you think they want you to be. Any whiff of inauthenticity can be quickly detected by seasoned Admissions Officers. If you choose to work with a counselor, lean on their expertise to help you discover your own passions and communicate them clearly and convincingly. An authentic application not only boosts your chances, but also allows you to be proud of the person you’re presenting to the world.

Conclusion

At Crimson Education, we're dedicated to helping students find the perfect fit for their academic journey. Our team of admissions experts offers personalized guidance throughout the college search and application process, helping students discover and evaluate colleges that align with their preferences.

With our comprehensive approach to admissions guidance, students can confidently navigate the process and find their ideal academic home for future success.

To schedule a free consultation with one of our admissions experts, click here.