Thank you so much to NetGalley, A.Y. Shih, M.D., and the publisher for providing this helpful guide to applying for colleges. I really enjoyed reading through this guide and look forward to purchasing a physical copy for my children as they begin the process of apppying for colleges in the future. This book would certainly help anyone in the process of applying for colleges and during their high school career.

As a collegiate admissions committee member, I had a keen interest in reading this book and learning from the experts’ insights. However, I was somewhat dissatisfied, as this was information that could be easily accessed on a website and some of it was not entirely accurate. Two aspects particularly caught my attention. 1. The personal statement: it reflects the individual’s character, how their good academic record, multiple sports, extras, and volunteer work have shaped them as a person. The applicants who do it for the sake of the application are very easy to discern. 2. Length of acquaintance is a factor in the evaluation of the recommendation letters. Therefore, instead of soliciting a rec letter from everyone, it is advisable to cultivate your relationships with your teachers and demonstrate your dedication to education, learning, and achieving your full potential.

This just wasn't for me. I was particularly unhappy with the inclusion of only male sports figure quote (and one female - mother of #23). That was offputting. There was some outdated language as all letters of recommendation are not electronic and not needing envelopes. I am not sure what the audience would be - the advice here would be for upper middle class to wealthy students that could afford the recommendations but they are unlikley to purchase a book as they may lay down 5k-15k on the East Coast at least, for a private counselor. I think this was a reworking, an needs updating and a style change that would attract the contemporary student. I am sorry to rate it only 2 stars but I do think more work needs to be put into this blueprint before it's ready

Such a great updated version of finding a college blueprint with lots of advice and resources for interested students. Very happy to acquire this and have it readily available to those seeking more information to better help plan for their college experience