Oh, the places you'll go, in your college search quest, You'll browse and you'll search, and you'll take many tests, But don't fret my dear, and don't lose your zest, The right school is out there, just do your best!!

What can I say, readers? I had to have a little fun during this transitional time of year - the weather is changing, spring break is upon us (or behind us, depending on where you live), and the education world isn't just looking toward summer, but in many ways, we've already jumped into planning for fall.(I wonder what sort of pithy statement Dr. Seuss would make about that?)

Still, despite the way spring sometimes feels like a big rush to get us to summer, I've always enjoyed the planning process at this time of year. Seniors pick their colleges and start to dream about what fall will bring, juniors start to dream about the schools they'll apply to, and all of us start to imagine the summer show season to come. It's a frenzy and sometimes stressful, but it's always worth it in the end. Here's to the quest!                                        

For students hoping to secure a place at a selective college - and really, for the majority of college-bound students - it's important to take a rigorous and challenging course load in high school. Admissions officers want to see that applicants have challenged themselves academically by taking the most challenging courses offered by their school.Here's a brief overview of what admission officers like to see on transcripts:

1. Advanced Placement (AP) courses: AP courses are designed to mimic college courses and are highly valued by selective colleges. Taking AP courses in subjects that align with your future career goals can help demonstrate both your intellectual curiosity and ability to handle challenging coursework.

2. Honors courses: Honors courses are typically more advanced versions of regular high school courses and can be an excellent way to demonstrate your commitment to academic excellence. (If your high school doesn't offer AP courses, honors courses can help show your commitment to challenging yourself in a similar way.)

3. Math and Science courses: Math and Science courses are highly valued by selective colleges, especially for students interested in pursuing STEM fields for their future careers.

4. Foreign Languages: Many selective colleges require at least two or three years of study of the same foreign language and some may prefer students who have studied a language beyond the minimum requirement. Demonstrating proficiency in a foreign language can also be an asset for future job prospects.

5. Writing and Literature courses: Strong writing and critical thinking skills are highly valued by selective colleges. Taking courses in literature, writing, and the humanities can help you develop these skills and demonstrate your ability to think critically.

It's important to note that, while these courses are highly valued by selective colleges, it's equally important to excel in all of the courses. Admissions officers want to see students who have challenged themselves academically, but they also want to see academic success.Ultimately, the most important thing is to take courses that align with your future goals and that students work hard to achieve academic success in those courses, no matter what they are.

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Applerouth is offering spring workshops!