Who developed College Impact and when can my child participate?

College Impact programs – developed by former college admissions officers – have been designed to help students go deeper into areas of academic interest and build highly differentiated experiences and skills that will be valued by admissions officers. Impact programs are open for students in grades 8-12 as well as current college students.

Are College Impact programs unique?

Unlike cookie cutter summer programs or generic extracurricular activities, College Impact programs are tailored to each individual student’s interests. We encourage students to explore areas outside of their comfort zone or dive deeper into interests, with the goal of finding a clear and differentiated path. Doing so provides clear advantages in the admissions process.

How are College Impact experiences highlighted in college applications?

No two College Impact engagements are the same, meaning students gain truly unique and differentiated experiences that will enhance their profiles. College Impact serves as a “connector” program, so students highlight their experiences (not the program itself) on their college applications, allowing them to take credit and keeping our role behind the scenes.

Does my child have time for College Impact?

Today’s students are busier than ever. Because College Impact programs are all 1-on-1, they are highly flexible and meant to seamlessly integrate into students’ schedules. Students dictate the frequency as well as length of their engagement, enabling them to build compelling extracurricular experience year-round and best prepare themselves for success.

What skills does College Impact teach?

College Impact programs help students develop important skills, such as critical thinking, initiative, commitment and time management, all of which are qualities that admissions officers look for in applicants. The programs also help students build broader life skills, like leadership and teamwork, setting students up for success in the admissions process – and beyond.

How is the Research program structured?

All Impact programs are virtual and offered year-round. The Research program extends over a consecutive ten (suggested) to fifteen (maximum) week period. Students will meet with their mentor for approximately one hour each week, and be tasked with independent assignments in order to accomplish the agreed upon deliverable by the conclusion of the program.

Do we have to write a research paper?

Participants in the program can, optionally, summarize their learnings in a research paper overseen by their mentor. Students interested in writing a research paper should understand that doing so requires an additional time commitment. Past students who have successfully completed a research paper have typically committed 8-10 hours per week.

Will my research paper be published?

All participants are guaranteed the ability to publish a preprint of their research paper in the Journal of Student Research, which is posted online and available to share. After the preprint, students are encouraged to submit their work for peer-review and publication. Any additional fees associated with publishing, typically $100-$200, are not included in the program.

Do we receive a letter of recommendation?

Upon successful completion of the program, students may request a letter of recommendation from their research mentor. We ask that you request any letters of recommendation at least 8 weeks prior to any application deadlines to allow your mentor adequate time to write and submit their letters directly to the requesting colleges, universities or organizations.

Who are your mentors?

Our mentors are professors, research professionals and Ph.D. candidates. We carefully select each of our mentors based on their educational, research, teaching and/or professional accomplishments – so they can serve as an inspiring and supportive guide to our students.

What is the process for applying?

Please click here to apply for the program. Applications are reviewed in the order in which they are received; we recommend applying early to ensure mentor availability. We will notify you within one week of our admissions decision. If you are admitted, you will have an opportunity to meet with your proposed mentor to discuss the program, deliverables and goals.