- lesscollegestress
- Apr 14
My next few posts focus on “less college stress.”
I can’t imagine the never-ending stress that Angel Perez, a former dean at several colleges and the current director of the National Association of College Admissions Counselors, must field every day. In his new book “The Hottest Seat on Campus,” he shares the “superpowers” that support him through an intense world that never slows down.
In an interview with Ethan Sawyer, Perez shared Justin Trudeau’s observation at the World Economic Forum a few years back: the pace of change has never been this fast, and it will never be this slow again. When will things return to normal?
The answer is never.
In college admissions counseling, we are always focused on the latest data. Admissions cycles prior to the pandemic (only five years ago) have little relevance now. Colleges face new challenges. Leaders like Perez face constant pressure to respond, engage, extinguish crises–and we all do! In the college process, stress often gets “turned up to 11” for students, parents, and consultants.
A text pings, we respond. Social media demands prompt attention. As parents, we react.
If we don't deliberately create space for quiet, we remain trapped in reaction mode, adrenaline pumping. We stop leading and succumb to chaos. What sparks us isn’t always a real emergency, but it feels like one. Research confirms what many of us know intuitively—decisions made after reflection are simply better decisions that allow perspective.
Perez explains how he learned this lesson the hard way. Early on, he maintained a relentless pace and felt the consequences professionally and personally. Now, unless facing a genuine crisis, he responds, "I'm going to think about that and get back to you tomorrow."
That’s the intentional pause.
It requires self-discipline, but rather than giving into the pressure to respond immediately, you get space for deeper, calmer thinking, better answers.
As a natural problem-solver, I easily fall into this trap. Parents and students: if you experience being "everywhere and nowhere at once”—overworked, overextended, and committed to goals beyond your control, using Perez’s “superpower” will benefit your physical and mental health–and the decisions you make.
- lesscollegestress
- Apr 7
Here’s what I already knew:
Villanova's Augustinian values of Unitas (unity) and Caritas (love and respect) form the foundation of campus culture. The goal is a “community of mutual respect, rooted in friendship.” As new Executive Director of Admissions Matt Harris emphasizes: "No one is higher than anyone else," and the community practices "respect for all, even those who disagree with you." These values are reflected in Villanova's impressive 99% retention rate and 96% six-year graduation rate.
Here’s what’s new:
Villanova is growing, having purchased Cabrini University to increase enrollment from 1,720 to 1,970 students in 2026. Nursing spots will increase from 108 to 125. New dormitories and an early education program are being developed at this location. This week, the university also acquired Rosemont College. Both Cabrini and Rosemont campuses are just a few minutes away from the Villanova campus.
Some details re: academics/admissions:
Business students explore all concentrations before declaring a major in sophomore year. For those unable to commit to a full business major, a 10-week summer program offers a business minor. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is divided into BA and BS options. Science students can initially select "undecided sciences" before committing to a specific path, while Psychology offers both BA and BS options. The innovative Cognitive Behavioral Neurology major falls under Sciences.
Engineering applicants typically submit the highest test scores, and they should note an important caveat: apply directly to Engineering rather than trying to transfer in later, which is extremely difficult. Advisors note, "It's much easier to switch out of engineering than into it."
For those considering application strategies, Early Decision comprises 50% of each class. This year saw 26,000 applications with admitted ED students typically scoring 1460-1520 SAT or 34-36 ACT. When crafting your activities list, showcase consistent involvement and leadership roles that align with Augustinian values. Remember that Villanova strictly limits recommendation letters to two—no additional letters will be considered.
With research opportunities (including a $1,000 stipend for freshman projects) and 88% of students completing research or internships, Villanova offers substantial academic engagement alongside its strong community values. Contact me for more details!
- lesscollegestress
- Mar 31
#1 Bryn Mawr College:
Bryn Mawr College stands as one of only 26 women's colleges in the United States. Though many girls choose not to consider a women’s college, institutions like Bryn Mawr prepare strong women leaders, particularly in STEM fields where female representation remains a challenge both in college and the workplace. Women’s college alumni graduate with greater confidence to take on the world of STEM careers.
Academic Excellence and Collaborative Opportunities
Bryn Mawr's academic environment is characterized by its collaborative approach and extensive partnerships. The college offers:
Bi-College Programs with Haverford and Swarthmore: Students can easily take courses at both with a free shuttle bus connecting the campuses.
Access to UPenn: Students can take courses at the University of Pennsylvania, further expanding their academic horizons.
Distinctive Traditions
Bryn Mawr's fun traditions create a sense of belonging and school spirit:
Color-coded class years: Each class year has its distinctive color
Parade Night: A welcoming celebration for new students
Lantern Night: A ceremony where first-year students receive lanterns, with everyone dressed in robes to welcome them
May Day: Spring celebration featuring Maypole dancing and flower crowns
Special themed dining events throughout the year
Student Success Stories
One geology major who initially intended to study astronomy found her passion after hiking the Four Corners region and Grand Canyon. Through professor mentorship, she conducted research on volcanoes in Nicaragua, completed museum work, and published a paper before branching into paleontology.
Another student completed a French internship in Avignon, took ASL courses at Swarthmore, studied botany at Haverford, and participated in the combined Bryn Mawr-Haverford Choir.
Get Connected!
Interested students should join the mailing list to stay informed about Bryn Mawr's offerings, events, and application deadlines. As application numbers continue to rise, the college remains committed to finding intellectually curious, open-minded risk-takers who will thrive in this unique educational environment.
