Getting In: A College Coach Conversation Common App; D3 Athletic Recruitment; Paying for College: Let's Talk
Jan 1, 2026
Michaela Acorn, a Senior Counselor Engagement Manager at the Common Application, shares insights on making college applications shine and the new responsibilities question. Dylan Sanchez, a former admissions liaison, discusses NCAA Division III recruitment, emphasizing the community feel and the absence of athletic scholarships. Financial expert Michelle Smoley advises families on initiating early conversations about college costs and comparing aid offers, stressing the importance of aligning plans among stakeholders. Tune in for valuable strategies and wisdom!
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Pilot Before Adding Application Questions
- Test new application components with pilots, advisory committees, and data before full rollout.
- Use student and college feedback to refine questions like Responsibilities and Circumstances.
How To Access Direct Admissions
- Create a Common App account and complete a few eligibility items to receive direct admissions offers.
- Treat direct admits as provisional: submit the full application and supporting documents to secure admission.
Students Keep Control Of Their Data
- Common App does not share student application data with colleges until the student hits submit.
- Students can safely use the application to draft and revise without colleges seeing in-progress responses.