How do college blogs help in the application process?

I've been reading different college blogs to get a sense of what life is like at various schools, but sometimes it becomes overwhelming with so much information. Have any of you found helpful tips or insights from following college blogs? Do these blogs genuinely provide updated info about admissions strategies, or is it mainly general advice? I'm particularly keen on learning subtle details that might give me an edge in the application process and help me decide where to apply.

Reading college blogs can be a beneficial part of your application process, offering a more authentic, firsthand perspective on different colleges. This insider knowledge can provide you with a clearer picture of what you can expect as a student at each respective college, making it ideal for refining your school selection.

Many college blogs offer valuable advice on a wide range of subjects, from application tips and study resources, to campus life insights and detailed program overviews. These blogs may expose you to viewpoints from faculty, current students, and sometimes even alumni from the colleges you're interested in. That gives you an idea of the genuine experience at the institution, outperforming the generic descriptions and statistics commonly found on college websites.

In some cases, colleges will use their blogs as a platform to inform prospective students about changes or updates to their admissions process, upcoming deadlines, or special programs. Notably, during application season, admissions officers often write blog posts describing what they are looking for in applications, which can provide direct insight into what could make your application stand out.

However, be careful to vet the information provided. While many universities maintain blogs that are regularly updated by staff, some schools may not, and the quality and reliability of information can vary. Look for when the information was posted to ensure it's current, and take note of who is posting the content; posts from admissions officers and current students can often provide more reliable information.

Finally, college blogs are a great way to demonstrate and cultivate your interest in a specific school. Incorporating details you've learned from the blog about the college’s unique programs or academic philosophy into admissions essays or interviews can indicate that you've done your research, which can be looked upon favorably in the admissions process.