CollegeVine Expert FAQ

I've seen some people talk about getting a 'half ride scholarship'. Could someone explain what that actually means and how it works? Does it cover half the tuition, or just a certain percentage of the …

Hi guys! I'm currently looking for ideas for my senior research project. I'm passionate about science and technology but open to other fields as well. Share your ideas and experiences so I can get som …

What's up, guys? I'm striving for straight A's this year, and I really want to develop a system to accomplish this. Do any of you have tried-and-true tips, habits, or resources that have helped you ge …

Hey everyone, I just got accepted into the National Honor Society (yay!). I was wondering what types of activities you guys have done or seen others do that really benefited you and your community? Wo …

Hey everyone! I'm applying for a few scholarships and need some inspiration for my personal essays. Can someone guide me to some resources where I can find examples? Or, if you have any writing tips o …

So I've been in band since freshman year, but lately I've been feeling like dropping it. Is quitting band in junior year okay or will I regret it later? What are the potential consequences on my colle …

I'm taking several AP classes this year, and I'm wondering how important these scores are when it comes to college admissions. Do they have a significant impact on my chances or are they just consider …

Hey everyone! I have my heart set on getting a perfect ACT score, but I want some advice from those who have been through it before. What study materials or strategies did you use that helped you achi …

Hello everyone, so I've decided to write my essay about an accomplishment that sparked personal growth (Common App prompt #5). Do you guys have any tips or ideas to share? I'm stuck and could really u …

Hey folks! I wasn't able to take the SATs or ACTs, so I don't have any test scores to report on my Common App. Do I still need to fill out the Testing section, or can I just skip that part entirely?

My current GPA isn't exactly where I want it to be (it's a 3.4 unweighted :/) and I really want to improve it before applying to colleges. What strategies or study habits have you found helpful for bo …

Hey guys, does anyone know the acceptance rate for transferring to Columbia? I'm considering applying as a transfer from my current school and wanted to get an idea of how competitive it is. Thanks!

I didn't do as well as I hoped in high school, so my GPA isn't great. Are there any colleges that have a more holistic admissions process and don't focus too much on GPA when considering applicants?

Hey everyone! I've been looking into dorms at William & Mary, and I came across Hardy Hall. Can anyone share their experiences living in Hardy Hall? What's the vibe like, and how are the facilities? T …

Hi everyone! I'm a junior and I'm trying to plan out my community service hours for the rest of high school. How many hours should I be aiming for to show my commitment and involvement in my community …

Hey there, I'm a junior in high school and starting to think about college apps. Does anyone have examples of Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) that helped them get accepted to their dream schools? Ne …

So I have to give a speech for my class, and I thought it would be cool to do something a bit controversial. Anyone have some interesting and engaging topics I could use?

I joined the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS), but I've read that it's not really worth it. What's the process to cancel my NSHSS membership? Has anyone here done it before?

Hey everyone, is taking a foreign language in high school required or strongly recommended for college admissions? I'm wondering if it's cool to skip it since I'm really not enjoying it.

Hi all, I recently got an invitation to join the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) and I'm wondering if it's worth it. Does being a member of NSHSS matter to college admissions officers …