The Early Decision "Secret Playbook" Most Parents Miss

Hey there,

Can we talk about Early Decision for a minute?

Because I keep seeing families make the same painful mistake...

They think Early Decision is this magical "golden ticket" that guarantees admission to their dream school.

And I get it...

The stats look promising on paper.

"Higher acceptance rates for Early Decision!"

"Show demonstrated interest!"

"Lock in your spot!"

But after helping hundreds of families navigate this process...

I've noticed some clear patterns of what ACTUALLY works.

And it might make you uncomfortable...

Because it goes against everything most college counselors are telling you.

Let me share 5 "insider" tips most parents never hear about:

1. Demonstrated Interest is being tracked WAY more than you think.

Most schools are literally scoring your child's engagement...

Down to how long they spend on specific pages of the college website.

(And no, incognito mode doesn't hide this.)

2. Your child's "spike" matters more than their spread.

Being "pretty good" at 12 different activities?

That's actually HURTING their Early Decision chances.

Schools would rather see ONE area where your kid is absolutely crushing it.

3. Summer plans can make or break an Early Decision application.

But here's the twist...

Those expensive summer programs at prestigious universities?

They might actually work AGAINST you.

(I'll explain why on our call...)

4. The "Why This School" essay is a trap for 90% of applicants.

Most kids write what they THINK admissions wants to hear...

When there's actually a specific formula these schools are looking for.

5. Your child's course selection strategy probably needs a complete overhaul.

Because loading up on AP classes?

That could be actively sabotaging their chances...

If they're taking the WRONG ones for their intended major.

Here's the truth about Early Decision that nobody's telling you...

It only works if you've built the RIGHT foundation first.

Top schools use Early Decision to lock in their STRONGEST candidates.

The ones who:

• Have strategic course selections (not just a bunch of random APs)
• Show genuine leadership (not just "member" of 12 clubs)
• Demonstrate authentic passion (not cookie-cutter activities)
• Build unique projects (that actually matter to their field of interest)

But here's the good news...

If your kid's a junior right now... you're in the perfect spot to build this foundation.

This is exactly why we created our Junior Spring Strategy Sessions.

During these 1-on-1 calls, we map out a clear game plan that:

• Highlights which specific activities they should double down on
• Shows exactly how to demonstrate interest the RIGHT way
• Maps out their perfect course selection strategy
• Reveals how to position their unique story for maximum impact
• And much more...

Because at the end of the day...

The best Early Decision strategy isn't just "applying early."

It's making sure your child stands out for all the right reasons...

Before they ever hit that submit button.

If you want to learn exactly what needs to happen this spring...

To make Early Decision work in your favor...

Click below to book your strategy call.

⇒ Book Your Junior Spring Strategy Session Now

Best,
Kristina

P.S. Parents are always shocked when they learn what REALLY moves the needle with Early Decision.

It's usually not what they expect...

And it's definitely not what their friends at the PTA are telling them.

Our calendar fills up incredibly fast this time of year...

Especially since most families realize junior spring is their last chance to really build a strong Early Decision case.

So if you're serious about getting real guidance...

Don't wait to book your call.

These spots disappear faster than coffee at a PTA meeting. 😉