Career goals count on application and essays.

You will need to sell yourself in your application and essays. Have clearly stated career goals, because the nation’s top colleges are now bringing in career-services staff to evaluate candidates for admission.

The college admission essay requires a relaxed state of mind and time to think. Brainstorm the direction you wish to take when evaluating your essays topic. Gerald Bradshaw America's top college consultant addresses how important a clear career goal mention in the college essay can be to an admissions committee.

Dear Mr. Bradshaw -- I am a junior in high school and I know I will face a very competitive class of applicants when I apply to college next fall.

I have a 4.125/4.250 GPA and a 2250 SAT score. I participate in a number of extracurricular activities including football and wrestling, and I am the editor of our school’s literary magazine.

There are 500 students in my class and most of the students who are in the top 5 percent have similar achievements. I am applying to most of the Ivies, Stanford and Berkeley. Is there anything I should know that will enhance my chances of getting into a top college?

Read Mr. Bradshaw's Answer....

Four classes that enhance any field of study

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Dear Mr. Bradshaw —  I am an early admit to the University of Chicago, but I want to be sure and take classes as a freshmen and sophomore that will help me, no matter what my future course of study is (choosing a major).

Since I have not chosen a major, what classes would you suggest I take as a freshman and sophomore? — Undecided Major

Dear Undecided Major — You are wise to start thinking about your academic direction before signing up for classes in the fall.

Your course selection is serious business, and a decision should not be left until you arrive on campus.

Unlike high school, college offers a bewildering array of classes from which to choose, and the course catalog reads like an encyclopedia of world knowledge. Each class sounds exciting and interesting, and it is always tempting to dip into the cookie jar without thinking.

Although college is not all about preparing for a career, you cannot ignore the fact that at the end of four years, you will need to have learned something of substance and certain basic skills that will enhance your marketability, regardless of the field in which you work.

I have compiled a list of four classes I believe are must-haves on your college transcripts.  Read More