Estrela Consulting Blog

When a student tells me that they spend their free time playing video games, the panic from parents is almost palpable. They nudge their teenager, reminding them about their involvement in student council, their volunteer experience, or whatever else may feel like a more appropriate activity to highlight on a college application. They may be surprised to learn that video games have become ...

One of my favorite pastimes has always been a trip to the zoo. I find the animal world to be innately fascinating and now that I am a parent, it is equally rewarding to watch my young children experience this joy. Hands coated in sticky Dippin’ Dots and noses pressed against the exhibit glass, they gaze with wonder and delight at the mesmerizing creatures while mimicking their howls and roars. 

At first glance, the Activities List seems like a straightforward section of the Common Application; a simple place to list up to 10 extracurricular activities and describe your personal involvement and contributions.  In reality, it is one of the unique opportunities for an admissions committee to gain an understanding of who you really are as a person and to see beyond your GPA and test scores. ...

Canada is well-known for hockey, breath-taking landscapes, and a reputation for politeness. It is also becoming an increasingly popular destination for American students seeking a college education. With thousands of options available in the US, why are students looking to our friendly northern neighbor for higher education?

Figuring out how to pay for college is an overwhelming reality for college students and their families. It is the least exciting part of the college application process and causes the most anxiety. Attending a university in the US is expensive, and the cost continues to rise steadily each year. While some students receive federal financial aid or merit-based scholarships from their universities, ...