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A top college is possible.
I created this page to offer 100% free, accessible, and high-quality guidance for first-generation high school students navigating the college admissions process.
Here, you’ll find advice on academics, scholarships, internships, research, recommendation letters, the Common App, and college essays—the very resources that helped me, a first-generation Latino student, gain admission to Boston College’s Top 10 Nursing Program with a full ride and zero debt.
I know firsthand how overwhelming applying to college can be. Too many resources today are inaccessible and expensive. This page is different, no gatekeeping, no paywalls, just useful, free, quality resources.
Building your college list
Your guide to organizing colleges to apply to.
Academics
Understanding the role of academics in admissions.
How to write the personal statement & supplements
Writing College Essays
Awards
How to win national & international recognitions
Winning Scholarships
Learn how I fully paid for
college with zero debt.
Negotiating Financial Aid
Learn how I doubled my financial aid offer.
Shadowing Template
Template that landed me 4 hospital surgical floor shadowing opportunities.
Research Internship Template
Template that landed me 2 Harvard & UC Berkeley research assistant positions.
Resume Template
Use this professional template to draft yours.
Waitlist Template
Template that helped me get off the waitlist for 3 Top 50 schools.
How to use Common App
Learn tips for using the common app portal.
Recommendation Letters
Learn how to satisfy your recommendation requirements.
How to Stay Organized
Learn how to stay organized in high school.
Disclaimer: All the advice on this page is based on what worked for me. That doesn’t necessarily mean it will work for you. I encourage you to use your own judgment, consider your individual circumstances, and consult a trusted advisor or professional before applying any of the resources or information shared here.
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