Leland+ for College

The "Why?" Essay

A guide to mastering the "Why this school?" or "Why this major?" essay, with strategies for showcasing genuine interest, specific research, and a compelling connection between you and the institution.

Defining a Good Mindset & Perspective

Learn how to cultivate a strong, positive mindset and perspective to tackle challenges and achieve your goals in both your career and personal life.

How to Prioritize Content for the Additional Info Essay

Learn how to strategically use the optional "additional information" essay to address weaknesses, provide context for unique circumstances, and strengthen your overall application.

Awards & Honors: An Overview

Learn how to effectively showcase your achievements on your application, with tips for formatting, context, and standing out.

Oxbridge Degree Application Tracker

Manage your Oxbridge degree application with ease. Stay organized and on track for Oxford & Cambridge admissions!

Steps to Landing Academic Research Through Faculty Outreach

Build rapport with professors and land the research opportunities you want. This is the complete outreach checklist.

The Informative Essay

An in-depth guide to writing an informative essay, with strategies for providing essential context, highlighting unique experiences, and showcasing your authentic self to admissions committees.

How to Stand Out in Your Application

Learn how to differentiate your application from the competition with strategies for crafting a compelling narrative, showcasing your unique skills, and making a lasting impression.

How to Set Better Goals

Learn how to set more effective and achievable goals with a proven framework that will keep you motivated and on track to success.

How to Craft a Strong Narrative

Learn how to tell your personal story in a compelling and authentic way that captures the attention of admissions officers and makes your application unforgettable.

Gap Year: Is It Right for You?

A comprehensive guide to the pros and cons of taking a gap year, with key questions to consider before making your decision.

Best Practices for Supplemental Essays

Master the art of supplemental essays with expert tips and strategies for crafting compelling, authentic responses that strengthen your application.

Ask a Former Adcom: How to Get Into BYU

A former BYU admissions officer breaks down the holistic review process and shares what they're really looking for in applications.

Why is the Extracurricular Section Important?

An overview of why the extracurricular section is a vital part of your application, with a focus on how it showcases your passions, time management skills, and potential contributions to the campus community.

Why is the Additional Info Essay Important?

An overview of why the optional "additional information" essay is a critical part of your application, with a focus on how to use it to provide context, explain special circumstances, and showcase your achievements.

What is an Extracurricular List?

An overview of the extracurricular list, explaining its purpose in the application process and how it is used to showcase your unique passions, skills, and personal growth outside of the classroom.

The Waitlist Strategy

A step-by-step guide on what to do after being waitlisted by a college, with strategies for writing a compelling Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) and maximizing your chances of admission.

Supplemental Essays: What Not To Do

Avoid the most common mistakes on your supplemental essays and learn how to write a compelling narrative that is specific to the school and prompt.

Supplemental Essays: An Overview

A comprehensive guide to understanding supplemental essays, with tips on why they're important, how to approach them, and how to make them stand out.

Letter of Continued Interest: What to Write

Learn how to craft a powerful Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) by focusing on key components like reaffirming your commitment, providing meaningful updates, and showcasing why you are a perfect fit for the college.