Leland+ for College

Secrets of the Admissions Office: AMA with a Former Stanford Admissions Committee Member

Trying to understand what actually happens behind the scenes in admissions can be frustrating when most advice comes from secondhand perspectives and guesswork. This session is designed for applicants who want a clearer understanding of how applications are evaluated and what admissions readers are truly paying attention to. You’ll learn how applications are assessed in practice, understand the factors that influence admissions decisions, and hear common patterns that emerge across successful candidates.

The Long Game in College Admissions: What to Do Now

College admissions success isn’t just about acing the next test or writing the next essay—it’s about strategically planning your path over time. In this session, you’ll learn how to identify priorities, build a compelling profile, and make choices now that will set you up for stronger applications later. We’ll cover actionable steps for academics, extracurriculars, and personal development, helping you focus on what truly matters and avoid common missteps. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap for playing the long game in college admissions with confidence and purpose.