Ethan Sawyer
College Admission Essentials from ”The College Essay Guy”
Virtual Event
Program Takeaways:
Start with values, not activities
Students should identify what truly matters to them—values act as a “compass” guiding essays, decisions, and the overall application.
Colleges want more than academics
Beyond grades and courses, admissions teams look for essays, demonstrated interest, and “positive character traits” like curiosity and initiative.
The essay is about reflection, not perfection
Strong essays show insight, growth, and authenticity—not a list of accomplishments or a “perfect” story.
Parents should support—not control—the process
Families should be mindful of boundaries so the college process doesn’t overwhelm relationships.
Unconditional support matters most
Students need to hear—and feel—that they are loved regardless of outcomes, reducing pressure and promoting confidence.
While overall college acceptance rates may be increasing, competition for selective schools remains intense. Sawyer will come to GPS with expert guidance to help teens navigate the intricate college admissions landscape and ensure students successfully craft an application that vividly reflects who they are, showcases what truly matters to them, and defines what they stand for.
With strategic insights, insider tips, and proven techniques, participants will discover the key to standing out from the crowd so their college application is comprehensive and will engage admission officers. Sawyer will equip students with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to achieve unparalleled success navigating the college admission process.
Sawyer is a nationally recognized college essay expert and sought-after speaker. He is the author of two bestsellers: “College Essay Essentials: A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Successful Essay” and “College Admissions Essentials: A Step-by-Step Guide to Showing Colleges Who You Are and What Matters to You.”
Please share information about this event with friends and relatives. All are welcome to the free weekly GPS events, and no registration is required.


