NACAC

03 Nov Takeaways from NACAC

Posted at 07:00h in college admissions essays, college admissions process, navigate the world of college admissions by

Last month I attended the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) conference in Los Angeles, where I visited a wide range of colleges and participated in some insightful educational sessions on the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the college application process. My visits included the Claremont Colleges, the University of Southern California (USC), the California Insitute of Technology (CalTech), and UCLA—each offering a unique experience that highlights the diversity of college environments. This reaffirmed something I always tell my students: there is a college that’s the right fit for everyone.

Exploring Diverse Campuses:

  • Claremont Colleges: This consortium of small liberal arts colleges provides a close-knit academic community with personalized attention. Pomona College, known for its rigorous liberal arts curriculum, emphasizes student-faculty relationships and a commitment to fostering critical thinking across a wide range of disciplines. Claremont McKenna College, wiith a focus on leadership, government, and economics,prepares students for public affairs, business, and service through a pragmatic, interdisciplinary approach. Harvey Mudd College specializes in engineering, science, and mathematics, combining technical excellence with a strong liberal arts foundation to develop well-rounded problem solvers. Monday night is “steak night” at Harvey Mudd’s dining hall, and it draws students from all five colleges. Scripps College is a women’s liberal arts college, emphasizing interdisciplinary learning, leadership development, and fostering a close-knit, supportive community centered around women’s empowerment. Pitzer College is known for its commitment to social justice, environmental sustainability, and intercultural understanding, encouraging students to design individualized academic paths that reflect their passions and values.

 

  • CalTech: Known for its emphasis on science and research, CalTech is perfect for students looking to push the boundaries of innovation in fields like engineering and astronomy and astrophysics. CalTech founded and manages NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the leading center for exploring the solar system. CalTech’s small size and collaborative spirit make it a unique place for tech-focused students who want an intellectually challenging environment.

 

  • USC: With its diverse and vibrant student body, USC combines the resources of a large research university with the feel of a private institution. At the Annenberg’s Media Center, students produce podcasts and nightly news shows. USC students have access to world-class faculty, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a strong network of alumni, making it an appealing option for students who want the best of both worlds.

 

  • UCLA: As a leading public university, UCLA offers students the chance to be part of a large, dynamic campus with endless opportunities in terms of academics, athletics, and extracurriculars. Its strength in research, coupled with a vibrant social scene, makes it ideal for students seeking a lively, urban campus experience.

 

AI in the College Application Process—Promise and Precautions:

In addition to campus visits, I attended several sessions on the role of AI in the admissions process, which is becoming a significant topic of discussion. Admissions officers, counselors, and students all have new tools at their disposal, but it’s important to understand how and when AI should be used. 

For admissions officers, AI can assist with tasks like transcript review, answering prospective student questions through chatbots, and even evaluating essays for indicators of future student success. However, presenters emphasized that the human element remains crucial in reviewing applications.

For counselors and teachers, AI might become a valuable tool for writing stronger recommendations, especially in schools where counselors have overwhelming caseloads. 

For students, the key takeaway is caution. Colleges have varying policies on AI use. For example, Georgia Tech allows some ethical use of AI for brainstorming, while schools like Princeton prohibit any AI use in the application process. It’s essential for students to research and understand these policies before using AI tools. Honesty is also paramount—students sign an affirmation on the Common App that their work is their own, meaning they cannot rely on AI (or a parent) to write their essays. However, AI can still be useful for college research or planning campus visits.

Finding Your Best-Fit College 

Whether a student is interested in a hands-on, research-driven experience, a tight-knit community, or a large, bustling campus, there’s a college that’s perfect for them. As I continue to work with students, I’m reminded of the many different ways students can thrive in their chosen college environment. The key is finding a place where they feel they can belong, contribute, and grow.