347. QuestBridge National College Match - Taylor Erickson - QuestBridge Scholar & Admissions Counselor at the University of Notre Dame
QuestBridge National College Match
Feel free to reach out to Taylor with any questions at: taylor.admissions@nd.edu
Notre Dame Admissions Home Page
๐๏ธQuestBridge National College Match with Taylor Erickson (Notre Dame Admissions)
In this episode, Dr. John Dante speaks with Taylor Erickson, a QuestBridge Scholar alumna and admissions counselor at the University of Notre Dame, about navigating the QuestBridge National College Match. Taylor shares her personal journey from applying as a high-achieving, low-income student to working in admissions, offering practical insights for students, families, and counselors. Learn how to stand out in applications, craft authentic essays, secure strong recommendations, and stay organized through this competitive process.
๐ Key Takeaways
Understanding QuestBridge
- ๐ Connects high-achieving, low-income students with early admission and full four-year scholarships at top U.S. colleges.
- ๐ฐ Scholarships cover tuition, housing, meals, and more โ valued at over $325,000.
- ๐ซ Students rank colleges for the Match, but unmatched finalists can still apply to partner schools via regular decision.
Application Process & Timeline ๐
- ๐ College Match Application: September submission.
- ๐ Rank Colleges: Up to 15 schools.
- ๐ Finalist Requirements: Submit supplemental materials by early November.
- ๐ Match Notification: December.
Taylorโs Personal Journey ๐ก
- Taylor pursued QuestBridge to afford college and was drawn to Notre Dame after a pivotal premed-focused event.
- Key lesson: admissions isnโt just about four years; itโs about joining a lifelong community.
Thriving as a QuestBridge Student ๐ฑ
- ๐ Academic Excellence: Challenge yourself with rigorous coursework and demonstrate curiosity.
- ๐ Ask for Help: College is different from high school โ seek guidance from professors and peers.
- ๐ค Support Network: QuestBridge Scholars Network chapters provide mentorship, community, and resources.
Application Tips ๐
- ๐ Stay Organized: Use a spreadsheet for essays, recommendations, and supplemental materials.
- โ๏ธ Be Authentic: Essays should highlight a meaningful chapter of your life.
- ๐จ๏ธ The โPrinter Testโ: Would someone who knows you recognize your essay without your name?
- ๐ Holistic Review: No single component dominates; consider whether test scores reflect your abilities.
- ๐ฉโ๐ซ Recommendations: Choose teachers who know you well, not just related to your intended major.
Advice for Families & Counselors ๐ก
- ๐ Learn the QuestBridge process โ the website offers videos, FAQs, and worksheets.
- ๐ง Admissions counselors are accessible and eager to help.
- โ The process is challenging but rewarding โ 1,000% worth the effort.
- ๐ Students should evaluate if a college is the right fit, not just if they fit the college.
Taylorโs Top 3 Tips ๐ฏ
- โ Ask Questions: Find a college where you feel at home.
- ๐๏ธ Track Your Work: Keep essays, recommendations, and applications organized.
- ๐ฟ Take a Deep Breath: Balance the process with activities that bring joy and calm.
โ Whether youโre applying to QuestBridge or advising students, this episode provides actionable guidance for navigating one of the most competitive college admission processes in the country.
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๐ This episode is brought to you by Prep Expert, a proud sponsor of The College Admissions Process Podcast. Prep Expert offers award-winning test prep courses and strategies that have helped thousands of students improve their scores. For full details on their programs and guarantees, visit www.PrepExpert.com ๐ฏ๐
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Straight From The Admissions Office: Insider Strategies For College Applications
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