Why Your Child Shouldn’t Mold Their Application to a Specific College—And What to Do Instead
In the overwhelming world of college admissions, families are constantly bombarded by conflicting advice. Scroll through social media, attend a few webinars, or talk to fellow parents, and you’ll hear dozens of “gurus” each claiming to have the secret formula to get your child into top-tier schools.
But here’s the truth no one seems to emphasize enough:
Above all else, universities value students who demonstrate clear direction and genuine passion.
And that’s exactly why you shouldn’t optimize your child’s college application for any one university.
Let’s break this down.
The Problem with “Optimizing” for a Specific School
Take Brown University, for example. Known for its liberal arts emphasis and open curriculum, many families assume that to stand out, students must tailor their applications to highlight an interest in the humanities.
As a result, students bend their narratives to fit what they think Brown wants—peppering essays with lofty statements about interdisciplinary learning or the value of the arts, whether or not those things truly reflect who they are.
But here’s the catch:
Brown’s mission is not to find one “type” of student. It’s to build a class full of individuals with diverse passions, lived experiences, and goals. What they’re really looking for is authenticity—students who own their interests, no matter how niche or unconventional they may be.
So, if your child’s heart lights up at the thought of AI, social entrepreneurship, or the psychology of violence, they’re doing themselves a disservice by pretending otherwise.
What to Do Instead: Optimize for the Student, Not the School
Each student is inherently unique—and that’s the superpower.
Instead of forcing your child into a mold that seems aligned with one college’s perceived preferences, help them explore and double down on their natural strengths and interests.
At PMJ Coaching, this is exactly where our expertise shines. We guide students to:
- Unearth their authentic interests
- Build long-term projects or experiences around those passions
- Craft a compelling narrative that speaks to who they really are
Over time, we help your child create a body of work and story so distinct, so genuine, that it becomes undeniable—regardless of the university they apply to.
Let’s Build a Game Plan for Your Child
At PMJ Coaching, we believe that the most powerful college applications are rooted in truth—your child’s truth. Not what they think a school wants to hear. Not what everyone else is doing. But a bold, compelling story that reflects who they are and where they’re going.
When students lean into their unique strengths, passions, and long-term vision, they don’t just get noticed—they get accepted.
That’s the kind of transformation we help families create.
👉 Ready to break free from the noise and build an application strategy that actually works?
Schedule a free strategy call with us today. You’ll walk away with:
- A personalized game plan for your child’s strengths and goals
- Clarity on how to stand out at any top-tier school
- Real, actionable next steps—no fluff, no gimmicks
✨ Your child only gets one shot at this. Let’s make it count.
📞 Book Your Free Call with PMJ Coaching
