Admission matters What students and parents need to know about getting into college

The world of college preparation has rumbled with seismic shifts in the last few years. The SAT has been completely revamped with a new writing component, college admissions counselors are rethinking how to weight standardized test scores against applicants' other qualifications, and the application process is moving entirely to the Internet. These are only a few of the changes today's teens confront as they look toward college. As its subtitle suggests, Admission Matters0 is an excellent introduction for both college-minded teens and their parents. Comprehensive and written in straightforward, clear language, chapters explore the current competitive environment surrounding college applications, what admissions counselors look for, and how to prepare for the new tests and put together an application package. There's also advice specifically for parents ("What your child will remember long after the college admissions process is over is how you supported him or her"), and information about early admissions and financial aid. Sample application forms and recommendation letters, as well as a long list of resources, are among the appended materials. The wealth of information, uncluttered format, and numerous boxed features, such as a checklist of things to do on a college visit, make this an essential guide. --Gillian Engberg Copyright 2005 Booklist

Springer (associate chancellor, Univ. of California, Davis) and freelance writer Franck have produced an honest, detailed account of the increasingly competitive admissions process at selective colleges and universities. Teens and their parents will gain a behind-the-scenes look at the entire process, from researching schools, to applying, to accepting an offer of admission. Especially notable are the extensive critique of college rankings and a thought-provoking epilog by a former dean of admissions. Although the writing is at times tedious and the information a bit overwhelming, the many quotes from applicants, parents, counselors, and admissions officers help bring the text to life. What results is a calm, rational perspective on this chaotic and often overly competitive process. Parents will especially appreciate the tips for helping their teens with the practical and emotional components of applying to colleges. Unfortunately, this volume focuses on only selective schools (i.e., those accepting less than half of their applicants), so it will not be useful for all families. Recommended for large public libraries and those with strong college sections.-Erica L. Foley, Flint P.L., MI (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.