by Dhruv Jagan

India Youth group (IYG) organized a new series called Youth Empowering Youth to engage middle and high schoolers in the community about different aspects of college applications.

The first event in this series took place on December 16th, 2023 at India Center. The panel discussion was entitled “ Preparing Ahead: A roadmap to land the right college”. The panel included five students at various stages in their collegiate career. Aryan Kale, Junior, Northeastern university, Anika Nath, Freshman, MIT, Swara Gurav, Freshman, Suffolk University, Dhriti Aiylam, Northeastern University and Arnav Mankad, Boston University shared their insights into the college application process.

Topics discussed by the panel ranged from SAT and ACT test-taking, strategies, requirements, and the importance of extracurriculars to land your top college. For example, they shared what they think is a reasonable time to start thinking about college, as well as how many clubs and activities that were offered at their school helped them decide their major.

Through these discussions, a general consensus arose: Start thinking about college during the beginning of your junior year, and try and experiment with many clubs at school to see which ones interest you. The panelists emphasized that doing something that is unique sets you apart from others. Additionally, how you display your dedication towards your courses and extracurricular activities will help you get a step closer to your dream college. In the Q&A session, both parents and kids got involved and learnt from the panelists tips and tricks to achieve admission into the college of your choice.