Need help writing the Activity Essay? In this installment of our Essay Mini Series, Moon Prep counselors Nicole and Amanda break down how to choose the perfect extracurricular for your “most meaningful experience” essays.

You’ll learn why it’s not about picking the flashiest activity, but the one with the deepest personal impact, and how to avoid overused topics like sports or generic clubs.

Plus, you’ll hear brainstorming tips and real examples to help you find the story that truly sets you apart.

🎧 Listen on Apple Music, Amazon, Spotify, or watch on YouTube!

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more BS/MD admissions tips!

About us: Moon Prep is the leader in Direct Medical Programs, BS/MD, and Medical School Admissions. Our team works one-on-one with students to guide them to acceptance.

#CollegeApps #CommonApp #UCApplication #CollegeAdvice #ActivitiesList #HighSchoolTips

Not sure how many activities to include or how to describe them in your college apps? Our Moon Prep counselors break it all down:

✅ How many can you list?

• Common App: Up to 10 activities (150 characters each)
• Coalition/Scoir: Up to 8 (253 characters each)
• UC Application: Up to 20 (includes honors/awards, 350 characters each)

✅ What counts as an activity?

• Clubs, volunteering, shadowing, research, work experience, hobbies, family responsibilities — basically anything meaningful you’ve done outside the classroom.

📌 Order of activities?

• Mix importance + time commitment. It’s personal — do what tells your story best.

⚠️ Can you lie? Nope. It’s not worth the risk. Be honest and realistic with your hours and experiences.

🎧 Listen on Apple Music, Amazon, Spotify, or watch on YouTube!

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more BS/MD admissions tips!

About us: Moon Prep is the leader in Direct Medical Programs, BS/MD, and Medical School Admissions. Our team works one-on-one with students to guide them to acceptance.

#CollegeApps #CommonApp #UCApplication #CollegeAdvice #ActivitiesList #HighSchoolTips

Not sure what major to choose? In this episode, we break down everything you need to know to make the right decision.

Start With What You Like

Think about which classes you enjoy (and which ones you don’t). It’s a great way to narrow things down.

Top-Down Approach

Start by asking: What are your career goals? Then pick a major that aligns with where you want to go.

Do Your Research

Talk to professors, alumni, and professionals or shadow someone in your field

Can You Go in Undecided?

Yes! Around 1 in 5 freshmen at UC Irvine enter as Undecided.

But beware: Some competitive majors like CS or Bio can be hard to switch into later.

Do Majors Affect College Admissions?

At some schools—not really. Admissions may look at your broader college (like Engineering or Arts & Sciences), not your specific major. Don’t pick a “random” major just to get in—your application needs to back it up!

Final Tip: Think long-term. Choose something that fits your interests and future career path.

Struggling to start your college personal statement? You’re not alone—and in this video, we break down everything you need to know to write a strong, authentic 650-word essay that stands out on your Common App. This personal statement goes to almost every school on your list, so getting it right is essential!

What we cover:

• What IS the personal statement?
• Do prompts matter? (Short answer: not really)
• Brainstorming strategies that work
• Topics to avoid or be cautious with
• Writing tips for your first draft
• The biggest mistakes we see every year
• Should you use ChatGPT?
• Final advice and encouragement

Top tips:

1. Write to your strengths, not to a specific prompt
2. Brainstorm with lists: things about you, quirks, or meaningful objects
3. Don’t over-edit or chase someone else’s success story
4. Stay authentic: your voice matters more than big words or dramatic topics
5. Plan your supplemental essays too so you're not repeating content

About us: Moon Prep is the leader in Direct Medical Programs, BS/MD, and Medical School Admissions. Our team works one-on-one with students to guide them to acceptance.

In this episode, Moon Prep counselors Lindsey and Nicole discuss tips for students heading to college. Whether you're a student or a parent, this episode breaks down everything you need to know to navigate the transition with confidence.

This is your step-by-step guide to driving the bus instead of just riding along. Don't miss it!

🎧 Listen on Apple Music, Amazon, Spotify, or watch here on YouTube!

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more BS/MD admissions tips!

About us: Moon Prep is the leader in Direct Medical Programs, BS/MD, and Medical School Admissions. Our team works one-on-one with students to guide them to acceptance.

#CollegePrep #CollegeLife #StudyTips #FreshmanYear #CampusLife #FERPA #StudentSuccess #Independence

The summer before your senior year is a golden opportunity to get ahead in the college application process. In this video, we break down everything you need to focus on to prepare for the 2025/2026 application cycle:

📚 Extracurriculars: Final push for leadership roles, hands-on opportunities, volunteering, and shadowing hours.

🎓 Academics & Testing: Prepare for senior year classes, finalize your testing strategy (SAT/ACT), and get ready for any changes in college requirements!

🏫 College List: Finalize your college list, plan your Early Decision (ED) or Restrictive Early Action (REA) options, and start thinking about college visits.

✍️ College Essays: Start drafting your personal statement, school-specific essays, and the "Why this field?" essay for your major.

💰 Scholarships: Research and apply for scholarships early—don’t wait until after you submit your application!

🌟 Relax & Recharge: Remember to take care of your mental health and make time for activities that bring you joy.

The application season is long—stay balanced! Get a head start on your college applications and set yourself up for success in the upcoming school year!

Watch now for a step-by-step guide to make the most of your summer as a 2026 applicant!

The 2024/25 BS/MD admissions cycle has officially wrapped, and we're breaking down everything you need to know if you're preparing for future application seasons! In this video, we’ll cover key trends and updates from this year’s direct medical program admissions, including:

• New BS/MD programs launching (like DePaul + Rosalind Franklin)
• Program closures and transitions (Temple’s shift to Early Assurance)
• Test-optional updates and score requirements
• Growing use of waitlists and in-person interviews
• Rising interest in BS/DO programs post-ACGME merger
• Changes to MCAT and GPA/test score thresholds

Whether you're a high school student planning your application strategy or a parent helping your teen navigate this competitive process, this breakdown will help you stay ahead. Don’t miss these important insights!

🎧 Listen on Apple Music, Amazon, Spotify, or watch on YouTube!

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more BS/MD admissions tips!

Description: Lindsey and Nicole discuss how to create the best SAT and ACT testing plan and what test optional means for BS/MD candidates.

About us: Moon Prep is the leader in Direct Medical Programs, BS/MD, and Medical School Admissions. Our team works one-on-one with students to guide them to acceptance.

In this episode of the White Coat Club, Lindsey and Nicole from Moon Prep break down the role of AP scores in BS/MD admissions. They emphasize that while BS/MD programs value rigorous coursework, AP scores are not typically required—but they can strengthen an application, especially in science-heavy subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Calculus.

The hosts discuss the importance of both AP classes and exam scores, offering guidance on whether to submit lower scores (like a 3) and how admissions committees view them. They also compare AP courses to dual enrollment options, advising students to balance rigor with extracurricular commitments.

Additionally, they provide insights on self-reporting scores through the Common App and how to send them officially through the College Board. Ultimately, while AP scores aren't mandatory for BS/MD programs, they can enhance an application and demonstrate academic readiness for medical school.

Episode Description:

Lindsey and Nicole discuss the opportunities and options available for students who were not admitted to a BS/MD program. They are joined by Loren, a Moon Prep counselor, who shares insights on alternative pathways to medical school.

About Us: Moon Prep is a leader in Direct Medical Programs, BS/MD, and Medical School Admissions. Our team works one-on-one with students to guide them toward acceptance.