FAQs
About Rose College Strategies:
Do I have to be an athlete to work with RCS?
No, not at all! Most students have a passion outside the classroom. If that something is athletics, we have you covered! We also work with musicians, artists, gamers, neurodivergent and non-traditional learners to help amplify their extracurriculars and direct them toward the right-fit college. Don’t have any specific interests? RCS will help you identify your strengths in order to make your application stand out.
How often will we meet?
There are general tasks that need to be completed for each grade level. Beyond that, the work students need to accomplish is entirely dependent on their goals and college-specific requirements. We use a shared calendar and meet in-person and virtually, taking into account student schedules and preferred methods of communication.
Does RCS offer hourly services?
Yes! We host live-via-Zoom group Essay Writing Workshops starting in spring of junior year. Seniors also have the opportunity throughout the fall to work one-on-one with Writing Specialists on an hourly basis.
Can RCS advise struggling students with lower GPAs?
We absolutely can! There are many colleges that consider aspects other than GPA. We help each student identify these options, and work with them to magnify the strengths (and minimize the weaknesses) of their resume.
About College Admissions:
Should I take the SAT? What about Test Optional colleges?
While the Cal States and UCs do not consider the SAT or ACT, standardized testing is making a comeback everywhere else. Whether or not to report your score to Test Optional colleges is a decision you will make together with RCS, based on your results and the nuances of each school on your list.
Will it improve my chances of being accepted if I’m not applying for Financial Aid?
No, but your financial disclosures may be used to determine eligibility for merit and/or need-based assistance once you are accepted.
I’ve heard I can get into a good college by declaring a less popular major, then changing later.
You don’t need to play games to be admitted to your right-fit college! Selecting the appropriate major for each school on your list is a key part of the application process managed by RCS.
Is it better to take APs and get lower grades, or standard courses and do well?
Colleges like to see students challenge themselves, and success in APs demonstrates an ability to handle college-level coursework. However, APs aren’t the only way to prove academic aptitude. RCS will suggest creative options to help your student show academic curiosity and submit the strongest application possible.