“This guide is designed to teach high school students how to plan and execute an independent project that will separate one from other college applicants. However, it is MUCH more than that! This guide teaches the reader, step by detailed step, how to plan and execute a project. The skills detailed in the guide are those utilized by any accomplished leader. For the high school student, if followed, the steps will greatly enhance the individual’s chances of success in LIFE, not just success in college admissions.
For example, the following topics are covered in great detail: planning tasks; setting up a budget; finding a mentor; how to make a sponsor kit and a press kit; how to apply for non-profit status; how to apply for grants; how to set up a website; and how to organize an event.
As one who has organized events for up to 8,000+ people and handled graduate admissions for 35+ years, I am pleased to say that this guide, if followed, will clearly enhance not only one’s collegiate application, but will aid the person in learning the organizational skills which make a leader’s life manageable.”
-- Marianne H. Mitchell, Professor Emerita of Education, Indiana University
“I was amazed at the changes I saw in my son as he progressed with his chosen project, CPR for Life. Using the techniques he learned from Beat the College Admissions Game: Do A Project!, Dylan was able to overcome the pitfall of teenage procrastination and quickly became both passionate about and committed to his project. When he did run into the occasional roadblock, he simply consulted with one of Merit’s on-line college advisors, who provided him with great advice and suggestions for moving forward.
"Although his initial goal was simply to do a project for his college resume, he ended up doing much more. He spearheaded a community effort that has already touched hundreds of students and will continue to benefit our community for years to come. His efforts were recognized in a front page story in the local newspaper, an accomplishment neither Dylan nor I would have imagined possible a year ago. After seeing the project through to the end, my son’s sense of accomplishment and self esteem blossomed upon realizing, with a little hard work, he can make a difference in both his and other people’s lives. I am thrilled he encountered this book when he did, and highly recommend it for all college-bound students and their parents.”
-- Scott Tucker, Esquire
