Course Rigor
Guides and articles addressing course rigor, one of the common challenges students face during the admissions process.
January 19, 2026
How to Choose AP Courses & Why Colleges Care
Dewey Smart explains How to Choose Advanced Placement (AP) courses for high school students. We help students make academic plans to get accepted to college.
July 30, 2025
2025 College Admissions Secrets Revealed
It’s not just about perfect grades. This guide breaks down what top colleges actually prioritize—from academic rigor and storytelling essays to the overlooked data that reveals what matters most. Learn how to build a standout application with clarity, strategy, and confidence.
College Admissions Secrets: What Committees Value Most
College admissions can feel like deciphering a secret code. What exactly are admissions committees looking for when they review thousands of applicati...
July 10, 2025
College Admissions Strategies: Early Planning vs. Senior Year
Starting early in college planning—especially in grades 9–11—gives students more time to build strong academic, extracurricular, and personal profiles. This blog compares early vs. senior-year planning strategies, showing how timing shapes outcomes, reduces stress, and creates more competitive applications. Whether you're planning years ahead or need senior-year support, Dewey Smart helps you make the most of your timeline.
May 23, 2025
The Ultimate Academic Planning Guide
The Ultimate Academic Planning Guide: How to Build a Winning High School Course Load for Top UniversitiesIntroductionWhen it comes to college admissio...
April 10, 2025
Why AP Exams Matter - And How to Maximize Their Value
AP exams help students boost college applications, earn credit, and explore career-aligned subjects—even if their school doesn’t offer APs. Dewey Smart guides course selection, offers expert AP tutoring, and prepares students for success. Schedule a consultation today to get started.
July 20, 2024
How to Build a Strong High School Transcript
A high school transcript is an important factor considered in college applications. Planning yours can be a great way to have a more successful college application experience. Read more about how to do so here.
June 14, 2024
How Finn Entered His Top 3 Engineering Schools
Finn Hazen • G12
G12
December 11, 2023
Top School Academics: What Students Really Think
Find out what top college academics are like. Students discuss the upsides and downsides of academics at top schools.
December 11, 2023
Tackling STEM Courses
STEM courses can be hard, especially if you don't know how to study for them. Let's talk about how to tackle them.
December 11, 2023
Course Rigor for College Admission
Today, let's discuss course rigor and how to think about each different type of course offered by schools.
December 11, 2023
Why You Should Self-Study for an AP Test
Are there any AP classes that your school doesn’t offer that you wish you could take? If so, you may want to self-study for an AP test!
