About Carmen Reid

Educator, Researcher, and Community Leader

Carmen Reid from Alameda, CA, is an educator, researcher, and community leader whose work blends education, history, and civic engagement into a single mission—to create opportunities for people to learn, connect, and preserve culture. She believes that knowledge gains meaning when shared, and her career reflects that principle. Through teaching, research, and public service, she ensures that education and history remain accessible and relevant to everyone.

Academic Roots and Scholarly Development

His academic foundation reflects her curiosity about culture and human connection. In 2025, she earned her Master’s in Public Administration from the Harvard Kennedy School, where she focused on program design, leadership, and public policy. Earlier, she completed a dual bachelor’s degree in Anthropology and Spanish Language and Literature at the University of California, Berkeley.

As a J. William Fulbright Scholar in Barcelona, Carmen conducted historical research on Catalan Jews through primary archival materials. This experience shaped her understanding of how identity and cultural preservation intersect, inspiring her to pursue a career combining academic inquiry with public engagement. Her studies prepared her to bridge theory and practice, building programs that honor history while serving communities in the present.

Teaching for Access and Understanding

Education lies at the heart of Carmen’s professional work. She has taught Spanish at middle and high school levels, where she redesigned curricula to make lessons more interactive and meaningful. Her approach to teaching emphasizes cultural context and student participation, creating an inclusive classroom environment that encourages curiosity.

At Dover Elementary, Carmen Reid of Alameda served as a reading intervention specialist for bilingual students, helping young learners strengthen literacy and confidence. She collaborated with teachers and families to design individualized reading plans that reflected each child’s needs. In addition, she created after-school programs in arts, music, and theater to inspire creative learning. These experiences gave her firsthand insight into the systemic challenges facing students from multilingual and low-resource backgrounds, shaping her commitment to equity in education.

Preserving the Past Through Public History

Carmen’s dedication to history led her to archival and museum work that connects communities to their heritage. She created a teen docent program at the Alameda Museum to help students interpret and share local history. She also directed a digitization project that cataloged over 2,000 historical artifacts, expanding public access to archival collections.

Her contributions to maritime preservation include completing a National Register nomination for the U.S. Maritime Service Officers Training School and publishing historical research in trade and veteran journals. Her work demonstrates how preservation can engage people across generations, turning historical materials into living resources for education and reflection.

Collaboration and Cultural Research

During her graduate studies at Harvard, Carmen conducted research at the Peabody Museum, focusing on collaboration between museums and tribal communities. She interviewed tribal leaders and museum professionals nationwide to explore best practices in cultural center development and preservation.

Her research culminated in a feasibility report for the Eastern Shoshone Tribal Government, which offered practical recommendations on curation, programming, and compliance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). Carmen approached this work as a partnership, ensuring tribal perspectives guided every recommendation. Her research emphasized that preservation succeeds only when communities actively shape how their histories are represented.

Civic Engagement and Leadership

Carmen’s service to her community extends into public governance. As a member of Alameda’s Open Government Commission, she worked to improve transparency, accountability, and accessibility in local government. Her work helped strengthen public trust and civic participation.

She also led advocacy initiatives with the American Merchant Marine Veterans, organizing campaigns that generated over 1,500 letters and calls supporting maritime preservation. In 2023, she was honored as Volunteer of the Year for her leadership in these efforts. That same year, she spoke to more than 10,000 attendees at UC Berkeley’s Chancellor’s Welcome, where she shared reflections on civic duty, responsibility, and the value of collective action.

Writing That Builds Connection

Carmen Reid’s research and writing focus on education, history, and policy. Her work has been featured in local history publications, veteran journals, and professional outlets like Marine Log. She writes clearly and practically, aiming to make research accessible to educators, policymakers, and community organizations.

Beyond articles, she has produced archival reports, feasibility studies, and educational program plans that continue to inform institutional practice. Her writing bridges theory and application, turning ideas into tools that create measurable community benefits.

Creativity and Cultural Engagement

Outside of her professional work, Carmen pursues creative activities that reflect her love of culture and storytelling. She paints botanicals, several of which have been displayed at San Francisco State University, and has studied letterpress printing to explore traditional craftsmanship. Fluent in Spanish and Catalan, she enjoys cooking for family and friends, viewing food as a way to preserve heritage and celebrate shared identity.

These creative interests give her balance and inspiration and reinforce her belief that art and storytelling are vital forms of cultural preservation.

Continuing Her Mission

Now dividing her time between Cambridge, MA, and the San Francisco Bay Area, Carmen Reid continues to develop programs that combine education, cultural preservation, and civic service. She focuses on strengthening partnerships with tribal and cultural organizations, expanding access to local history, and supporting equitable learning systems.

For Carmen, the essence of her work is simple but profound: education and history are living forces shaping how people connect. Through her teaching, research, and leadership, she ensures that communities can learn from their past, celebrate their diversity, and build a more inclusive future.

Follow on social media: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instargam, BlueSky.

Portfolio: https://carmenreidalameda.com

 

Blog

One Year, A Lifetime of Lessons: How Living Abroad Redefines the Way We See the World

Published on: 11/13/2025

Imagine waking up in a new country where the sounds, smells, and rhythms of daily life are entirely unfamiliar. The morning air carries different spices, the conversations hum in another language, and even the street signs feel like puzzles waiting to be solved. That’s what happens when you spend a year abroad—you step into a version of life that challenges everything you thought you knew.

Living overseas isn’t just about travel or tourism. It’s about transformation. A single year in another culture can shift how you view people, success, and your place in the world. It stretches your comfort zone, strengthens your empathy, and broadens your perspective on the endless variety of human experiences.

Stepping Into Someone Else’s Everyday

Tourists often skim the surface of culture, but when you live abroad, you dive deep. You start noticing how small habits reveal significant cultural values. Maybe you’re in France, watching people linger over long lunches instead of rushing back to work. Or in South Korea, where respect and community are woven into every greeting and gesture.

You learn by doing—by grocery shopping, navigating transportation, or chatting with neighbors. These daily interactions become lessons in humility, patience, and observation. Over time, you stop being an outsider and begin to see life through the eyes of the locals.

The Challenge That Builds Confidence

Living abroad sounds glamorous until reality sets in: missing a bus, misreading directions, or accidentally ordering something unexpected at a restaurant. These moments can be humbling, but they’re also where growth happens.

When you overcome everyday obstacles in a new environment, you develop quiet confidence. You learn to adapt, to laugh at mistakes, and to find solutions even when you don’t have all the answers. Those skills—resilience, resourcefulness, and problem-solving—stick with you for life.

Learning the Unspoken Language

Language is more than grammar and vocabulary; it’s rhythm, tone, and context. Even if you don’t become fluent, living abroad teaches you how communication extends far beyond words. A smile, a nod, or a shared joke can bridge gaps that translation apps never could.

Through trial and error, you discover that language reflects the heart of a culture. In Italy, words flow like conversation is an art. In Japan, silence carries meaning and respect. These lessons make you not just multilingual but multicultural—a person who listens deeply and responds thoughtfully.

Understanding Your Own Culture by Stepping Away

Ironically, it often takes leaving your home country to understand it truly. Distance gives you perspective. You begin to see which parts of your identity come from personal choice and which come from cultural habit.

Maybe you realize that you value punctuality because it’s how you were raised, or that your direct communication style feels unusual in another setting. These insights help you grow more self-aware and adaptable. When you return home, you see your world with new clarity—and a lot more appreciation.

Empathy as a Way of Seeing

One of the most profound transformations that happens during a year abroad is the development of empathy. When you’re surrounded by people who think and live differently, you learn to listen before judging. You begin to understand that everyone’s “normal” is shaped by context and history.

That shift from assumption to understanding changes how you interact with others long after you return. Whether it’s working with international colleagues or connecting with diverse communities, you carry that global empathy wherever you go.

The Power of Cultural Exchange

Spending time abroad isn’t a one-way experience—it’s an exchange. You share your own customs and values while learning about others. Perhaps you teach your host family how to make your favorite dish from home or explain a tradition they’ve never encountered before. In return, they teach you how their holidays, festivals, or family rituals shape their lives.

These exchanges create a sense of connection that transcends borders. You begin to see how different cultures solve similar problems, and how collaboration enriches everyone involved.

Adapting to a Global Mindset

The world is increasingly interconnected, and people who’ve lived abroad often bring something special to the table: a flexible, open-minded worldview. Employers notice it. So do educators and community leaders.

You learn to approach challenges with creativity, to see issues from multiple perspectives, and to work effectively across cultures. That adaptability makes you not just more employable but also more capable of contributing meaningfully in a global society.

Coming Home Changed for Good

When your time abroad comes to an end, you may feel a mix of excitement and sadness. You’ve gained independence, made lifelong friends, and built a new version of yourself. The hardest part isn’t adjusting to a new place—it’s realizing that you’ll never see the world the same way again.

You return home more curious, more compassionate, and more aware of the world’s complexity. You notice details others might overlook, and you carry stories that make conversations richer and perspectives broader.

A year abroad may begin with a passport and a plane ticket, but it ends with something far more valuable—a transformed outlook on humanity. Once you’ve lived beyond your borders, you realize the world isn’t just out there waiting to be explored. It’s something you’re now a part of, forever.

The Overlooked Intersections of Education, Cultural Heritage, and Public Service

Published on: 10-27-2025

In today’s rapidly changing world, the forces shaping our communities are deeply interconnected. Among the most profound of these are education, cultural heritage, and public service—each a pillar of human development, yet often treated as separate pursuits. When examined together, they reveal a powerful synergy that can inspire civic responsibility, strengthen social bonds, and create more inclusive, resilient societies. Understanding these intersections allows us to reimagine how learning, identity, and service can collectively enrich both individuals and communities.

Education as the Foundation of Collective Progress

Education has long been recognized as the cornerstone of progress. It empowers individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive, while also fostering the values that sustain democratic societies—critical thinking, empathy, and civic awareness. But beyond these practical purposes, education also serves as a bridge between generations and cultures.

Schools are not just places where students absorb facts and figures; they are spaces where cultural narratives are shared and reshaped. The lessons taught within classrooms—both formal and informal—play a critical role in defining how young people understand themselves and their communities. For instance, when curricula include local history, indigenous languages, or the contributions of minority groups, education becomes an act of preservation as well as empowerment.

Unfortunately, many education systems prioritize standardized achievement over cultural understanding. The result is a generation of learners equipped for economic competition but less connected to their cultural roots or civic duties. Reconnecting education with cultural heritage and public service can help correct this imbalance, grounding learning in lived experiences and shared responsibilities.

Cultural Heritage as a Living Classroom

Cultural heritage encompasses the traditions, values, languages, and practices that shape a community’s identity. It’s often seen as something to be preserved in museums or archives, yet in reality, it is dynamic—constantly evolving as societies change. When cultural heritage is integrated into education, it transforms classrooms into living laboratories of history and identity.

Consider the impact of students learning through community-based projects, oral histories, or local art traditions. Such experiences allow them to understand their cultural roots not as static relics, but as living practices that inform present realities. They also promote respect for diversity, teaching students to see cultural differences as strengths rather than barriers.

Cultural education, when linked to public service, further deepens this impact. For example, students participating in heritage preservation initiatives—such as restoring historical landmarks or documenting community folklore—develop both practical skills and civic pride. These projects nurture a sense of belonging and responsibility, connecting academic learning to real-world community development.

Unfortunately, cultural heritage is too often neglected in mainstream education. Many students graduate with little understanding of their own cultural backgrounds or those of others. This neglect weakens the social fabric, making communities more vulnerable to polarization and prejudice. Integrating cultural heritage into education is therefore not merely a nostalgic gesture—it is a strategy for building stronger, more empathetic societies.

Public Service as an Expression of Cultural and Educational Values

Public service—whether through volunteering, civic engagement, or government work—is the tangible expression of education and culture in action. It is where knowledge and values meet community needs. A strong sense of cultural heritage can give meaning to public service, while education provides the tools to carry it out effectively.

For example, educators who incorporate service learning into their curricula enable students to apply classroom knowledge to community challenges. When students tutor peers, organize environmental cleanups, or advocate for social justice causes, they learn that education is not confined to textbooks—it is a lifelong commitment to improving the world around them.

Public service also benefits from an understanding of cultural context. Policymakers, healthcare workers, and community organizers who are culturally literate can design initiatives that are more inclusive and effective. Whether it’s respecting local customs in disaster relief efforts or tailoring educational programs to diverse learning traditions, integrating cultural awareness into service ensures that well-intentioned efforts do not inadvertently alienate the communities they aim to help.

In this sense, public service becomes a form of cultural stewardship—protecting and promoting the values, traditions, and knowledge that sustain communities. It reminds us that serving others is not just a duty but a continuation of the cultural narratives that define who we are.

Intersections That Shape Resilient Communities

The intersection of education, cultural heritage, and public service is more than a theoretical concept—it is a practical framework for building sustainable and inclusive societies. When these domains work in harmony, they create a cycle of mutual reinforcement: education fosters understanding, culture provides meaning, and service transforms knowledge into action.

This integration is evident in successful community-based initiatives around the world. In some indigenous communities, for instance, elders teach traditional ecological knowledge in schools, blending cultural wisdom with modern science to promote environmental stewardship. In cities, programs that connect students to local history projects often lead to increased civic engagement and pride. These examples illustrate that when learning and service are rooted in cultural awareness, they produce citizens who are not only skilled but also compassionate and culturally grounded.

Moreover, this intersection has significant implications for global citizenship. In an increasingly interconnected world, understanding diverse cultural heritages helps individuals appreciate global interdependence. Educational systems that emphasize cross-cultural learning and service cultivate empathy, tolerance, and a sense of shared responsibility—qualities essential for addressing global challenges such as climate change, inequality, and migration.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Despite their potential, integrating education, cultural heritage, and public service faces substantial barriers. Many educational institutions are constrained by rigid curricula, limited funding, and pressures to standardize testing, leaving little room for experiential or culturally responsive learning. Meanwhile, public service programs often operate in isolation from educational systems, missing opportunities for collaboration.

To bridge these gaps, policymakers and educators must adopt more holistic approaches. Partnerships between schools, cultural institutions, and civic organizations can create opportunities for students to engage in meaningful community projects. Digital technologies also offer new opportunities to preserve and share cultural heritage while fostering civic participation.

Importantly, educators must be trained to view cultural heritage not as an optional subject but as an integral part of holistic education. Likewise, public service initiatives should prioritize cultural competence as a core value, ensuring that community engagement respects and reflects local traditions.

Building a Shared Future

The overlooked intersections of education, cultural heritage, and public service represent one of the most promising frontiers for social progress. Together, they offer a blueprint for cultivating informed, empathetic, and active citizens—people who understand where they come from, value the diversity of others, and are committed to serving the common good.

By embracing these connections, societies can transform education from a purely academic pursuit into a cultural and civic enterprise. They can transform cultural heritage from a relic of the past into a living source of wisdom. And they can transform public service from an obligation into an expression of shared humanity.

The path forward lies not in isolating these domains but in weaving them together—creating a world where learning honors culture, service strengthens community, and heritage inspires the future.

Avoid These Costly College Admission Mistakes Students Make Every Year

Published On : 10/20/2025

Each year, thousands of students hurt their chances of getting into great schools by rushing through their college applications. From typos and missing information to uninspired essays, careless mistakes can make even the strongest student look unprepared. Admissions officers are looking for attention to detail and genuine effort—qualities that are difficult to show in a rushed application. Taking your time ensures your materials are accurate, polished, and professional.

A smart strategy is to start early. Break down the process into smaller steps—such as drafting essays, gathering recommendations, and completing financial forms—and assign deadlines for each. This not only reduces stress but also allows time for review and revision. Submitting early also helps you avoid technical issues or late submissions that could derail your chances entirely.

Choosing Colleges for the Wrong Reasons

Many students fall into the trap of choosing colleges based solely on prestige, rankings, or where their friends plan to go. While reputation can be important, it shouldn’t be the only deciding factor. What matters most is whether a school matches your academic goals, interests, and personality. Applying without considering “fit” can lead to unhappiness or poor performance later.

Instead, take time to understand what makes each college unique. Research the programs, campus environment, extracurricular opportunities, and support systems available. Talk to current students or alumni to get a feel for daily life. The best college for you is one where you’ll feel challenged, supported, and excited to learn—not just a name that looks impressive on paper.

Underestimating the Power of the College Essay

Your college essay isn’t just another box to check—it’s your opportunity to speak directly to admissions officers and show who you are beyond grades and test scores. Unfortunately, many students write bland, predictable essays that don’t reveal much about their personality or potential. Common pitfalls include overused themes, generic language, or essays that sound too rehearsed.

To make your essay stand out, focus on storytelling and authenticity. Share an experience that shaped your perspective or inspired your goals. Write with honesty and clarity, showing how challenges helped you grow. A strong, memorable essay can turn an average application into an exceptional one, helping admissions committees remember your name.

Listing Every Activity Without Context

A long list of extracurriculars might seem impressive at first glance, but admissions officers care more about depth than quantity. Simply listing every club or volunteer activity without context doesn’t tell them who you are or what you care about. They want to see meaningful involvement—evidence that you’ve made an impact, taken initiative, or shown growth over time.

Choose your most significant experiences and describe what you learned or contributed. Did you lead a project? Start a club? Help others through consistent service? Focus on achievements that align with your interests and goals. This approach paints a more compelling and cohesive picture of your character and ambition.

Neglecting to Build Strong Relationships with Recommenders

Letters of recommendation are a vital part of the admissions process, yet many students treat them as an afterthought. A generic letter from a teacher who barely knows you won’t impress admissions officers. What truly strengthens your application is a detailed, heartfelt recommendation from someone who understands your strengths, work ethic, and personality.

Start nurturing these relationships early—well before senior year. Participate actively in class, show curiosity, and communicate your academic goals. When it’s time to request a recommendation, provide your teacher or counselor with a summary of your accomplishments and future plans. This helps them write a more personalized, powerful letter that supports your application narrative.

Overlooking Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities

Financial planning is one of the most overlooked aspects of the college application process. Many families wait too long to consider costs, only to be overwhelmed when acceptance letters arrive. Without proper research and preparation, students may miss out on valuable scholarships and grants that could make a big financial difference.

Start by exploring all available aid options—federal programs, institutional scholarships, and private funding sources. Complete the FAFSA as early as possible and pay close attention to each school’s financial aid deadlines. Understanding your financial picture ahead of time allows you to make smart, sustainable choices without unnecessary stress or debt.

Following Others Instead of Your Own Path

It’s natural to seek advice during the college admissions process, but relying too heavily on others’ opinions can cloud your judgment. Friends, parents, or online forums may mean well, but their experiences don’t necessarily match your aspirations or personality. Every student’s path is different, and your choices should reflect what’s right for you.

Stay true to your goals and interests. Think about where you’ll feel most motivated and fulfilled—not where others think you should go. The college journey is deeply personal, and owning your decisions builds confidence that will serve you long after graduation.

Avoiding the most common college admissions mistakes comes down to preparation, authenticity, and self-awareness. Don’t rush through applications or follow trends—invest the time to research, plan, and reflect on what you truly want. By crafting thoughtful essays, highlighting meaningful achievements, and applying to schools that genuinely fit your goals, you can strengthen your chances of admission and set the stage for long-term success. A well-prepared, genuine college application doesn’t just open doors—it helps you find the right one to walk through.

When Helping Hurts: How Parents Can Accidentally Sabotage Their Teen’s College Applications

Published On: 10-13-2025

 

Parents naturally want the best for their children—especially when it comes to something as important as college admissions. You’ve likely spent years supporting your teen’s academic journey, cheering from the sidelines, and investing time, energy, and resources into their future. But when application season arrives, well-meaning parents often cross an invisible line between guidance and interference. While your intentions may be pure, too much involvement can unintentionally harm your teen’s chances of standing out to admissions officers.

Taking Over the Application Process

One of the most common mistakes parents make is taking control of the college application process. It might start with good intentions—helping your teen stay organized, reminding them of deadlines, or proofreading essays—but it can quickly evolve into micromanagement. When parents begin filling out applications, heavily editing essays, or making school choices without input, the process stops being the student’s and starts being the parents. Admissions officers can often tell when a student’s essay doesn’t sound like their own voice, and that lack of authenticity can cost valuable credibility.

Instead, guide rather than lead. Encourage your teen to take ownership by setting up their own timelines, researching colleges independently, and drafting essays in their own words. You can serve as a sounding board—offering advice, proofreading for clarity, or helping them reflect on their experiences—but resist the urge to rewrite or control. Colleges want to admit students, not their parents. The process is as much about self-discovery as it is about admissions.

Overemphasizing Prestige Over Fit

Every parent dreams of their child attending a respected, name-brand university. But pushing your teen toward prestigious schools that don’t align with their interests, personality, or goals can lead to unnecessary stress and disappointment. Prestige doesn’t always equal happiness or success. Admissions officers see many applications from students who apply to “reach” schools based solely on reputation, not because they’re the right fit academically or socially.

The best way to support your teen is by focusing on fit—where they’ll thrive, not just where they’ll impress. Help them explore campuses that match their academic strengths, values, and preferred environment. Encourage them to visit schools (virtually or in person), attend info sessions, and ask questions that matter to them. When students feel supported in choosing schools that genuinely excite them, they submit stronger, more authentic applications—and are far more likely to succeed once they’re there.

Overediting or Rewriting Essays

College essays are meant to capture a student’s unique voice and perspective. Yet many parents, wanting to “polish” their teen’s writing, go beyond basic feedback and rewrite large portions. The result is often a sophisticated but soulless essay that doesn’t sound like a teenager at all. Admissions officers, who read thousands of essays each year, can instantly tell when an adult has taken over.

Instead of editing with a heavy hand, ask open-ended questions that help your teen think deeper about their story. For example, “What did you learn from that experience?” or “Why was that moment important to you?” Encourage them to write honestly and imperfectly at first—authenticity matters more than perfect grammar. You can certainly review for clarity and spelling, but let the ideas and tone belong to your teen. Their essay should sound like them, not you.

Hovering Over Every Decision

From choosing extracurriculars to finalizing a college list, some parents feel compelled to supervise every detail. This helicopter-style involvement can make teens feel pressured and incapable of making their own choices. While it may come from love, constant oversight sends the message that you don’t trust them to handle responsibility—which can damage confidence during a time when independence is crucial.

Give your teen room to make their own decisions, even if they make small mistakes along the way. It’s okay if they choose a topic you wouldn’t have picked or apply to a school you hadn’t considered. Let them lead while you provide quiet support in the background. Learning to make and own their choices prepares them for the realities of college life—and shows admissions officers that they are mature and self-driven.

Pushing Too Hard for Perfection

College admissions can feel like a high-stakes competition, and it’s easy for parents to fall into the trap of expecting flawless grades, endless extracurriculars, and perfect SAT scores. This pressure can create anxiety, burnout, and resentment in teens. Worse, it may lead them to present a false version of themselves in applications—one focused on meeting unrealistic expectations rather than showcasing authentic strengths.

Instead of perfection, aim for progress. Remind your teen that colleges are not looking for perfection but for potential. Support them in managing stress and maintaining balance. Encourage them to pursue passions that genuinely interest them, not just those that “look good.” A healthy, self-motivated student stands out more than one who’s overworked and overcoached.

Ignoring the Emotional Side of the Process

Parents often focus on logistics—deadlines, applications, and test scores—while overlooking the emotional roller coaster that college admissions can be. Rejections, waiting lists, and tough choices can take a toll on teens’ confidence. When parents react with disappointment or panic, it can amplify those emotions and make students feel like failures.

Your role here is to listen, reassure, and remind them that college decisions do not define their worth or future. A calm, supportive attitude helps your teen build resilience and perspective. Celebrate their efforts, not just their outcomes. The right college journey is rarely a straight line—it’s about finding the path that fits best.

Doing Too Much Communication for Them

Calling admissions offices, emailing counselors, or managing correspondence on behalf of your teen might seem helpful, but these actions send the wrong message. Colleges expect students to communicate for themselves. When a parent steps in, it signals that the student lacks independence and initiative—qualities colleges highly value.

Encourage your teen to handle their own emails and phone calls, even if they feel nervous. Offer to role-play conversations or help them draft messages, but let them press “send.” This practice builds confidence and self-advocacy, skills they’ll need not just for admissions but throughout college and beyond.

Comparing Your Teen to Others

In the age of social media and competitive college forums, it’s easy to get caught up comparing your teen’s progress to that of classmates or family friends. But constant comparison creates unnecessary tension and can make your child feel inadequate, no matter how well they’re doing. Every student’s journey is unique, and admissions officers know that success takes many forms.

Instead of comparing, focus on your teen’s growth. Celebrate milestones—big or small—and remind them that their path doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Encourage curiosity and confidence, not competition. When students feel accepted for who they are, they’re more likely to present an authentic, compelling version of themselves in their applications.