The New College Application Skill: Storytelling

To write a strong personal statement, to win someone over in an interview, you’ve got to be a good storyteller. That’s it. Can you recall a real experience you’ve had and turn it into a captivating story? No hyperboles or fancy adjectives needed.

Here’s what we’ve learned in our 13 years helping people navigate college and early career: real human support makes a difference; and in-person is the cherry on top. Have you heard of the term “body doubling”? It refers to the practice of simply having someone next to you while you’re doing your work. This presence can help curb procrastination and distraction.

More often than not, we see that there’s power in numbers, even when it comes to task completion and studying. As children, there is a developmental stage called parallel play, where babies or children play alongside each other without necessarily interacting. Doing so helps children develop a variety of social, emotional, and cognitive skills. Similarly, bodying doubling- when two people are working next to each other, without needing to engage with each other, has become increasingly popular and effective for students to not only start their work, but also stay on task and complete it. The mirrored effect of structured work time can help students, especially those who struggle with executive functioning, stay accountable with their work. It’s a simple strategy that goes a long way!

- Nikki Roderman, College and Career Program Director at Throughline Guidance

Reno/Tahoe, June 7-9

Bay Area, June 22-24

Chicago, Aug 10-12

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