ACT My Journey

Free Virtual Events for College and Career Planning

What Colleges Really See: Turning High School Choices into Admissions Wins

Tuesday, February 10, 2026 | 6:30 p.m. CT

Between social media “advice,” peer pressure, and endless course catalogs, it’s hard to know what really matters in high school. Should your student take the hardest classes? How many activities are “enough”? And how can families make smart choices that prepare students for college and keep them balanced along the way?

Join college admissions counseling experts Anita Doddi and Hanifa Abdul Sur from Collegewise for this insightful webinar to learn:

✔ How course selection impacts future college options, and what “rigor” actually means.
✔ The role extracurriculars play in admissions (and how to choose activities that matter most).
✔ Common pitfalls families make when planning for college, and how to avoid them.
✔ How to build a well-rounded, authentic high school experience that grows with your student.

Plus, get your questions answered during our extended live Q&A!

Whether your teen is in middle school or high school, and already thinking about college or not, it's never too early to set a strong foundation. You’ll walk away with clear, practical strategies to help your student make confident decisions about classes, activities, and priorities, without burning out or chasing trends.

Register now and learn how to turn your student’s high school years into a meaningful and successful journey toward college.

Meet the Presenters

Hanifa Abdul Sabur, Collegewise College Admissions Counselor

Hanifa Abdul Sabur brings over 15 years of college counseling experience, having worked with students ranging from high schoolers to undergraduates at prestigious universities. A graduate of Swarthmore College and Columbia University, Hanifa’s career has taken her from teaching at Columbia and George Washington University to guiding students through the admissions process.

Hanifa’s strengths-based approach helps students discover and express the best versions of themselves, leading them to colleges that are the right fit for their talents and aspirations. She has supported students in gaining admission to top universities like the University of Pennsylvania, UCLA, Cornell University, and the University of Oxford.

Outside of Collegewise? Hanifa enjoys spending time with her four kids, testing out online personality quizzes with friends, and watching Netflix reality shows.

Anita Doddi, Collegewise College Admissions Counselor

Anita Doddi has spent her entire career helping students get where they’re trying to go. She began her work in education as an academic adviser at the University of Chicago and has since guided hundreds of students through the college admissions process. Her students have earned acceptances to a wide range of colleges and universities, including the University of Michigan, Cornell, UPenn, Columbia, Tufts, the University of Chicago, Duke, NYU, Northeastern, Oberlin, Grinnell, and the University of California schools.

Known for her thoughtful, strengths-based approach, Anita builds deep, trusting relationships with students and helps them recognize their potential as it emerges. While many of the students she works with are interested in STEM or business, she especially enjoys supporting students who are undecided about their future path and often finds them to be some of the most reflective and curious thinkers.

Outside of Collegewise, Anita loves discussing books, movies, and TV shows, and enjoys spending time with her two teenage kids and the family dog, Pongo.

Future My Journey Webinars

AI in College Admissions: What’s Risky, What’s Not, and What Colleges Think

Tuesday, March 3, 2026 | 6:30 p.m. CT

Artificial intelligence is transforming nearly every part of our world, including college admissions. From essay writing tools to AI-powered resume builders, students now have more technology at their fingertips than ever before. But with new tools come new questions: What’s ethical? What’s off-limits? And how do colleges really feel about AI in the application process?

Join Collegewise for a candid, expert-led conversation about using AI responsibly and effectively during the college admissions journey.

You’ll learn: 

✔ How colleges and admissions officers view AI use in applications and essays. 
✔ Where the ethical line is—and how to stay on the right side of it. 
✔ Smart, responsible ways students can use AI to support (not replace) their own work. 
✔ How to preserve authenticity and voice in every part of the application.

This webinar will help students and parents separate facts from fears, understand how AI fits into the evolving admissions landscape, and walk away with practical tips for using these tools with integrity.

Register now to learn how to navigate the age of AI with confidence, clarity, and a healthy dose of common sense.

How To Be “Uniquely You”: Authenticity in College Admissions

Tuesday, April 14, 2026 | 6:30 p.m. CT

As college application season approaches, many students feel pressure to stand out — but often in the same way. Between competitive classes, packed schedules, and outside opinions, it can be hard to know what authenticity really means in the admissions process.

Join Collegewise for a live Q&A session designed especially for high school juniors and their families to explore how students can present their genuine selves in college applications. Counselors will share insights, answer questions, and offer practical advice on how to make each application feel personal and real.

You’ll learn:

✔ What authenticity actually looks like in essays, activities, and interviews. 
✔ How to highlight your true strengths and experiences (no exaggeration needed). 
✔ Common traps students fall into when trying to impress colleges. 
✔ Practical tips for building an application that reflects who you are—not who you think colleges want.

Whether you’re a student preparing for senior year, a parent hoping to guide with confidence, or an educator supporting students through this journey, this session will help you understand what it means to be “uniquely you” in college admissions.

Bring your questions and curiosity — this conversation is all about real students, real stories, and real impact. 

 

Navigating College Admissions: A Q&A for First-Gen and Immigrant Families

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 | 6:30 p.m. CT

Every college journey looks different, but for first-generation and new-to-U.S. students, that journey often starts with more questions than answers. How do you find the right school? What do U.S. colleges really look for? And how can you make choices that lead to the best-fit college experience?

Join Collegewise for this interactive Q&A designed to guide first-gen and new-to-U.S. families through the college admissions process. Our experienced counselors will share clear, practical advice to help you understand the system, set goals, and make informed decisions, no prior knowledge required.

You’ll learn: 

✔ What “fit” really means in the U.S. college system—and how to find it. 
✔ How to plan classes, activities, and timelines for a successful application journey. 
✔ The role of essays, testing, and extracurriculars in admissions decisions. 
✔ How to approach the process with confidence, even if it’s all new.

Whether your family is starting early or preparing for applications soon, you’ll leave with the knowledge and tools to help your student find their best path forward.

Register now to start your college journey with clarity, purpose, and the support of the Collegewise team.

Show Me the Money: Finding Scholarships for College

Wednesday, July 15, 2026 | 6:30 p.m. CT

When it comes to paying for college, every dollar counts — and scholarships can make a big difference. But with thousands of options (and plenty of myths floating around), it’s easy to feel lost about where to start or which opportunities are actually worth your time.

Join Collegewise for this practical, information-packed workshop designed to help students and families find and win scholarships that fit their unique profiles — from merit-based awards to need-based aid. Our experts will share tools, strategies, and insider tips to make your search more efficient and rewarding.

You’ll learn:

✔ Where to find legitimate scholarship opportunities—and how to spot red flags.
✔ The key differences between merit and need-based scholarships.
✔ How to create a system for staying organized and meeting deadlines.
✔ Strategies for making your applications stand out.
✔ How to stack scholarships and reduce overall college costs.

Whether you’re just beginning your search or looking to maximize your financial aid options, this session will help you approach the process with clarity, confidence, and a smarter plan for saving money on college.

Register now and take the first step toward making college more affordable — without the stress.

 

College Admissions Q&A for Seniors: Your Ultimate Application Roadmap

Wednesday, August 19, 2026 | 6:30 p.m. CT

Senior year is here — and so is application season. Between essays, deadlines, and last-minute questions, it’s easy to feel like you’re juggling a dozen priorities at once. That’s where we come in.

Join Collegewise for a live Q&A session designed specifically for seniors and their families navigating the final stretch of the college admissions process. Our expert counselors will answer your questions, share insider insights, and help you focus on the steps that matter most right now — so you can finish strong and submit your applications with confidence.

You’ll learn:

✔ How to craft a clear, compelling story throughout your application.
✔ What makes a great college essay (and how to refine yours).
✔ What admissions officers truly value when reviewing applications.
✔ Smart strategies for managing deadlines and reducing stress.

Whether you’re finalizing essays, waiting for recommendations, or just looking for reassurance you’re on the right track, this Q&A will give you the clarity and confidence to make your senior year count. Bring your questions — Collegewise experts will have answers.

Study Smarter, Stress Less: Building the Skills That Lead to College Success

Tuesday, September 8, 2026 | 6:30 p.m. CT

Strong study habits and time management skills don’t just make school easier; they make the entire college journey more manageable and meaningful. From achieving academic goals to keeping balance during busy application seasons, these foundational skills help students feel confident and in control throughout high school and beyond.

Join Collegewise for this interactive webinar designed for middle and high school students, their parents, and school counselors. Our experts will share practical strategies that support academic success now and set the stage for a smoother, more confident college admissions experience later.

You’ll learn:

✔ How effective study and organization habits can reduce stress and create space for meaningful involvement.
✔ Time management strategies for balancing school, extracurriculars, and rest.
✔ Ways to stay motivated and focused when deadlines pile up.
✔ How parents and educators can foster independence and confidence in students.

Whether your student is just starting high school or preparing for college applications, this session will provide tools to help them stay balanced, productive, and ready for whatever comes next.

Register now to start building habits that lead to success — in school, in applications, and in life.

 

Major Decisions: How to Pick the Path That’s Right for You

Tuesday, October 6, 2026 | 6:30 p.m. CT

Every college journey looks different, but for first-generation and new-to-U.S. students, that journey often starts with more questions than answers. How do you find the right school? What do U.S. colleges really look for? And how can you make choices that lead to the best-fit college experience?

Choosing a college major can feel like one of the biggest decisions in the college process — but it doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you already have a few ideas or are starting from scratch, this session will help you explore your interests, understand your options, and make choices that feel both exciting and practical.

Join Collegewise for an engaging conversation designed for high school students, parents, and counselors. Our experts will break down what really matters when choosing a major — how to connect academic subjects to future opportunities, what admissions officers consider when reviewing intended majors, and how students can keep their options open while still building a strong application narrative.

You’ll learn:

✔ How to explore interests and identify potential majors.
✔ What colleges look for when students indicate (or don’t indicate) a major.
✔ How to connect your strengths and curiosities to real academic pathways.
✔ Ways to approach undecided majors with confidence.

If your student is certain, curious, or completely unsure, this session will help them feel more confident and informed about the journey ahead.

Ask an Admissions Counselor: Extracurriculars and College Apps

Wednesday, November 4, 2026 | 6:30 p.m. CT

When it comes to college admissions, few questions cause more second-guessing than, “Will this look good?” From sports and clubs to jobs, volunteering, and personal projects, students and families often wonder which activities colleges actually care about — and how to stand out without overloading their schedules.

Join Collegewise for an interactive Q&A session where our expert counselors unpack the truth about extracurriculars. You’ll hear real insights from admissions professionals about what really matters, how to turn everyday interests into meaningful impact, and why authenticity always wins over “checking boxes.”

We’ll cover:

✔ How colleges evaluate extracurricular involvement (and what impresses them most).
✔ Tips for balancing depth, breadth, and genuine passion.
✔ Examples of activities that demonstrate leadership and impact.
✔ How to tell your story authentically through your activities.

Whether you’re a student, parent, or school counselor, this session will help you approach extracurriculars with confidence, clarity, and purpose. Bring your questions—we’ll answer them live!

 

My Journey Recorded Sessions

Check out the on demand sessions from this year's My Journey events and get insights from recent graduates and admissions experts about preparing for college and career. 

Closed captions are available by hovering over each video and clicking the CC icon in the lower-right corner. 

College Admissions 101 for Seniors: Your Ultimate College Application Roadmap

Navigating college admissions can feel overwhelming, but fear not — Collegewise is here! This webinar is designed specifically for seniors and their families who are in the thick of the application season. Our expert speakers will share what admission officers are really looking for and guide you through the steps that matter most right now, so you can finish strong and submit applications with confidence.

You'll uncover: 

  • How to create a compelling narrative throughout the application.
  • What makes a great college essay (and how to polish yours).
  • What admissions officers value most when reading applications.
  • Strategies to manage deadlines and reduce stress during application season.

By the end of the webinar, you’ll walk away with clear, actionable steps to navigate senior year admissions with less stress and more confidence. 

 

Crafting Your Creative Future: College Admissions for Artists & Performers

Finding the right college as an artist or performer means more than just choosing a school — it’s about discovering a place that nurtures your talent, supports your career goals, and aligns with your creative vision. Whether your teen is a visual artist, actor, dancer, filmmaker, or musician, understanding the college application process for arts-focused programs is essential. In this webinar, our experts will walk you through key steps to help craft a strong application and maximize your opportunities.

Join Collegewise and ACT to discover: 

  • How to choose the right college to support your creative goals.
  • How to build a strong portfolio or audition.
  • How to balance artistic and academic requirements, write compelling essays, and navigate supplemental materials.
  • Where to find scholarships and funding opportunities for artists and performers.
 

Navigating College Admissions: Finding the Right Fit for Students with Learning Differences

Finding the right college can feel overwhelming for any student, but for those with learning differences, the process comes with unique opportunities and challenges. Understanding how to navigate college admissions, identify supportive institutions, and advocate for the resources your student needs can make all the difference in ensuring long-term success. This webinar will guide families through the key considerations for students with learning differences, empowering them with the knowledge to make informed decisions.
 
Join Collegewise and ACT to discover: 

  • Understanding accommodations and support services and how to ensure your student gets the support they need.
  • How to identify the right colleges based on academic support services, accommodations, and campus culture.
  • The role of self-advocacy in building confidence, independence, and college success.
  • Application strategies for students with learning differences.
  • Financial aid and scholarships for neurodiverse students.
 

College Knowledge Night: A Roadmap to College Admissions for 9th–11th Grade Families

Are you wondering how to help your teenager navigate the college admissions process? Whether your student is in their first year of high school or preparing for senior year, now is the perfect time to start planning. Join college admissions counseling experts, Collegewise for College Knowledge Night, a must-attend webinar designed to give parents the essential tools, strategies, and insights needed to support their students on the path to college.

  • The impact of shifting admission rates and how to approach the process with confidence. 
  • How to Build a Strong Academic & Extracurricular Profile – Understand what colleges are really looking for and how your student can stand out.
  • Key Timelines & Milestones – Get a clear roadmap for what students should be focusing on each year of high school.
  • The Role of Standardized Testing – Learn the latest updates on the ACT/SAT, test-optional policies, and how testing fits into the admissions process.
  • Smart College Planning Strategies – Discover how to research colleges, build a balanced college list, and avoid common pitfalls. 
 

Highly Selective College Admissions: Myths, Facts, and What Really Matters

The highly selective college admissions landscape is more competitive — and more confusing — than ever. With so much conflicting advice from social media, well-meaning friends, and outdated myths, how can families distinguish fact from fiction? If your student is aiming for a highly selective school, what actually makes an applicant stand out?  

Join Collegewise and ACT to discover:

  • The truth behind common myths about the Ivy League highly selective admissions process. 
  • What admissions officers really look for beyond grades and test scores.
  • How students can develop authentic, standout applications.
  • The impact of shifting admission rates and how to approach the process with confidence.
 

Building Skills for Success in High School, College, and Beyond

Led by Collegewise’s Director of Instruction and former instructor at Temple University, Michael Cohen, and Former Vanderbilt Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions and Collegewise Counselor, Kaila Brown, this webinar will give you expert insights and practical tips to help your student succeed now and in the future.  

Join college admissions counseling experts, Collegewise, and ACT for this must-attend webinar to learn:  

  • How middle and high school students can develop key academic and life skills. 
  • The best ways to explore interests and build meaningful experiences. 
  • How to balance school, extracurriculars, and social life without feeling overwhelmed. 
  • What changes in college admissions mean for today’s students.  
 

Spring Forward: Strategic Planning for College and Career Success from Junior to Senior Year

In this webinar, Collegewise admission experts share top tips to help you navigate the process. While you may not have everything figured out yet, now is the perfect time to explore potential college majors and career paths that align with your strengths and interests.  

In this webinar, you’ll discover:

  • The steps to start building your college application profile now. 
  • Understanding the college application timeline and key deadlines. 
  • How to explore and narrow down your college major based on your interests. 
 

Finding Your Fit: Researching & Choosing the Right College

In this webinar, Collegewise admission experts share top tips on how to effectively conduct college research and solidify a well-rounded list of schools. We want every student to be thrilled about their options.   

College research doesn't have to be so complicated, and with Collegewise expert advice, you'll be all set to approach it with a greater sense of confidence. 

 

College Admissions 101: Keep Calm and Ace Your Application Process

Join us to take a deep dive into what admission officers are really looking for. Our expert speakers will guide you through every step of the college admissions journey, from making the most of high school to researching universities and ultimately crafting successful applications, all while maintaining your sanity.

 

The Roadmap to Success: Preparing Early for Your Best College Experience

Feeling a whirlwind of emotions as you think about navigating the leap from high school to college? Don’t panic! Preparing for college starts with developing beneficial habits and strategically planning your high school journey. In this webinar, Collegewise admission experts will give you tips to effectively prepare for a fulfilling and successful college experience from day one. Whether you’re a freshman, a senior, or somewhere in between, you should feel confident and equipped to set yourself up for an exceptional college adventure. 

 

Invest in Your Future: Expert Tips on Scholarships, Financial Aid, and Paying for College

Tune in as Collegewise experts share key tips to help you make sense of the confusing and challenging process that is financial aid and paying for college. Discover the key strategies that will unlock the doors to higher education without breaking the bank. From need-based aid to scholarships, Collegewise’s expert panelists will demystify the complex world of financial aid, offering practical tips to help you navigate the application process with confidence. 

 

College Admissions from A to Z: Ace Your Application Process (And Stay Stress Free)

Navigating college admissions can be overwhelming and full of questions, but we’ve got answers! From making the most of your high school experience to researching colleges and ultimately crafting your best application, watch as Collegewise’s expert college application counselors (some of whom are former admission officers) guide you through every step of the college admissions journey - all while keeping you feeling confident and stress-free through the process.

View More from My Journey

My Journey Youtube Playlist

Check out more content from previous My Journey events and get insights from recent graduates and admissions experts about preparing for college and career.