Category: Class of 2026

Colleges are very interested in what students are choosing to do outside of the classroom. They are looking for initiative and impact, intellectual curiosity, and what matters to a student (and how they are choosing to address that). Let’s talk about how activities matter in the admissions process, how to “level up” some activities, and how students can set themselves apart when so many applications start to look the same. We’ll look at some great examples together!

Hear from Shannon Bergeron, M.Ed., Certified Educational Planner, former Lead Counselor and Head XC Coach at LASA, and mom to two LASA grads (’16 and ’18). She is the Founder & CEO of Core College Consulting, and has been a college counselor for 23 years. She is a member of IECA, NACAC, and TACAC and also serves in leadership roles for these professional college admissions organizations.

Click here to purchase a ticket.

In our comparison-driven culture, applying to college can be overwhelming. As parents and guides, we can ease the pressure by reframing the narrative and helping our students shine on their own terms. Through this interactive presentation, we’ll help families cut through the frenzy —How many APs? Which extracurricular activities are the best? Should my child get a summer internship?—as well as identify their own core values and support their students in becoming their best, most authentic selves. Come find useful advice, practical application tips, and a broader view of success.

Laurie Filipelli (MA, MFA) is a certified college access counselor, writing coach, LASA parent, former high school teacher, and founder of Mighty Writing, LLC.

Irena Smith (PhD) is former Stanford admissions officer and private college admissions counselor, author, and mother of three adult children.

Click here to purchase a ticket.

When reviewing college applications, admissions officers often look at the student’s leadership skills and experience as a way to gauge how that student may be actively engaged in campus life, lead initiatives, and inspire others. In this Master Class, you will learn key leadership laws that inspire others and lead to successful team efforts, and how you can immediately begin to apply these laws in your first leadership roles in high school.

Click here to purchase a ticket.