Mastering College Applications: Insights from Coach Tony’s Live Q&A
Navigating the college application process can be overwhelming, but with the right guidance, students and parents can approach it confidently and strategically. Recently, Coach Tony—former UC Berkeley admissions reader and experienced education coach—hosted a live “Ask Me Anything” session across multiple platforms, sharing invaluable advice on college essays, extracurricular activities, and more. Here’s a detailed recap of the key takeaways from his session held on June 23, 2025.
Understanding and Choosing Your UC Personal Insight Questions (PIQs)
One of the most frequently asked questions was about selecting the best Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) for UC applications. Coach Tony clarified:
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What are PIQs?
PIQs are essentially the UC essays. Applicants choose 4 out of 8 prompts to write about, with a 350-word limit each. -
No Prompt is Better or Worse
All prompts hold equal value except for prompt #8 ("What makes you a strong candidate?"), which Coach Tony strongly advises against using unless you have a completely unique story. -
Step-by-Step Strategy for Choosing PIQs:
- Step Zero: Don’t look at the prompts initially. Instead, write down all your activities, experiences, and identities within 5 minutes to capture what truly matters most to you.
- Narrow down to your top 4-5 experiences. These should be meaningful, non-overlapping topics that have shaped who you are.
- Storytime: For each topic, identify a key story or event that encapsulates its importance.
- Dig Deep: Reflect on your "why," "how," and "who"—why you did what you did, how it shaped you, and who you have become as a result. This reflection is what truly sets your essays apart.
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Match stories to prompts. Finally, pick the four prompts that best allow you to convey these stories and reflections.
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A Pro Tip: Avoid using minor challenges such as getting a “B” grade as a significant challenge in your essays; admissions officers look for meaningful growth.
Volunteering and Internships: Quality Over Quantity
A parent asked about finding impactful volunteer or internship opportunities related to environmental science or teaching for a 16-year-old student. Here’s Coach Tony’s advice:
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Focus on the “Why”
The motivation behind activities matters more than the activity itself. Pursue experiences that genuinely interest your student, not just what looks good on an application. -
Anything Counts
It doesn’t have to be a formal internship or a high-profile volunteer position. Even raising butterflies or helping younger students can showcase passion and commitment. -
Age Shouldn't Be a Barrier
If an opportunity says “too young,” don’t be discouraged. Create your own internship or volunteer experience by reaching out to organizations or starting a project. Coach Victor from their team offers specific training on this. -
Religious or Identity-Based Activities
These can be part of who you are but focus your essays on how these experiences have shaped you rather than preaching or centering on the identity itself. -
Documentation
Colleges typically rely on self-reported hours and activities. Keep accurate records and be truthful, as dishonesty can lead to rescinded admissions.
Addressing Academic Challenges in Applications
A question came up about how to report and explain grade improvements due to ADHD medication. Coach Tony recommends:
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Use the Academic Comments Section on the UC application (550 characters) or the Additional Comments section on the Common App to briefly explain significant academic changes or circumstances.
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Be Concise and Factual
No need for emotional stories or excuses—just provide enough context so admissions officers understand the background. -
Overcommunication is Better than Undercommunication
Providing clarity helps avoid confusion or assumptions.
Activity and Honors Placement in Applications
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UC Application:
Awards and honors are included within the 20 activity entries, categorized under six types like extracurriculars, volunteering, or work. -
Common App:
There is a dedicated section to list up to five awards.
Preparing for AP Exams and Beyond
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Use Official Resources
College Board’s prep materials and practice exams are your best tools. -
Consult Your Teachers for specific guidance on exam content and format.
Writing About Disabilities in PIQs
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Both prompt #4 (educational opportunity or barrier) and #5 (significant challenge) can work well for discussing a disability.
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Choose the prompt that best fits your story and complements your other essay topics to avoid overlap.
Managing Time and Staying Organized
Coach Tony’s time management tips include:
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Calendar Everything:
Block out sleep and non-negotiable commitments (like school hours and homework). -
Prioritize:
Focus on what truly matters and helps you reach your goals. Being “busy” doesn’t always mean productive. -
Adapt Your Schedule:
Adjust daily, weekly, or monthly based on exams and deadlines. -
Avoid Multitasking Distractions
Don’t do homework while distracted by social media or TV.
Taking Dual Enrollment Classes Over Summer
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Great Alternative to AP Exams:
Dual enrollment courses offer college credit upon completion and can sometimes be completed faster than AP classes. -
Flexibility:
Many community colleges offer online courses, perfect for busy students. -
Choose Professors Wisely:
Use sites like RateMyProfessors.com to find professors with good reviews and manageable workloads. -
California Students:
Look into the IGETC (Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum) approved course list to ensure credits transfer.
Upcoming Private Trainings
Coach Tony shared upcoming private sessions including:
- How to write supplemental essays for elite universities (USC, Stanford, Ivy League, etc.)
- Negotiating financial aid offers
- Creating digital portfolios to impress colleges
If interested, contact their team for registration details.
Final Thoughts
Coach Tony emphasizes that the why behind your experiences and activities is what matters most. Colleges want to know who you are, how you’ve grown, and what makes you unique—not just a list of accomplishments.
For personalized guidance, keep asking questions, stay authentic, and remember that quality and reflection trump quantity in your college application journey.
If you found these insights helpful, consider joining future live Q&As or private trainings to stay ahead in your college prep journey!
Contact Info:
For more resources or training registrations, text the team at 949-775-0865.
Stay focused, stay authentic, and best of luck on your college admissions journey!