If you’re a Masconomet Regional High School student—or the parent of one—you probably know how overwhelming the college admissions process can feel. Between school, sports, activities, and just trying to be a teenager, it’s a lot.
I work with families right here in Topsfield and the surrounding area to simplify this process. You don’t need to figure everything out on your own—and you don’t need to spend every weekend researching colleges, writing essays, and second-guessing yourself.
Here’s what I want every Masco student and family to know about navigating college admissions with clarity and confidence:
1. Colleges Want to See You Do Well at Masco, Not Be Perfect
Masconomet offers a solid range of AP and honors classes. You don’t need to take all of them, but if you want to take AP courses, you usually need to take the corresponding honors courses to qualify. This means you really have to strategize as early as freshman year.
Colleges look at your transcript in the context of what Masco offers—not in comparison to someone at a private school in Boston with 20 APs on the menu.
My advice: focus on doing well and challenging yourself in the courses that matter most to you. If you’re curious about a major like business, psychology, or engineering, start leaning into those areas with electives, summer programs, or online learning.
2. Build a College List That Makes Sense for You
Every year I see students copy their friends’ college lists without thinking through what they actually want. Your list should reflect your goals, personality, and family priorities—not just rankings.
For Masco students, I recommend building a list that includes:
- 2–3 “likely” schools where you’re above average
- 3–4 “target” schools where you’re right in the mix
- 2–3 “reach” schools that excite you but are unpredictable
Some excellent options exist beyond the U.S. If you’re open to it, international schools in places like the UK, Canada, and Europe can offer outstanding programs, often at a lower cost.
My advice: Spend summers visiting colleges. We have so many colleges in Massachusetts, and even if you don’t have a college list yet (because you are a freshman or sophomore), visiting different sized colleges can give you an idea of what is best for you. Don’t just visit UMass Amherst, but also visit Amherst College, a small liberal arts college in the same town as our big state school.
3. Your Essay Is a Chance to Sound Like You, Not a College Brochure
Masco students are thoughtful, well-spoken, and full of potential—but most personal statements end up sounding stiff or generic.
I work closely with students to write essays that are honest, reflective, and actually enjoyable to read. You don’t need a major trauma or a life-changing trip to write something powerful. Some of the best essays come from small, everyday experiences.
Start early—summer before senior year is ideal—and work with someone who can help you bring your story to life in a way that feels natural and personal.
4. Standardized Testing Is Optional—But Strategic
Many colleges are still test-optional, but that doesn’t mean test scores are irrelevant. Masco students should plan to take the SAT or ACT by spring of junior year and see how the scores compare to their target schools.
If your scores align with or exceed a college’s average, go ahead and submit them. If not, don’t stress—there are plenty of schools that will focus more on your grades, coursework, and overall application.
5. Don’t Wait Until Senior Year to Get Help
Masco’s guidance counselors are helpful, but they’re also managing hundreds of students at once. If your family wants more personalized, one-on-one support, that’s where I come in. I know Masco’s curriculum and teachers, as I, too, went to Masco.
Whether it’s creating a college list, managing application timelines, or brainstorming essays, I help students move through the process with less stress and more direction. It’s not just about getting in—it’s about making sure your teen is excited about where they’re going.
Next Step: Let’s Talk
I work with families in Topsfield, Middleton, Boxford, and surrounding towns who want expert support, a clear plan, and a calm, student-centered experience.
If that sounds like something your family could use, let’s connect. I offer a free 30-minute consultation so we can talk through your goals and see if we’re a good fit.
Book a free call with me here, or email me at collegeedvantagellc@gmail.com.