Admissions Officers' Insights:

• How would you describe your work as an admissions officer in your own words? What is the most important thing you wish students and parents understood about the admissions process that they often don't realize?

Essay Writing and Standing Out (student question)

• In your view as an admissions officer, what does a standout essay or applicant look like to you? What words or qualities come to mind when you read an exceptional essay?

Authenticity in Applications:

• Can you provide examples of "college pleasing" that you often see in applications and share your recommendations on how applicants can avoid this and showcase their authentic selves?

Balancing Academics and Extracurriculars (student question):

• Are there particular types of extracurricular activities or leadership roles that tend to resonate more with the admissions committee? How can students effectively highlight these in their applications?

Insights from Different Institutions:

• What are the key insights or lessons you've learned from transitioning from reading applications at USC (a large private university) to UC Berkeley (an even larger public university)

Out-of-State Applicants (if time allows):

• How does UC Berkeley approach the review process for out-of-state applicants, and are any specific factors considered for these candidates?

Coaching and AI in Essays (if time allows):

• In 2024, how can admissions officers distinguish between essays that are overly coached or written with the help of AI? What advice do you give students to approach essay writing more authentically and responsibly?