B+ Grades, A+ College Application

B+ Grades, A+ College Application is a refreshing and practical guide for students who aren’t at the top of their class but still want to stand out in the competitive world of college admissions.

Country to popular belief, you don’t need 10 AP classes, score in the 95% percentile on the SAT, and have a 5.0 GPA to get into college these days. B and C students have just as many great college options as valedictorians, and you can learn all about them in this guide written by a former Dartmouth admission officer.

The book offers smart, strategic advice for showcasing strengths beyond just GPA and test scores, proving that a well-rounded application can be just as compelling as perfect grades. It’s an ideal resource for students who may not be Ivy League-bound but still aim to get into a school that fits their aspirations and talents.

Author Jager-Hyman walks students through the essay-writing process, helping them turn personal experiences into compelling narratives. She provides concrete examples of what makes an essay memorable, demonstrating how authenticity and creativity can leave a lasting impression on admissions officers. Her guidance helps students transform ordinary experiences into powerful stories that highlight their character and potential.

Beyond essays, the book also offers valuable insights on securing strong recommendation letters, acing interviews, and building an application that reflects a student’s true passions. Jager-Hyman encourages students to focus on extracurricular activities that genuinely excite them rather than padding their résumés with meaningless commitments. She also provides smart tips on selecting the right mix of colleges, balancing reach schools with realistic options to maximise chances of acceptance.

Instead of making students feel inadequate for not having straight A’s, Jager-Hyman helps them see the bigger picture: colleges are looking for dynamic, interesting individuals, not just test-taking machines. Her advice is rooted in real-world admissions experience, making it both credible and highly actionable.