Entries by David Petersam

The Advantages of Completing a PhD from a Top-Ranked University

Pursuing a PhD is a major commitment — one that requires years of rigorous study, research, and dedication. But where you earn your doctorate can be just as important as the degree itself. Completing a PhD from a top-ranked university offers distinct advantages that can shape your academic and professional trajectory for decades to come. […]

Why Undergraduates Should Build Relationships with Faculty — And How to Start

College isn’t just about lectures and exams — it’s also about building meaningful connections that can shape your future. One of the most valuable relationships you can develop as an undergraduate is with your professors. These connections can lead to mentorship, research opportunities, career advice, and strong letters of recommendation. Here’s why befriending faculty matters […]

Why Work Experience Can Strengthen Your Law School Application

When it comes to applying to law school, many students assume they need to go straight from undergrad to the JD classroom. But in recent years, law schools have increasingly welcomed — and even preferred — applicants with real-world work experience. Whether you’ve spent time in consulting, education, public service, or another field, your professional […]

How to Leverage Nonprofit Work Experience in Your Business School Application

Business schools are no longer just looking for candidates with traditional corporate backgrounds. In fact, applicants with nonprofit experience bring a unique and valuable perspective to MBA programs — one rooted in mission-driven leadership, resourcefulness, and social impact. If you’ve worked in the nonprofit sector and are applying to business school, here’s how to turn […]

Medical School Debt Forgiveness by State: Why It Matters for Future Doctors

The average medical student in the U.S. graduates with over $200,000 in student loan debt, a burden that can take decades to repay. But for aspiring physicians willing to serve in high-need areas, many states offer loan forgiveness or repayment programs that can significantly reduce — or even eliminate — this debt. 🎯 Why State […]

Should You Go to a Different School for Graduate School? The Pros and Cons of Switching Institutions

When it comes to choosing a graduate school, many students face a critical decision: should they stay at their undergraduate alma mater or pursue a new institution for their advanced degree? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, there are compelling reasons to consider both options. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of attending […]

Will Graduate Schools Start Accepting 3‑Year Degrees? What Students Need to Know in 2026

As more students around the world complete their undergraduate studies in three years, a growing question is emerging: Will U.S. graduate schools begin widely accepting 3‑year bachelor’s degrees? The short answer is that many already do — and the trend is accelerating. But acceptance varies by institution, program, and country, making it essential for applicants […]

DOJ Joins Lawsuit Alleging Racial Discrimination in UCLA Admissions

The U.S. Department of Justice announced that its Civil Rights Division is intervening in a lawsuit against UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine. The suit alleges that the school continued to consider race in admissions decisions, despite the Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling prohibiting race‑based admissions practices. The original lawsuit was filed by several groups, including […]

Yale to Offer Free Tuition for Families Earning Under $200,000

What This Means for College Affordability Yale University has announced a groundbreaking expansion of its undergraduate financial aid program, offering free tuition to families earning under $200,000 beginning in the 2026–2027 academic year. This major policy shift is poised to reshape the landscape of college affordability and broaden access to one of the nation’s most […]

The Digital SAT Vulnerabilities

The SAT’s shift to a fully digital format was intended to modernize testing, streamline administration, and reduce opportunities for cheating. But the online SAT may be far more vulnerable to cheating than many expected, raising concerns among educators, parents, and admissions professionals. New warnings from tutors and testing experts suggest that test questions are being […]