On September 29, IvyMax marked its 20th anniversary with a Global Youth Leadership Development Program (GPL) sharing session in San Marino, attended by students and parents eager to celebrate this significant milestone. The event featured prominent speakers, including IvyMax founder Ms. Wei Xin and Dr. Yu, the Academic Dean of the Franklin Foundation, who shared valuable insights into the latest trends in college admissions and how IvyMax’s GPL initiative enhances students’ academic and leadership skills.
During the session, Dr. Yu spoke to the audience about recent changes in college admissions. He highlighted updates to the Common App, the evolving landscape of Early Action (EA) and Early Decision (ED), and the latest developments regarding AP exams and admissions essays. Dr. Yu pointed out that most colleges have an Early Decision deadline of November 1, with some even earlier, on October 15. In contrast, regular application deadlines for top-tier colleges usually fall between January 1 and early January. He reminded the senior students to manage their time effectively as they prepare for these deadlines.
Ms. Wei followed with her thoughts on current college admission trends, essential application strategies, and the significance of demonstrating leadership potential. She noted that many leading universities have reinstated the requirement for SAT/ACT testing. In light of the Supreme Court’s ruling against affirmative action, she explained that universities are increasingly using essay prompts to gather relevant information, adapting their admissions policies accordingly. Ms. Wei encouraged students to take challenging courses throughout their education to build advanced reading and writing skills, enhance problem-solving abilities, and engage in scientific research and reporting activities from an early age. Students were urged to pursue more AP courses, join academic clubs, engage in competitions, and conduct independent research projects to boost their competitiveness.
Dr. Yu pointed out that since the pandemic, research experience has become vital for admission into top-tier institutions. High school students who present concrete research reports, published works, or projects showcased in academic contexts have a distinct advantage, particularly those interested in STEM fields.
Additionally, Ms. Wei indicated that by 2025, all 28 AP exams will transition to computer-based testing, with 16 subjects fully adopting digital formats and the remaining 12 utilizing a hybrid approach.
The event included a Q&A session, addressing inquiries about the President’s Volunteer Service Award and its presentation ceremony. The overarching goal of the GPL initiative is to empower more teenagers to step into their roles as future global leaders.
Through a series of educational talks, IvyMax is dedicated to equipping parents and students with the latest college planning and application strategies, working collaboratively to help students distinguish themselves in their educational paths. IvyMax remains committed to providing professional guidance and support to help students realize their dreams of attending prestigious institutions.
For more information, interested individuals can contact the IvyMax team at the following campuses: Irvine Campus at 949-679-8688; Arcadia Campus at 626-872-0219; San Diego Campus at 858-925-6250; Diamond Bar Campus at 909-594-8088.
