Parke Muth’s recent blog entry gives a clear and fascinating explanation about the history of college admissions, particularly the ways in which admissions has become more like a business for colleges.  It should be required reading for newer counselors still learning the admissions ropes but might also be of interest to parents wondering why the process seems so much different than when you applied to college.  Don't be thrown off by the title, "Essays, Editors and Ethics"–the bulk of the article is the historical discussion.