Here’s a good rule of thumb to avoid a particular college admissions scam. If you or your parents are told that you’ve been recognized or acknowledged for something, but you have to pay to make it official, that’s a red flag.
You’ve been recognized as a high-achiever…now pay us to be listed in our publication.
You’ve been identified as one of a limited number of students with leadership potential…now pay us to attend our summer program.
You qualify for consideration for lucrative college scholarships…now pay us to help you find them.
These offerings are just another way of preying on the fear that surrounds college admissions. While there may be some that offer legitimate programs or services, the pitch intentionally injects fear that the student who doesn’t (or cannot) pay will somehow be at a college admissions disadvantage.
Don’t fall for it.
A sales pitch with your name inserted doesn’t necessarily mean that the sender knows anything about you other than your name, address and the fact that you’re a high school student. And colleges know the difference between a legitimate honor, award or other achievement and one that simply rewards your willingness to pay for inclusion.
There are plenty of experiences that might be worth paying for. If you want to attend a program, or enroll in an outside course, or otherwise participate in something that genuinely excites you, go for it as long as it doesn’t strain your family’s pocketbook. But don’t do it just because someone you’ve never met says you’ll be recognized for a price.
The price tag for legitimate recognition is your hard work and accomplishment. If all you have to do is purchase it, the colleges probably won’t buy it.