September 2, 2021 — Kenyon College
560 first-year students enrolled, including 50 in the Kenyon-Copenhagen program that allows freshmen to study in Copenhagen. Kenyon received a record high 7,601 applications, a 15% increase from 2020. Only 35% of applicants were accepted.
What does this mean? Despite college campuses being closed last year, applicants still saw value in getting away from home and pursuing a degree. Being quarantined likely contributed to the increased interest in college.
September 1, 2021 — Early deadlines were delayed
More than 1 million people applied to college using Common App last year. The data reported that only 44% reported SAT or ACT scores, compared to 77% the previous year. Only about 20% of applicants answered the question on how Covid-19 affected students, namely from Puerto Rico, California, Guam, and Alaska. Lastly, 20% of early decisions and 15% of early action deadlines were delayed. 16% of regular decision deadlines were extended by an average of 28.5 days.
What does this mean? In an effort to recruit more students and boast about receiving the largest number of apps in a school’s history, colleges often like to extend app deadlines. This, however, doesn’t typically increase the number of students accepted.
August 29, 2021 — When used to find support after stressful experiences
An Australian study showed that low-income teens 13 to 17 years old who spend a moderate amount of time online after a stressful experience deal with adversity better than teens who do not use digital technology or spend fewer hours online. The researchers say that disadvantaged teens are smart enough to seek support online to help reduce stress, especially when local supports are lacking.
What does this mean? Before shutting off the internet or confiscating phones, check if your teen needs support.