This book is a compilation of great advice, interesting stories and inspiration. The book has great advantages over "traditional" college guides. First, it does not require a teen to read it cover to cover. Who would read a book about applying to college that way? Instead, How to Survive Getting into College, compiles real stories and advice from hundreds of recent college applicants and their parents. A reluctant teen can pick up the book and flip to any page and gain ready advice. Second, the advice is practical and real-world tested. It is not the product of some professor sitting in their office removed from the parent, teen, application trenches. Finally, the book's special editor provides guidance from her background as a college admissions officer. She provides good oversight without being overly dramatic. I would highly recommend this book for teens and their parents.

I was skeptical about getting yet another college reference, but the kids will relate to this one even if you've heard most of it before. As for parents, I recommend "Getting in Without Freaking Out". My wife gave me the latter -- a uniquely humorous and therapeutic guide, as she felt that I was becoming more stressed out over the college application process than my my son was. She was right, as usual. Both these books are worth more than thickly bound lists of college descriptions, which seem to be outdated compared to information that is already online, and free.

I just happened to catch a segment on the Today Show with the editor of this book. I decided to buy it for my son. What a great choice. I gave it to him...and he actually read it. The best part about it was that he was getting good advice from other people (not his father) which reinforced much of what his parents had been telling him, but he refused to hear. I wasn't sure he would read a book on college admissions, but the fact that the book is all short snippets made it a perfect antidote to a teen's attention span...or lack thereof. I heartily recommend How to Survive Getting into College to students and parents.

My dad randomly got this book for me this summer because this year is my junior year. At first I was like "I already know where I want to go, Dad, (which is Duke)" but when I looked at it it was great because there were some things other kids said that I had not taken into consideration. Also I think the kinds of essay questions you get asked on applications can say a lot and now I am thinking more carefully about those things and my answers! Thank you for this great book!

I love the approach this book takes - they went and interviewed hundreds of different college students to find out what they did to help them get admitted to college. That's so helpful - I really enjoyed this approach compared to those other books that just tell you what one person recommends. I highly recommend this book for high school seniors grappling with the college admissions process.