College Admissions Insights: Anna Esaki-Smith on How to Make College Your Superpower
From the moment I saw the title of Anna Esaki-Smith’s book, Make College Your Superpower: It’s Not Where You Go, It’s What You Know, I knew there was synergy. College as a superpower? Yes, please. As a former admissions director, I attended her talk at the Katonah Village Library and can confidently say her insights were spot on. Anna emphasizes that success isn’t tied to the college name on your sweatshirt—it’s about what you gain from the experience.
Why College Is More Than a Name—It’s About What You Learn
Anna’s key message is that students should approach college admissions with a focus on learning and growth, not rankings. At Hamlet Education Group, we align perfectly with this perspective. Our goal is to help students find the right fit—not just the most prestigious school. A well-known name isn’t the only path to success; the right college should support both personal and academic growth.
How to Showcase Your Authenticity in College Applications
A major takeaway from Anna’s talk is how much control students have over their own narrative. Colleges look for authenticity—not cookie-cutter stories. At Hamlet, we help students bring their true selves to the forefront, whether they are traditional scholars or creatives. Let your passions shine through—because that’s what truly sets you apart.
Pro Tip for Applicants: When writing your application essays, focus on what makes you unique. Don’t worry about fitting into a mold—be authentic. Admissions officers appreciate genuine passion and individuality over a polished, but generic, essay.
Enjoying the College Application Journey: Finding Joy in the Process
Anna believes that the admissions process should have moments of joy, not just stress. At Hamlet, we work to make the journey enjoyable. Whether it’s perfecting a music portfolio, crafting an artist’s statement, or diving deep into research, we’re here to help students focus on their strengths and find joy along the way. The process of discovery—about yourself and your future—is just as important as the result.
It’s Not Where You Go, It’s What You Know
Ultimately, Anna’s message of “it’s not where you go, it’s what you know” is perfectly aligned with Hamlet’s philosophy. College is not just a status symbol—it’s a platform for growth. Whether you’re composing your next song, creating a masterpiece, or shaping a breakthrough in neuroscience, the real value of college lies in how you use what you learn to build your future.
At Hamlet Education Group, we guide students through this process, encouraging them to focus on what truly matters: their growth, creativity, and passion for learning.
