Your Kid’s College Dreams and the AI They’re Already Swimming In

Let’s get this out of the way up front: I do not believe students should use AI to write their college essays.That’s lazy, obvious, and totally misses the point of the application.

But you know what’s also true? AI is already a major player in the college admissions process—just not in the ways most people expect. And when AI is used well by experienced professionals, it’s one of the most powerful tools out there for helping students succeed without losing their voice, their values, or their edge.

So… How Exactly Are Colleges Using AI Right Now?

Here’s what most people don’t know: colleges are already using artificial intelligence behind the scenes to manage massive workloads, streamline decisions, and yes, even reduce human bias.

Let me give you the inside scoop on how AI is being used in admissions offices today—not in the future, not in theory, but right now:

1. Application Sorting at Scale

When you’ve got 60,000 applications to read, you need help. AI-powered systems help admissions teams sort files by key data points—geography, major, GPA range—so that humans can focus on what matters. Think of it like the world’s most efficient filing assistant.

2. Predicting Enrollment Behavior

AI helps colleges ask: If we admit this student, what are the odds they’ll actually enroll? This is called yield modeling, and it helps schools build balanced, successful classes.

3. Spotting Bias and Inconsistencies

Some colleges are training AI to scan for patterns in human behavior—like an admissions reader favoring a certain kind of essay or activity—and raise red flags. Used wisely, AI helps human teams make fairer decisions, not faster ones.

4. Aid and Scholarship Modeling

AI tools can help financial aid offices model different aid packages, estimate net cost impacts, and make sure offers are both equitable and competitive.

What Does That Mean for Families?

It means the game has changed—and the families who understand how AI fits into the system have a serious advantage.

But here’s the key: It’s not about having your kid use AI. It’s about having a trusted adult who knows how to use it wisely with them, for them, and always with integrity.

That’s what I do. I use AI tools to help students:

• Brainstorm smarter (not cheat)

• Identify themes in their activities

• Create customized timelines and checklists

• Understand which schools are truly a good fit

• Simulate different admissions scenarios (because yes, AI can help predict where they’re likely to get in)

  
  

For the AI Skeptics (You’re Not Wrong!)

You don’t need to love AI. You don’t need to trust it blindly. But you do need to know that it’s already shaping your child’s college journey and when used by someone who knows what they’re doing, it’s not scary. It’s empowering.

I don’t hand over the reins to a machine. I use smart tools to help students make better decisions, stay organized, and present their real selves more clearly. That’s it. No robots writing essays. No shortcuts. Just strategy.

Curious What That Looks Like?

Check out my Free Tools for parents or schedule a FREE Consultation with me. I’ll show you how I use AI as a powerful ally in the college journey without compromising integrity, humanity, or the values you’ve worked hard to teach your kid.

This isn’t the future.This is right now. And you’re not behind—you’re just one smart conversation away from feeling a whole lot more confident.