2026 International ACAC Conference Session Proposal Form

Research. Volunteer work. Summer programs. The modern application has become a predictable checklist, but to a U.S. admissions officer reading thousands of files, this 'pay-to-play' curation creates a sea of homogenized applicants just going through the motions. This session explores how counselors and admissions officers can partner to dismantle this mentality. How can we best work together to identify students truly motivated by a love of learning and how to help them convey intellectual depth, purpose, and a sense of self that cannot be purchased? How can we pivot conversations back to authentic growth? Admissions officers will reinforce that U.S. highly selective admissions committees look to identify intellectual depth, reflection, authenticity, and voice. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for counselors to help families distinguish between packaged versus meaningful experiences as well as methods for fostering students’ true intellectual curiosity and personal purpose.