What is A PIECES?

The A PIECES Framework is designed to guide your teen through the college application process while preparing them with the skills and experiences needed to thrive in college and beyond. Each element represents a key piece of the puzzle that, when combined, creates a compelling, well-rounded student profile.

Admissions officers today are looking beyond grades and test scores—they want to see who your teen is as a person, what they care about, and how they’ve made an impact. A PIECES helps students stand out by showcasing their unique strengths and contributions in ways that resonate with colleges.

The 8 Pieces of the Puzzle

1. Academics:

What It Is: Your teen’s GPA, transcript, course rigor, and test scores (SAT/ACT).

Why It Matters: Academics are the foundation of a college application. They show admissions officers that your teen has the skills and discipline to handle rigorous coursework.

2. Personal Essay:

What It Is: A powerful story that captures your teen’s voice, values, and character.

Why It Matters: This is often the most personal part of the application. Admissions officers use the essay to get a sense of your teen as an individual beyond grades and numbers.

3. Interest (Demonstrated):

What It Is: Your teen’s engagement with the colleges they’re applying to—attending tours, emailing admissions, or participating in online events.

Why It Matters: Many colleges track “demonstrated interest” as a way to gauge how serious a student is about attending.

4. Extracurricular/Research:

What It Is: Extracurricular activities and research projects showcase your teen’s interests, passions, and initiative outside the classroom. These can include clubs, sports, personal projects, internships, or independent research into topics they care about.

Why It Matters: Colleges look beyond academics to see how students engage with the world around them. Meaningful extracurriculars and research demonstrate commitment, leadership, and intellectual curiosity. These activities show that your teen is proactive, invested in their growth, and willing to explore areas that excite them.

5. Community Involvement:

What It Is: Volunteer work, activism, or contributions to local organizations.

Why It Matters: Colleges want students who care about making a difference. Community involvement shows leadership, empathy, and a commitment to impact.

6. Endorsements (Recommendations):

What It Is: Letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or mentors who can speak to your teen’s character and achievements.

Why It Matters: These letters provide a third-party perspective, offering admissions officers insight into your teen’s work ethic, personality, and growth.

7. Soft Skills:

What It Is: Critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and adaptability—skills that prepare teens for success in college and beyond.

Why It Matters: These are the skills that help students thrive once they arrive on campus. Colleges value applicants who demonstrate leadership, collaboration, and resilience.

8. Spike:

What It Is: A unique strength or passion that sets your teen apart—whether it’s a talent, hobby, or achievement.

Why It Matters: Colleges are looking for students who have a “wow factor”— a standout area where they truly excel.

Why A PIECES Works

Colleges evaluate applications holistically, meaning they look at the full picture of who your teen is. The A PIECES Framework ensures every piece of their application puzzle works together to create a clear, compelling story. It’s not about doing everything—it’s about doing the right things strategically and authentically.

How To Help Your Teen

By focusing on these 8 key areas, you can help your teen:

1. Develop a standout application that gets noticed.

2. Build skills and experiences that prepare them for success in college and beyond.

3. Reduce stress and confusion about the admissions process by providing clear, actionable guidance.