Jeremiah Quinlan, Yale University’s Dean of Undergraduate Admissions and Financial Aid, delivered the fifth annual Francis J. Carey Lecture on October 8, offering tips to Upper School students about the college application process. His lecture, titled “Trusting the Process,” covered all aspects of the experience, including what to keep in mind when building a list of schools as well as which part of essay writing is best to focus on. (Spoiler: It’s not the grammar; it’s the content.)

Quinlan emphasized to juniors and seniors the importance of protecting relationships with parents throughout the process, as well as being mindful of peer experiences while talking about schools or sharing personal news. Above all, he underscored that students should be in the driver’s seat throughout the journey. “You should own the different steps of this process,” he said.

He also shared the questions he asks himself when reviewing applications:

• How prepared is this applicant to do the work at Yale?
• Do we have a good understanding of who this student is?
• How will they make the most of Yale’s resources?
• How will they contribute to Yale’s community?

Quinlan’s talk concluded with encouragement to students: “You are a smart and talented young person. Do not let this process tell you anything different.”

Watch the recording

Learn more about the Carey Lecture