Max Harberson here. Reporting for duty.
I told my mom I'd share some tips on how I raised my ACT[...]
The College Admissions Annual Timeline—now updated for 2026 and 2027! 
The College Admissions Annual Timeline—now updated for 2026 and 2027!
Get my expert advice at half the cost of private college counseling!
Hi,
My name is Sara Harberson and I am America’s College Counselor. From Application Nation, my private college counseling community, to my book Soundbite, I have a singular goal—to empower you to achieve your college dreams.
Every student applying to college has a story. I want to help you tell it and become the very best college applicant you can be.
All my best,
I told my mom I'd share some tips on how I raised my ACT[...]
“My daughter and I had been working with a local private counselor and it was not going well at all. But fast forward a few weeks and we are SO happy to have this amazing group! And my daughter is actually now enjoying working on her applications and is always eager to “hear what Application Nation says.” The information in Application Nation has been so helpful. I see how close everyone in the group has gotten and how kind everyone is to one another (which is the opposite of how the local parents have behaved) and I just want to say a huge THANK YOU!"
"People think they need face time with a college counselor, but a true counselor like Sara Harberson makes you feel like you are the only client in the world! We would be lost on this bumpy road without Sara! That, coupled with the support of many, many supportive members, makes Application Nation a special, essential place."
"Before I became an official member of Application Nation, Sara saved the day during her free Facebook Live calls. After becoming a member, I discovered a community I never knew I needed. The members of Application Nation have all been so positive, kind and generous with their knowledge, advice and support, and it’s great to know that such awesome parents are sending their wonderful kids out into this world."
"Application Nation is so incredibly diverse and, having been a member for many months, I’ve seen all types of students and parents posting about their struggles and uncertainty. I joined this group to help my daughter (whose reach and target schools are other students’ likely schools). I am so grateful to be a member of Application Nation!"
"I can’t express enough what a great resource Application Nation has been for my family—it’s like our security blanket. Applying to college is daunting and most definitely requires a village to pull it all together."
"Sara is magic! Her knowledge is invaluable. Her patience is infinite. Her kindness is immeasurable. As a parent, it is comforting to know (and hope) that the admissions officer reviewing my kid’s application will be as thoughtful, caring and genuine as Sara Harberson. I am sure in the end it will all work out for my son and know that because of Sara’s guidance and solid questions posted on Application Nation, he is presenting himself in the best light. The greatest part is watching him take charge of his future and have confidence that he has a good story to tell. Thank you!"
