ModernBrain College Counseling Questions

1. How Can Speech, Debate, Mock Trial, or Model United Nations Help for College?

We've created a whole page dedicated to answering this question. Read about it here.

We also have several blog posts on this point. For example, click here to read about the pathways to national success in speech and debate, or click here to read our analysis about which classes are best for college.

2. What Is the C.R.A.S.H. College Counseling Framework?

The C.R.A.S.H. College Counseling Framework is a project-tracking system developed by Dr. Iain Lampert of ModernBrain, designed to help students optimize their college applications. The acronym C.R.A.S.H. stands for Competitions, Research, Academics, Service, and Hobbies, reflecting five major areas of focus that many applicants overlook when preparing for selective college admissions.

By categorizing each project or initiative under these five pillars, students ensure they devote attention to a broad range of meaningful experiences. This strategy not only highlights their strengths across multiple dimensions—such as leadership in competitions, dedication to academic research, or commitment to community service—but also helps them stand out to top-tier institutions. ModernBrain reports that since 2016, over 90% of students who follow the C.R.A.S.H. system have gained acceptance to top 20 colleges.

For more information on ModernBrain’s counseling services and success stories, visit: ModernBrain Counseling Services and ModernBrain Counselors & Successes.

3. What Is a College Signature/Passion Project?

A Passion Project is a personal, distinctive undertaking designed to showcase a student’s unique skills, interests, and potential. Developed by ModernBrain's counseling partners at InGenius Prep, this concept emphasizes crafting a project that becomes the centerpiece of a student’s college application profile. Unlike traditional extracurriculars, Passion Projects tell a compelling narrative by combining the student’s academic achievements, personal journey, and leadership qualities into a memorable and cohesive story.

Passion Projects can take many forms, such as tech-driven inventions, creative publications, community outreach initiatives, or independent research and business ventures. The key is that the project is original, student-driven, and reflects the individual’s unique passions and dedication. Successful Passion Projects weave together different elements of a student’s profile, creating a narrative thread that highlights both persistence and creativity.

For example, students might develop charitable outreach programs, design apps or software, publish work in an area of interest, or launch entrepreneurial ventures. These projects can fit any subject or interest area but must demonstrate leadership, dedication, and authenticity. A Passion Project provides high school students with a clear, impactful way to integrate their passions into their college applications, making them stand out to admissions committees.

To learn more or connect with representatives from InGenius Prep, visit: Leadership & Innovation Lab.

4. What Is a College Application Persona?

A college application persona is the clear value proposition or personality communicated through a student’s application. It helps the regional admission officer feel confident in recommending the student for admission. The persona is what makes a student stand out in a competitive applicant pool, beyond just having strong grades or test scores.

While academic qualifications are necessary to demonstrate readiness for the rigors of college, they are considered threshold criteria—factors that show a student can handle the academic challenges but do not guarantee admission. In today’s competitive admissions environment, holistic review focuses much more on a student’s persona, which ties together their passions, achievements, and personal story into a memorable and compelling application.

ModernBrain and its partners at InGenius Prep specialize in helping students develop application personas that highlight their uniqueness and strengths. For more insights, watch this joint webinar where ModernBrain and InGenius Prep explain application personas and how they can give students an edge: Webinar: Creating a Standout Application Persona.

5. What Are the Four Tiers of Extracurricular Success?

Developed by CollegeVine, the tiers of extracurricular activities categorize the impact and prestige of a student’s involvement in activities such as research projects, competitions, and hobbies. These tiers provide a framework for evaluating how impressive a student’s extracurricular achievements are to college admissions committees:

• Tier 1: International or national-level accomplishments (e.g., winning a national championship, publishing research in a nationally recognized journal).
• Tier 2: State-level achievements or leadership roles (e.g., state debate champion, state student government leader).
• Tier 3: Regional recognition (e.g., placing in regional competitions, significant roles in local organizations).
• Tier 4: General participation (e.g., being a member of a school club or sports team).

ModernBrain’s approach to college admissions success focuses on helping students identify and excel in the activities where they can maximize their potential. Through programs in speech, debate, mock trial, Model UN, and more, ModernBrain trains students to demonstrate preparation, polish, poise, and talent, enabling them to achieve Tier 1-level successes. Students without Tier 1 accomplishments often face greater challenges when applying to top 20 schools, as admissions committees prioritize exceptional extracurricular impact.

To learn more about the tiers of extracurricular activities, read CollegeVine’s guide: Breaking Down the 4 Tiers of Extracurricular Activities.

6. What Is the PVSA (Presidents Volunteer Service Award)?

Established in 2003, the President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) recognizes individuals and groups who demonstrate a sustained commitment to volunteer service over a 12-month period. Community service hours can be earned through a wide variety of projects, and awards are given annually at Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels based on the total hours accumulated.

ModernBrain is a certified PVSA provider, allowing students to earn service hours through various activities, including judging competitions, coaching younger students, and serving as teaching assistants (TAs) within ModernBrain’s programs. This award is an excellent opportunity for students to showcase their leadership and dedication to service, both for college applications and for making a positive impact on their communities.

Here is a list of some of our earliest TAs: ModernBrain TAs.

To learn more about volunteering with ModernBrain to earn the PVSA, visit: Volunteer with ModernBrain.

7. What Is the NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations)?

The NFHS serves as the national authority that promotes and protects the values of education-based high school athletics and activities. Working in collaboration with its member state associations, the NFHS provides leadership, guidance, and resources to ensure a positive and safe environment for students participating in sports and extracurricular activities. It also partners with organizations like the National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA) to support programs beyond athletics.

At ModernBrain, we prioritize student safety and development by requiring all coaches to complete certification courses through the NFHS. These courses focus on ensuring the psychological and physical well-being of students under their guidance. Additionally, all ModernBrain teaching assistants (TAs) are mandated to complete NFHS training before working with younger students, ensuring they are equipped to foster a safe and effective learning environment.