On May 29th, AAPASD, or the Asian American Parent Alliance of San Diego, organized the very first Secret Path to College forum. AAPASD directors invited senior high schoolers and freshmen from MIT, Yale, Rice, UCSB, and UPENN, Secret Paths to College Forum was formed. Held in Hong Wu Golden Dragon  Academy (HWGD), the Secrets to College Forum brought together a diverse array of participants, ranging from senior high schoolers on the cusp of their own college application journeys to freshmen from prestigious schools such as MIT, Yale, Rice, UCSB, and UPENN. The event, aimed at demystifying the often opaque college admissions process, empowered individuals to showcase their unique qualities and passions, helping them rise above the sea of applicants and truly shine. 

During the forum, attendees listened to different panel discussions, each question designed to shed light on a different aspect of the admissions process. The forum's hosts curated a lineup of freshmen and high school graduates who offered their own insights, sharing insider secrets that go far beyond what one could find in traditional college admissions books or websites. The hosts Kevin, Catherine, Nathan, Clarice, and Albert divided the questions into several categories and discussed them separately. The categories included academic and extracurricular activities, volunteering and various sports and cultural awards, application essays, balancing life and studies, as well as parental concerns. After nearly three hours of discussion, the guests emphasized key aspects of the application process, such as how to write compelling application essays, clever techniques to impress admissions officers, and effective time management strategies for enjoying a fulfilling life. These valuable experiences are the hidden factors that can make applicants stand out. In the end, the guests interacted with the parents in the audience, answering their questions and providing many suggestions. 

This newfound understanding empowered attendees to approach their applications with confidence and purpose. Perhaps one of the most inspiring elements of the Secrets to College Forum was the stories of freshmen who had successfully navigated the admissions process themselves. These freshmen shared their personal stories of triumphs, setbacks, and pivotal moments of self-discovery. 

Their narratives offered a glimpse into the realities of college life and reassured attendees that while the journey to higher education was daunting, it was not insurmountable. By seeking guidance, learning from those who have gone before us, and embracing the power of community, we can unlock the secrets to college and chart a course toward a brighter future. The Secrets to College Forum proved that with knowledge, support, and unwavering determination, students can overcome obstacles, realize their aspirations, and carve their own unique paths toward a bright and promising future.