Carla Crooker

Carla Crooker

Carla Crooker

Former Associate Director of Admissions at Cornell University

13 Years in Cornell Admissions
20,000+ Applications Read and Evaluated

With more than a dozen years of experience in higher education admissions, recruitment, and program management in both graduate and undergraduate studies, Carla is committed to empowering students to reach their greatest potential through higher education.

Carla earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Washington in Comparative Literature and Film Studies and spent many years teaching and working in human services non-profits before beginning in the world of admissions.

At Cornell University, responsible for reviewing thousands of applications each year, training a team of application readers, and ultimately selecting candidates for admission, Carla cultivated a unique and comprehensive understanding of the admissions process and the application components that make students truly compelling.

Her years of conducting information sessions for young people and their families, and raising two children who successfully went through the college admission process, provided her a unique perspective on helping students navigate the complex world of college admissions from both sides.

Carla provides students with structure through the process and an opportunity to discover their unique voice on their path toward higher education.

Is a college visit important?

Exploring College Campuses: The Ultimate College Visit Guide

By Carla Crooker / 10/11/2024

In today’s digital age, the internet opens doors to countless opportunities, including the ability to explore colleges from the comfort of your own home. But nothing beats the real deal—stepping foot on a college campus and soaking in the atmosphere. So, are college visits really that important? Let’s break it down. Why College Visits Matter…

What extracurricular activities do colleges look for?

What extracurricular activities do colleges look for?

By Carla Crooker / 01/05/2024

Understanding the Role of Extracurricular Activities As admissions consultants, we are often asked about the role that extracurricular activities play in the college application process. Many students and parents are under the impression that only traditional activities such as being president of the class or captain of the sports team are important. However, thinking outside…

Navigating the stressful world of College Admissions

How to Navigate the Stressful World of College Admissions

By Carla Crooker / 12/01/2023

The college application process can be a stressful and overwhelming experience for both high school students and their parents. However, with the right approach, the process can be made less frustrating and the results more successful with some thoughtful planning. A Quick Guide for Parents and Students Here are a few tips to make navigating…

Why Does Volunteering and Community Engagement Matter?

Why Does Volunteering and Community Engagement Matter?

By Carla Crooker / 10/27/2023

As a busy high school student, you may feel overwhelmed by the pressure to maintain good grades, make and keep friends, and engage in community service. You may wonder why volunteering matters so much. The Importance of Community Engagement In the world of highly selective admissions, we are often asked, “how many hours do I…