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“Prestige” is an Illusion… Literally: Helping Students Understand College Fit

Illustration of a magician labeled “Prestige” performing a trick over a top hat labeled “Illusion,” surrounded by glowing college buildings — symbolizing how perceived prestige in college admissions can be misleading.

Fun fact: The word prestige actually comes from the Latin praestigium, meaning illusion. So when students say they’re only interested in “prestigious” schools, it’s worth remembering that what they’re often chasing is the appearance of excellence—not necessarily what’s best for them or where they’ll be successful and happy. Over the past few years in college […]