If you’ve been following our Summer Toolkit Blog series, you know that summer is the optimal time to get ahead in high school. Our last blog featured a list of eleven fantastic books to check out before heading off to college! We realize the list is dense and not all titles will appeal to everyone, that’s why we’ve come out with another blog featuring the top nine videos to watch before applying to college! Videos are a great way to soak in valuable information without needing to visit your local library. The talks range from creating awesome habits and storytelling, to aid work and self-improvement. These videos below are in no particular order - happy watching!

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1. “The Danger of a Single Story” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: This TED Talk is simply incredible. Chances are, you grew up with certain perspectives, beliefs, and ideas that were influenced by your environment and the people around you. However, there is power in perspective. This talk opens up discussion on close-mindedness and how the media portrays current events. This talk is a must-watch before stepping foot onto campus!
2. “How Do You Define Yourself?” by Lizzie Velasquez: For both high school and college students, self-expression and identity are essential. This powerful talk addresses the challenges and benefits of beginning your journey of self-acceptance, and will inspire students to find themselves and their community.
3. “How to Supercharge Your Time as a Student at Home”: Extracurriculars and leadership initiatives account for roughly 30% of admissions consideration. Crimson's extracurricular support is internationally regarded for its precision, outcomes, and accuracy. Watch Harvard graduates Sam + Gus chat about how to supercharge your extra time at home to get ahead of the pack! While learning within the classroom has stopped, your progress towards achieving your study and college goals doesn’t need to!
4. “The Power of Vulnerability” by Brené Brown: For many, the feeling of vulnerability is scary and uncomfortable. This talk by legendary American professor, lecturer, author, and podcast host dives into the power of vulnerability. As a researcher who studies human connection, Brown highlights the reasons why we are vulnerable and what role this quality plays in students’ identity and their ability to achieve goals.
5. “The 1% of the 1% of the 1%” with Jamie Beaton: Featuring our co-founder and CEO Jamie Beaton, this Unfiltered video shares advice on successful disruption, idea validation, fundraising, and acquisitions.
6. “**The Makings of a Business Legend” with Richard Branson: **Virgin Group founder, Sir Richard Branson, discusses how to launch a startup, the traits of a great leader, and why people are the key to his success.
7. **“Try Something New for 30 Days” By Matt Cutts: **This is the perfect talk for students looking to get motivated and create new habits! Cutts discusses the benefit of trying something new every day; it’s a fantastic way to add diversity, creativity, and inspiration into our daily lives.
8. **“Want to help someone? Shut up and listen!” by Ernesto Sirolli: **Many students come to Crimson Education looking for help with leveling up their extracurricular activities. Some students are lucky enough to travel abroad to conduct their service work, but not all students realize that the approach often taken is an unsustainable one. Check our Ernesto Sirolli’s stance on foreign aid and global service. It will truly open your eyes!
9. **“What I Wrote About for My Common App Essay”: **This Crimson video features students at top schools across the country that share what they wrote about in their Common App essay!