Many college guides are doorstop sized and nearly impenetrable. Not this one. Esaki-Smith underplays the fame and status of the school and concentrates on the overall experience of the time spent in college. With facts and figures, she demonstrates that earnings don't necessarily match the rate of tuition paid but are more likely to correspond to finding a fit between what the market wants and what the student is good at, all the while stressing the dangers of student debt. Rather than following one's passion, she suggests following one's abilities. She touts the benefits of STEM while also showing the continuing relevance of the humanities and shows that perhaps college isn't for everyone. This book isn't the final answer to anything but a starting point for thinking more clearly about the whole college-application process. The clear and upbeat writing will engage students and parents alike. It ends with a “decision navigator” that lays out the topics that should matter. This is a good addition to the shelf full of college books in a school or public library. College-bound high-school students will find this lively guide a unique and useful resource.

Booklist

Anna Esaki-Smith lays out a new way for students to choose universities that goes well beyond rankings and reputation. A must-read for high school students and their families.

Marc Randolph, cofounder and first CEO of Netflix

If you want to make an impact on the world, this book will show you how to use a university education as a tool to achieve your goal.

Luis von Ahn, CEO and cofounder of Duolingo

This book urges all to see beyond the present and into a world of endless possibilities.

Leo Esaki, PhD, Nobel Prize laureate in Physics

Make College Your Superpower upends conventional beliefs about the entire college decision process. For students, parents and anyone who feels daunted by what can be a complicated and costly process, Anna Esaki-Smith provides inspiring insights, hope and a roadmap.

Meredith Artley, former Editor-in-Chief of CNN Digital

Esaki-Smith offers students valuable guidance on maximizing their college experiences. By examining majors, programs and salary outcomes, this book provides students the opportunity to optimize the benefits of higher education

Anthony P. Carnevale, PhD, director of the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce