Richard Nguyen | The Apply Guy
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theapplyguy.bsky.social
Richard Nguyen | The Apply Guy
@theapplyguy.bsky.social
8 followers 2 following 36 posts
Talking about college admissions, career & personal growth that empowers young people | 15 yrs coaching students, 10 yrs on school board & 10 yrs HR experience | TheApplyGuy.com
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Richard Nguyen | The Apply Guy @theapplyguy.bsky.social · May 21
Want to be a better communicator? Here are 3 steps I use to explain complex concepts so that high school students can understand:
Screenshot essay titled 'How High School Students Made Me a Better Communicator and 3 Steps to Communicate Your Ideas More Effectively (Including to Teenagers)'. The text discusses the challenges of teaching courtroom evidence to high school students and how this experience has improved the author's communication skills. It outlines three steps for better communication: 1) Explain the goal or purpose clearly to give direction, 2) Break concepts down into simple steps to accommodate the audience's understanding, and 3) Use relatable examples to maintain engagement and interest. The author emphasizes that effective communication may require repetition and adaptation.
theapplyguy.bsky.social
Trying to get better at writing more online content, I signed up for a 30 day digital writing challenge. Here's how it went:
Screenshot of an essay titled 'Three Insights from Doing 30 Day Online Writing Challenge'. The essay discusses the author's experience and learnings from participating in the Ship 30 for 30 online writing program. Key insights include: 1) Inspiration exists even in moments of feeling uninspired, as the author learned to reflect and draw from past writings. 2) The importance of prioritizing action over perfection in writing, shifting focus from achieving perfect posts to maintaining personal standards. 3) The value of sharing thoughts publicly, acknowledging that more readers engage with content than might happen if kept private. The closing remarks emphasize that the program was beneficial for taking action and enhancing writing efficiency.
June 2, 2025 at 8:19 PM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
I'm dropping the feedback sandwich and why you should too (including what's a better alternative)
Screenshot essay titled 'Why We Should Stop Using the Feedback Sandwich & What to Do Instead' discusses the ineffectiveness of the feedback sandwich in delivering criticism. The author, reflecting on experiences as a coach and HR professional, identifies three main issues with this approach: praise may be perceived as insincere, constructive feedback may be ignored by narcissistic individuals, and the introductory and concluding compliments overshadow the main criticism in the middle. The essay concludes by recommending two separate conversations—one for praise and another for critique—to improve clarity and effectiveness in communication.
June 2, 2025 at 5:33 AM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
Sometimes life is too much. Here's what I do in 3 steps:
A screenshot essay titled 'Three Steps to Handle Overwhelming Situations and Emotions'. The essay outlines three steps for processing difficult emotions. Step 1 discusses the importance of feeling emotions without letting them spiral, emphasizing recognition and observation. Step 2 focuses on gaining perspective by analyzing the situation and discussing it with a trusted friend. It encourages thinking about others' challenges for context and inspiration. Step 3 promotes productivity as a means to create positive change, whether through solving personal problems or helping others. The text concludes with a disclaimer stating that the author is not a medical professional.
June 1, 2025 at 5:34 AM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
How I'm overcoming my insecurities about writing online:
Screenshot essay titled 'The 3-Prong Paradigm That Helps Me Overcome My Fear of Writing Online'. The body content discusses the author's struggle with sharing thoughts online due to feelings of imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and fear of failure. The author aims to create empowering online content and acknowledges the need to overcome insecurities to increase impact. A framework is presented with three main points: 1) 'Knowledge without action is wasteful', 2) 'Action without knowledge is reckless', and 3) 'Knowledge + action is ideal'. The author concludes that they strive to balance knowledge and action to avoid being wasteful or reckless.
May 31, 2025 at 2:14 AM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
Debating whether being a Jack of All Trades, Master of None is really a bad thing.
An essay titled 'Rethinking: Jack of All Trades, Master of None' discusses the implications of being a generalist versus an expert. The author shares their diverse professional experiences including roles as a political law attorney, high school mock trial coach, HR professional, school board member, and college admissions counselor. The essay reflects on the struggle with traditional career advice to niche down, emphasizing that their varied experiences enhance their knowledge and effectiveness in helping others. The author concludes that while their marketability might be affected by their broad skill set, they value their unique experiences and the positive impact they can make.
May 30, 2025 at 5:42 AM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
When my motivation dips, here's how I make progress on a goal:

1. Keep the Goal in Mind
Remembering your "why" helps.

2. Make Work Fun
A new location, gamification, or incentives can invigorate.

3. Take a Break & Come Back
A refreshed mind is a better one.

What do you do?
May 29, 2025 at 5:07 AM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
🚨Does college prestige matter?🚨

3 advantages prestigious schools can provide:
• Stronger alumni/networks opening up different opportunities
• More or better resources (academic & professional programs)
• Societal perception of higher ability or skill of graduates
🧵
May 28, 2025 at 4:44 AM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
3 smart strategies to study smarter, not harder:
A screenshot essay titled "3 Smart Study Strategies to Ace Your Next Exam" discusses effective study methods. It reflects on the author's experience preparing for the California Bar Exam and highlights three strategies: 1. Push Through - to recognize when to persist in studying despite feeling lazy. 2. Compromise - adjust study plans when tired but still able to study. 3. Stop - knowing when to stop if too tired, emphasizing the importance of restful study for productivity rather than performative effort.
May 27, 2025 at 12:40 AM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
What to do if a college waitlists you:
A screenshot essay titled 'Don't Wait! Three Actions You Should Do If You're on a College Waitlist'. The body discusses the bittersweet nature of being waitlisted by a dream college, emphasizing that while being waitlisted means the applicant is compelling, it also means they have not yet been accepted. The essay outlines three recommended actions: 1) Informing the college of the intention to remain on the waitlist, 2) Writing a letter or email to the admissions office to share new achievements or information, and 3) Checking email daily for final responses, as colleges may give a limited time frame for acceptance. It concludes by advising applicants to put down a deposit at another university as a backup plan.
May 25, 2025 at 9:46 PM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
How often do you say "I should [fill in the blank]" only to fail to do it consistently? Stop saying "I should" and do this instead:
A screenshot essay titled "How 'I Should' Sets You Back & How to Move Forward" discusses the negative impact of the phrase 'I should' on motivation and personal goals. The text highlights various examples such as 'I should eat healthier', 'I should read more', and emphasizes that these statements can lead to guilt if not acted upon. The author suggests replacing 'I should' with decisive action to reflect true priorities, stating that acknowledging a task should be followed by either doing it or moving on, thus limiting further guilt. Key takeaways stress that saying 'I should' is meaningless without the intent to act.
May 24, 2025 at 9:30 PM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
High school students applying to universities often have to write a college essay.

Regardless of skill or background, all students can use help. It's new to them. I've guided students on how to writing compelling college essays.

Here are 3 common mistakes I see students make:
May 24, 2025 at 4:53 AM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
4 ways to tell if you're a bad listener:

- You're distracted or checked out
- You're listening to respond, not to understand
- You constantly interrupt the speaker
- You shift the focus of the conversation so the spotlight is on you

Avoid these habits to be a better listener.
May 22, 2025 at 10:59 PM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
Big fan of active listening - an underrated skill I wish more people utilize.
Screenshot essay titled 'Stop Talking, Listen More: 3 Reasons Why Active Listening Gives You an Advantage.' The text discusses the pitfalls of dominating conversations and the benefits of active listening. It poses a rhetorical question about the listener's experiences in conversations. The essay outlines three main reasons for practicing active listening: 1) It leads to better understanding and informed decision-making. 2) It fosters better relationships and a sense of belonging. 3) It enhances reputation and creates more opportunities, as active listeners are viewed as trustworthy and likable. The conclusion encourages prioritizing listening over speaking.
May 21, 2025 at 11:00 PM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
Want to be a better communicator? Here are 3 steps I use to explain complex concepts so that high school students can understand:
Screenshot essay titled 'How High School Students Made Me a Better Communicator and 3 Steps to Communicate Your Ideas More Effectively (Including to Teenagers)'. The text discusses the challenges of teaching courtroom evidence to high school students and how this experience has improved the author's communication skills. It outlines three steps for better communication: 1) Explain the goal or purpose clearly to give direction, 2) Break concepts down into simple steps to accommodate the audience's understanding, and 3) Use relatable examples to maintain engagement and interest. The author emphasizes that effective communication may require repetition and adaptation.
May 21, 2025 at 5:14 AM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
Sometimes a simple solution can make a big difference in a young person's career. Thankful that one of my supervisors taught me this helpful trick:
A screenshot essay titled "One Simple Trick To Ensure You Remember Important Details & Tasks So Your Boss Trusts You More". The text discusses the importance of taking notes during meetings to avoid forgetting crucial details. The author recounts an experience as a law clerk where their supervisor emphasized the necessity of having a notepad and pen ready. The essay highlights key points: the need to always bring a pen and notepad, and the benefits of taking good notes for effective follow-ups and demonstrating preparedness. It concludes with gratitude for the lesson learned.
May 20, 2025 at 5:54 AM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
Know a high school senior who has senioritis? Send them these 3 tips to defeat that sluggish feeling:
A screenshot essay titled 'Looking to Beat Senioritis? Three Strategies to Finish High School Strong'. The body discusses the challenge of feeling lethargic as high school seniors approach graduation. It provides three strategies to combat senioritis: 1. Keep Your Goals in Mind, emphasizing the importance of remembering academic goals, 2. Mix It Up, advocating for a change in study environment and methods, and 3. Make Time for Fun Memories, suggesting a balance between academics and creating enjoyable experiences. The author encourages readers to fight against senioritis to complete their high school journey successfully.
May 18, 2025 at 6:17 PM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
Why we should celebrate high school seniors' decision to go to community college in the fall:
Screenshot essay titled '3 Reasons Why Going to Community College Is Smart (and Why High School Seniors Should Be Proud to Go There).' The body text discusses the lack of excitement among high school seniors about attending community college despite its advantages. It outlines three key reasons for choosing community college: 1. It saves money with lower tuition and potential financial aid; 2. It provides personalized and practical instruction due to smaller class sizes and experienced instructors; 3. It offers opportunities to transfer to a four-year university for a bachelor's degree. The conclusion encourages high school seniors to feel proud of their decision to attend community college.
May 18, 2025 at 4:05 AM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
Apply the strategy used by Aphrodite to beat Hera and Athena if you want to win over people. #GreekMythology
A screenshot essay titled 'How Aphrodite Beat the Most Powerful & the Wisest Goddesses, and How You Can Apply Her Strategy to Win Over People.' The body text narrates the myth of the golden apple that caused discord among the goddesses Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite, each vying for the title of the most beautiful. It explains how Zeus appointed the mortal prince Paris to decide the winner, detailing the bribes offered by Hera and Athena. Aphrodite, understanding Paris's lack of interest in power, offered him the love of the most beautiful woman instead. This strategy won her the apple, leading to the marriage of Paris and Helen and an ensuing war. The essay concludes with the lesson that knowing your audience is key to persuasion, exemplified by Aphrodite's triumph over Hera and Athena.
May 17, 2025 at 5:06 AM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
Three tips I learned from Trevor Noah, Adam Grant & Alex Banayan at the WorkHuman Conference:
Screenshot essay titled 'Use These 3 Mindset Shifts to Succeed in Life Whether You're a Student, Working Adult, or Somewhere In-between' featuring a text body summarizing key lessons from a conference. The first lesson emphasizes replacing fear with curiosity in uncertain times, as discussed by Trevor Noah. The second lesson encourages turning critics into coaches, with advice from organizational psychologist Adam Grant. The third lesson details that the opposite of success is not failure, but rather not trying, according to bestselling author Alex Banayan. The author expresses hope that these mindset shifts will aid in achieving success.
May 15, 2025 at 8:14 PM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
I'm still embarrassed about that one summer in high school, I --
Screenshot essay titled 'Learn from My High School Mistake: Three Reasons Why You Want to Avoid a Lazy Summer Body'. The essay reflects on the author's regret over a summer spent idly watching TV and being inactive. It emphasizes three main points: 1. Experiencing Life, arguing that passive activities, while enjoyable, prevent true living and personal exploration. 2. Building Skills, Habits, and Direction, focusing on the benefits of engaging in jobs, internships, or community service to gain valuable experience. 3. Increasing College Admissions Chances, noting that summer activities can enhance college applications. The author encourages a balance between relaxation and productive living during the summer.
May 14, 2025 at 9:30 PM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
Do you agree that these are the top 3 teen coming of age movies? What's your list?
A screenshot essay titled 'Top 3 Teen Coming-of-Age Movies' discussing favorite films that represent the coming-of-age genre. The author shares personal engagement with high school students by asking about their favorite coming-of-age movies and presents their top three picks: 'Clueless' for its character arc and humor; 'Perks of Being a Wallflower,' highlighting the relatable struggles of socially-isolated youth and unprocessed trauma; and 'Didi,' depicting the challenges of an Asian American teen navigating cultural identity in the Bay Area. An honorable mention is given to 'Dramarama,' which explores friendships and insecurities on the eve of college. The author prompts readers to share their thoughts and favorites.
May 13, 2025 at 8:22 PM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
The perks of being in a choir:
A screenshot essay titled '3 Reasons Why Every Student Should Consider Joining Their School Choir.' The essay discusses the author's regrets about not being more involved in high school choir despite being active in politics. It outlines three key benefits of joining choir: 1) The Community - describes the welcoming and fun atmosphere created by diverse personalities in the choir. 2) Become a Better Speaker - emphasizes that singing eases public speaking. 3) Outlet to Express Yourself - highlights singing as an emotional release. The author mentions a bonus benefit of improving karaoke skills from choir experience and encourages students to consider joining.
May 13, 2025 at 1:07 AM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
It's testing season - AP tests, school finals, and other exams. Send this 3 step approach to a student who wants to ace their essay exams:
A digital screenshot illustration of an essay titled '3 Steps to Tackle Essay Exams Like a Pro'. The content discusses overcoming test anxiety associated with essay exams. It shares a personal anecdote of experiencing anxiety during tests like finals and the SAT. The main body outlines three steps to approach essay exams effectively: 1. Read the prompt carefully to fully understand the question. 2. Re-read the prompt to create an outline for better organization and structure. 3. Write the essay while managing time wisely to cover all points. The author encourages practicing this method prior to actual exams.
May 12, 2025 at 3:59 AM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
My first interaction with San Jose Mayor Susan Hammer when I was six taught me important life lessons that I use to this day.
A screenshot essay titled 'How One Politician Had a Profound Impact on How I Treat & Coach Students'. The text discusses the author's first interaction with San Jose Mayor Susan Hammer during a townhall for Vietnamese American refugees when the author was in first grade. It describes how the author, despite their young age, asked the mayor about immigration, leading to others feeling encouraged to speak up. The essay reflects on how Mayor Hammer's thoughtful response made the author feel heard and how this experience shaped their approach as a school board member and coach. The author emphasizes empowering students to find their voice, inspired by the mayor's example.
May 11, 2025 at 1:30 AM
theapplyguy.bsky.social
Do you think college prestige is a scam?
Screenshot essay titled 'Is College Prestige a Scam?' discussing the notion that college prestige may not be as important as perceived. The author recounts a professor's bold claim from a college admissions counseling class stating that college prestige is a scam. The professor, an experienced admissions coach and former USC admissions officer, challenges the reliance on reputation, comparing it to a Yelp review influenced by others' opinions. He describes college prestige as an unhealthy illusion that doesn't determine student success, suggesting students choose colleges based on their potential for thriving rather than on rankings or prestige. The piece ends with a rhetorical question inviting reflection.
May 9, 2025 at 7:23 PM