Author Series: Beth Gelles AB '90 | Crazy for College
The Stories, The Secrets, & The Shot of Sanity You Need to Make It Through Admissions
The Harvard Club of Philadelphia welcomes parents of middle and high school students, educators, counselors, and anyone interested in college admissions for an engaging virtual conversation with Beth Gelles AB '90, author of Crazy for College: The Stories, The Secrets, & The Shot of Sanity You Need to Make It Through Admissions. In conversation with Robin Nabi AB '90, Professor of Communication at the University of California, Santa Barbara, Beth will share practical strategies, insider insights, and a much-needed dose of sanity to help families navigate today's increasingly complex college admissions process. The conversation will conclude with audience Q&A.
About the Book
The college admissions process has changed dramatically over the past two decades, leaving many students and parents feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to stand out. Drawing on more than fourteen years of experience working with students and families, Beth will share what she's learned, including some advice that may surprise you.
Equal parts memoir, practical guide, and straight talk, Crazy for College offers families the perspective they need and the reassurance they deserve. Rather than offering a formula for getting into the "perfect" college, Beth encourages families to keep the process in perspective and remember that college admissions shouldn't come at the expense of their relationship with their child.
About the Author
Beth Gelles AB '90 is co-founder of Acceptance Ahead, an independent college admissions counseling firm. A graduate of Harvard College and Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management, Beth began her career in advertising before finding her way into college counseling, where she discovered both a passion for the work and a front-row seat to the growing intensity surrounding college admissions. For more than fourteen years, she has worked with nearly 500 students across the country and around the globe and visited more than 160 college campuses in all kinds of footwear. As the mother of three children, Beth has experienced the admissions process from both the professional and personal side.
About the Moderator
Robin Nabi AB '90 is Professor of Communication at the University of California, Santa Barbara. An internationally recognized scholar, her research focuses on emotion, persuasion, health communication, and media effects. She has authored more than 100 scholarly publications and is a Fellow of the International Communication Association.
Purchase Crazy for College: Click Here
Beth Gelles AB '90 | Crazy for College
In Conversation with Robin Nabi AB '90
Date & Time: Thursday, October 15, 2026 | 7:00 p.m. ET
Location: Virtual (Zoom link to be provided prior to the event)
Cost: Free!
Questions? Email programs@hrcphilly.com.