Catalyst Writing & Education

Catalyst Writing & Education

College admissions are tougher than ever, and students need every edge they can get. The National Center for Education Statistics estimates there will be 3.9 million high school graduates in 2025, and more than 60% will be competing for a limited number of freshman seats. Some of the toughest competition is right here at home: The University of Texas at Austin received over 90,000 freshman applications from Aug. 1 to Dec. 1, 2024. With a Fall 2024 freshman class of just 9,200, nearly 90% of applicants had to find alternate schools. Strong grades and activities matter, but the SAT still plays a big role. Now that the test is fully digital, students must navigate new timing, question formats, and strategies—all while keeping their confidence up.

At Catalyst Writing & Education, we believe success doesn’t come from shortcuts. It comes from building real skills that last well beyond the test. One of the strongest predictors of success is active reading. Students who read with attention and curiosity can handle tricky passages, spot the right answers faster, and approach every section with sharper thinking.

With the right support, students can grow these skills. Through group courses and one-on-one coaching, we help students practice active reading, sharpen their writing, and build math reasoning confidence. When they prepare with purpose, they not only boost their scores—they discover their own potential.

Jen Wentlandt is the founder of Catalyst Writing & Education, offering test prep, bibliotherapy, and personalized tutoring in San Antonio.