The Power of Reading: Why It Still Matters for Students

A recent Atlantic article titled The Elite College Students Who Can’t Read Books struck a nerve with educators, parents, and advisors like me. The piece explores a startling shift: students arriving at top colleges without the stamina—or in some cases, the basic skills—to read and comprehend entire books. In today’s fast-paced digital world, where information comes in tweets, clips, and soundbites, sustained, immersive reading is becoming less common. But its importance hasn’t changed.

In fact, I’d argue it’s never been more essential.

As a college advisor who works closely with students from middle school through senior year, I’m often asked what students can do early on to prepare for high school and beyond. My answer is simple and emphatic:
“READ!”

Reading—regularly, deeply, and for enjoyment—isn’t just about boosting vocabulary or mastering the classics. It is strongly correlated with higher SAT and ACT scores, better performance in college-level coursework, and lifelong success in communication, critical thinking, and empathy.

And perhaps more importantly, it shapes the way students engage with the world.

When a student tells me they love to read, I pay attention. It’s a signal—not just of academic potential but of curiosity, imagination, and voice.

Recently, I was meeting with a rising senior as we began brainstorming for her college essays. She’s passionate about broadcast journalism and storytelling. I asked what her favorite book was, and instead of one title, she quickly rattled off ten—ranging from mythology to a raw, autobiographical story of a young woman recovering from addiction. Her list reflected her own interest in people, what shapes them, and how stories can reveal and transform. She is a storyteller in her own right, and that shows not only in her writing but in her ability to listen deeply and think critically.

Another moment that stuck with me: I was chatting with an 11th grader and asked how English class was going. He beamed. “We’re about to read The Great Gatsby—I’ve been looking forward to it.” As someone who counts Gatsby among my own favorites, I could relate. But what I appreciated most was his genuine anticipation—not for a grade, but for the experience of the story.

Then there’s one of my freshmen who told me that she and a friend had made a New Year’s resolution—to read more for fun. So far this year, she’s devoured 22 books and is now writing her own fantasy novel. At 14, she’s not only feeding her imagination, but practicing discipline, voice, and storytelling—skills that will serve her in any field she chooses.

These students give me hope.

They remind me that while the distractions of modern life are real, the love of books isn’t gone. It just needs to be nurtured.

Books offer something no algorithm, no shortcut, no AI tool can replicate: the chance to slow down and go deep—to think, to feel, to walk in someone else’s shoes. The students who read regularly have an edge. Not just in college admissions, but in how they understand themselves and others.

So, if you’re a middle schooler or a parent of one, wondering what you can do to prepare for the journey ahead?
Start here:
READ.

If you’re a high schooler already stretched thin with academics, sports, and activities—find time to read for you. It doesn’t need to be a classic or assigned. Pick something that sparks curiosity. Let yourself get lost in it. The ability to read deeply—more than any test score—reveals a student who is present, thoughtful, and equipped to succeed in a world that desperately needs more attention, reflection, and story.