Hilary Oswald

Hilary Masell Oswald is an education journalist who revised and updated the 4th edition of "Colleges That Change Lives," a well-known college guide originally written by Loren Pope.12

In preparing the latest edition of this classic college guide, Oswald conducted extensive research, including personal tours of top schools and in-depth interviews with students, faculty, and alumni.1 Her work built upon Pope's original foundation to create a more comprehensive and up-to-date resource for prospective college students and their families.2

Oswald spent over a year visiting 40 colleges featured in the book, speaking with various stakeholders to create detailed and vivid portraits of each institution.1 Her revision expanded on the original work, adding new information such as:

1. Updated profiles of each college
2. Descriptions of campus activities
3. A new chapter dedicated to students with learning disabilities
4. Additional resources for college seekers

The 4th edition, published in 2012 after Pope's death, maintains the book's focus on lesser-known, smaller liberal arts colleges that offer transformative educational experiences.3 Oswald's work has helped to continue the book's mission of encouraging students to look beyond traditional prestigious universities and consider a broader range of schools that might better fit their individual needs and aspirations.3

As an education journalist, Oswald's contribution to "Colleges That Change Lives" has been significant in maintaining its relevance and usefulness for contemporary college applicants and their families.