No matter if it’s cars or candy bars, every marketplace has one thing in common. The seller hopes to influence the buyer’s decision by appealing to their emotions. That’s the best way to get the buyer to pay more than they would otherwise. But the buyer knows that if they can keep their emotions in check and stick to a rational comparison of pros and cons, they have a better chance of paying less than they would otherwise. In every…
It happens to almost every family. They know they need to begin the college search process and, whether almost instantly or further along in the journey, the “top,” “target,” “dream” school emerges. The college or university that all the others are compared to, and the one that becomes the student’s focal point for where they hope to gain admission. It’s completely natural, too, for the “top school” mindset to take over. It’s simpler and more exciting to focus on one…
Tedious college applications, thoughtful essays, glowing recommendations, intense interviews, OH MY! The whole college process can bring about stress and anxiety for students and their families. Some try to speed up the process with early admissions, which has become all the more accessible AND competitive due to the expansion of test optional admissions. The frenzy of fall senior year is waning for those seniors who applied to early admissions deadlines but the waiting game between November 1st and January 1…
Deciding to attend college is one of the biggest decisions you'll make during your life. Hence, it shouldn't be taken lightly. Rather, it should be researched earnestly and thoroughly. As a starting point for how to research colleges, you should think of what interests you, what makes your heart sing, and what would be fun to do as a lifetime job. However, there are many other factors to consider as well which we'll address in full below. How To Research…
Whenever I go to my grandma’s house, I hear her use words that are old-fashioned (yet adorable!) such as icebox instead of fridge, or neat instead of cool. When someone uses the term junior college instead of community college, I’m reminded of my grandma - using a word that is technically correct, but out of fashion. So, what are junior colleges, and why do some students attend them over universities? I'll answer that question in full below and explain why…
For many high school seniors and their families, the end of April feels like it’s near the end of a long (possibly sweaty) but rewarding hike. May is the summit of 4 long years with final exams, AP tests, and the all-important senior activities to enjoy the end of the journey. But what will the end of the journey bring? What Is National College Decision Day? This Sunday, May 1st is known across the U.S. as College Decision Day 2022…
College visits are the best way for students and parents to identify if a college is a good fit for their family. Virtual and high school visits are great ways to get an introduction to the college and decide if it’s worth visiting., whereas on-campus visits provide the most comprehensive experiences. In my work as a high school counselor, I always recommend students visit in person whenever possible and encourage them to ask themselves the following questions: Can I see myself…
High school students who already have a college major in mind can choose a college that has a strong program for their desired field of study. But for the many students who are undecided about their college major, choosing a college can feel more difficult. However, it’s totally fine to go into college without a declared major. At many colleges, students don’t have to declare a major until the end of their sophomore year. If your student is undecided about…
Helping your student choose the right college is one of the most important decisions you will make during the college search process. It is a decision that requires significant research and, in many cases, information that can only be gathered by visiting campus. Experiencing residence life, meeting with professors, or sitting in on a class could likely provide invaluable information that could influence your decision, which is why campus visits are essential. With spring break right around the corner, many…
Community college or four-year college? The idea of attending a four-year college sounds awesome, doesn’t it? You get to do your thing whenever you want. You are on your own. You are making your own way. But let’s face it, a four-year college is not for everyone. Community college often is the right choice for a student, whether it is a short-term choice, a path to an associates or two-year degree, or part of a more affordable financial plan. Why…