Category Archives: college planning

admissions, college guidance, college planning, college visits

Choosing the Right Path Amidst Multiple College Offers

Leave a comment
college offers


The college decision deadline is approaching for those seniors who have been accepted to colleges and have multiple college offers. Even though some have extended their decision deadlines beyond May 1 due to the FAFSA issues, parents and students are evaluating colleges and comparing offers.

Deciding which college to attend can be one of the most significant decisions in a young person’s life. With multiple offers on the table, the choice can feel overwhelming. However, with careful consideration and a structured approach, you can navigate this maze and choose the college that aligns best with your goals, preferences, and aspiration.

Continue reading Choosing the Right Path Amidst Multiple College Offers →
college planning, college prep, GPA, high school

The Crucial Semester of Junior Year

junior year

As high school students journey through their academic careers, the junior year stands out as a pivotal time, especially as they approach the final semester. This critical period holds immense significance for those aspiring to pursue higher education.

With college applications looming on the horizon, the final semester of junior year serves as a crucial window of opportunity for students to showcase their academic prowess, extracurricular involvement, and personal growth.

Let’s delve into why this phase is so pivotal in shaping students’ future academic endeavors.

Continue reading The Crucial Semester of Junior Year →
admissions, college planning, college prep

2024 College Admissions Trends for Parents

college admissions trends

Parents have so many questions about college admissions. It’s a maze and can be frustrating.

Understanding how college admissions works can help you navigate the college application journey. Knowledge is power and knowing the new trends in college admissions gives you power during the college prep process.

Here are five college admissions trends from College Data that give insight into the admissions landscape this year.

Continue reading 2024 College Admissions Trends for Parents →
college planning, college prep, college visits

Exploring Colleges Near and Far

exploring colleges

Choosing the right college is a pivotal decision in a student’s life, and college visits play a crucial role in this process. A recent study found that 82% of students visit a college before attending.

Whether you’re exploring colleges close to home or considering options that are farther away, each experience contributes to shaping your academic journey.

Let’s explore the significance of college visits, sharing insights on both local and distant exploration.

Continue reading Exploring Colleges Near and Far →
college planning, parenting

Parenting Teens Headed to College

parenting teens

The journey of parenting takes on new dimensions as your teenager prepares to embark on the exciting adventure of college life. As college approaches, the emotions and challenges can be overwhelming for both parents and teens alike. This transitional period requires a delicate balance of support, communication, and empowerment.

Here are some effective strategies for parenting teens who are about to enter college.

  1. Foster Open Communication

Establishing and maintaining open lines of communication is crucial during this transitional period. Encourage your teenager to share their thoughts, concerns, and expectations about college life. Create a safe space for them to express themselves without judgment. Engage in active listening and be genuinely interested in their experiences, anxieties, and aspirations. By fostering open communication, you’ll strengthen your relationship and provide the emotional support they need.

Continue reading Parenting Teens Headed to College →
college planning, college prep, parenting, Uncategorized

Communicating With Your College-Bound Teenager

communicating

During the college prep process, communication is key. You and your teen will need to discuss all sorts of topics from school choice, to finances, to college majors, and other college-related topics. Communicating with teenagers can be both rewarding and challenging. You know, as a parent of a teenager, there are times when both of you struggle to communicate.

Here are some tips to help you connect with your teenager:

Continue reading Communicating With Your College-Bound Teenager →
Alternatives to College, college planning, college prep, parenting

Motivating an Unmotivated Student Toward the Future

unmotivated student


My son was an unmotivated student. He skated through high school with average grades and didn’t begin to think about college until the spring of his senior year. He decided he wanted to go to a military academy, and of course, it was too late to meet the requirements for application. Panicking about his future, he made the decision to join the Marines; and believe me, I was not a happy parent. In the end, however, it was a good choice for him.

Entering the realm of college preparation can be an overwhelming journey for many students. Some may find themselves unmotivated, dragging their feet, and questioning whether they are even college material. As parents, it’s essential to recognize this struggle and provide the necessary support and encouragement to help your student unlock their full potential.

Continue reading Motivating an Unmotivated Student Toward the Future →
college guidance, college planning, college prep, parenting

Navigating the College Prep Journey with your Teen

1 Comment
navigating the college prep journey

Navigating the college prep journey with your teen is a transformative and sometimes challenging experience. As your teenager embarks on the journey towards higher education, parents need to provide guidance, support, and a nurturing environment. This article aims to offer practical tips and insights on how to navigate this crucial period in your teenager’s life.

Open communication is essential.

Establishing open and honest communication is the foundation for successful parenting during college prep. Encourage your teenager to share their thoughts, concerns, and aspirations. Actively listen and provide a non-judgmental space for them to express themselves. This will foster a strong parent-teenager relationship built on trust.

Continue reading Navigating the College Prep Journey with your Teen →
admissions, college guidance, college majors, college planning, college prep

Choosing a College

choosing a college

Choosing a college is a significant decision that can shape your student’s future, so it’s crucial to approach it with careful consideration. Here are some key factors to keep in mind when making this important choice:

1. Financial Considerations

This is #1 because it comes before your student even starts their college list. It’s essential to have a clear understanding of your budget and how to manage your finances during college. Evaluate the cost of attending each college, including tuition, fees, and living expenses. Research scholarship opportunities, financial aid options, and work-study programs.

Continue reading Choosing a College →
college guidance, college planning, college prep

Does Size Matter (When It Comes to College)?

size

Almost half of a school year is behind you. Whether your teen is waiting to hear back from their college choices, or continuing the decision process as they approach senior year, it is helpful to understand and evaluate college size and student population.

Does size really matter?

The answer to this question is complicated. Size really doesn’t matter as far as the quality of education your child will receive. Some of the best institutions of higher learning have large campuses with enormous student bodies, and some have fewer than 3000 students. What does matter, and always matters, is whether or not the school is a “perfect fit”, after examining a few factors:

Continue reading Does Size Matter (When It Comes to College)? →