Category Archives: college prep

career planning, college prep, extracurricular activities

The Benefits of Extracurriculars

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benefits of extracurriculars

For students, the benefits of extracurriculars include enhancing their college resume and helping them explore other interests. There are numerous career opportunities available, but unfortunately, not everything discussed in school is covered beyond the school curriculum.

That’s why extracurriculars are important for student success, especially if some students don’t really find much enjoyment in learning what’s being taught in the classroom.

With that in mind, here are some of the benefits of extracurricular activities that help with student success at any age.

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college prep, parenting, Wednesdays parent

How to Talk to Your Teen About College Without the Eye Rolls

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teen

Let’s be honest: bringing up college with your teen can feel like walking through a minefield. One wrong step—too pushy, too soon, too often—and you’re met with a dramatic sigh, a sarcastic “I know,” or the dreaded eye roll.

But here’s the good news: with the right approach, you can talk to your teen about college in a way that invites conversation instead of shutting it down. And May is the perfect time to start. Summer’s around the corner, the school year is winding down, and your soon-to-be senior is just a few months away from application season.

Here are five strategies to help you have productive (and eye-roll-free) college conversations:

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admissions, college apps, college guidance, college planning, college prep

College Hopes and Worries Survey

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The last few months have been a nerve-racking stretch for the more than 1 million high school seniors and their parents receiving decisions about their college applications. According to a January 16 report from Common App, an organization that has more than 860 colleges among its member institutions, applications are up 7% this year (up 3% to private institutions and 11% to public institutions). Hopes spring eternal. 

If you haven’t been on Reddit lately, spend a few minutes and pop in on the /ApplyingtoCollege subreddit. It’s flooded with students (and some parents) expressing woes over the college application process and the admission offers (or lack thereof) from the Ivies and the UC system of colleges.

It’s amazing to me how many excellent students apply to these schools every year, hoping against hope to get an offer of admission only to be rejected from every one of them. With so many colleges and universities in the country, there are other schools that would offer the same education.

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admissions, college guidance, college planning, college prep

Planning for College: 5 Stress-Free Tips

planning for college

Planning for college can feel like juggling flaming torches while walking a tightrope, but panicking never helped anyone get into their dream school. It doesn’t have to be a panic. College is the place where you are aiming to kickstart your career. 

And with a few smart steps and a dash of chill out, you can tackle the whole process without losing your mind or your GPA. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or just wondering if applying to college will always be so hard, here are 5 stress-free tips to help when planning for college.

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college fairs, college planning, college prep

How to Make the Most of Spring College Fairs and Info Sessions

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Spring is full of opportunities to connect with colleges through college fairs and virtual events. These events can open new doors, but preparation is key. Here’s how to help your student navigate college fairs and make lasting impressions.

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admissions, college planning, college prep, parenting

College Application Season Starts Now for Rising Seniors

COLLEGE APPLICATION SEASON

It may still be spring, but college application season is just around the corner. The more your junior does now, the less stressful senior year will be. And summer is the best time to start the process.

Here’s how to set them up for a strong start this summer.

1. Brainstorm Essay Ideas

Encourage your student to reflect on meaningful life moments and write down possible personal statement topics. These early brainstorms can turn into solid essay drafts later on.

Parent Tip: Ask questions like “What’s something you’re proud of?” or “When did you overcome a challenge?”

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admissions, college prep, graduation, parenting

Key Things Seniors Must Do Before Graduation

graduation

As graduation draws near, your senior is almost at the finish line—but a few final tasks still need your attention. Helping your teen wrap up their college plans now can prevent headaches later. Here’s your parent-friendly checklist of what to tackle this spring.

1. Finalize the College Decision

Support your student as they compare financial aid offers and consider how each campus feels in terms of community, academics, and future opportunities. Encourage them to reach out to current students or attend a virtual event to help with their final decision.

Parent Tip: Use a spreadsheet to track cost, location, graduation rate, job outcomes, and gut feelings.

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college guidance, college planning, college prep, parenting, Wednesdays parent

What Juniors Should Be Doing This Spring to Prepare for Senior Year

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 Spring is a critical time for high school juniors to start thinking ahead, and as a parent, your support and guidance can make a huge difference. The more your student does now, the smoother their senior year and college application process will be. Here are key steps juniors should be taking this spring—with detailed actions and how you can help them prepare for what’s ahead.

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admissions, college guidance, college planning, college prep

Rolling Admission: A Stress-Free Path to College Acceptance

rolling admission
Image by u_7csqbq4k4j from Pixabay

The college application process can be overwhelming, especially for students who are still undecided, have faced rejection, or simply want to reduce stress. Fortunately, rolling admission provides a flexible and less nerve-wracking way to gain acceptance into college. If you or your student are feeling the pressure of deadlines and decision-making, rolling admission might be the perfect solution.

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college planning, college prep, parenting

The Building Blocks of a Good Education

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education
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

Every parent wants their child to receive the best education possible, however, academic success is not just about choosing the right school. A child’s education is shaped by their home environment and learning habits.

Parents play a crucial role in fostering a love for learning. This is going to ensure your child reaches their full potential. By being actively involved and encouraging curiosity, you are going to help set the foundation for knowledge.

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