Tag Archives: college planning

The Rise of the 3-Year Degree: What You Need to Know

3-year degree

If you’re the parent of a college-bound student, you’ve probably had a few sleepless nights wondering: How are we going to afford this? Between rising tuition, student loan anxiety, and the pressure to launch into the workforce quickly, the traditional four-year degree may feel out of step with today’s realities.

Fortunately, a growing number of colleges and universities are now offering a faster, more affordable option: the three-year degree.

Here’s what’s behind the trend—and how to tell if it might be a smart fit for your teen.

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College Hopes and Worries Survey

hopes

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

college fairs

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

juniors

 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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Navigating Tough College Decisions: A Parent’s Guide

tough college decisions

Choosing a college is one of the biggest decisions your student will make, but as a parent, you play a crucial role in guiding them through the financial and logistical challenges that come with it. What happens when your child’s college plans don’t match your budget or comfort level? Let’s tackle some common concerns and explore ways to navigate these tough college decisions with your student.

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Essential Skills Every College Student Needs for a Successful Career

successful career
Photo by Charlotte May: https://www.pexels.com/

When young adults are in college, they are learning and parsing their way through rigorous academic processes. They are understanding social and emotional nuances and broadening their horizons in ways that they did not previously consider.

They aim to graduate and get a job or start a successful career. If you are on that path, you need some skills for a successful career, including education and moving beyond the boundaries of academia. College students can navigate the transition from college to the workforce with this small collection of competencies.

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Top 5 Things to Consider When Sending Your Child to College

If your child is in the process of thinking about what they want to do in the future then the question of further education might crop up. Many students choose to attend college. Support them wherever you can with whatever they need.

These top five things to consider when sending your child to college should help you guide them along their future path.

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Your Guide to Navigating 2025: Advice for Parents of College-Bound Teens

As 2025 begins, parents of college-bound teens are entering a pivotal year filled with decisions, deadlines, and opportunities. Whether your teen is just starting the college application process or finalizing their plans, here’s how you can support them every step of the way.

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The True Cost of College

Starting college is exciting. It’s a chance to learn, meet new people, and prepare for your future. But along with the excitement comes a long list of costs. College can feel expensive fast. Luckily, by understanding the key expenses and planning ahead, you can handle them without too much stress. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect and how to manage the college costs.

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