Tag Archives: college prep

academics, admissions, college guidance, college planning

7 Reasons to Choose a Small Liberal Arts College

3 Comments
liberal arts college

When families start the college search, big-name universities often steal the spotlight. Large campuses, nationally ranked sports teams, and well-known brand names can feel like the safest path.

Just as my daughter did, many students find their best fit — academically, socially, and financially — at a small liberal arts college (often called an SLAC). If your teen is exploring college options, it’s worth understanding what these schools offer and why they may be the right choice.

1. A Truly Personal Learning Environment

Small liberal arts colleges are typically home to 1,000–3,000 students, compared to tens of thousands at major universities. This means your child will likely sit in classrooms with 15–20 students, not 200. Professors get to know students by name, notice when they’re struggling, and often become mentors. For students who thrive on personal attention, close discussion, and the chance to speak up, this setting can make a big difference.

Continue reading 7 Reasons to Choose a Small Liberal Arts College →
admissions, college fairs, college planning, college prep

What is a Christian College?

christian college

As you explore colleges and universities, you’ll likely notice many that identify as Christian. But what exactly does that mean, and how does a Christian college differ from other institutions of higher education?

For students and families exploring faith-based options, it helps to understand what sets Christian colleges apart. With an emphasis on spiritual growth, service opportunities, and Christ-centered academics, these schools go beyond simply awarding a degree—they aim to equip students to live out their faith in every aspect of life.

A Christian college is an institution of higher education that is founded upon and operates according to Christian principles and teachings. These colleges integrate faith and learning, aiming to provide an academic environment where spiritual development is considered as important as intellectual growth.

Continue reading What is a Christian College? →
admissions, career planning, college prep, financial aid, independence

The Top 7 Conversations Parents Have During College Prep

2 Comments
Top conversations parents have during college prep

If you’re the parent of a high school student preparing for college, chances are you’re having many of the same conversations as other families going through this journey. The process can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Here are the top conversations parents have during college prep:

Continue reading The Top 7 Conversations Parents Have During College Prep →
college costs, college guidance, college planning, college prep, financial planning

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

1 Comment
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.

Continue reading The Rise of the 3-Year Degree: What You Need to Know →
career planning, college prep, extracurricular activities

The Benefits of Extracurriculars

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.

Continue reading The Benefits of Extracurriculars →
college prep, parenting, Wednesdays parent

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

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:

Continue reading How to Talk to Your Teen About College Without the Eye Rolls →
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.

Continue reading Planning for College: 5 Stress-Free Tips →
college fairs, college planning, college prep

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.

Continue reading How to Make the Most of Spring College Fairs and Info Sessions →
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?”

Continue reading College Application Season Starts Now for Rising Seniors →
college guidance, college planning, college prep, parenting, Wednesdays parent

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.

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