A few thoughts on the new Common Application
The Common Application has finally been launched. From all of the written comments and what I have heard from educators and students alike, it seems that the Common Application is anything but common...
View ArticleCollege admissions: the need for good grammar affects a student for life
"Seventy-two percent of Americans say it is essential that immigrants living in the United States learn to speak English. Meanwhile, 20% believe it is essential that Americans learn a second language...
View ArticleHoping your child will quality for a college athletic scholarship?
Jack is eleven years old. He has been playing ice hockey since he was six. His parents take him to state and national tournaments and he free skates most mornings from 6:30 to 8:00 before school...
View ArticleCollege applicants: Don't miss out. Read your email.
The college admissions process is a very hectic time for high school students and their parents. There are applications to fill out, essays to write, SAT and ACT tests to register for, and lots of...
View ArticleTransition to college: the importance of the first few weeks
I always tell the college-bound students with whom I work that it takes time to feel comfortable in their transition to college and a new environment. Adjusting to college is more difficult for some...
View ArticleNACAC: A national conference for all involved in college admissions
The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) is having its annual conference in Toronto this week. This is a wonderful opportunity for professional development for high school...
View Article5 tips for success on the SAT test
SAT and ACT scores continue to be an important factor for college admissions. While some argue that these tests do not demonstrate college readiness, college admissions officers often consider them...
View ArticleIs the common app finally fixed?
It has been nothing but months of frustration for college applicants, high schools, colleges, counselors and college consultants. Ever since the Common Application made its 6 million debut on August 1...
View ArticleCommon application: more than a few limited glitches
Kyle spent three hours on Sunday trying to submit his Common Application to no avail. The system simply would not allow it to go through. Elizabeth was able to submit her application on Tuesday, but...
View ArticleWelcome the holidays with your college student coming home
They are exhausted from college life, concerned about finals, and feeling some confusing emotions about spending their first Thanksgiving or Christmas with the family. Most parents are excited to see...
View ArticleSAT and ACT test prep improves scores for college admissions and scholarships
PSAT scores were released this week by the College Board. High schools juniors who took the PSAT can get their scores from their high school counselors. This is also a good time for students and their...
View ArticleFAFSA: Your key to financial aid for college
Applying for financial aid can be a challenge and many parents delay the process as long as they can. Some think they need to wait until their taxes have been filed, when in fact an estimate based on...
View ArticleHow to find the best test prep for your child
College admissions tests, specifically the SAT and ACT, are one of the biggest sources of stress and anxiety for high school students. Test Prep is not easy, but it is essential considering that your...
View ArticleHow to get college scholarships
If I could talk to parents when their children are beginning high school, I would tell them two things: Encourage your child to take challenging courses and make the best grades possible and help them...
View ArticleHow to deal with college rejection
By April 1st most college applicants will know where they have been accepted, wait-listed or rejected. College rejection is especially difficult for teenagers to handle. Many upon receiving the letter...
View ArticleStarting the college search
Starting the college search can be a stressful experience for many students. Most do not know where to begin. Some simply decide to go to their local state university and do not consider another...
View ArticleSo it's time to begin your college search
Beginning the college search is a critical part of college planning. It can be exciting but overwhelming at the same time. Choosing a college is one of the most important life decisions your child...
View ArticleWhat do colleges want to see in prospective college applicants?
Sometimes it is hard to tell what colleges are really looking for in their prospective college applicants. Getting into college will be easier if you consider how colleges make college admissions...
View ArticleBoost your college admission chances with summer activities that count
Jobs are scarce and summer is upon us. Do you hang out at the pool for the next few months or decide to explore some other opportunities? Your summer experiences can often give colleges a good idea of...
View ArticleClearing up misconceptions about college consultants
I can only speak for myself, but I know many other college consultants who are concerned with the misconceptions that exist about independent college consultants. First, most of us do not have...
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