The college application process is often one of the most stressful periods in a high school student’s life. There are several—thousands—of colleges to choose from, and for many students and their parents, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Taking a strategic, patient approach can make […]
A Targeted College Search Read More »
Summer is more than just a break from academics—it’s a tremendous opportunity that high school students can use to engage in meaningful summer service activities. These service activities can significantly enhance their college applications, and provide them with life-changing experiences. Grades, test scores, and crisp admissions essays will always matter, but participating in significant service
Is Summer Service Right For Your Student? Read More »
Finally, your student has been admitted to college. Yay! One challenge though, is they’ve likely been admitted to more than one college. They now have to make a critical decision: where they’ll attend. As a parent, your role during this stage is crucial—not to make the decision for them, but to support, guide, and help
Making Their College Choice Read More »
It happens to many of us—a rocky start to the semester throws us for a loop, and we’re left wondering if we can recover. In a word, yes, but it will take honesty and often new approaches for your student to finish the semester strong. The final stretch of the semester offers them an opportunity
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The federal student loan system in the United States is designed to help students finance their college education, making it more affordable. But even with the opportunities student loans provide, few of us understand how they really work. Note: the information in this post is accurate as of late February, 2025. Changes may occur afterwards.
How Federal Student Loans Work Read More »
Parents of new college students often worry that their students will receive the support they need to succeed in college. Fair enough. But the way that college students grow isn’t solely from the support they receive. It starts with them taking on the challenges of a very different way of learning. Challenge and support is
Students Need Challenge and Support Read More »
In the past, I’ve offered college students ideas for filling their holiday breaks with internship and other career-oriented activities. On the other hand, the break also offers college students a tremendous opportunity to step back from their academic responsibilities, allowing them time for rest and rejuvenation. Holiday breaks—and taking some time for themselves during these
Letting College Students Rest During Holiday Breaks Read More »
Faculty are the single most important group offering learning experiences for students at colleges. Working effectively with them should be your student’s top priority. Connecting with faculty not only enhances a student’s college experience but can open doors to mentorship, research opportunities, and career guidance. Academic Success Through Connecting With Faculty Positive relationships with faculty
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There is little that warms the hearts of college students more than receiving a CARE package from home. These bundles of food, cards and other goodies helps students feel more at home while at school, and I highly encourage you to send them. The First CARE Packages Shortly after World War II, the Cooperative for
Yes, Send Them CARE Packages Read More »
As your student makes their final preparations for college and new student orientation, don’t think for a minute that your work is done. In fact, this new phase of parenting is equally challenging. One way to ease into your new role is to be sure to connect with other parents during new student orientation. Why
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