Congratulations on your acceptance! Your hard work has paid off and you’re heading to college. Whether you’ve already selected your college or narrowed it down to your top choices, it’s time to celebrate this achievement. But if you’re wondering, “I got accepted to college, now what?”—this practical guide is here to walk you through every…
As summer approaches, many parents worry about whether their high schoolers will use the time “wisely.” While that concern is understandable, my 30 years as a college counselor have shown me that it’s often misplaced. In today’s busy world, we have the exact opposite concerns. Our students rarely get enough unstructured time. From preschool playdates…
How AP Classes Became the Gold Standard Once upon a time, Advanced Placement (AP) courses were an opportunity for ambitious students to go beyond their high school’s curriculum. When the program launched in the 1950s, there were just 11 subjects and a few thousand students enrolled. Today, there are over 38 AP courses, with 2.8…
For decades, standardized testing has played a major role in college admissions. But in recent years, the landscape has shifted dramatically, leaving students and parents uncertain about what colleges truly expect. Some schools have long believed that SAT and ACT scores don’t fully predict student success, choosing to admit students based on GPA, coursework rigor,…
The college application process isn’t just about essays, deadlines, and decisions—it’s a major life transition for both students and their families. As exciting as it is to see your child take this next step, it can also feel overwhelming, emotional, and even a little bittersweet. For students, college represents a new level of independence, and…
As our society navigates the skilled worker shortage, it’s crucial to acknowledge the significance of both college and technical school paths. Each offers unique benefits, and students should feel empowered to choose the path that aligns with their interests and skills. Skilled Technical Workers Shortages There is a skilled worker shortage in our country…
The stress generated by the college application process can be overwhelming for both students and parents, but this can also be a time for growth in your relationships. Although the process should be student-led, parents who use a supportive and positive approach can play a significant role in ensuring a smooth experience. Here’s how you…
In the world of college applications, students face numerous options, from selecting the perfect colleges to determining the most suitable deadline type. Trust me when I say that choosing the right plan for you is crucial to your success. The key point is this: never choose a deadline that will prevent you from submitting a…
In the age of rapid technological advancements, we’re faced with a crucial question: What role should Artificial Intelligence (AI) play in the classroom? As AI applications like ChatGPT become more prevalent, it’s vital for educators and students alike to consider the potential implications on academic inquiry and learning. While there are undeniable benefits to harnessing…
The Common App has transformed college applications since its inception in 1975, when it was introduced by 15 private colleges. Its evolution has focused on simplifying the process for students, leading to a digital format in 1998 and a complete redesign in 2013, resulting in the streamlined CA4. While the Common App has undoubtedly made…