a2z College Planning

3 Important College Deadlines You Should Know

2012-02-08T08:39:00.000-05:00

There are a number of important deadlines related to making a choice of colleges. Juniors and seniors in high school begin early to look at colleges and universities. Some will choose their school based upon its proximity from home. Other students will select their institution of higher learning based upon the programs that it offers. It doesn’t matter, how you choose the right college.

Following the guidelines for admissions and other college components are essential for every school. There are deadlines for admissions, scholarships, financial aid and other things. These deadlines will differ depending on the school. If you are interested in attending a particular university, you need to know what the deadlines are for everything that affects you. This information is easy to get. College websites are a wealth of information for potential students. Here are 3 reasons to stay on top of the deadlines of your school:

1 - Getting Admitted

Some schools have relaxed rules when it comes to the admission process. Others however are a bit more complex. Either way, admission deadlines each year will impact you. Most students are interested in beginning school during the fall semester. This is normally the month of August or the month of September. In order to take classes in the fall, you will usually need to be admitted by the spring.

2 - Receiving Aid

Many students around the country are going to need financial assistance for college. This means applying for help before the end of deadlines. Depending on your school there may be one form required for financial aid and scholarships. This aid is based upon the application process, which has a time period for consideration. Students should consider this a priority when they want to attend school in the fall of the year.

3 - Boarding

Not every college or university has enough rooms for students who need them. This is often a matter of first-come, first-served. Considering this it is important for students to meet deadlines for dorm space. Some schools have lotteries for students of each year. Freshmen are often shown priority when it comes to room and board. There are no guarantees when it comes to getting dorm space on some campuses.

4 Tips for Completing the FAFSA

2012-02-02T08:53:00.002-05:00

It is the time of year that college-bound students and families start to look beyond what school they may attend to what the financial aspect of the investment will look like.

All students requesting financial assistance from institutions of higher learning must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to begin the process of determining how much aid specific colleges can offer the incoming student. A paper version of the form is usually available in any high school guidance counselor or local college financial aid office. However, most current applicants submit the FAFSA online.

Provide an accurate household size. This figure is often mistakenly submitted on the application as families have confusion on who qualifies as an actual member of the household. It has nothing to do with relation, but pertains to anyone two which the student's parents (or the actual student) provide more than half of their financial support. This can be siblings or other family members (possibly elderly) that spend part of their time away but still are supported over 50% by the household.

Choose the right parent. Those students with divorced parents face additional confusion when completing the FAFSA. The regulations dictate that the students submit financial information for the parent (and any new spouse) that provides over 50% of support to the student. It does not matter which parent claims the child on their tax return or who has greater court-determined custody.

Proofread for accuracy. Numerical errors and misunderstanding the instructions are very common mistakes that can delay or greatly alter the ease of the application process. The line that produces a great deal of mistaken answers is the question regarding income tax. This is not Adjusted Gross Income or the amount of taxes withheld. It is the number of tax owed, which is only found on IRS Form 1040 (line 55), 1040A (line 35) or 1040EZ (line 11). It is also important to make sure any names listed are full names that appear on the person's U. S. Social Security card.

Stating Actual Wealth. Application answers are to be stated as they are on the day the form is signed. Therefore, if there are major financial situations on the horizon consider how they will affect potential financial aid eligibility. Pay any large up-coming expenses or submit the form before any anticipated large monetary or real estate gifts.

Attend Campus Open House Events

2012-01-25T07:00:00.000-05:00

Families find few decisions more difficult than that of selecting the right college or universities. Both students and parents may have schools that they prefer. The more that you know about an institution of higher learning, the more likely you are to make a wise decision. There are a number of different ways to gather information about specific schools.

You can do research to discover what types of degree programs that are available at each school on your list. This helps you when it comes to selecting a major or even pursuing a career. There’s nothing quite like visiting a campus. This allows students and parents to get a feel for the institution. At the same time, they are able to see for themselves what is offered. Open House events are great tools when it comes to making your selection.

Touring the Campus

Most colleges and universities these days offer Open House events to families. This offers them a way to connect with potential students. At the same time, this is an opportunity for them to show off the best that their campus has to offer. There are a host of events scheduled during Open House. You will have the chance to tour the campus itself, as well as, dorms and class buildings. Families also visit dining facilities, gyms, and other locations on campus.

Choosing a Major

One of the key factors when it comes to choosing a school is the major programs that are offered. Some students enroll with their major already in mind. Many other students select a major after their freshmen year. Open House events are designed to show families the majors that their schools have available. These events often include presentations by individual departments, which provide students with even more information.

Understanding the Cost

Tuition is definitely one of the critical factors when it comes to selecting an institution. Open House events allow families to understand exactly what the tuition includes. They will learn about the cost of classes, room and board, as well as, meal plan options. Comparing this information from university to university can help you to make your decision.

Open House events allow families to come to campuses to visit. These visits are normally a day of fun and excitement. They can be beneficial even if you think you know the details about a school. Meeting staff and instructors is another bonus when it comes to attending an Open House. Oftentimes students are able to make a final decision about an institution by simply visiting a campus setting.

Why Should Parents and Students Plan for College?

2012-01-18T09:21:00.000-05:00

Planning for college is very important in securing your child’s future. College serves as a stepping stone for your child; and as a parent you will need to consider a few important aspects before you make your choice. The first thing that many parents think of is what their budget allows. While that is important; it should not be the only deciding factor when choosing a college for your kids.

The main reason for college attendance is to educate yourself towards your future career goals. This will basically be the deciding factor in terms of the direction one’s life will steer towards, and it will also have a huge impact on your financial stability. College graduates have a better employment rate than their non-qualified counterparts, and this will determine job eligibility and subsequently determine quality of life.

Parents need to consider how these school fees will be paid; since this will make the admission process so much smoother. College fees can also be paid by the student via a bank loan, or with the help of a study loan that will need to be paid back once he or she starts working. Regardless of the method of payment, parents need to be aware of this and offer full support.

Once the financial obligations have been sorted out, parents need to assist their children in making sure that they choose a career path that fits in with their personalities, abilities and talents. There is nothing worse than being stuck in a job that you don’t enjoy; and it will literally become a “job” instead of a career. Most colleges will offer career counseling for students that need guidance or support when making their decisions, and this is usually also offered free of charge.

As the saying goes: "Knowledge is something that nobody can take away from you”, and this is very true. A college education can go a long way in preparing someone for the working world and will also allow individuals to start their own business and open up various other possibilities that can lead to success. Choosing the right career path with full parental support is one of the best and positive choices that one can ever make.

Choose Your School By Major

2012-01-11T07:00:00.000-05:00

Many high school students throughout the state of North Carolina will be looking at colleges and universities. Some of these students and their families will focus on individual schools. Others, however, will be open to the selection of the right school. One of the key things to consider when selecting an institution of higher learning is your major.

Those who know what major they intend to adopt are in a great position when it comes to shopping for schools. Not all colleges will have your particular major. Schools that do have your major of choice, may not have the program that you are interested in. This is why families need to do a bit of research before making a final decision on an institution. Here are some tips for choosing a school by major:

Narrow Down Your Search

When there is a wide selection of institutions in your state, making a choice can be difficult. There are many different ways to narrow down your search for a school. One very important issue that assists you here are the majors that a university offers. It doesn’t matter, whether you are looking for Political Science or Education. Students and parents must search for schools with majors in the degree programs they are interested in.

Look at Programs

Each school is different and has unique majors and programs to offer students. Not all programs are going to be the same. Education for example is a diverse major to consider. There are focuses like early childhood, middle school, and other areas. Depending on your interest, you will have to make your school selection. It is important that you look at each school’s major programs before making a decision.

The size of a college or university doesn’t limit what it may offer you in terms of a major. Other factors may impact your final decision as well. The distance away from home, cost of tuition, and a host of topics will influence your choice. It is always a good idea to look at the majors that an institution offers to you. This will help you to wisely determine which is the best fit for you.

Transitioning from High School to College

2012-01-04T09:19:00.000-05:00

Families will soon be preparing their high school children for the changes that college brings. Juniors and seniors in high school should start thinking about college early, not only preparing to select the right institution, but also preparing for the transition from high school to college life.

This is one of the reasons that parents should assist students in this process. The transition from high school to college can be difficult. In most instances, this is a matter of overall maturity. At the same time, these changes have to do with knowing what to expect. The more students understand about college life, the more they can prepare and transition.

Living in a Dorm

Most freshmen come to their campuses never having lived away from home. They may also not be accustomed to living in close quarters with others. High school students should make an effort to understand and prepare for dorm life in college. Reading material about campus rules and individual dorms can be helpful. A planned visit to dorms before beginning schools can also assist students in knowing what to expect.

Responsible Study Habits

One of the important things for students to remember about college is that they will have new responsibility. Parents will not be around to chaperone activities and study habits. This means that students must adopt habits that will allow them to get their studies completed. They will need to use organization and scheduling in this process.

Time Management

Time management is absolutely essential for college students. Most campuses have a list of extracurricular activities and events. Coordinating your time for school and time for other things is important. This will allow students to participate and socialize while achieving their academic goals. Being able to manage your time well is the best way to showcase maturity and preparation for higher education.

College can certainly be the most influential time in a child’s life. Much of the information and skills learned during this period will follow students throughout their careers. Learning to transition will allow students to focus on their goals and enjoying what their school has to offer.

The Benefit in Having Supportive Parents

2011-12-31T07:00:00.002-05:00

Children benefit most when their parents are supportive in their daily activities. With supported parents, children can continue to grow and succeed in everything they do. People will actually become more confident if they know that their parents support their decisions.

When it comes to attending a college of your choice, it is important to have your parents’ support. They serve as your first support pillar when you need someone to lean on; which is typically the case with first year students. Going to a new school, being surrounded by new people, studying for long periods of time and taking one test after the other will definitely be somewhat intimidating for many youngsters.

According to recent studies, students with supportive parents are much more likely to succeed academically than those without them. This serves as proof that a student’s college experience largely depends on the support received from family and friends. This is why it is essential for parents to join their kids when visiting a university or college; giving them advice and tips on what to expect and how to take on this new challenge. By supporting students with their college applications, parents are in fact helping them to lay the correct foundation to prepare them for college life.

With students being 81% more likely to graduate from high school if their parents are supportive of their studies and career choices, students can get into prestige colleges much more easily and improve their chances of academic success. While there are many support groups and “college access” programs available for first-time students, nothing beats the solid support structure that parents can provide.

When applying for college admission in North Carolina, you might be faced with many options; and with more than 30 colleges and universities in this State alone, making the right choice might seem impossible. This is where supportive parents come in. They can shed light on your career goals, the more important things to remember, as well as the subjects and goals that you need to focus on.

Having supportive parents will definitely go a long way in helping a student prepare for the first year of college. With loving guidance and a solid foundation, students are very likely to succeed with their career goals and enjoy the journey along the way.

5 Important Facts in College Submissions

2011-12-28T07:00:00.004-05:00

All parents and students come to a point when they have to decide which school to go to. Every college has different submission requirements and standards for you to adhere to. Once you have decided on the college of your choice, you might want to consider the following tips:

Make Contact. You might want to pay the college a visit to get an overall feel for the college and the campus. Also, by meeting with a student advisor at the college you will get an opportunity to ask questions pertaining to the college itself. You might have to find out if there are any additional points to keep in mind when they approve students, or if this particular school will suit your needs.

Plan Ahead. Once you have answered your own questions about several colleges, you have to plan ahead; not only for next year, but the next four years of your future. You must be prepared to set aside study times each day, to ensure that you achieve good grades from the start, and continue to uphold those standards for your entire college period.

Be Motivated. Not everyone gets the opportunity to attend a prestigious college. This should motivate to you to want to become all that you can be. A student must be motivated to ensure that he or she will achieve the best results possible; and if you feel motivated, positive and passionate about your future, you will definitely reap the benefits.

Parents are Vital. Parents of the prospective student are very important. They need to be involved in the student’s submission process and also provide moral support throughout, until the student graduates. You might be a very diligent student, but you will still need support from your parents in order to keep going through tough times, long study periods and tedious tests.

Communication is essential. Communication is very important. If there is no communication from either side, nothing will function properly. As a student, you need to constantly communicate with your teachers, parents and friends. This will help you to identify problem areas and lean on the support structure that you already have.

Choosing the correct college is vital, but you should also keep in mind that as a student, you should look at the characteristics of your prospective college and make the correct academic decision for your future. Choose a college where you believe you will thrive and one that you will enjoy.

Financial Aid 101

2011-12-24T07:00:00.001-05:00

While it is generally considered the responsibility of the family to pay for college, most all students have need for assistance and will receive some type of financial aid upon acceptance to any college or university regardless of a family's economic standing. The process may seem over-whelming and difficult but a few tips can help ease the tension of organizing documents, completing forms, waiting, choosing and responding.

Every student that wants financial aid must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online. Some private or larger public schools may also require the CSS Profile form, which could include school-specific questions. These applications help schools determine the amount of money that they feel the family can contribute toward costs. This is called the Expected Family Contribution (EFC), but is not the actual figure to be paid.

Once the FAFSA/CSS Profile is processed, students will receive a confirmation that the information has been disseminated to each school listed on the forms. Schools will then start to process applications once academic acceptance has been made. Next, students receive correspondence notifying them of various awards.

There are several types of financial aid that can potentially appear on the Award Letter. Gift aid includes grants and scholarships that are based on socio-economic status and do not have to be repaid. Merit-based scholarships consider the student's resume and academic record and, generally, do not have to be repaid. Federal loans are just that, but are often attractive to students and parents based on low interest rates and no credit checks. Private loans may be offered but are not advised.

One tip is to request tax documents as soon after the New Year as possible. They will be needed to accurately complete the applications. If schools require them completed earlier, use the closest estimates possible and expect adjustments to the awards when the exact figures are used.

After students are notified of awards for each school, they can determine how what they are being offered in financial aid and what their family can actually contribute compares to the actual cost of attending each school. This will allow each student and family to choose the best fit both academically and financially.

7 Most Rewarding College Activities

2011-12-21T07:00:00.001-05:00

Many times incoming Freshmen have been so pre-occupied with high school extra-curricular actives in relation to the application and acceptance process that they forget to inquire about opportunities for involvement once they start college. Often, it is the relationships made in college activities that last a lifetime.

• Greek life dominates student life on many college campuses with a large proportion of students participating in sororities and fraternities. First appearing nationally on campuses in the early 19th Century, 'Greek' organizations offer members an instant network of friends that unite for a number of activities from formals and dances to study groups and community service efforts.

• Colleges also feature Student Government organizations usually compiled of members of the student body that either run for election or are appointed as a representative for member organizations. These groups participate in many aspects of campus life from planning entertainment activities for the year to participating in official school board meetings.

• The 'front porch' of most schools is their athletic programs. Not only do sports teams encourage school spirit for fans, alumni and the community, but they become a life-altering endeavor for the participants. Student-athletes usually meet every day for several months just prior and during their season. Team-building skills and friendships flourish in college athletics.

• Arts ensembles and organizations are plentiful on many campuses and also offer rewarding opportunities through performances and exhibitions. Band, chorus, drama and visuals arts are activities that enhance the overall educational experience for students, even if it's not their major area of study.

• Universities have several student-written publications that offer the same camaraderie as other activities on campus. The newspaper, the yearbook and literary magazines are outlets for those students with skills in writing, editing and photography.

• Another niche of activities involves religious groups. Whether it's a denominational or inter-faith organization, students looking for a faith-based campus experience should seek similar groups on their campus.

• Some students do not even have to leave their dormitory to be involved in school-related activities. Residence Life organizations are common on most campuses and provide activities involving those living in specific dorms or for those in living facilities campus-wide.

Travel and the College Experience

2011-12-17T07:00:00.001-05:00

There are many travel and study options available to today’s adventuresome student. Study abroad programs, taking a gap year, or even going to an overseas school are all ways that students gain an education and see a little more of the world while they’re at it.

With the range of study abroad programs geared towards high school students today, students don’t need to wait until college to take part. Often high schools will participate in ‘swap’ programs, where students from different countries are paired up and take turns ‘hosting’ each other. Check with your high school guidance counselor to see what programs might exist at your school.

As with high schools, many colleges are now offering study abroad programs for their students. These usually take place in the upper years of college programs, and may require students to maintain a certain grade level to be eligible. If your high school student is interested in studying abroad, be sure to look into what international experience programs are available at colleges they are checking out. Students should also take time to think about which country they might like to study in- unless they’re fluent in Spanish, they might have a better time at a university in England than Spain. Students who are itching to travel should also look at the academic calendars of host universities- many education institutions in Europe take the entire month of April off for Easter holidays- perfect travel time!

Rather than travelling while part of a study program, some students opt to take a year or two off between high school and college. While private travel does offer unstructured adventure, there are benefits to organizing your travel around a study abroad program. Academic institutions can offer rewarding social experiences, as well as resources and support. As students usually pay the tuition fees of their home university, things like accommodation (think of your dorm room as an affordable hotel!) and rail passes (many require you to be a registered student to receive a discount) can be significantly cheaper than if you went it alone.

Finally, there is the option of actually going to college outside of the US. There are benefits to choosing this option- especially if your student is looking at specialized programs that are only available out of the country- but the international fees that many colleges charge today can be significant. Other factors, such as cost of living, length of study and visa requirements, should be considered prior to making a decision.

In all, there are many opportunities available to today’s jet-setting student. Knowing what experience you’re looking for- and how much you can afford- are important factors to consider when deciding on the perfect travel and study option.

Making the Most of Your First Year at College

2011-12-14T07:00:00.001-05:00

Often students spend so much time preparing for college, they don’t know what to do when they get there! Whether it’s joining a fraternity or social club, playing sports or volunteering, there are many new opportunities available at college. Students, however, need to balance these new experiences with the reason why they’re at college- to get an education. The following are some tips on how students can both respect their academic responsibilities and get the most out of other aspects of college life.

Don’t Blow Off Too Many Classes.

Unlike high school, attendance at college classes is optional, for the most part. Students are often tempted to skip class to sleep in or hang out with friends, and while missing a class here and there can be reasonable; missing too many classes can have very serious consequences for your grades and overall academic standing. Many courses have participation marks, which means just showing up is an easy way to ensure a decent grade. Students should also keep in mind that a low GPA from your first year can be all but impossible to raise, no matter how much work you put into your upper years of college.

Set Up a Schedule.

Maintaining a schedule is just as important to knowing when your paper is due as the date of the next big varsity football game. Pulling all-nighters may seem like an integral part of the college experience, but it is not a productive or sustainable study strategy. By knowing ahead of time when to expect to be busy with school assignments, students can also more effectively plan for (stress-free!) social events.

Visit Your Professor.

Even if you feel you know the course material, taking some time to visit your professor during their office hours can be a very rewarding experience. For students contemplating graduate school, building relationships with professors in your first year can result in comprehensive and positive reference letters when it comes time to apply. A chat with your professor now and then can help you better understand your course material, keep in mind that professors are often great at pointing out resources for your assignments.

Get Enough Sleep, Exercise and Eat Right.

It seems simple, but taking the time to take care of yourself can help you have a positive and productive first year. If you’re tempted by the daily pizza special in the cafeteria, think about taking the stairs instead of the elevator to class. Be sure to check out the school gym- usually its membership is included in your tuition fees. Getting enough sleep is important to not only paying attention in class, but ensuring you have enough energy to hang out with friends.

How to Write an Effective Scholarship Application

2011-12-10T07:00:00.000-05:00

The majority of scholarship applications require students to prepare an essay or statement that outlines their eligibility. Preparing these letters takes a certain amount of skill, as each student is striving to make their application look unique. Students should think carefully about how they craft these statements, as they are intended to help selection committees get a better sense of who the applicants really are.

Start your application early.

Many students do not give themselves enough time to start their applications and find themselves rushing to finish before the deadline. The end result is often a poorly-constructed and weakly-written application. Starting your applications early will give you time to clearly think and articulate your position. Be sure to schedule extra time for editing, especially if someone else will be looking over your paper.

Read through the scholarship application thoroughly.

Remember that you are not simply listing your accomplishments and goals, but rather responding to a specific set of criteria. Are you being weighed based on academic merit? If so, your application should highlight scholastic achievements and academic performance. Is the applicant being evaluated based on community involvement? Consider outlining you volunteer experience in school, at home, in church or other areas. Student should take time to think about what specific experiences and abilities demonstrate their eligibility.

Start your process by writing an outline.

Selection committees will often read through hundreds of applications before making a decision. Using simple and concise language that clearly lays out how you meet-and exceed- the criteria will make it easier for the committee members to understand why you are a perfect fit for the scholarship. An outline, using bullet points with main statements, can make it easier for you to structure a powerful and effective application.

Showcase your strengths, but be realistic about your weaknesses.

Many scholarships seem to look for the perfect, well-rounded candidate- such a student doesn’t exist! Rather, selection committees are looking to learn both about your achievements, and the attitude that got you there. Identifying challenges or adversity you have faced in achieving goals can be a highly effective way of demonstrating both ability and attitude, but be careful not to overdo it. Discussion should be framed around your strengths, as they relate to the eligibility criteria- after all, why would you want to highlight your weaknesses?

Affording College

2011-12-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

For those looking at post-secondary education, the costs associated with a college degree can be staggering. Total student debt for all American college students is estimated at $1 trillion (source: CSNBC), while the average cost of a 4-year college program is over $23,000. With the cost of education on the rise, understanding the financial options available can help ease the burden of a college education on both students and their families.

529s

Registered educational savings plans can help to afford college expenses. Money can be added at any time, tax-free. While these savings plans are best used to incrementally set aside money as the student grows up, they can be started at any time as long as the student it’s intended for is under the age of 18.

Scholarships

There are several types of scholarships which may be available to your student. Many colleges offer competitive entrance scholarships as a way to attract the best and brightest. Students with higher high school academic achievements may be eligible for larger scholarships. If your student is involved in sports, look for available athletic scholarships. There are also many private scholarships and grants associated with specific colleges which have been set up by alumni. Be sure to check out what awards may exist for upper-level college students- some internal awards are only available to students entering their final year of college.

Financial Aid

A college or student loan works just like any other bank loan. Generally student loans are offered with a lower rate of interest for the time the student is in college, although loan scheduling and details will depend on the financial institution. Federal loans are also available to both students and parents, and are a highly common method of financing college educations.

Student Employment

Student employment is another financial option available to support education. Students generally find jobs during the summer months between years, but many are choosing to balance their studies with part-time work during the school term. Student employment can be a great way to make some much-needed cash, as well as provide valuable work experience. Many colleges coordinate paid co-op or internship opportunities, and some colleges offer work-study programs which provides on-campus jobs to students. Exploring employment options or part-time study may find other ways to pay for college without sinking into debt.

5 Ways to NOT Prepare for College

2011-12-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

While people will have different ideas of the ideal college and program, there are a few things that everyone should do when planning for college. Often it can be difficult to know what to do, let alone how to make the right decision. The following are definite ways you should not prepare for college!

Use A Magic Eight Ball

Don’t be tempted to leave your decision up to fate! For many, college options can seem so overwhelming that using a Magic Eight Ball or divining rod seems like a reasonable way to make a choice on which college to attend. With so much time and money that will be invested in this decision, you need to make an informed choice. Doing research, talking to others and sitting down with guidance counselors or college planners are all important ways to gain information about what options are right for your student. In fact, scheduling a meeting with one of these professionals is an important first step in making an informed decision for post-secondary education.

Stay At Home

You would be surprised at the number of students and parents who decide which school to go to without having been to college fairs or even having visited the campus! Course descriptions and types of programs are only one part of the puzzle- other factors like campus layout, extracurricular activities available and meal options at the cafeteria are also important aspects of a positive college experience. Both students and parents should be actively involved in the education, and should make sure to set aside time for campus visits.

Keep Your Opinions to Yourself

Without open communication about college options, you may be in for a nasty surprise, especially if your student is expecting to major in Video Game Production, but you’re looking for the next family doctor. Choosing a college is a decision that should be made jointly between parents and their students; involving students in planning activities from the start can ensure that a decision is reached which everyone can agree on.

Spend All Your Money

College is expensive these days, but that doesn’t mean you have to foot the bill yourself. Your guidance counselor or college planner is well-versed in the types of scholarships, awards and grants that are available to help finance your college education. These funds can often be augmented by student employment or educational plans. Figure out a financial action plan that can help reduce the burden of college education.

Avoid Taking Tests

If there is a college program that doesn’t require an SAT score, chances are your student will find it. While taking college admission tests can be a lot of work and pressure, the study habits and revision

How to Make the Most of a Campus Visit

2011-11-30T07:00:00.000-05:00

College visits are important to making an informed decision on which education institution is right for you. While that program at the state college several hours away might seem good on paper, course sizes and professors aren’t the only factors you should consider. Where you will live, the campus community you will be a part of, and basics like where to eat and study will all play a role in your college experience. To make the most of your campus visits, keep the following in mind:

Take a Student-Guided Tour

Most colleges offer a tour conducted by a current student at the school, and are a great way to get honest feedback from the student perspective. Students are often very honest about sharing their personal opinions of the school and great at answering group questions that frequently come up, both from high school students considering their college and from parents who are anxious about sending their child away to school for the first time.

Do a Private Tour

While taking the official tour is a good way to get a general understanding of how the campus functions, you should also spend time exploring on your own. Often tour guides will highlight the prettiest or more interesting buildings on campus- but this isn’t the entire story. Taking some time to poke around can give you a more complete idea of what each college campus is all about.

Take Pictures and Notes

Chances are you will end up visiting several colleges before you make your final decision. Taking detailed notes and pictures that highlight the pros and cons of each college- as well as your impressions and feelings of the place- will be of great assistance when trying to recall the details months later.

Spend a Day in the Life of a Student

Tailor your campus visit to get a feel of what it would be like to be a student there. Often faculties are grouped in different areas on campus- how far away would your classes be from your residence? What kind of cuisine is offered at the cafeteria? Are there any good study spots in the library? If you know what you want to study, sitting in a course can give you a good idea of what to expect in terms of class size, professors and discussion-most colleges are fine with this if you schedule ahead first.

Explore Beyond the Campus Boundaries

Choosing a college also means choosing a community to live in for several years. While you’ll probably live in residence in your first year, you may want to move off campus at some point. Take some time to explore the neighbourhood around the college. What is the average cost of rent? Is there free street parking? What sort of amenities- like grocery stores, coffee shops or libraries- are there? Getting a sense of the campus and the surrounding area will help you better plan for your complete college experience.

How to Take a Test… and Succeed!

2011-11-26T07:00:00.000-05:00

High school students frequently find that the hardest part of preparing for college is taking tests. If the thought of taking your ACT or SAT has left you awake at nights, or worst yet, waking up in a cold sweat, try this simple guide to bring you peace of mind and ace that test.

Be Prepared

Your preparation for testing begins long before test day. Hopefully, you’ve been studying consistently and diligently to be prepared. The week before a big test, make the commitment to get lots of sleep, to limit your studying to no more than 8 hours a day (and that includes class time!), and to eat well. The day of the test, be sure to wake up in plenty of time for a good breakfast, have your materials (pencils, calculators, etc) ready, and show up to the exam center early so you have time to rest and relax before the test starts.

Starting The Test

Listen closely and/or read closely the instructions you’re given, and be conscious of where to find the clock, if you’re timing your test. If the test is science or math oriented, you might want to jot down formulas or definitions that you’re worried you’ll forget during the test. Start with a positive attitude, and quickly review the questions, highlighting the ones that you know you’ll be able to do quickly. Then, simply start with the easiest, highest value questions and work your way toward the toughest questions as your brain warms up.

During the Test

Not all questions on a test are equal; some might be worth more than others in your final grading. Be sure to budget your time closely, so you aren’t wasting time pondering low value questions that might have you stumped. Give yourself at least 10 minutes towards the end of the test to review your answers, and set a time limit on any big questions, so you know to move on even if you don’t have a complete answer. Unless you’ll incur a penalty for wrong answers, try to answer every question. During your 10 minute review period, don’t second guess yourself unless you’re completely positive the new answer is more accurate. Finally, mentally note the top 2 questions you’re most uncertain about, for review afterwards.

After the Test

Whew! Start by congratulating yourself on completing your test. Take a few minutes to search out the answers to the top 2 questions that you were unsure about, and reassure yourself that you were right (or memorize the answers if you were wrong). If you’re unsure about how you did, you may want to avoid talking to others about the test experience, as it might make you even more anxious. Finally, relax… you’ve done the best you can and you’ll receive your grades soon enough. Focus on the next step of your college application process, and think positive!

Coming Home for Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T07:00:00.001-05:00

Thanksgiving is usually the first time that students return home since having left for college. Although it has only been a few months since they first left home, both students and parents often feel like things are different. For students, it might be the new couch in the living room, or even the younger sibling who’s laid claim to their bedroom. Parents also begin to realize that their student is not the same person they helped move into that college dorm only a few months ago. In addition to dealing with massive amounts of student laundry (don’t forget to stock up on the detergent!) the following are some ideas of what parents and students can expect when students fly home to the nest for the first time.

I’m an Adult Now

There is the urge to treat your child as if they never left home so be conscious if you have a sudden urge to over-parent your child. While it may seem logical to you that you student can help out with chores, or that you can finally provide in-person feedback on study habits and social schedules, students may resent being treated as if they’ve never left home. You’ve spent the last few years preparing them for college and becoming independent; Thanksgiving is that first real test of your new adult-to-adult relationship.

Family Time Versus Social Schedules

Students coming home will be eager to hang out with their old friends, compare notes on college experiences and enjoy their newly-found sense of independence. Parents, on the other hand, see their student’s return as a time for the family to catch up and spend time with each other. Seeing familiar places- the old high school, the old social hangout, the old home- can be a difficult experience for many students, and sharing this experience their friends is important. Making sure there is a balance between family time and social schedules is important to ensuring a happy and healthy holiday.

Leaving Again Can Be Hard

With cleaned clothes in tow, the time has come for your son or daughter to hop on that bus, climb aboard that train, or into the car and head back to school. Often, this good-bye can be harder for both parents and students than when they moved to college at the beginning of the fall. Although difficult, this is perfectly normal. If you or your student might feel upset, remember that Christmas is only a month away!

A Stress-Free Admissions Interview

2011-11-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

You’ve studied hard, survived testing, written your admissions essays, and submitted great references – the payoff is that you’ve been granted an admission interview with one of your top colleges. If you’re like most high school students, you’re both thrilled and anxious; especially if you see yourself as somewhat of an introvert or have trouble dealing with questions in person. Here’s a quick guide to help you succeed with your admissions interview.

Practice, Practice, Practice

It sounds silly, but one of the easiest things you can do is to practice common interview questions with friends and family members. Admission officers frequently work from a very limited list of questions, therefore being prepared for the most common ones will improve your odds of doing well during the exam. Be cautious, however, that you don’t simply memorize what you think is the best answer; officers will have heard all the generic answers. Be sure to answer questions in a genuine and thoughtful manner.

Know Your Successes, Strengths and Weaknesses

Students frequently get flustered when they’re asked questions in person, forgetting all their own great accomplishments when put on the spot. Make a mental note of 3 to 5 successes that you think make you stand out from other applicants, and know your strengths both in the classroom and outside of it in extracurricular activities. No one is perfect, however, so be able to identify and verbalize 1 or 2 weaknesses in yourself, to which you can speak on actively working to improve. In all cases, be confident in your answers and you’ll make a great impression.

Don’t Bury Your Head in a Book

Admissions officers frequently use news events and current affairs to get to know students’ personalities. Simply picking up the morning newspaper or checking in on top news events on TV can help you not only keep perspective before your interview, but also give you the ability to respond quickly with a well-rounded answer. If possible, try to engage the admissions officer in discussion, rather than simply giving your opinion.

Interviewers are looking not for the details but for an overall impression of you. If you did your mock interviews, appeared relaxed and confident in answering their questions, and engaged in two-way conversation, you will have made a good impression.

5 Ways to Compare Colleges

2011-11-16T07:00:00.001-05:00

One of the biggest tasks for high school students is choosing the right college for their future studies. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to choose which to apply to, and even more difficult to choose amongst multiple colleges when one has been accepted. Here are 5 factors that you should consider when stacking your colleges side by side.

Cost

It may not be the most attractive of factors, but it’s the most pragmatic. If you’ve examined the financial aid and scholarships opportunities of a school and decided that you truly can’t afford it, scratching it off the list early can actually help you focus on better opportunities. Be sure to consider all aspects of cost, including travel, housing, tuition, materials, and ancillary fees.

Campus Life

Where do you want to live for 3 to 4 years? That’s the question you should ask yourself when comparing colleges. For most students, moving to college is the first time they’ve been away from home, making the campus life a significant factor in the decision. Looking at the amenities, extracurricular activities, housing options, and campus culture can have a big impact on whether a college is good or just good enough.

College Environment

It is more than just the types of classes and majors offered. Consider things such as average class size, student-to-teacher ratios and whether classes are generally taught by professors or graduate assistants. Think about whether you prefer to learn through hands-on experiences or class discussions.

Location

Consider things like distance from home, geographic location and climate. If you’re used to a smaller town, will the move to a big city be exciting, or a distraction? Are you depending on public transit that is found in larger cities, or are you looking at a campus that is all within walking distance of just the basics?

Gut Feeling

Try to visit your top choices before making any decisions. Talk to students, take a campus tour and even sit in on a class. The best way to get a feel for the college is to experience it the way a student would. Most people know when a school just feels right.

Borrowing Money From Family for College

2011-11-12T07:00:00.002-05:00

Shakespeare is famous for his quote “Neither a borrower nor a lender be” when it comes to sharing money amongst friends and family. But for families in a crunch when it comes to college costs, borrowing from family members might be one of the few options available at a reasonable cost. How can you borrow from family and close friends without worrying about awkward Thanksgiving dinners if things don’t go well?

Make Informed Investments

Whether you’re the investor or the borrower, understanding the basic nature of the borrowing relationship is key. The investor has to have confidence that the borrower will be able to repay the loan, which means having a certain amount of confidence in the student, his/her line of study, as well as future employment opportunities. For the student, this means making smart choices about what college is best, and what program to study, as well as being informed on the employment market, and being prepared to answer questions from the lender on those fronts.

Be Clear On Terms

Miscommunication can be the death of a good relationship; doubly true if money is involved. Before borrowing or lending, make sure that the terms of the arrangement are clearly spelled out in writing and agreed to by both sides. The lender may offer to reduce or waive interest during the study period, while the borrower may request the option of paying back some of the loan during the college years, based on summer employment income. Both sides should agree to an interest rate beforehand (even if it’s variable), and plan for contingencies such as if the student needs to drop out due to illness or emergency, if the student doesn’t graduate, or if the student fails to get a job quickly after graduation.

Agree on Boundaries

Borrowing money from family is truly a case of mixing business with pleasure; pleasure which turns out to be a nightmare when things go wrong. In the age of Facebook, students can feel that family members are scrutinizing their every move, and it can be hard for family members to refrain from commenting “Shouldn’t you be studying?” after every social college outing. Agree on boundaries such as the student sharing end of year grades if the lender doesn’t nose around with family members to find out how the school year is going.

Borrowing from family can be a great way to solve a college financing problem; family can enjoy supporting the next generation of relatives, while students can benefit from better terms than from traditional lenders like banks and financial aid programs.

Navigating the Education System

2011-11-09T10:04:00.000-05:00

LSAT, GRE, SAT...Even just trying to understand the terminology of the college system can make you feel as though you’re learning a new language! With so many institutions, regulations and tests that make up today’s educational system, it can be difficult to understand what educational options exist, let alone which is the right one for your student. A good understanding of the education system is a must, and the following overview can help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Educational System

Educational systems differ from country to country, and from one jurisdiction to another. Generally, most Western countries have compulsory primary education for children starting around age 4 or 5.Students tend to start their secondary or high school education around the age of thirteen, and depending on the system, can graduate as early as sixteen. In England, compulsory high school education in England lasts until a student is 16. At this point, students may opt to continue their secondary education for another two years, which are spent studying towards qualifications known as A-levels which are the basis for admission to post-secondary institutions. In Canada, Quebec students complete high school in their junior year and have the option to attend CÉGEP, a 2-year junior college system which prepares them for either college or vocational studies. The American educational system is a little more straightforward: after twelve years of mandatory schooling, students can then move on to the college system.

What about Standardized Tests?

With so many American students applying to college, standardized tests are a common way in which a student’s academic performance is evaluated and used by academic institutions to determine admission for educational programs. Some tests, like the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or the model used by American College Testing (ACT) are used for general undergraduate college admission. Other tests, such as the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) are tests used for admission to specific professional graduate studies, once an undergraduate college degree has been obtained.

Credits gained in high school Advance Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses can also be considered for college admissions, and have the added bonus of often being counted as credit, allowing students to ‘fast track’ through college. A community college degree can often be put towards a college degree in the same way.

Where does my student fit in?

There is never an easy answer to this question! Some students are extremely focused and seek to fast track through college to their career. Others use their time at college to explore career options while gaining an education. Each path has its benefits and challenges, and a good understanding of what options are available can help you and your student map out the best solution.

Life Skills for College

2011-11-04T20:20:00.000-04:00

In the rush to prepare their children for the academic side of college, many parents often overlook imparting other skills that are important to their child’s academic success and quality of life. Knowing how to grocery shop or how to do laundry is an important support skill that can contribute to a positive college experience. By involving your student in household activities while they are still at home in high school, you are helping equip them with knowledge and resources that can help them succeed in school and in life.

Eating Healthy

Many students who go off to college choose to buy and prepare their own food, rather than purchase a campus meal plan. This certainly has its health benefits- no missing breakfast because they slept in or worrying about what the contents of Monday’s meatloaf- but these benefits can be limited if a student only loads up on snacks and junk food. Poor eating habits have been proven to have an effect on academic performance, so be sure your student has a good understanding of the basics of a healthy diet and lifestyle- check out the USDA’s MyPlate system at http://www.choosemyplate.gov/.

Knowing what to eat is the first step; how to eat well on the cheap is an acquired skill. Students should know how to compare unit prices on items. Often, the plain-wrapped discount or store brand item is several cents cheaper than their brand-name counterparts, so why pay for packaging? Be sure your student know how smell, look and feel for ripeness and freshness in fruits and vegetables. Knowing how to purchase quality meats for low prices is easy- students should look for sales, buy in bulk and freeze into individual portions. Actively include your student in your grocery shopping trips now, and you’ll be helping increase their chance of surviving their first year at college without the dreaded ‘Freshman 15’.

Laundry: The Silent Killer

You would be surprised how many students head off to college without knowing how to do laundry. It may seem simple to you, but those knobs, dials and buttons on the washer can be foreign to those who haven’t used it before. Unless you are okay with your student lugging home giant, stinking piles of laundry for your attention at each holiday, teaching them how to work a washer and dryer is a simple and easy way that can improve their quality of life and save your relationship.

Making a Home out of a House

Having a safe, comfortable place to hang your hat at the end of the day can be a big boost to your student’s mental health. Whether it acts as a quiet place to study, or simply helps to get a good night’s sleep, make sure your student knows how to turn a house into a home is important. When packing all those books and notes for college, make sure some family photos or a favourite blanket get tucked away, too.

Choosing a Profession

2011-11-03T11:46:00.000-04:00

Often, going to college can feel like a reflex response: students need a college degree to be competitive in today’s job market, and rush to enter a program lest they fall behind, falling victim to the ‘everyone else is doing it” mentality. Yet many students struggle in college when confronted with a seemingly endless number of career options and opportunities. Knowing what to consider when considering the future can help make choosing that career and college less frustrating.

When I grow up I want to be...

When your child was six, they wanted to be a firefighter: two years later it was a teacher. While a student’s choice of profession may continue to fluctuate, they will always have certain things they are good at and like doing. Understanding personal interests and abilities is as important to making an informed decision about career paths as statistics related to employment rates and average salaries. Often students feel pressured into certain career paths by their family, friends and the media. While you’d love another doctor or lawyer in the family, this may not align with your son or daughter’s intentions, and being pressured into a career option not of their choosing can often result in poor grades, disinterest or unhappiness. Finding the perfect profession is not easy: studies have shown that the average person switches their career path at least three times in their life. Get your student thinking early about what career choice strikes the right balance between his or her interests and abilities, and you’re helping them establish a sense of self that can lead to a happy, healthy and productive life.

The Quarter-Life Crisis?

Psychological research has shown that many people in their twenties begin to express doubt about their lives, generally brought on after a young person enters “the real world”. Most, if not all, college-age students experience what has come to be known as the ‘quarter-life crisis’. Many going through this phase express feelings of being lost, scared or confused about the future (think The Graduate or Office Space), and concern about a career after graduation can add to the anxiety. While chances are that your student will experience some form of anxiety about their future (who doesn’t?), this can be alleviated by educational and professional choices that are in line with a student’s passions and abilities.

Help! My Son wants to be a Mechanic!

Before you think about disownment, consider this: the average electrician makes about $50,000 a year (source: US Department of Labour). With so many people cashing in the blue collar for an office desk, skilled trades are in high demand. The skilled trades offer job security, entrepreneurial opportunities for the independent-minded, and are often challenging and rewarding experiences. Chances are if your student is already spending more time in the garage or rewiring your house, this might be a good career choice.

Second Thoughts on College Education

2011-10-26T07:00:00.000-04:00

Parents generally expect their children to look forward to college as a way to get away from home and experience life on their own. This is not always the exact case, but many teenagers want to have the experience of moving on to college.

Some see it as a necessary step in becoming mature and progressing to the next point in their lives. If for some reason your child is not among that group, it can have a negative effect on how he or she performs academically.

It is difficult to understand how children will develop because they are all so different. Experiencing new things is very attractive to young people. However, this type character does not always dictate how children will feel about similar opportunities.

You may anticipate that your child won't want to fly from the nest when first given the chance. Whatever you expect, it is impossible to accurately predict how the course of events will take place.

How Far Away from Home?

Parents often want their children to attend the same university they went to themselves, but the distance that school is away from home might be a major factor.

If a young adult wants to attend school away from home, they might not want to be a long distance away. Studies indicate that a large majority of college students attend schools within a hundred miles of home.

The reason why some students don't make it at the next level is because they are too far removed from everything familiar to them. The fear of that happening is often in the back of a student's mind causing doubts about college.

Some students want something so much they will go anywhere to achieve it. They may even want to travel to another country. Then again, there are those who want to venture away from home, but in small steps so they can come home on weekends and not feel distanced and isolated. Just knowing home is within driving distance is comforting to some kids.

The Best Plan for Motivation

The truth is no parent can predict how their teenager will feel about college location. The best thing you can do is to encourage learning at the level your child is at the present time and always be positive about the future college experience.

Even if you are not sure that a particular college is right for your student, carefully choose the comments you make that can be interpreted to disfavor college in general. Then work with your student through the situation as more facts begin to present themselves.

Has Your High School Student Decided on a Major?

2011-10-22T07:00:00.001-04:00

If you begin planning your child's college education and saving for the expenses like most parents, this stage of the process usually begins long before your son or daughter has decided on a major.

There is a smattering of high school students who already know emphatically what they want to do with their futures before they even choose a college, but the majority still has questions when graduation rolls around.

Parent Responsibility

As a parent, you should encourage your child to give some thought to different college majors that interest them. You should not press or attempt to force your child to accept a major based on your own desires, nor should you apply pressure to get a decision within a short timeframe. The time to begin asking and offering suggestions is no later than the 10th grade.

About 1/3 to 1/2 of the courses a student takes in college relate to a major, so it is important to have some basic idea of what direction your child will take at the start of college.

In a 4-year college, a student doesn't have to declare a major until the end of their sophomore year, but you'd prefer to avoid paying for classes that will have no relevance.

Having two majors due to uncertainty is a possibility at some colleges, but it makes academics harder for the student. Most often, the best choice is to have a major and a minor so that a switch can be made or graduate studies may be pursued.

There is some value in declaring late. The student has time to find areas of study that interest and challenge them.

A Difference in Career and Major

A college major does not always dictate what career the graduate will pursue, but accounting, nursing, or engineering, for instance, are trade specific majors that usually offer jobs within their general realms. Some majors have little to do with what profession is planned, only with preparing students for business futures. Many courses overlap and are required in numerous different and even unrelated majors.

Sometimes, in spite of how hard you work with your child to get an answer on a major, you will never arrive at anything concrete. You may consider a preliminary meeting between your student and an advisor to brainstorm and get a valued opinion on possibilities.

Don't stress if your student is undecided even going into their freshman year. This is not uncommon and college advisors are trained and experienced in helping your student make the right choices. Everyone is different and the best decisions are those carefully thought through and evaluated carefully, even if it requires a little more time.

5 People to Talk With About Attending College

2011-10-22T07:00:00.000-04:00

If you want to help your high school student get admitted to the college of their choice, both of you should become familiar with 5 people who can contribute and make a difference. You probably already know one place you should start.

Guidance Counselor

You child should seek advice from the high school guidance counselor on what courses to take to best prepare for college, and the counselor should also encourage your student to sign up for the entrance exams that are necessary to enter college.

Counselors generally offer advice on what schools are a good fit for the individual student's desired degree, too; unfortunately, many counselors are overwhelmed because of their workloads. You may find it necessary to do most of the legwork yourself.

Notable References

Most colleges expect and/or require references from those who know a student personally and can substantiate their character and scholarly accomplishments. These letters are also usually needed for scholarship applications.

It is not possible to have too many reference letters. These should come from coaches, teachers, employers, school club advisors, and members of higher education when possible. Your child should start asking for letters long before it is necessary to apply to college.

Admissions Counselors

Every college has one, and it is their job and goal to make everything as clear as possible so your child has the best chance at admission. It may not always be possible to speak directly with the head of the department, but most schools have capable individuals to help answer questions.

Counselor for Financial Aid

There are important deadlines you must meet to be accepted for financial aid. These come much earlier than you might think. Every college has a financial aid department that explains what is needed and when. There is no penalty for applying early, and that gives you a much better chance of receiving earmarked funds.

Academic Advisor

Your student doesn't stop needing help after being accepted to college. Getting advice from the advisor at that level is very important to be sure that the right courses are taken for the degree that is pursued.

Every student is generally expected to meet with their assigned advisor before being allowed to attend class. Once assigned an advisor, typically this same person remains your student's guide throughout attendance, and their assistance can be of great benefit in many regards.

Someone representing each of these positions will be of valuable assistance to both you and your college student at this very important time in their life. It is essential to take advantage of every available resource.

Is Your Child's High School Performance Jeopardizing College Opportunities?

2011-10-19T07:00:00.000-04:00

Many high school kids go through a phase of revolt where they don't perform up to their potential and think it amusing to appear as if though they don't understand and don't care whether they do or not.

They may fake ignorance of subjects they know very well. This is called the "Cute Idiot" syndrome, and unfortunately it is common; thank goodness in most cases it is also usually only temporary.

This nonsense usually originates from a student who is doing poorly academically and may not have any guidance from home to do any better. The sad thing is that students who are doing well in school often look up to the student and think of them as cool. They emulate the same wiseacre ways to seek the acceptance of the bad kid or to hopefully become more popular themselves.

Some of the signs to watch for if your child suddenly goes "brain dead" and wants to follow in the shoes of the person who is going nowhere are:

1. Always Late for School Activities - You should teach your child to be on time for any event they are expected to attend, and that definitely includes school. This should start in the kindergarten/elementary years and become routine. Being late can progress to cutting classes, too.

2. Losing or Forgetting Homework - This is one of those traits that aggravates teachers to no end. It soon becomes evident to educators that the student who does this doesn't care about class studies, and the teacher will lose interest in wasting time with such a goldbricker.

3. Creating a Scene in Class - The number one trait of a bad student is interrupting the teaching process by attempting to make a circus out of class. Trips to the principal's office probably won't do much good, except to provide some peace for the instructor. The parent usually gets some lame excuse of how their child was mistreated.

4. Postponing Assignments until the Last Minute - This is a problem with many students if their parents don't stay after them. It is a poor habit that may have nothing to do with the "Cute Idiot" syndrome. Still, you can be assured that the person influencing the mutiny is doing the same thing.

These are only four of the ways that a student can jeopardize college opportunities and decent grades because of listening to the wrong drummer. Unfortunately, things can get much worse and lead to many more problems both in school and at home. It is important for parents to get a handle on this behavior early, before extreme damage is done.

Imagine trying to get reference letters for college and scholarship applications from teachers and school officials who have labeled your child's behavior as unacceptable for college. Once the damage is done, it is hard, if even possible, to undo.

How Does Your Child Choose a College Major?

2011-10-15T07:00:00.000-04:00

If you have friends who have already sent kids to college, you probably have heard stories about failure along with the ones on success. Failure isn't always indicative of talent or desire; it can be caused by simple mistakes in choice and judgment. Unfortunately, that can happen at the parent level on occasion.

You Can't Decide for Your Child

Some parents have predetermined ideas about what their children will be professionally when they are still very young, and the lesson all parents eventually learn is that their offspring have different plans and desires from those of the parents. A doctor might wish the same profession for his son, but medicine is not for everyone, or there would be more doctors than the world needs.

It is much better to coach a child to focus on what they want to do in life at a very early age than it is to simply wait for a decision or force a curriculum on them. Children should start narrowing down their career objectives by the 9th grade, and if a child enters their senior year with no clue as to what line of work interests them, it is time to have a discussion on the subject.

Their career or choice of major need not be too exact, but defining it to a broad category can save some tuition for classes at school that may not be necessary for a particular area of study.

Here are some tips that might help your child in choosing a college major.

1. You can find tests online that help your child select a major by simply choosing answers to multiple choice questions. This is a good start if a child is stuck, and the process often makes important points clear.

2. Base career objectives on marketable skills and employment in fields that are viable and will be so in the future.

3. Build on strengths, not hopes. A child who doesn't grasp some subjects very well and really doesn't improve with tutoring won't do well if those subjects are requirements in a career. A student who does poorly in math will struggle in a field of study such as electrical engineering or computer programming.

Choosing a college major has to rank within the top five decisions a young person makes. What they need most from their parents is for them to be helpful and supportive.

Never Take the SAT or ACT Too Lightly

2011-10-12T07:00:00.000-04:00

Everyone knows that an SAT or ACT score is an important part of the college admissions process, and yet many parents send their kids to take the test without any preparation at all.

Either test is a measuring gauge of what a child has learned up to that point in the education system. To achieve the best possible scores on either of these tests, regardless of how good your child's grades are, some preparation is highly recommended.

How important is the SAT or ACT to a college? It is considered the second most important factor in the application. Scores in high school based on the degree of difficulty and any special academic accomplishments beyond those required provides the primary focus of admissions, but poor SAT or ACT scores can be a debilitating factor affecting a college's decision.

Increase College Offers

Higher SAT/ACT scores mean more choices for majors in college as well as more colleges that will have an interest in the student's attendance. While every college is concerned about filling classrooms and receiving tuition, it is the intent to take the students who will be better able to finish the courses and graduate with honors.

Everyone benefits from added points on the test, and some colleges won't even consider a student for acceptance if their scores fall below a certain minimum.

Sponsors offer scholarships every year to students they deem deserving of their offers. They also use the scoring on the ACT or SAT when determining who receives scholarships.

Do Not Underachieve

The student who "settles" for a score rather than attempts to do their best is limiting their potential. This is also indicative of how the student will pursue higher education and life in general. The parent should instill the importance of academic achievement early in the education process and reinforce that concept throughout a child's academic life.

Some study materials for the SAT and ACT are free, but the better prep packages do cost money. Consider it an investment in the child's education that can make the difference in overall college costs and the level of achievement at that level. Sometimes your school's guidance counselor keeps study material on hand to lend to students.

There are four primary fields of study represented in the SAT or ACT; these are Math, Writing, Critical Reading, and Vocabulary. Concentrating more on the weakest subjects is a proven way to get higher scores and achieve more balanced scoring, which is another consideration during evaluation for college acceptance.

Three Ways to Ensure College Success for Your Child

2011-10-08T10:00:00.000-04:00

Parents of high school age children with plans to attend college must prepare in advance. Students who do well at the next level are the ones who began to think about taking that step years before it is time. Most often, the only way that will happen is if the parents press the issue.

Three ways you can help to ensure your student's success at college are:

1 - Choose Challenging High School Courses

Try to push them to take the more difficult classes, like the honors level high school courses. Research has shown kids who take the more difficult courses such as honors math, English, and science do better at college.

The reason why so many students don't make it through the first year of college is they have not learned to work hard enough at their studies. The study skills your child will need at the college level should already be developed before they attend.

2 - Keep a Positive Attitude

Taking harder courses may mean grades lower than those your child would make in easier level classes, but that should be expected. You must be encouraging and helpful instead of judgmental and negative. Try to focus on things you can do to assist, such as helping them find a tutor or suggesting they join a study group.

A positive attitude must be maintained all the way through the college application and selection process and beyond. As you know, even good students may not be accepted by their first college choice. A rejection should not be viewed as a bad situation, just an opportunity to excel at another school.

3 - Visit Colleges That Make Offers

If there is any possibility that your child will attend a particular college, it is highly suggested that both of you visit the campus before making a final decision. Arrange a campus tour in advance and allow sufficient time to cover the campus thoroughly. Discuss your findings at length frankly and honestly and make the decision together.

Two Plans for Parents for College Funding

2011-10-06T07:00:00.000-04:00

If you haven't already decided on a vehicle for saving for your child's higher education, think about a couple of choices that have worked well for many other parents in planning funding for college.

As always, it's best to speak to your personal financial advisor about what plan is best for your family. While I don't particularly endorse or recommend one savings plan over another, below are two possible options that have been in the news recently:

Upromise® for College

A small play on words (you promise) sets the tone for this plan, which originated in 2001. It is free to join and is based on your spending habits. Purchases you make earn as much as 25% cash back in a college fund or just a savings plan. This system works if you don't fall into a trap of buying some things just to get money back.

Some of the items that pay you back are groceries, online shopping, travel purchases, and dining out. Upromise® requires you to register credit cards, grocery cards, and debit cards along with your contact information.

While this sounds a little scary, it is necessary to be sure you get your full credit on purchases hassle-free, and the plan has been around for some time and has proven to be very reputable.

The 529 Plan

Named after Section 529 in the IRS Code, this plan is sponsored by educational institutions or individual states themselves. Every state now has at least one 529 Plan. The 529 offers flexibility in where a child goes to school because it is not state specific when the funds are withdrawn. Your child can live in one state, have a 529 in another, and go to college in a third state under most plans.

States regulate the plans they offer, so all regulations are not completely the same from one to another. A state is not limited to just one plan either, but may offer several. If the plan you choose meets the basic requirements, you have tax benefits for choosing to save in this manner.

The Difference Between Plans

The most obvious difference between the two plans is that the 529 has tax incentives, but it is also strictly a savings plan where you must take money and put it in the kitty.

Upromise® is a way to make money on the necessary and usual expenses in your life. Vendors who agree to Upromise terms do so to acquire your business, which is a good concept as long as you don't pay too much for the products or services or purchase items you don't really need.

You may find other college saving plans that suit your financial situation better or can be used in conjunction with either of these. The important thing is to find some way to put money back for this important part of your child's life, and the earlier you start the better.

When a High School Student Begins to Question if College is Right for Them

2011-10-01T07:00:00.001-04:00

Many high school students go through a phase when they wonder if they are college material. Parents place expectations on their children that college is expected, but sometimes don't realize the doubt and concerns their high school student is facing regarding making important life changing decisions.

Kids go through the thought process of how they've gone to school for years and maybe need some time off. Or their grades might slip and they fear they won't be accepted at a preferred college or university.

There is a lot of peer pressure senior year when kids start to compare ACT/SAT scores and some students get accepted to choice colleges while others may not.

But none of these things should stand between your child going or not going to college if that is what they want to do.

All they may need is some motivation and guidance to keep them on the track to their educational goals. Research has proven that students with trustworthy mentors and/or dedicated parents perform better in school.

Monitoring your child's progress throughout high school is an indicator of when their performance may be falling. Maybe they need some assistance in a particular course, or to attend a summer program to develop their writing or reading skills. Maybe they are struggling in a course that has led them to question their ability to succeed in college.

Whatever the reason may be for this self doubt, keeping the communication lines open is essential to determine if and when a problem exists and then plan the right course of action. This is not always so simple and varies with each individual student.

Delicately try to open the subject for conversation and see where it leads. Keep communication lines open, but don't hover or pry. Monitor grades and if progress falls dramatically, try to offer solutions rather than criticism. It is often possible that a few hours of tutoring each week is all that is needed to get back on track.

Often the biggest challenge a parent faces regarding a high school teenager is showing they care without overdoing it. Continue to provide motivation, help when and where you can, and make sure they know they can talk to you.

Continue to focus on college as a positive path, and proceed as normal in the planning required for your child to attend college after high school. Both you and your student will know at some point if the plan should change and can then discuss possible alternatives.

Just don't give in too easily to their sudden desire to avoid college when it has been something both you and they have been planning all along. Most often it is just a phase they are going through and given a little time and encouragement, they will get back on track.

Freshman Year in High School - Start College Planning Now

2011-09-28T07:00:00.000-04:00

If you walk up to most 9th graders early in their freshman year and ask them about their college preparation plans, you are likely to get a blank stare. Teenagers have so many things on their mind at that age, and college usually isn't one of them. This is perfectly natural, of course, but this is why these kids need guidance to start planning for their future.

Parents and the high school guidance counselor can help students design a preliminary four year academic plan to make sure they are on the right track for college. For instance, if you plan on taking AP courses in hopes of earning college credit in high school, you must be on the right track academically so you'll have all the required pre-requisites out of the way.

Grades are very important in maintaining a college acceptable GPA, and your GPA plays a big part in applying for certain scholarships as well. Don't assume that only your senior year GPA is all that matters. Being serious about your grades indicates a maturity level of someone who is college material.

How you accept the academic challenges of high school reflects how you will deal with even more difficult challenges in college. Teachers expect high school students to act responsibly and aren't as quick to remind students when reports, papers, and homework are due.

By applying yourself to doing more than the minimum required, you build study skills that will help you succeed in college. If there is a particular concept in a class that you don't fully grasp, work extra problems to help in clarification. If the difficulty continues, ask for assistance from the teacher or a tutor before the problem gets worse.

Be sure to join clubs that interest you and participate in club meetings and activities. Colleges look favorably on college applicants with good grades and a history of club participation.

Beginning your college preparation in your high school freshman year is important, but don't forget to enjoy your high school years as well because they go by in a hurry. After graduation, all your friends will scatter to the four winds, so enjoy your times together while you can including sports activities, fund raisers, dances, proms, and so forth.

The PLAN Test - A Resource Tool for High School Sophomores

2011-09-24T07:00:00.001-04:00

It is never really too soon in a child's life to start giving some thought to college. When you enter high school as a freshman, it may seem as though you have plenty of time, and you do have more time to plan than a junior or senior does, but the earlier you start the more prepared you will be when senior year rolls around.

In your sophomore year, you should consider taking the PLAN test. It is an excellent way to better prepare for the ACT. Nearly all students who take PLAN score higher on the ACT than those who don't.

Even though you can take the ACT earlier, the majority of students generally take the ACT/SAT in their junior/senior year. Many students take the ACT multiple times in an attempt to get a higher score. The higher the score, the better chances you have of admission to your choice colleges and the opportunity to apply for certain scholarships that require high ACT results.

The PLAN test is designed to help 10th graders evaluate their academic development, explore different career paths, and make better plans for the remainder of their high school years in anticipation of going to college.

The PLAN test is also beneficial for students who don't plan to go to college but enter the workforce immediately after high school. So even if you are not sure of your plans after high school, you will still benefit from it. There are four multiple choice tests in Math, Science, English, and Reading. Test results indicate both your weak and strong areas so you'll know where to improve.

Your high school guidance counselor should have information on the PLAN test, such as test dates, locations, and test fees. So when you begin your sophomore year, be sure to make plans to take the PLAN test so you will be on the right path for the remainder of your high school years. The more preparations you make for college early in high school, the better prepared you will be when it comes time to apply and seek acceptance at the school of your choice.

Attend College Fairs to Screen for School Possibilities

2011-09-21T07:04:00.000-04:00

Many high schools sponsor college fairs where schools set up exhibits and provide information to potential student candidates. There are also college fairs often held in other locations such as hotels and conference centers that are open to everyone.

These fairs are generally free of charge and vary in size from only 10 schools to more than 100. This is a great opportunity to talk with admission officers about different schools about courses and programs offered, information about the campus and dormitory life, meal plans, tuition costs, financial aid, scholarships, sports programs, and more.

Your high school guidance counselor is a place to start to find out about college fairs to be held in your area and possibly at your school. Here are a few tips on planning for when you are going to attend a college fair:

* Take pen and paper to the fair so you will be prepared to take down information; make notes as you go because you won't remember every detail later

* Take along a bag or satchel to hold brochures, cards, catalogs, etc.

* Using address labels, print several with your name, address, phone number, and date of graduation so you can place them on info cards at the fair rather than writing it every time

* At large fairs, you won't be able to visit every booth or exhibit, so narrow your destinations down to those you are most interested in to avoid running out of time

* Be sure to pick up application forms for any schools you are seriously considering

* For schools that interest you, ask about campus visits because many schools host visitation days with planned activities to help students get the most from their visit

Generally college fairs are held in the summer and/or fall of the year so students have time to plan and evaluate their choices and prepare to apply for acceptance by spring. Even if you have a school in mind you want to attend, going to a college fair can certainly do no harm and you might discover some other schools that interest you that you were not considering before.

Gap Year between High School and College - Good or Bad Idea?

2011-09-17T07:58:00.001-04:00

Not everyone who attends college does so right after they graduate high school. There are varying reasons for this. Some of these are:

Financial complications - there may have been delays in financial aid processing or a student's needs more time to apply for scholarships and possibly work to earn money for school while seeking student aid
Gainful employment - the desire to gain work experience first and have time to decide on a major; you may be able to explore some areas of job interest to determine if they are right for you
Test grades - time for attempts to make better ACT/SAT testing scores in hopes of landing a high level scholarship
Travel - the desire to do some traveling before going right back into school when the summer ends
Internship/Volunteer program - becoming involved in an internship or volunteer program that allows you to travel expenses-paid and/or learn more about a particular field you are considering

There are many people who have successfully obtained a degree who did not attend college the first year after they graduated high school. It simply isn't the same for everyone, and can be a positive experience as long as the year is not wasted laying around on the couch watching television or lounging by the pool; the time should be utilized for something constructive.

There are some things to consider when making the decision to delay beginning college for a year:

Tuition costs generally go up from year to year as opposed to going down, somewhere in the neighborhood of around 8% to 10%
Not everyone with intentions to come back to college actually makes it; priorities change during their time off
The later you start college, the later you'll start your career; depending on your profession, that could result in a loss to the tune of whatever your starting annual salary would be
By waiting until you are ready to start rather than when your parents or peers want you to may result in you being more prepared for college and more receptive to your studies when you do start back to school.

Many colleges allow you to go ahead and apply while in your high school senior year. Once accepted, you simply request that your acceptance be deferred until the following year. There may be time limits on when you must start school in order to retain your acceptance, and not every college offers this option.

Fall College Planning Tips for High School Seniors

2011-09-14T07:56:00.000-04:00

In the fall of your senior year in high school, it is a good time to start putting your short and long term goals for going to college into place. A good basic plan is as follows:

Fall Term of High School Senior Year

* Make a list of potential colleges and school, a max of 8 and a minimum of 5

* Discuss your choices with parents and the high school guidance counselor

* Obtain applications forms for each college on the list and inquire about scholarships and financial aid; review all requirements because some of them may take some time to obtain and/or complete

* Narrow down the list of colleges to between 3 and 5

* Request letters of recommendation from pertinent individuals; these can be from neighbors, employers, teachers, the guidance counselor, and sports coaches

* Start working on application essays early so you can ask teachers to review them

* Make sure all student aid and scholarship applications are submitted by their due dates

Important Considerations

Because most college applications require an application fee, it is important to have the most accurate list possible as applying to numerous schools you may not even be interested in attending can be costly.

Universities and colleges have scholarships offered specific to them and will require individual applications. You can view most of these online. Your high school guidance counselor can also advise you of other scholarships that are not specific to a school but are local scholarships offered only in your area.

If you are planning to apply for early college admission, many schools will need your SAT/ACT scores as early as November. You must research to find out testing dates in your area and register in advance. Allow sufficient time for test results to be calculated and delivered; this usually involves weeks so don't wait until the last minute.

Your senior year will pass quickly so it is important to start early in your preparations for the many tasks that must be completed in order for you to enter college after you graduate. Don't wait until the last minute; start getting organized early.

Challenges of Preparing the Home Schooled Child for College

2011-09-10T07:55:00.000-04:00

According to numbers from the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2010 there were approximately 54 million children living in the country between the ages of 5 and 17. Based on the numbers of kids who are home schooled, that means 1 out of every 25 does not attend public schools. There are also other children in Christian schools not included as part of the public system.

Some children are a part of an "underground" community because the families face compulsory attendance laws. The parents don't register their children and attempt to school them on their own.

This estimated 4% of America's children still have needs to go on to higher education, no matter how they get a diploma. There are varying opinions on the merits of home schooling, and valid arguments can be made both for and against.

Some home schooled children display a much broader grasp of their required studies than many of those in the same age group who attend public school. The quality of education for home taught children has climbed as the numbers being taught have increased.

If your children are home schooled, you obviously have your reasons for taking this route. As a parent, it requires dedication and hard work to provide a quality education at home, and preparing for college is a serious part of the home schooling process.

Probably the greatest challenge that faces the home schooled child is the vast difference from the atmosphere at home and that in college. The way a parent prepares a child has a great deal to do with how successful the college experience will be.

Thirty years ago there were only around 20,000 home schooled children. Thanks to the increase in numbers of the home schooled, the internet emerged as a highly used teaching tool. Today parents are better equipped with the right resources and information to present a more structured learning environment and program.

Parents also must educate themselves as to what is required for their home school child to be accepted into college. The role becomes that not only of parent and teacher, but guidance counselor as well. Fortunately, information is available to guide parents as far as courses required for certain diplomas, testing requirements, and more.

Preparing a home schooled child academically and socially for college is a challenge, but the well prepared parent does have the advantage of more one on one time with their student; home school does provide an impressive "teacher/student" ratio.

Also, many home school support groups are available which create opportunities for home schooled children to interact with others and participate in group activities for a more well-rounded education.

A child schooled at home has just as much chance to succeed as any other child in college academics, if the parents have done their job right.

School Resources for Efficient College Planning - The Guidance Counselor

2011-09-07T07:53:00.000-04:00

When the high school years roll around, parents are often less involved at their child's school than they were in the elementary and middle school years. However, there are benefits to opening up communications with certain individuals at the school to help with college planning. This usually includes the school guidance counselor and members of the teaching staff as well.

An often overlooked yet useful school resource is the guidance counselor. They are generally the ones responsible for handling transcripts, tracking student credits to be sure they have what is required for graduation, and much more.

They know what is required for the different types of high school diplomas offered, college scholarships students can apply for, admissions requirements for many different schools and colleges, and tips on applying for financial aid.

Let the guidance counselor at your child's high school know early in the freshman year that your student has plans to attend college. By doing so early, the counselor can better guide you and your child with regard to many different aspects involved with college planning.

Sure, there are many things you and your child can, and should, do on your own for college preparation. However, a trained and experienced guidance counselor can help make the process much easier and possibly steer you toward some benefits and advantages you might not find otherwise.

It is important to avoid taking a back seat with something as important as college planning for your student. The proper planning will assure that your student is fully prepared when it comes time to undergo the proper testing, apply for scholarships and aid, and apply and be accepted at the college they wish to attend.

The high school counselor can provide not only guidance in steps for proper planning, but also other resources such as study materials, suggested clubs your student should join to enhance their college application, and advanced placement course information which can help them sign up for classes that can earn them college credit while still in high school.

Communication between parents and the school can usually be handled via email for parents who work during the day. So don't delay letting the high school counselor know of your student's college intentions. It will help both you and your child plan better for the college years ahead.

Avoiding the Senior Slump: Staying Motivated in Your Final Year

2011-09-03T07:23:00.000-04:00

After all the hard work of Junior Year, and with all the distractions of enjoying the final year of high school, Senior Year students often find themselves sliding a bit, resulting in the Senior Year slump – with dropping grades and a lack of enthusiasm for life after high school. Here are three tips for rising Seniors to keep on track and stay motivated.

Take the Long View

It can be hard to see beyond the life at high school and imagine what your college life will be like, let alone life after formal education. Take a few minutes to visualize what you’d like your long term life to be, how you would like to live, what career you’d like to succeed in, and what goals you’d like to accomplish, whether they be as simple as trying skydiving or as complex as owning your own business. Being able to see what your longer term goals are can help you place in context all the work you’re doing right now, and enjoy each step you complete.

Keep Your Balance

High school Seniors often find it difficult to find a good work/life balance, swinging to one or the other extreme by studying too hard or socializing too much. Finding a balance with study time and achieving academic goals and also spending time with friends and activities you like is important to keep your motivation high and avoid burnout. Further, learning how to maintain this balance in high school puts you one step ahead in college, when the pressure for studying and the increase in distractions can make it even more difficult.

Celebrate Small Successes

With the looming goal ahead of you of getting into your ideal college, it can be easy to forget celebrating small successes as you strive for the future big success. However, constantly deferring celebration can be demotivating and you may feel as though you’re not really making progress in your Senior year. Take time to reward yourself for getting great grades on tests, winning events in your extracurricular activities, or even simply hitting timelines as you complete your college application process, to stay motivated.

Four Study Goals for High School Seniors

2011-08-31T06:58:00.000-04:00

It’s back to school season! As you get ready for your final year of high school, you’ve being stretched in multiple directions – pushing your academic progress to the max to prove that you’re an excellent candidate for your ideal college, but still enjoy the last few months of high school life.

With so much going on, it’s important to set a few goals for yourself, which, when achieved, will help you as you go into college as well.

Get Ready to Read

In college, you will be reading not only more than you did in high school, but also facing more difficult and various resources. Learning to read and absorb material quickly can help you shorten the amount of time you have to spend studying, as well as help you develop more focused and critical reading skills. Consider taking a speed reading course, if necessary.

Learn to Love the Library

In college, you will be expected to do more studying and more research than ever before. Get into the habit of working in the quiet, concentrated environment of a library, and learn to use the research and organization systems of modern libraries.

Brush Up On Your Note Taking Skills

Lectures in college often happen at break-neck speed, with professors delivering material quickly and exploring new concepts in rapid discussion. Be prepared by learning to write quickly and develop shorthand terms that will help you take notes at a fast pace without sacrificing comprehension.

Get Technical

Gone are the days of submitting hand-written assignments, papers and reports. Your professors will expect you to submit all work in properly formatted and annotated form, often submitting digital files. Learning common word processing software such as Microsoft Word and data analysis/graphing software such as Microsoft Excel will ensure that you’re able to turn in well-presented work without stress.

Prepared High School Students Will Perform Better in College

2011-08-27T08:00:00.000-04:00

It is no secret that college graduates earn more than those with only a high school diploma. Back in 2004, 69% of all high school seniors expected to attend college and acquire at least a bachelor's degree.

Of the remaining students, 18% expected to complete some form of secondary education. In 1972, 49% of high school graduates enrolled in college, and by 2005, that percentage had increased to 69%.

This shows the importance that students are placing on higher education and making better salaries in their work life. However, students often are ill prepared for college when they arrive. Almost 1/3 of incoming freshmen at 4-year colleges fall into the remediation class. In 2-year institutions, the rate is as high as 60%.

Improper Preparation and Its Results

College students are taking longer to get degrees and the number of graduates is stagnated. Enrollment in some form of higher education is about 83% of all high school graduates, but the number of students who actually complete and receive a degree is only 52%. Students in 4-year institutions who finish in that time frame only amount to 34% of the total, and well over 60% take 8-1/2 years just to get their B.A.

One estimate suggests that only 34% of all high school graduates are ready for college, which matches the number who finish in four years. To be a part of this group, high school students must graduate with a standard diploma, complete the minimum course requirements, and be able to read at or above the basic level as determined by the National Assessment of Education Progress.

Where Does the Responsibility Lie?

While the numbers of high school students that are fully prepared for college are not as high as they could be, the lack of any consistent policy or plan by educators and policy makers is an area of major concern.

We do not have a clear understanding of why the system doesn't work. From the policy makers point of view, is it possible for federal and state lawmakers to dictate how prepared our students are for college when they leave high school?

As far as the government having the ability to make high school students better prepared, history has shown that it isn't so. The best that parents can do to prepare their high school age children is to work with them and recognize where their problems and weaknesses are.

Providing as much constructive support as possible continues to be the best way to help the high school student. Every parent is responsible even if they only have limited time to help. Maximizing all available resources and working closely with your student is a positive approach to take early in the high school years.

What is the PSAT/NMSQT?

2011-08-24T08:00:00.001-04:00

In 1955, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation was formed as an independent non-profit organization. It receives no government funds and operates from donations that are tax deductible to the donor. The NMSC has annual competitions by way of the National Achievement Scholarship Program and the National Merit Scholarship Program.

What the NMSC Provides

Since its inception, the NMSC has sought to find and honor the best academically talented high school students in the nation and to find support for their continued education. They also assist other organizations that wish to support and sponsor the further education of outstanding high school students.

One of the ways that the NMSC seeks to guide and help students academically is through the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. The test isn't a requirement, but it does a great deal to prepare students for taking the SAT by allowing them to practice and become more confident before they take the test that is so important for college acceptance and scholarship eligibility.

The test not only prepares students for taking the SAT, it provides an opportunity for them to enter the two NMSC sponsored scholarship programs. Also, students have access to tools for career planning to help them with the decision of choosing a college major.

Prepare Your Student with the PSAT/NMSQT

The PSAT/NMSQT prepares students by testing and helping to evaluate problem areas, which include writing and reading skills, and math problem solving skills. While specific facts learned in class are not a part of the test, the content does concentrate on concepts and acquired knowledge that is expected from a student planning on attending college.

Many parents will agree that the PSAT/NMSQT is one of the best ways for students to identify their weaknesses so they can address them and prepare better for taking the SAT. It also indicates where every student stands alongside others applying for college. A simple check mark on the test for "Student Search Service" brings in information on many of the colleges that may be of interest as possible destinations.

Of course, the primary goal of the test is to give students an opportunity to make better test scores on the SAT, receive more college offers, and have more opportunities for college scholarships.

The PSAT/NMSQT is another way to better prepare your student for the challenges of college.

5 Tips to Prepare for Exams

2011-08-13T07:00:00.000-04:00

One of the least favorite things about high school life is final exams. Even though exams constitute an end to classes, it can be a very stressful and difficult time in a student's life. The finals can be the difference in passing or facing a class again.

Few new students know how to study for a final because they become overwhelmed with the volume of material that has been covered. There is also a fear that retention of that material may not be good enough to warrant a passing mark.

Here are some of the best suggestions for ways to improve study habits and get higher grades on finals.

Create an Outline

A student should write down the chronological studies of the class with brief explanations of each subject covered. While doing this, it is possible to form an opinion of what parts were the hardest and in which areas the student is not well versed. This outline should give them a good idea of how much time to spend on each phase based on the amount of time available to study.

Get an Early Start

Students learn the hard way that cramming all night before a test is not conducive to great test scores. While beginning to study too early can be non-productive, a student should never wait until the day before the test. Beginning a full week before test day should provide ample time to make a positive difference. Depending on the start of study and the outline, a student should organize how much material and what material to study each day.

Ask for Help

The first thing a freshman should learn is to seek the best assistance available to them. Few people have ever done well in the higher education system without tutoring in some studies. This is not just true preceding an exam, and should be a common practice when course material doesn't make sense.

Get Plenty of Rest

High school life can be quite taxing if good habits aren't established. It is easy to get sidetracked by other students who do not have a commitment to achieving good scores. No matter what those students decide to do, if you want to do well in your studies you must understand that fun times have their time and place. Proper rest and a good night's sleep leading up to any exam makes for a considerable advantage.

Relax Before the Exam

The last part of preparation is to settle down and be comfortable. A student should plan to have most of the study finished early on the night before the test so there is no pressure to get to the end and impose on rest time.

Student Loans - Build Your Credit Rating By Making Timely Payments

2011-08-10T09:03:00.000-04:00

Many college students find it necessary to apply for loans because they cannot get enough in grants or scholarships to pay for all their school expenses. This should be evident at the time a student leaves for school, but it can be based on factors that surface after they are in attendance.

A change in major or additional studies may require more funds, or financial aid award amounts may be decreased for any number of reasons.

Whether a loan is taken out at the start of the freshman year or is necessary later when grants dwindle, the student must understand that any monies borrowed will have to be repaid at a future date. Hence the name student "loan" in lieu of Pell "Grant."

Did you know that between 1/4 and 1/3 of the people who borrow using student loans miss the very first installment when it is time to begin paying the money back? This doesn't happen just because those borrowers aren't trustworthy. Many students relocate and don't receive any notification until late, and some lose paperwork when they relocate.

It is important to keep records of loans along with the agreement of when the money must begin to be paid back to the lender. Some students have more than one loan, which confuses things if accurate and organized records aren't kept. Several loans can also make it difficult to repay if they remain independent of each other.

According to statistics, when student loans are consolidated into one loan, less than 1/5 of the first payments are missed. There is generally no savings to consolidate all the loans, but it obviously makes it simpler.

Setting up a direct debit from a checking account is a good way to ensure that loan payments are made on time. Some people have a problem with debit payments, but there is an advantage to setting them up. Federal student loan interest rates are reduced by 0.25% for auto debit payments. Some private student loans may be reduced by as much as 0.50%.

Repayment of a student loan has no penalty for paying early like many other types of loans do. Doubling up payments or paying extra whenever possible can save money over the life of the loan. There are also tax savings attributable to the interest paid for student loans, which are taken off aside from other deductions.

While borrowing for an education may not be the first choice, it is a helpful alternative for parents with limited funds and students who cannot otherwise obtain the education they want.

Building a good credit rating early in adulthood is very important, as is maintaining it through the years so you can have the financial security you want.

Politics and Their Effect on College Planning

2011-08-06T07:00:00.000-04:00

Many of the contributing factors that relate to the type of education our children receive are outside of our control. This is not such a monumental statement that you aren't aware of it, but many things can change quickly in the economical situation we find ourselves in presently.

College funding through grants may be entirely different for the next semester following the critical maneuvers taking place in the Senate and House of Representatives at this time. Two conflicting thoughts are about to reach an impasse or a resolution, which will make a huge impact on what funds will be available by the end of the year.

The Democratic concept is that the debt ceiling must be raised and at the same time taxes must be increased to those who are able to pay them. Republicans believe that taxes cannot be levied at this point and do not want to raise the debt ceiling. Whether you follow one line of thinking or the other has little to do with what will eventually happen.

It seems reasonable that spending will have to be cut if any of the numbers will work. That means that funding for only the basic and necessary expenditures can be expected. The problem with that is no one seems to understand what is necessary and what isn't. While one party might consider the financial aid promises made to all the college students in the country a necessary expense, another might not.

One thing that has always proven true in pressure situations is that some decisions will be the wrong ones. Politicians realize that the only way to keep doing their jobs is to make good on promises, and for that reason, they will fight to keep even the programs of least benefit when they were the authors of them.

Anyone who has banked on college grant money to keep their students in school should be looking for backup plans in the event that the channels all dry up. Checking into the availability of student loans would be a good plan now, before so many others look to that option, too.

It may be the 11th hour in the financial situation for the nation, but there is always hope that a resolution might be hammered out that will serve part of the desires of both parties and the educational needs of our college students.

Common Problems College Students Face - Overcoming Adversity

2011-08-03T07:00:00.000-04:00

Every college student wants their experience to be memorable, but in the right way. High school students envision their college years will be full of fun, new social encounters, new experiences, and fond memories. However, there are also many problems college students face throughout their years there, and how they deal with them is essential in their academic, emotional, physical, and social success.

Here are some common problems and some possible solutions for working through them.

Finances - One of the major challenges college students face is that of finances. Many students drop out prior to graduation because they cannot afford the cost. Some have help from parents, others have financial aid, but still with the rising cost of tuition, textbooks, room and board, gasoline, clothing, and other necessities, the challenge is often a difficult one to overcome.

Planning is an essential part of handling the expense of college. Sound money management skills are required, and being creative and responsible when it comes to saving money is essential. Buying used textbooks, finding alternate means of transportation (bicycle, walking, and carpooling), eating out less, and doing without some luxuries can mean the difference is maneuvering your way through school free of debt or having to drop out.

Studies - College usually requires more studying than high school along with more assignments. It is easy to become quickly overwhelmed and fall behind. For those trying to attend school and work part or full time, the study problem is often a great hurdle to overcome.

Don't overdo it, especially in your first semesters at school. It is best to pace yourself and adjust to campus and academic life at college. Carefully consider the number of credit hours you are undertaking as well as their level of difficulty. It might be a good idea to juggle classes so your schedule is not loaded with all the hardest subjects in a single semester. Your advisor can be a valuable resource in helping guide you in your choice of subjects.

Selecting a Major - Many high school and beginning college students stress early on over choosing a major. They become overly concerned with their future professional career and the salary possibilities various jobs offer.

You can begin a broad area of study, such as business, and then narrow the possibilities down after you've got some credit hours on your transcript. Focus on areas of study that you actually have an interest in rather than making it all about the money. Again, your advisor is a resource who can help you make these types of decisions.

These are just a few of the challenges college students face, and if you are dealing with issues of some type you can rest assured you are not alone. Don't struggle in trying to handle the stresses on your own. Discuss your concerns with family, friends, and your advisor; utilize campus resources such as counselors and college staff. Many times these connections have advice and experience that may well offer the solution to your problems.

Problem solving is all a part of maturity and advancing into adulthood; it is what shapes you into the person you are capable of being; it's a part of life.

7 Tips to Help with the High Cost of College Textbooks

2011-07-30T07:00:00.000-04:00

When you first price college textbooks, you instantly understand why you don't want a student taking their courses too lightly. College textbooks are extremely expensive, but they are what they are. You may want to spend some time checking out alternatives to buying new textbooks.

It's difficult to put an estimated cost on textbooks per semester or year because there are many variables based on what courses of study a student takes. A student majoring in English will need many course books as well as others for research, and none of them are cheap. An engineering student can expect to have fewer books, but the ones used are very expensive.

Upon enrollment, students are given a list of the textbooks required for the semester. That is the time to immediately begin a quest to find books for the best prices possible. Pricing for new books is available from the college bookstore, but you want better pricing than that if at all possible.

Here are some suggestions on how to get the best bang for your buck with college textbooks:

1. Buy your books early. As soon as your child is enrolled, begin to look for all the options and the availability of materials.

2. Check with students who have just completed courses your child will be taking and barter for second hand books. You should comparison shop between former students to get the best resale price.

3. Buy based on individual book prices. Don't get into a situation where you buy all of the books from one person unless you can negotiate a price that has the lowest cost for all.

4. Check to see which textbooks you can rent. Not all course materials will have rental possibilities, but many do.

5. Encourage your child to find students who want to sell their books when they have completed courses your student plans to take.

6. Look for course materials in places other than the college bookstore.

7. Check online for textbooks, where former students may sell theirs. Additionally, some books are available online for download. Downloadable textbooks still have a cost, but it is much lower than that of the hard printed copies.

Be positive that you have the right books when you buy. Don't assume that the materials for a class remain the same for every semester. You don't get a bargain by buying outdated and relatively useless books, no matter what the price.

Developing Good Study Habits - The Earlier the Better

2011-07-27T07:00:00.002-04:00

A large number of parents do not help their children develop good study habits during the formative years. Whether it is an oversight or because the adults in the family are tired from the workday, this is an often neglected part of parenting responsibilities.

Failure to properly motivate study can cause problems in high school leading to grades that are not as good as they could be. Poor study habits at the college level can mean the difference between passing and failing.

When Is It Too Late to Instruct?

Although it may be late to influence a child on how to study as a sophomore in high school, it is still better to begin there than when an 18-year old is leaving for college. Unfortunately, that is what happens in many situations.

If you still have a year or two to prepare for your child to attend college, take some time to observe their study habits.

Many students "study" while the television blares in the background or with headphones in their ears. This often is not an exception, but the rule. Of course, this is not the recommended way of learning, and after a child does it for some time, it seems normal, acceptable, and the preferred way to go about studying. When the time comes for college, learning a different routine will be difficult.

What to Expect from Poor Study Habits

Poor study habits in the middle and high school years will only lead to those that are just as bad or worse in college. It's easy to understand why so many college students never complete their studies. The material in college is harder than in high school, and the work done outside of class has less structure and fewer hours put toward it.

A parent may sound like a broken record to their child, but parents should continually stress the importance of having some quiet time every day in college to study. This may not work out in the dorm room because of a roommate, but there are usually places for communal study, supervised and quiet, such as the library.

Closely Watch the Early Grades

The student who has problems early in college is often the one who never studied properly in high school. Parents cannot go back in time and teach better habits, but they can keep close tabs on what happens in the first weeks of college before grades begin to slip. They can encourage study groups to enhance the understanding of harder subjects or look for tutors who will instill better studying habits for the new college student.

The earlier in your child's life you teach and enforce good study habits, the better, and setting the standard in the elementary years is highly recommended.

Tips for Handling College Roommate Problems

2011-07-23T07:00:00.000-04:00

Everyone attending college with plans to room with another student is apprehensive about how things will go with a new roommate. This is an exciting time and everyone hopes for a pleasant experience. Most often, things turn out fine and each roommate quickly finds a new friend to help make the college transition easier. Occasionally though, there are roommate problems and here are some tips on dealing with them.

Mutual Respect - When sharing a room, it is important to respect each other's privacy and personal belongings. It is not okay to assume you can borrow something without asking. It is also not okay to eat and drink food and beverages that belong to your roommate unless offered to you. The relationship will fare much better if both roommates respect each other.

If your roommate does not respect your things or your privacy, you do not have to tolerate it. You should first politely discuss any issues with your roommate, and hopefully that will be the end of it. If not, it may become necessary to mention the problem once again, and if the roommate continues the behavior, you should take up the matter with the dormitory resident advisor.

Don't Live in Misery - If you just cannot tolerate your roommate and spending an entire semester or year with them is just more than you can bear, it is important to take steps to remedy the situation quickly. If you are miserable in the rooming situation, it will affect how well you do in school. Odds are if you are not happy with your roommate, they probably feel the same way you do.

First give considerable thought to what it is you do not like about your roommate. Do they party too much or have friends over too often? Are they messy or have terribly annoying habits? Some things may be fixable, and some may not. If the situation just isn't going to work, it is a good idea to discuss the problem with the resident advisor. Sometimes just talking to someone else about a problem is a big step toward solving it.

Remember that people are different, and not all people are compatible. Keep in mind that you will be attending school for two to four years, so avoid making an enemy if at all possible. You can discuss your feelings with your roommate without becoming angry, and while it is important to vent your frustrations, you should be willing to listen to their side as well.

Often times it may be that neither of you did anything wrong; maybe you just found a better fit for a roommate. Most importantly, address the situation maturely and honestly. Even if the situation ends with the two of you parting ways, it is still best to get things out in the open and make the change so that both of you can get your mind back on your studies and move on.

College Textbooks - Profiting from Used Books

2011-07-20T07:00:00.000-04:00

When many think of college expenses initially, tuition, room, and board seem to be foremost in their minds. However, there are other expenses associated with college, and one of these is textbooks.

College textbooks are expensive, with required materials in a single course often costing hundreds of dollars. This is true at both expensive private schools and state community colleges. Most college students are always looking for ways to save money, and textbooks is one of those ways.

Many college bookstores offer compensation for used textbooks, but usually the amount paid for them is extremely low, regardless of how good a condition they are in. Some students like to keep some textbooks for some of their courses, but for the most part once a course is completed you have no need to store used textbooks.

The bookstores make more money on new textbooks, so of course they don't want to make it an attractive incentive to sell the used books back to them.

Another alternative that usually provides a better return on the cost is to sell the used books to other students at a discount over what they cost new. This can be done in a variety of ways. Here are some suggestions:

1. School community bulletin boards - Most colleges have a central location where students can post advertisements, community news, and other campus information. This is a great place to post ads for used textbooks you have. Be sure to do so as early as possible after the term ends so students can view the ads prior to the start of the new session.

2. Social media websites - This is another great way to get the word out about used textbooks you have for sale. Take advantage of the communication power of websites like Facebook and Twitter to let others know you have discounted books to save them money on the courses you've already completed.

Some campus bookstores keep updated information on what textbooks will be required for a specific course and instructor. This way, it is easy to check online what books will be required for an upcoming course so a potential buyer can verify you have the books they will need.

Sometimes new editions are released that may outdate the books you have for sale, but often times if you or the potential buyer checks with the instructor, they will allow the dated version to be used for the course.

Selling used textbooks is a great way to help cover the cost of those you will need to purchase for the next term, so don't store them away on a shelf when you might be able to use them to pick up some additional cash for school.

Two Year Versus Four Year Degree - Decision Making Tips

2011-07-16T07:00:00.000-04:00

In your senior year of high school, it's time to give considerable thought to the next major step in your life. For many students, this involves a decision about furthering their education and thinking about the kind of job they'd like to pursue in their professional life.

Students planning to attend college need to decide whether to pursue a two or four year degree. Here are some things to consider when deciding which type of degree is best for you.

1. Time and Expense - College costs money and requires an investment of time. A popular choice for many is to obtain a two-year associates degree and head right on into the workforce. For those who want to pursue their bachelor degree, it is always something they can do later if they choose. Two-year institutions offer a wide variety of vocational degrees, and opting for a two-year program saves both time and money.

2. Location - Where a school is located has a lot to do with cost as students may be in need of room and board. The majority of two-year colleges are geared toward commuting students, and usually they can live at home with their parents or find off campus housing in a shared roommate style environment.

3. Career Jumpstart - Many students don't want to spend four years in college. They prefer to get a degree quickly and land a job in the workforce faster so they can begin to earn money as soon as possible.

4. Four-Year Advantage - A four-year degree does take more time and more money, almost three times as much according to the College Board. However, there are some employers who favor a job candidate with a bachelor degree, and often times those with the higher degree do receive higher salaries depending on the type of degree and job position.

5. Area of Study - Not all areas of study are available in a two-year degree, so what a student plans to pursue will have something to do with the option chosen. There are also some degrees available in both associate and bachelor programs. For instance, a registered nurse can have an associate degree, a bachelor degree, or an advanced degree, and in most areas the nurse holding the associate degree earns the same salary as someone holding the bachelor.

There are several factors to be considered when choosing the type of degree you plan to pursue, and there are definite advantages to both types. A bit of research and planning is necessary in order to place yourself in the program that is right for you.

Tips on Choosing a College Major

2011-07-14T10:22:00.000-04:00

One of the important challenges young adults face when attending college is choosing a major area of study. A lot of time and money is invested in a college education, and the field of study chosen is usually indicative of the career path these graduates will take.

Some students know exactly what they want to major in when they start college. Others may have an idea of a career they want to pursue but are unsure which majors are the right ones to get them there. It is also not uncommon for students to switch majors after entering college.

If a college freshman is not sure of a major, they should not feel overly pressured to choose one right away. Choosing the wrong major can be worse than choosing none at all. Many times simply talking to your college advisor is a solution as they can guide you and help you determine a field of study suited to you specifically.

Choosing a career is a very important life decision, and being passionate about your profession makes for a satisfying and rewarding life. Rather than rushing into a college major choice, it is better to give this decision plenty of thought and research. Talking to others in the same or similar field also helps in the decision making process.

Some degrees are much broader than others as far as career choices go. For instance, someone who pursues a nursing degree will be learning a specific trade and will most likely seek a position in the field of medicine. Someone who pursues a degree in computer science or business administration will have a wider range of career choices based on what is available.

For 4-year degrees, students typically have until the end of their 2nd year to select a major. For associate 2-year degrees, it is best to choose a field of study sometime during the first semester since the education duration is shorter.

The important thing is to take the time to research and explore the choices available. There are many different types of majors, and you may not even be aware of many of them until you begin to explore the choices at individual colleges. Take advantage of available resources including other students, people in specific professions, and of course your college advisor when choosing a college major. It will make your decision much easier.

3 Tips for High School Juniors

2011-07-09T08:47:00.000-04:00

The Junior year of high school is often considered the “Golden Age” of the high school career, when students are comfortable in their school and not under last-year stress before college. It’s also the optimal time to think hard about your college plans, and their implication for future careers. While you don’t have to make any decisions immediately, preparing yourself with information and a well-structured set of goals is the first and critical step. Here are three quick tips for high school Juniors to put you on the right path:

1. Take time to think about what you like to do; dream and imagine ideal careers. With so many different types of jobs and careers, and more emerging every day, it can be overwhelming to try to visualize yourself in a job 3-5 years down the road. Even if you are fairly sure of a career choice, take the time in high school to explore similar (or even vastly different) careers. Explore all your options. Examine your likes and dislikes and take a few career-assessment tests. Answer the question, if you could have any job right now, what would it be -- and why? Don't let any barriers hold you back from finding the perfect career. Your education should be designed to suit your goals, not the other way around.

2. Challenge yourself in high school, but don't overwhelm yourself. High school is free education, a fact that you’ll appreciate when you are being faced with spending tens of thousands of dollars for college! When you can, take the tough and challenging schedule of classes; you'll learn more -- and it will look good to the college admissions staff. Obviously, you need to stay focused on getting good grades, but don't overload your schedule -- or yourself -- so that it makes you sick or burnt out. Be sure to include at least one fun course in your schedule.

3. Discuss careers and colleges with as many adults and other graduates as possible. The best way to find out about different careers is to ask people -- family, neighbors, friends, teachers, counselors -- to tell you about their career and college experiences. If you have not already, begin to build a network of adults who know you and are willing to assist you in your educational and career endeavors. And for careers that truly interest you, consider asking each person if you can shadow him/her at work. You could also consider conducting informational interviews at the same time as the shadowing, or as a less intrusive method of learning more about jobs and careers.

Making the Most of Your Summer Job

2011-07-07T12:55:00.002-04:00

Whether you’re working this summer to save funds for college, or simply to earn a bit of spending money, your summer job can be another great resource for a strong college application. Even the most tedious of jobs, such as working fast-food, retail, or summer camps, can help you develop valuable skills and experience before head off to college.

Build Your Network

Bonding with your coworkers can not only make your job more enjoyable, but can also teach you a valuable lesson in teamwork, as well as build your connection to other students like yourself who will be entering the career workforce in 3-5 years. Take a moment to think about the people you're working with and what you've learned from them. While you won't be in your summer job forever, chances are you can walk away with a valuable life lesson that you've learned from working with your colleagues.

Keep The Education Mindset

While it might be tempted to put your brain on auto-pilot during the two months in which you’re flipping burgers, it would be a mistake. Your brain is a muscle, and like all muscles, it will atrophy if not used for long periods of time, leaving you struggling to get back into the educational mindset come September. Consider looking into learning opportunities at your summer job, whether it’s requesting additional training, cross-training for a different role in the same business, or taking on additional responsibilities in things like health and safety or inspections.

Learn Systems

One of the reasons that large franchise chains are so successful is due to their focus on systems and training. As an employee, you have a front-row seat for learning how large corporations break down the components of running a successful business into discrete tasks and operations. Observing how they run their businesses and train their employees can be valuable knowledge whether you’re going to be navigating the college application system shortly, or you’re going to be looking at a business-related program after high school.

Keep Your Eye on the Prize

Often times, high school students are tempted to push off college for a year or two years when their employer from a summer job offers them a full-time position. While each scenario is different, if you find yourself in this position, ask yourself if the summer job that you’re doing is something that you would be happy doing for 10 years (the equivalent amount of time you would need to equal your college education), or whether it’s something you could consider doing part-time while in college. College graduates on average earn far larger incomes and have more employment opportunities than high school graduates; look at the big picture before you make a decision.

College Support Assistance - Take Advantage of the System

2011-07-02T07:00:00.002-04:00

When you head off to college, you might feel a bit alone at first. Being on your own at this stage of your life is essential in preparing for your future, but it doesn't mean you have to try to figure everything out all by yourself.

College support assistance exists for a reason, and that is to help students adjust and assure their success while in school.

Your Academic Advisor

Most colleges assign students an academic advisor. This is often a professor who teaches in your major field of study but not always. Your advisor is there to guide you in choosing the right courses to complete your degree. If you are undecided on a major field of study, your advisor can assist you with that as well.

Commuter Services

Some students don't live on campus and as commuters they have different needs than those who do. They don't have a dorm room, for example, to return to in between classes where they can rest or study. Many colleges offer commuter services to assist these students such as lounges they can use during their free time. Often there is designated parking for commuters, and there may even be resources to help them find housing off campus.

Medical Assistance

In the event you become ill or need other medical attention, most colleges have on campus clinics for this purpose staffed with qualified doctors and nurses. This is a great resource for treatment especially if you are in a new location and don't have a familiar physician.

Technology Assistance

It is highly likely that any student in college these days will need to use a computer for their coursework. Many colleges have specially designated staff to assist students with internet access and setup so they can stay up to speed in their studies.

The existence of college support assistance makes campus life easier, but only if you utilize the services. These assistance programs and organizations are designed specifically with the student in mind, so don't hesitate to use them to your advantage.

3 Tips on a Smooth Transition from High School to College

2011-06-29T07:00:00.000-04:00

There are many adjustments and changes everyone makes as they progress through life. There's starting school, first date, first car, first job, and then high school. For those who plan to pursue a secondary education, after high school there's college. Here are some tips on making that transition from high school to college smoothly.

1. Managing Time

Responsibility is essential for making a successful transition. Your need proper rest, healthy nutrition, and good organizational skills. All classes should be attended and proper preparations made to show up on time. You need to schedule time for completing all assignments and studying for tests.

Keep a current calendar with all of your assignment due dates and exam dates. If you plan properly, you can avoid last minute stress and sleep loss from having to stay up all night and cram everything in. You will perform better if you stay focused, organized, well rested, and prepared.

2. Avoid Academic Overload

Don't try to take too many difficult courses during your first semester at college. You need time to adjust to a different academic level than you are accustomed to from high school. Also opt for a regular course load.

It is fine to start out with challenging classes, but add some less intense courses into the mix. This gives you time to adjust to what is required of you so you can plan better in future semesters. You need to become familiar with how much time is required for each course such as paper writing, reading, studying for tests, etc.

3. Use the System

There are many useful tools and resources available at college. Don't hesitate to take advantage of them. This means advisors, professors, tutors, clubs, committees, counselors, and student affairs. Most colleges also offer orientation, and it is highly advised to take advantage of it as it will make your transition from high school to college life much easier.

Starting college life is an exciting time for you. It is also challenging and different from what you are used to. The more prepared you are for the challenges you will face, the better able you'll be to handle them and make the transition smoothly.

How To Build Your College Application Short List

2011-06-25T13:29:00.000-04:00

Creating your shortlist of colleges for application will require time, research and a thorough understanding of your personal priorities. Some students have been thinking about certain colleges and universities long before they started the college planning process. Others come into the summer before their senior year having never thought much about where they would like to attend school.

How do you begin a college search that leads you to schools that are the best fit for you academically, socially, and financially?

Location

You will be spending the next four years at this college, so consider if you’d like a small town atmosphere, or the lights of a big city. Is weather really an issue or could you be content in Minnesota in spite of the cold winters? These questions will help you determine which locations you want to consider when you begin your college search.

Size

Do you enjoy having professors who enjoy teaching and are more concerned with undergraduate students than they are with research? Do you want to be part of large lecture classes or would you prefer more discussion? Answering these questions will give you an idea of where your college search should go in terms of size.

Academics

Are you a strong student who enjoys an academic challenge or do you want to look at schools in your college search that will offer you more of a balance between academics and extracurricular activities? If there is a particular area of interest that you feel you want to pursue, you will want schools that offer that major. Again, you will be making determinations that will narrow down the schools in your college search.

What about extracurricular activities?

Maybe you are a musician and want to participate in the university orchestra or a high school athlete who is interested in playing lacrosse in college. Or perhaps you are talented in speech and debate and want a college with a strong forensics team. Extracurricular activities are an important part of college and should be part of your college search.

College Costs

The cost of education need to be considered but should not necessarily limit your college search. It is important when you begin a college list to have at least a few schools that you know are financially affordable. However, there is no reason why you cannot consider a few schools that may be too expensive for your family to afford without financial aid. You may never know what kind of scholarships and financial aid may be offered to you if you don't bother to add the schools to your list and consider applying.

5 Tips for Scholarship Applications

2011-06-23T08:04:00.003-04:00

Applying for scholarships can be time consuming and takes dedication and motivation. But the thousands of dollars you could receive make the effort worthwhile. Here are some hints to help you apply for and win scholarships.

Take the Initiative

No one is going to track you down to give you a scholarship; you must do the legwork yourself. So when you find awards with eligibility criteria that you can meet, contact the provider and request a scholarship application packet. Whether you have to request the application via email, phone or by sending in a self-addressed stamped envelope, do it early to give the information time to get to you. There's just no other way to get the ball rolling than to take the initiative and be assertive in requesting information.

Watch Deadlines

Most scholarship providers set deadlines, and you must adhere to them. Make sure you submit all required all materials well before the deadline. If the scholarship deadline is approaching and you have not yet received the application packet that you requested earlier, follow up with the provider and request the application packet again. You do not want to miss a deadline, as few scholarship providers will consider late applications.

Get Organized

Good organizational skills can pay off: literally! Keep your scholarship applications ordered by deadline date. Give yourself plenty of time to complete and send them in well before the due date. Keep letters of recommendation and transcripts on hand so you don't have to obtain new ones every time they are required for an application. Make copies of your completed scholarship applications before sending them in, and file them in folders labeled with the deadline date and the mailing address and phone number of the scholarship provider. Call before the deadline to see if your application was received in good order. If it got lost in the mail (glitches happen), you still have an extra copy you can send in.

Be Persistent

The scholarship search process doesn't happen overnight. You must be diligent about looking for new scholarships to apply for. Plan to spend several hours each month reviewing the programs with deadlines approaching, preparing application packets, and getting your applications in the mail on time.

Stay Upbeat

Finally, believe in yourself and in your chances to win scholarships. Hard work and time spent on the scholarship process will pay off eventually. Keep your chin up and think about how great the reward will be if you can win even one of the scholarships you're trying for. After all, your education depends on it!

Guide Your College Freshman Toward Structured Organizations

2011-06-18T08:00:00.000-04:00

Every parent worries about how their child will react when first attending college, and there's certainly a good cause for concern. Young people often view the freedom they experience as a college freshman as a time to do some things they were not allowed to do at home. Even though a child has been very level headed most of their life, leaving home for college has a way of bringing on a form of "freshman amnesia."

Research has shown that students who participate in structured organizations and clubs usually do better in school, both academically and socially. This is true not only in high school and college, but at the elementary and middle school levels as well. Team sports are another way to help build the character of students and aid in their social development.

What the College Offers

Most colleges and universities list the various organizations, clubs, and sports teams they offer on their website. College brochures and catalogs are another place to gather information on what your child's destination campus offers.

It may be that you and your high school student selected a particular school because of the different organizations and clubs available. Both student led and college sponsored groups provide many opportunities for a well rounded social life for the young student.

As a parent, you should never mandate what organizations or clubs your child joins because no matter what you say, your student will not get much from something that presents no interest to them. Their college experience will be much improved if they are allowed to make decisions for themselves regarding many different aspects of campus life.

There are some groups in college that you want your child to avoid, like the ones that have no useful purpose or structure. If a new college student doesn't become a part of the prolific groups, there is a good chance that they will end up in the wrong ones. Keep the communication lines open, and gently direct as needed if your student seems to be drifting in with the wrong crowd.

Should Your College Student Work During Freshman Year?

2011-06-15T08:00:00.000-04:00

There have always been differing opinions on whether college freshmen should work while they attend school. One view is that college courses are going to be much harder than what a teenager has experienced before. For that reason, most every spare moment will need to be spent on studying in order to achieve acceptable grades.

While the adjustment is hard on most freshmen students in the beginning, it is another contention that after settling into college life, students are not going to spend all their time studying whether they work or not. Learning the responsibility of work builds character and a work ethic, and both are necessary for successful survival at the next level of existence.

Some parents also feel that working provides students with the opportunity to earn their own income for spending (and hopefully saving, too). Many parents are struggling enough just to manage tuition, books, and other college costs. So a part time job to cover some of the expense provides some relief for the parents.

Although there is validity to both "schools" of thought, a great more has to do with the child than the preconceived notions of the parents. Some freshmen hold down jobs and still do well in school, and some even enjoy working part time. But not every student will perform the same way; there are many factors involved that are specific to each student.

The first semester of college is the most important, and if it is not an extreme financial hardship, it is usually better that a freshman doesn't work. Being new to school and needing to study more is much of a job in itself. Depending on how well the child does with those first classes, working some for spending money might be something to do after freshman year.

Some fields of study are more demanding than others, and some students take on more credit hour load than others do. If things get really hard really fast, some students will simply give up and decide it's easier to go home than to try to make a go of higher education. Sometimes postponing work until at least second semester may make a real difference in whether a student performs well enough during their first attempt at college classes.

After putting out a large amount of money to enroll a student in college, it is much better to give all the support necessary so that your student is not one of those who never sees a 4th year in college, possibly not even a 2nd or 3rd. Even if a child is old enough to make their own decisions, that doesn't mean that they aren't still under the parents' care in many regards.

Working while attending college does build character, but it should not be a preventative in a student receiving their education. Every student is different, and the first weeks at college may require some adjustments so that your child acclimates and focuses on the primary reason why they are there: to receive an education. If work can fit into the mix and not disrupt studies, then work/study is a positive combination.

9 Helpful Tips for College Bound Freshmen

2011-06-11T07:00:00.001-04:00

The excitement of going to college can crash and burn rather quickly a few days into the actual school year. Here are some tips to help you deal with that first year away from home at college. Adjusting to campus life doesn't have to be difficult if you have an idea what to anticipate.

1. Expect to get homesick - When high school graduation comes, it seems that every 18-year old believes they are grown and ready to face the world. The reality is that after leaving home, there is always some sadness. This is perfectly natural, but be prepared to cope.

2. Make new friends - Sure it is great to keep your existing friends from back home, but now that you are in a new place, you need to make new friends you will see on a regular basis. Other freshmen are looking to make friends, too, and campus life is easier when you build relationships and can rely on each other.

3. Orientations are helpful - Orientations are designed for a reason, and that is to help new students acclimate successfully to campus life. Some are mandatory, some are optional, but either way you stand to learn something that will help you in your adjustment to college life.

4. Don't miss class - Remember that attending class is very important. There are many other young adults who would love to be in your shoes but don't have the opportunity or funds to attend college. Secondary education is a prized opportunity, so get out of bed on time and attend all classes.

5. Don't expect to be treated like a high school student - College professors and teachers are not going to remind you of tests and homework the way your high school teachers spoiled you. You are the responsible party and must keep up with your studies if you want to "make the grade."

6. Eat right - Mom isn't there to stand over you and tell you to eat your fruit and vegetables. Proper nutrition is essential for a well functioning mind. Avoid a daily diet of sugar and fast food. The campus cafeteria typically serves well balanced options. Snack on fruits, vegetables, and drink plenty of water daily.

7. No one will tell you when to study - Mom and dad won't be around to tell you to turn off the television, study for a test, or when you should get in bed. You are an adult now and need to make grown-up decisions. It is okay to have fun and participate in quality activities other than just studying, but you are there to get an education.

8. Learn patience and giving - Many freshmen have never had to share a room with another individual, so it can be an awakening when a roommate doesn't share the same interests. You cannot always do exactly what you want in the confines of your college dorm room. It is a shared space and each student should respect the other's rights.

9. Don't be shy about asking for help - College is not going to be easy, especially in certain subjects. There are always people who can help with tutoring or as study partners if you ask. Take every advantage to get the best education you can.

To keep the excitement you have for going away for college, prepare in advance for the best ways to adjust to life on campus. Make your college experience one that you will remember fondly in the years to come.

College Costs - Personalizing the Dorm Room

2011-06-08T07:00:00.002-04:00

There are so many costs associated with college other than tuition and textbooks. Planning ahead and researching what these costs are can save parents from a big shock as the time nears for their child to leave for college.

Other expenses to expect are meal plans, housing, various campus fees (i.e. parking permits), club memberships, and many other supplies and incidentals. Then there are the costs for the items required in the dormitory living quarters.

One college campus housing department noted that some students are known to spend more than $350 on their dormitory bed linens and other move-in accessories. Of course, parents want their children to have living quarters that are comfortable and homey, but this can be accomplished for less.

One source parents and students can visit online is www.rhl.org "Residence Hall Linens and Dorm Bedding." They offer discounted value packs tailored around the dormitory student. It is a great place to browse even if it is just to create a checklist of things you'll need that are often forgotten.

It is easy to take some things for granted when you are suddenly away from home. Some items that come in handy in a dorm room include a sewing kit, a tool kit (helpful on move-in day), a comfortable mattress pad, and first aid supplies.

Students with laptops will want to be sure they have the necessary security locks to prevent loss from theft. They'll want a clothes hamper for dirty clothes, and a laundry bag is helpful for transporting items to and from the laundry area.

A shower pack is recommended and should contain waterproof sandals, a toothbrush case, a snap-cover soap dish, a plastic cup, and a tote for bath items (shampoo, toothpaste, and conditioner). Keeping things clean and covered is essential for proper hygiene in the dormitory setting.

Other items you might want to consider are specially designed garment and shoe organizers. The idea is to purchase items that can be used for multiple semesters and are designed to require minimal space because dorm rooms are typically small.

A college bound student can set up housekeeping in the dorm room without breaking the budget. It just requires bit of planning and shopping to find the best solutions at the best prices.

The Parent's Checklist for the College Move

2011-06-04T07:00:00.000-04:00

After all the necessary arrangements have been made, the day is fast approaching for the college freshman to move away, and while everything that's moving out with them has been established, there are other last minute things still yet to do. A final checklist of items that need addressing should include the following.

Establish Health Insurance

After your child completes high school, your family plan might change. Make certain that insurance doesn't lapse. It may be better to get health coverage through the college or university.

Contents Insurance Coverage

Your homeowner's policy might cover the student's content in the dorm room, but that should not be automatically assumed. If at some point your child moves off campus, renter's insurance is an important consideration. Electronics and other contents of value can disappear quickly in a college environment.

Cell Package - Keeping the Communication Lines Open

Depending on how far away the college is from home, the current calling plan on the cell phone might need updating for the new student. If changes are made to the plan personally at a local carrier, the student should visit the service representative to hear about how the plan works before leaving home.

If a plan can be established for a reasonable amount, it is much better to have unlimited talk minutes and texting to avoid overruns. The student should know how to check available minutes if the plan is limited.

Automobile Insurance

Your auto policy might make provisions for the use of the car while the student is attending school, especially if they will not be driving while on campus. If it is possible to get prorated or part time insurance because your child won't be a full time driver, it can result in substantial savings.

Credit Cards

With great power comes a great deal of foolish charges for the student who doesn't understand the importance of restraint. Every parent who gives a child a credit card has to make it perfectly clear what it can and can't be used for, along with how much can be charged on a monthly basis.

Fill Out a Health Care Proxy

You may be able to get a form online or from your doctor to have in case something happens to your child medically. You will need something like this before doctors or health care providers will speak to you about your child who is over 18 years old. Many times the school will make arrangements for this document.

Keep Records of Everything

Take everything in the student's wallet and make copies so that replacements can be made should anything become lost. Credit and debit card numbers need to be on file for cancellation quickly should it be necessary.

Lines of Communication with the New College Student

2011-06-01T06:29:00.000-04:00

When all the preparations have been completed, moving has been accomplished, and the child has left for their first year of higher education, it soon settles in that your son or daughter won't be at the table each night and won't have to be called to get up in the morning. The fact is that nothing about the relationship with them will ever be the same again.

The hardest part of the initial separation between parent and college student is establishing lines of communication. For every parent-child relationship the conditions are different, but it is always important to have a feel for balancing contact from the parents' side. This avoids the brand of the "helicopter parent" and establishes a healthy relationship with the child.

Know Who's in Charge

A wise parent will be concerned with establishing communication with other people who will be instrumental in the further education of their child. Information regarding who these people are is often a part of the information received from the college. However, it is always good to confer with an advisor to come up with a contact list for emergencies or when the student is unexpectedly unavailable.

An important thing to remember is to only find out the ground rules, not continually call the contacts. Once you have a reasonable idea of what calls to make, don't persist unless it is absolutely necessary.

Who Calls First?

It is also a good rule to allow the student to make the first call after leaving for college to show trust and give him or her time to settle into new surroundings. It can be hard waiting by the phone and very tempting to break the rule if the student seems remiss in calling. If the student has instructions to call by a certain time, a parent should make a call if that does not occur.

How a parent reacts to the comments of the child away at school has much to do with keeping the line of trust secure. The parent who constantly attempts to direct a child is usually the one that drives the student further away than just the physical miles. Making scattered suggestions instead of continual demands maintains a healthier relationship.

Finally, having routine times to call and visit on the phone is a good way to keep the family connection, but even that should not be so structured that the parent seems like the warden. Allowing the student to take the lead in instigating conversation shows confidence in their decision-making abilities.

Living With a College Roommate

2011-05-28T07:00:00.002-04:00

Freshmen generally share rooms with other incoming students, so it's always a good idea to find out as soon as possible who that other person might be. For most high school students beginning college, it is a severe culture shock to go from a home with plenty of space to a tiny room that is shared with someone they've just met.

Avoiding a Bad Situation

Many new college students lose the desire for higher education based on less than happy experiences with roommates and living in cramped quarters. From a parent's standpoint, making the situation appear as positive as possible is a help, but meeting the person who will be sharing the living accommodations early is also beneficial.

If it is possible, the new students should meet each other somewhere besides their room when they are moving in. They will probably make a better friendship if they don't see each other for the first time under the stress that comes with moving into a dorm room.

An arranged meeting between the two or talking on the phone can better help them understand what resources they can share since the room won't accommodate all the items they are used to having at home. School will begin much more smoothly if the roommates aren't spending so much of the early time trying to decide how to perform basic functions.

College Roommates - Budgeting Through Sharing

One of the toughest challenges for college freshmen is controlling their budget because many of them have no experience with it. If roommates share some of the expenses with each other, and can do so amiably and fairly, both can save some money.

Many times young people go through four years of college with the same friends, and that can begin with the freshman roommate. If the relationship works out, both gain a friend and someone to confide in during some trying times that ultimately come with higher education.

When a parent leaves their child at college, they don't want to be concerned with how he or she will cope with the new person sharing a room with them. A little pre-planning can make a big difference in how that experience turns out.

FAFSA - Where to Start When Seeking College Funding

2011-05-25T07:00:00.002-04:00

An important group of letters every parent should be aware of when considering college for their children is FAFSA. The free application for federal student aid is available online, but if you don't get your name in the hat early, there might not be any funds left when the bell rings on the first day of school.

It may seem that the paperwork for college grants and financial aid are made so that no one can understand how to successfully apply and obtain assistance. Something as simple as a tax return can stop the wheels from turning and place you back at square one. If you wait until the April 15 filing date to send in your tax return, you miss getting your application in early and having the best chances of obtaining college funds.

You can conveniently find deadlines for filing by visiting www.fafsa.ed.gov/deadlines.htm at the FAFSA website. All you need to do is select your state from the drop-down menu and what college your child plans to attend. Keep in mind that your application should be submitted early.

Who Gets the Scholarships?

Scholarships offered in your area are often aimed at the top three percent of the graduating class. What this often means is a few students may get many of the scholarship offers, but they can't possibly use them all. In some cases, the scholarships that are turned back in go to other deserving students, but many times the money goes back into the fund until the next award.

Not landing in the top 3% in no way indicates that your student is not college material. It simply means you'll have to work a little harder to get funding assistance for college expenses.

If your child is not in that upper level, you may be able to find out what happens to scholarships that are not awarded due to default. If you only have time to apply to a limited number of programs, it would be better to spend your efforts on those who will definitely fund the scholarship to someone.

Apply for as many grants and scholarships as you can and as early as possible. Those who obtain college funding assistance are the ones who spend the extra time and learn everything they can about FAFSA.

Building the College Student

2011-05-21T07:00:00.000-04:00

A family should function as a unit, but sadly, many only exist as individuals with entirely different lives, living under one roof. Parents are expected to raise children to be responsible adults, not to pamper or cuddle them without furnishing any direction.

The real determining factor of a prepared college student revolves around control and freedom.

How well your child performs and adjusts to campus life has much to do with their life and upbringing in the years prior to that time, and it is essential to start early when preparing a youngster to grow into a responsible and successful adult.

Begin Teaching at a Young Age

From an early age, children should be taught that life is made up of times of both responsibility and fun. The understanding of the balance should begin no later than when a child begins to attend kindergarten. The biggest mistake a parent can make is to believe that because a child is small, they are not old enough to begin to learn responsibility.

Despite what some parents might believe, children who are directed to do chores and have regular activities to attribute to the family unit are much better adjusted and more prepared to meet the responsibilities and challenges they will encounter throughout life. It is also impossible for an individual to appreciate play time if they have never had any exposure to work time.

A Balanced Individual Makes a Better College Student

Children who learn the facts about work early give the least problems later, and they also typically work harder in school. When a child has the proper work/play balance in place, life as a parent becomes less stressful, and more time can be devoted to finding the best opportunities for the child.

Preparing a teen for college begins at the start of the structured education program, not in their junior or senior year of high school. Here are some tips about how better to create a responsible college student starting in the young years.

1. When teaching a child responsibility, begin with tasks that are easy but necessary. Brushing teeth, combing hair, dressing, and other simple tasks are the beginning of larger and more complicated tasks to come.

2. Always suit the chores and responsibilities to the age of the child. A job too complicated for the individual will result in a sense of failure and a negative attitude regarding the assignment of future tasks.

3. Praise them for a job well done, but constructively correct them regarding any inadequacies. A job that offers no reward even when done well can be a disappointment to a youngster, and reward does not necessarily have to be monetary.

4. Relate work at school with work at home to indicate that they are both important to the betterment of the child.

5. Make sure there is enough time for recreation and give as much freedom in that capacity as is reasonable in conjunction with other responsibilities such as homework and studying.

Picture a child even at the younger ages as an intelligent human being who has reasoning and the ability to make decisions. Remember that learning comes incrementally and requires loosening of the reins throughout the formative years.

When that young person is ready to leave home for college, it matters not that you still see the small child, as long as you have created the responsible adult prepared for the challenges and tasks that come with campus life.

Three Simple Rules for College Assistance

2011-05-18T07:15:00.001-04:00

For many years in America, it has been possible for almost anyone to receive higher education assistance if they pursued it. With decreasing programs and cutbacks in funding on many fronts, it might seem like that time has now passed.

Many students and families are predisposed to allow college financial assistance opportunities to slip by because they worry that their chances are slim for receiving any funding.

It is still very possible to find grants and low cost loans for college education. Scholarships and grants are always the first and primary objective, but never rule out student loans because they are well worth the expense for the advantage gained in the hiring market.

How to Find College Assistance

There are three simple and basic rules to follow when looking for scholarships, grants, loans, and other student assistance. Aside from the student working toward the best possible grades, these rules are most important in the process of seeking higher education assistance for most families.

Start Early

As you may have already found out, it is never too early to scout out the available help programs and learn the earliest dates that you can apply and what you will need to send with any application.

Preparing in advance assures you of meeting all required deadlines and having everything on hand that is required for a complete application. Most all applications for government assisted funding will require income tax returns, so the sooner you can file your current year return, the better.

Identify the Targets

With the available tools and resources for finding assistance, there is no reason for anyone not to locate acceptable programs to apply for. Where are they?

1. The first place to begin is at high school. Staff and student counselors know the primary avenues because of their experience, and most programs regularly notify schools of student assistance opportunities.

2. Online is the best possible place to find information, phone numbers, and contacts.

3. National organizations and industries often have tax-deductible grants for higher education.

4. Begin with the FAFSA federal student aid website and make your application as early as possible for the upcoming year's funding. The application deadlines vary by state, and their website has the information you'll need for applying online.

5. The state government offices can direct you to any earmarked funds for student assistance.

6. Most colleges and universities have private scholarship opportunities. Be sure to apply for any scholarships you are eligible for at the schools you wish to attend. Most of these opportunities can be reviewed online.

Make yourself a list of every available program, what each one requires from you in order to apply, and the application deadline.

Persevere

No one will tell you that it is easy to land the perfect grant or loan for a child's college education, but it certainly won't happen if you don't continue to follow up and provide everything that is required for each agency with which you apply and in a timely fashion. Stay true to the course and you should be successful in your search for college funding assistance.

Learning Your Learning Style

2011-05-14T10:14:00.000-04:00

Ironically, one of the most important skills that you will develop over the course of your high school career is the ability to learn effectively and efficiently. At the same time that you’re learning facts, figures and content in your classes, you should also be paying attention to the learning methods which best suit you and help you retain information for future call back.

While course material is delivered in the same method for all students in a class (generally a mix of lecture, exercises and out-of-class reading assignments), how each student absorbs information may vary dramatically. Learning which learning style gives you the best results can help you not only in high school but throughout your college years.

The Visual Learner

Visual learners do best when they can see material being presented. If you’ve ever found that reading a book with long paragraphs of text causes your attention to wander, while text books with clear illustrations, diagrams or charts immediately help you understand concepts, you may be a strong visual learner.

Visual learners may also find that they do best in lecture settings where they can watch their professors, being able to relate the material being discussed with the body language and facial expressions being used. During individual study, they often “see” their teacher’s delivering the content again in their minds.

For best results, visual learners should sit at the front of a lecture hall, rather than the back, in order to avoid visual distractions. They also benefit from detailed note taking including diagrams, or using mind-map style note taking during both lectures and individual study.

The Auditory Learner

Auditory learners find it easy to process and recall material delivered via lectures, and may learn best by engaging in conversation about a subject. Auditory learners often do well in study groups or discussions, but find that individually they struggle to recall diagrams or charts, or read a great deal of text without having hearing a lecture on the subject first.

Auditory learners may study best if they can record lectures for future playback. They frequently take fewer notes than visual learners because they can easily recall subjects that have been discussed. Additionally, audio books (books recorded on CD or downloaded as audio files) can be an invaluable tool to get through long-form content like novels.

The Kinesthetic Learner

Kinesthetic learners find that they learn material best when they can engage with the subject matter in a hands-on way, or are able to take some action while they’re learning. Kinesthetic learners may struggle to be a passive audience during a lecture, but find that they easily absorb information in lab settings or when they’re able to move around the classroom.

Unfortunately for kinesthetic learners, the lecture hall can be a very difficult environment to learn in. Kinesthetic learners may need to use a variety of creative methods to absorb information, such as recording lectures for playback while engaged in a physical activity like walking, reading out loud and acting out content from books, or doing hands-on experiments to understand concepts in science and math.

Comparing Graduation Rates

2011-05-11T08:26:00.000-04:00

I remember taking a particularly hard course in college, which started rather ominously. The professor stood up in front of his new class, looking up into the stands of students and said “Ladies and gentleman, I want you to look at the student on your left. Now look to the student on your right. Now understand that only one of the three of you will graduate from this program.”

Whether the professor could see the future, or whether he just knew about his own college’s graduation rates, I’m not sure, but the fact is that he turned out to be almost right. Less than half of the people with whom I started my college career went on to finish at the same time I did.

Although colleges are required to publish their graduation rates, generally it’s not a number that most students and parents consider when looking at which colleges to apply to, but they probably should. High percentages in the 6-Year Grad Rate of a school may indicate a few things including:

– that the college is particularly stringent about admissions to make sure they only find students who are genuinely likely to succeed,

- that the college has good support systems which ensure that students have all the resources they need to succeed in their programs, including good study areas, access to peer mentors, and a strong sense of community.

- that the college offers a good range of courses designed to allow students to select the best fit studies for their interests.

- that the college offers good financial aid past the second year, to allow under-privileged students the opportunity to carry on studying when they may have dropped out because of finances at other schools.

Lower 6-Year Grad Rates don’t necessarily mean that the college is a poor choice, of course, particularly if your student is well disciplined, strongly interested in their chosen major, and has thoroughly researched which courses he or she is going to take over the full 4 years of his or her program.

College graduation rates can be found directly through the admissions office of most colleges, or you can compare 2008 results only at www.collegeresults.org.

3 People You Need To Make a Successful College Application

2011-05-07T19:33:00.003-04:00

College applications are stressful. College seniors often fret and re-write their applications many times before they get them just right, and even then, it’s a long agonizing wait until they find out the results of their efforts in the form of acceptance or rejection letters.

If you’re a high school Senior, you’re not alone in your applications, however – there are three critical people involved in every college application.

Your Guidance Counselor or College Admission Consultant

Where do you start your college selection process? Probably at the guidance office or with your college admission consultant. These folks are here to help you find the perfect college fit for your unique skills and interests. With more than 70% of college students changing their majors or (worse yet!) transferring colleges during their studies, an experienced advisor is your key to discovering which colleges you should be most interested in before you apply and helping you select the best course to gaining admission.

Your Recommendation Source

Most, if not all, college applications require you to gain at least one excellent recommendation from a reputable source – either a teacher, a counselor, or a character recommendation. Recommendations aren’t difficult to gain, but a well-written and well-qualified recommendation makes a huge difference on your college application. Whether you seek this recommendation in your school’s faculty or outside in the community (a previous employer or someone with whom you’ve done volunteer work), the person who gives you an excellent recommendation is worth their weight in gold.

Your Parents

Surprised? You shouldn’t be. Parents are the best cheerleaders for your college success, and a necessary resource for choosing and gaining admission to your top choice college. Parents will provide the financial information you need to seek and obtain financial aid, take you to college campuses for visits, and encourage you during your Senior year during your application process.

Effective Tips for Studying

2011-05-04T07:55:00.001-04:00

Spring is in the air, and with it comes proms, sports tournaments… and final exams. If you’re struggling with your study habits, consider these simple tips for effective study sessions.

Set the Stage

A clean, tidy and distraction free zone for studying is important. Have everything you need on the desk. Put away what you do not need for the study session. Seeing reminders of other assessments or domestic bills may increase your anxiety and distract you.

Pick the Right Time to Study

Study according to your body-clock. Are you sharpest in the morning or at the evening? Schedule your most difficult materials when you are mentally at your best, and schedule the easier ones when you are mentally less efficient.

Fuel the Study Machine – Your Body

Avoid eating a big meal before a study session. Too much food will send your body into a ‘rest’ mode. On the other hand, don’t starve yourself either. Frequent small meals are best. Drink plenty of water during a study session, especially when you feel sluggish. Caffeine may help you to stay awake, but it can increase your anxiety – use it in moderation.

Give Yourself a Break

It is important to take a break before you feel tired and lose your concentration completely. Regular breaks, at least once an hour, helps to sustain your concentration. If the work is not going too well and you have difficulties in concentrating, you may need a long break and go back to it later. When you take a break, take a few deep breaths and get more oxygen to your brain: try walking around and doing some light stretching for a few minutes. It will help to release tension in your body, and help your circulation.

Should I Study Abroad?

2011-04-30T19:41:00.000-04:00

While a lot of college students weigh the decision to study at a college in-state or out of state, there’s a third option that is rarely considered – Should I study overseas or abroad in a different country?

At a time when students around the world flock to the US to go to college, it may seem like an odd time to consider going to college in other countries, but for some students it makes sense.

Advantages

Going to college in another country can give students a certain edge in later life, particularly if they are selecting certain courses of study. If they’re interested in cultural studies, languages, journalism, or history, picking a college in another country can give the student opportunities to immerse themselves in a different culture that may provide a more rounded learning opportunity.

Similarly, studying overseas can be an excellent way to build a unique resume for future career opportunities. Amongst a stack of US-based college resumes, a student who can list a reputable international college may stand out.

Finally, an education abroad can be a happy medium for students who are eager to travel and may be weighing a decision between taking a year off to explore the world vs. going immediately into a college education.

Disadvantages

Researching schools inside your own country is stressful – now imagine that you’re doing the same around the world! Between language, distance and time zone difficulties, it’s often hard to get a true picture of a college you’re considering on the other side of the world and campus visits are (as you might imagine) substantially more expensive to undertake.

Additionally, international students frequently pay much higher premiums for college educations than domestic students and face more stringent application processes. Although the currency exchanges may offset some of that higher cost (depending on which country you’re looking at) expect to pay much more for tuition, in addition to travel costs and possibly living expenses.

Also of concern is the quality of education that you will be paying for – while a degree from Cornell is immediately understood by most American employers, a degree from an unknown school in another country may be met with skepticism after graduation.

Finally, consider whether you are going to be able to meet the challenges of living far from family, and often with less contact with people who speak your native language. While studying abroad can be exhilarating, it’s also more difficult.

Tips for Sample College Essay Questions

2011-04-27T22:28:00.000-04:00

If you’re a top-notch high school student with strong grades, chances are that one of the skills that got you to that position was your ability to write a good essay. Fortunately, college admission essays give you an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your skills and win entrance to the ideal college of your choice.

Here are 3 questions from a standard Common Application, and some tips that college admission officers will be looking for:

#1 Evaluate a significant experience, achievement, risk you have taken, or ethical dilemma you have faced and its impact on you.

The word “evaluate” is tricky – you’re not simply being asked to recount your experience with some terse facts and storytelling; you’re being asked to dissect the situation with insight and introspection. Be sure to demonstrate why the item you’ve chosen was of personal importance and include any background information about yourself which is relevant to its impact on you.

#2 Discuss some issue of personal, local, national, or international concern and its importance to you.

While it may be tempting to simply take a current news item or popular topic and write an essay on the general public opinion of it, the real key to writing this essay well is the “importance to you” part. College admission officers are looking for insights into your personality, as well as your ability to write cohesively and engagingly. Choose a topic that’s close to your heart to write the best possible material.

#3 Indicate a person who has had a significant influence on you, and describe that influence.
While the word “indicate” may throw you off, what college admission officers are really looking for is your clarity in describing and characterizing the person and why you felt they were influential to you. The influence may have been positive (“My hero is…”) OR negative (“I learned what not to do from…”), but ultimately you should be able to adequately bring to light key elements of the person and his/her actions and tie those elements to your own personal character to illustrate that influence.

Summer Jobs for High School Seniors

2011-04-23T07:00:00.002-04:00

As students wrap up their Junior year and prepare for their last year of high school, the long summer months may seem like an excellent reprieve from testing and studying. While I recommend that students take time to enjoy their summer vacation, it’s worth noting that these months provide an opportunity to not only earn money for upcoming college expenses, but also to round out your fall college applications. Here are some job ideas that can help you on both fronts:

Tutoring

Tutoring is an excellent way to keep your studying skills fresh and demonstrate that you are committed to education. With three years of high school under your belt, summer may be a good time to offer your help to younger students and make some extra cash. Consider which subjects you’re especially good at (B+ or better) and which you have a passion for (as it can be difficult to teach subjects that you don’t enjoy yourself), and then post your name in your high school guidance office or around the neighborhood to offering tutoring.

Sports Training

Are you a particularly good athlete, or have an interest in kinesiology? Consider offering sports training or joining a sports league that allows high-school aged coaches or officials. Being involved in sports demonstrates to college officials that you’re a team player and you have demonstrated leadership skills – both positive attributes in a college applicant.

Internships

If you’ve narrowed down your focus to a particular industry or job area, internships are a great way for you to get a true taste of what your future career may look like. Don’t be afraid to approach companies in your community which match your interests and ask about paid summer internships – often businesses are looking for summer students to help cover vacation time taken by full-time employees.

Service Jobs

It may not sound glamorous, but taking a service-oriented job such as retail customer service or waiting on tables can still round out your skills and demonstrate that you can be relied on to be a good worker. Larger corporations such as McDonald’s often have student give-back programs including grants or scholarships that you may be able to apply for as well. Additionally, service jobs are more likely to be able to be carried part-time through your final year of high school (and beyond!) which gives you an additional few months to make money for college.

The New Parent’s Guide to 529 Plans

2011-04-21T09:22:00.004-04:00

Congratulations! You’re either expecting your new bundle of joy in the upcoming months, or you’ve recently had a new addition to your family. In either case, chances are you’ve thought of your child’s future and dreamt of hugging them in their cap and gown as they graduate from a top level college.

College planning often begins at birth for families, when the pressures of time and interest rates can be applied to maximize how much the family can save for a future college education. Whether you yourself went to college, or you simply recognize that you want the opportunity to be available to your child, savings started early are a significant boost.

The most common vehicle for college savings are 529 plans. Simply put, 529 plans are the federal government’s way of allowing you to save your money and allow it to grow tax-free for your child’s education, and ensuring that funds that accumulate over time are tax-free when withdrawn. Best of all, most states (including North Carolina) give you an annual tax credit which would reduce your taxes owing when you make regular contributions.

How Do We Enroll?

Simply contacting your local bank or financial advisor is likely to put you on the right path, but in North Carolina, you can also consider talking to The College Foundation of North Carolina at http://www.cfnc.org/index.jsp

Who Can Enroll?

Any relative of a child can enroll on their behalf. Often times, grandparents opt to enroll their new grandkids in 529 plans, helping the parents with long-term savings needs and also drawing their own tax benefits on retirement incomes.

What Can 529 Savings Be Used For?

529 plans are intended to be used for all college expenses, not simply tuition. The list of eligible Qualified Higher Education Expenses includes tuition, fees, books, room and board, and supplies for school.

Beware Of….

There are two things that 529 contributors should be wary of:

Fees-Often banks and financial advisors will charge a premium for managing your educational investment fund. Be sure to inquire about fees before signing with any advisor.

Penalties-If your child doesn't go to college (or, best-case scenario- he/she receives a full scholarship) you may face penalties for withdrawing money for non-educational uses from the 529 plan, including a 10% premium and having to pay taxes on the money you withdraw. However, 529 funds are transferable-if you have a niece or nephew who can benefit, you may be able to transfer the fund to them tax-free.

529 plans are a very cost-effective and simple way for parents to prepare for their child's education. The earlier you start, the better you and your child will be prepared. And on 12 or years or so, I'll forward to helping him or her with their college applications needs.

How Important Are College Campus Visits?

2011-04-16T08:50:00.004-04:00

One of the frequent questions I get asked by parents and students is “Do I really have to go visit the campus?” With most colleges offering full multi-media presentations on their websites, including virtual tours, it may seem like a waste of time to visit the campus itself, especially when consider an out-of-state or remote college.

Here’s why college campus visits still make sense:

Videos May Not Tell the Whole Story

Keep in mind that the virtual tour you watch has likely been shot in ideal circumstances and edited to show the campus to its best advantage. What the video may not show is crowded study space at the library, long line-ups at the cafeteria or book store, or poorly maintained classroom spaces. Similarly, you may see something in the video that worries you, such as ongoing construction in the background, only to find on your visit that it’s no longer a concern.

You Need to See More Than the Campus

Unless your child is planning on living in residence and will never set foot off campus except to go home at Christmas (rarely the case), you and your child will want to get to know the residential and commercial area around the college. Is the area safe? What are the transit options? Is there easy access to a local bank/grocery store/pharmacy, etc? Your child will be spending the next several years living in this area; take the moment to consider if the general community is a good fit.

It Goes Both Ways

It isn’t just that students should go to campus visits to see the campus; it’s that the campus visits give admission staff a chance to see the students. Your child has a golden opportunity to meet with upper-year students in the same program and ask questions, or to be introduced to professors and make a positive first impression. Demonstrating interest and enthusiasm during a campus visit can be a key factor in the college admissions process later on.

Campus visits may be time consuming, especially if you haven’t narrowed down your focus to a short list of top-choice colleges, however it’s invaluable for making the decision as to what college is best for you.

Weighing the Costs of College Consulting

2011-04-14T20:54:00.000-04:00

Parents recognize that having a child admitted to a top choice college is a significant stepping stone to later success for the student. College graduates have broader career opportunities, higher earning potential, and a significant social and networking boost as they launch into the “adult” world.

It’s not surprising then that more and more parents are choosing to work with a private college consultant during the critical final years of high school. College is often the second largest financial investment for a family, after buying a home. And just as most families use a realtor when buying or selling a home, it can pay to have an objective and experienced third party advisor to help navigate the process.

The Costs of College Preparation
Getting into college is a great deal of work and stress, not only for the student but often for the parents. Test preparation, extracurricular activities, private tutoring, and summer educational opportunities can all help your student become a high calibre college applicant, but come with associated costs in energy, time and money.

Parents often struggle to decide which of these activities are going to result in the biggest “bang for their buck” in assisting a student with college applications. It can be heartbreaking to find that both the student and parent didn’t choose the right courses, activities or opportunities during high school to ensure that the child will get into the college of their choice.

Making the Right Choices
College consultants can help parents and students mitigate the costs associated with college preparation by helping the student focus on the right choices for successful college applications.

The discussion begins by helping students and parents answer the top question – which college is best for the student? Parents and students often take a different route when considering this issue – simply looking at a list of prospective colleges and deciding what is a “good enough” school for the student, instead of finding an ideal match. A college consultant brings experience with and information about prospective colleges that families might otherwise have to spend hours researching, which immediately lowers the time investment for parents and students.

Once the students has established a short list of “best choice” colleges in their particular field of study, the college consultant can work with families to develop a blueprint for success – choosing the best activities and courses of study that will ensure the student is well prepared when Senior year comes around. Parents save on time and energy by having a reliable partner in the quest for a successful college admission, and frequently save money as they’re able to channel funds into the most appropriate activities to help their child.

Ultimately, just as with working with a real estate agent, a college consultant can be a significant time, labor, and stress-saving resource for families. When facing the second largest financial investment your family will make, it’s worth considering whether a fractional investment of those funds should be devoted to college consulting to make sure that the process goes smoothly with the best result for your child.