Many students assume they’ll reach out to a college during the application process, but this shouldn’t necessarily be the case. In fact, contacting a college before you apply can have advantages. Contacting a college before applying could actually improve your admissions chances Reaching out to a college as a prospective student shows you’re actively interested. …
Happy New Year: Make a Resolution to Start Your College Search Early (And Keep It!)
As we turn the page on 2014, a whole new class of high school students is making their New Year resolution and beginning to turn their thoughts toward their college search. Future college hopefuls and their families may consider putting off their search, as the process can be quite intimidating. But, keep in mind that …
How Do I Know if a College is a Good Fit?
There is a college out there for nearly everyone. The most important part of finding the right college is determining if a school is a good fit for you. A college that’s a good fit should have the following characteristics. 1. The college matches you academically You want to be challenged in college, but being …
5 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Applied to College
Back when I was making my choices about college, I knew very little about the way the admissions and financial aid process works. Like many students, I was the first in my family to go to college. So, while my parents supported me immensely, they didn’t know any more about the process than I did. …
How to Choose a College Major
Future aspirations: Choosing a major even if you don’t know what you want to do How to choose a major Start with your passions and choose a general direction. Don’t be afraid to change your mind later. Most students do. For pre-professional programs, consider your undergraduate options carefully. Consider the downside to any major or career path. …
How to Choose a College: A Complete Guide
Choosing a college is part science: making sure they have the academic major or extracurricular activities of your choice in the location you like and with the opportunities you seek. But, choosing the “right” school for you is also very much an art. I often see students who search the Internet and find a place …
College Costs: Net Price vs. Sticker Price
Someone once accurately explained college pricing and financial aid with this anecdote: You live in the Northeast quadrant of the United States. The temperature outside could be displayed on one hand on any given day in January. Your little brother just dumped a quart of yellow paint on your winter coat—meaning you need to buy …
College Costs: The 4 Parts of College Costs
How much does college cost? This seems like it should be a reasonably simple question with a straight forward answer. However, that is not nearly the case. In fact, there are at least 4 answers to this question about college costs. Understanding them is important in being a good consumer. 1. Tuition and Fees The …
College Fit: Reach, Match, and Safety Colleges Explained
When it comes to choosing a college, you will hear the term “fit” tossed around quite a bit. You’re told to find a college that is a good “fit”, but what does that really mean? You know what it means to find a pair of jeans or sneakers that fit, but a college? Clothing and …
How Do I Choose a College Major?
Choosing a college major can be a huge part of your overall college plan. Knowing what you want to study can narrow down the college search. But with literally hundreds of majors to choose from, it can be hard to decide. The following are some things to consider when picking a major. What do you …