By Kris Olson After a visit to California Polytechnic University (Cal Poly) in November, I understood one of the reasons why a student from the upper Mid-West would want to apply. It was 80-degrees as I toured this mid-sized San Luis Obispo campus, a mere 15-minute drive from the beaches of California’s central coast. But even more impressive than the …
College Spotlight on American University
A suburban-feel campus near the heart of DC gives students plenty of opportunities for learning, exploring and fun. Read why Elizabeth loves the many sides of American!
College Spotlight on the College of Wooster
The not-too-big College of Wooster campus is just right for this freshman. Read about Jonathan’s first semester at this Ohio liberal arts college.
College Spotlight on Cornell University
Richard gives Cornell University an A+ for academic flexibility, quirky writing seminars and a friendly college-town location. Read about his freshman experience.
College Spotlight on Lafayette
Kyra knew Lafayette was her first choice as soon as she stepped on campus. Read Kyra’s blog about her freshman year and why this college had her at hello.
College Spotlight on Lewis & Clark College
Lewis & Clark is known for civic engagement and as one of the greenest colleges in the U.S. Explore this stunning Portland campus in counselor Katie’s College Spotlight!
College Spotlight on University of Notre Dame
Standout experiences from Jake’s freshman year include a winning football season and a unique, supportive residential life. In his Spotlight, read why this finance major loves Notre Dame!
College Spotlight on Emory University
Daniel knew he wanted to study in the South, and after a tough decision between two colleges, he headed to Emory where he’s enjoying unique classes and a collaborative, friendly campus. Read Daniel’s highlights in his Spotlight!
College Spotlight on St. Olaf College
Read what Essay Expert Michelle Anderson has to say about her alma mater, St. Olaf College, in this College Spotlight.
Spotlight on University of Michigan in Ann Arbor
After arriving with mixed emotions, Ellen had a rewarding first semester at UMich filled with challenging classes, activities like MRun and weekend outings with her roommate. In her Spotlight, read about her highlights as a new Wolverine.
Spotlight on Lynn University
Lima is living her dream as a Watson Institute Scholar at Lynn University. Read about her journey from Kabul, Afghanistan to Boca Raton, Florida, and see how she’s making an impact by embracing opportunities her freshman year.
Spotlight on Wartburg College
Wondering what college life in a small, midwest town might be like? Olivia shares in this College Expert blog that life at Wartburg College is filled with extracurricular activities, political engagement, volunteer opportunities, and plenty of welcoming faces.
Exploring College Options in the United Kingdom
Have you ever considered taking your college experience “across the pond?” And, no, I’m not talking about studying abroad for a semester; I’m talking about attending university as a degree-seeking, full-time student in the United Kingdom (UK). Check out Kris Olson’s Spotlight on Exploring College Options in the United Kingdom to learn about how to earn an undergraduate degree in …
A Visit to Pitzer College
By Margaret Duden When I was in Claremont, CA for the IECA Summer Training Institute, I had an opportunity to visit Pitzer College. Pitzer is a member of the Claremont Consortium of Colleges. Founded in the 1960s, it was created with the mission of advancing social and environmental justice. Pitzer’s motto is Provida Futuri, which means “mindful of the future” …
A Visit to Liberty University
By Sue Luse Every year my husband and I travel to a new part of the country to visit colleges. This year we picked Virginia where I was able to meet with two of our students who live in the DC area and visit seven diverse and interesting colleges, each with unique characteristics that would appeal to different students. Over …
A Visit to Augustana University
A Day in the Life at Augustana University By Ryan Luse I and some other Educational Consultants were invited to spend a couple of days at Augustana University in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. I must be honest, when it comes to colleges I can sometimes graze over the Dakota’s. Before my drive to Augustana, I had not been in South …
Spotlight on George Washington University
Natalia knew George Washington University was where she belonged the minute she stepped on campus. In spite of some freshman year challenges, she is still overwhelmed with excitement to be pursuing her interest in service and politics in the nation’s capital. Could GW be right for you? Check out her spotlight!
Spotlight on Baylor University
Coming from a small high school with a graduating class of 70, Will knew he was looking for something different in a college. In his Student Spotlight, read why Baylor’s size, high-tier athletics, diversity and sense of community felt right the minute he stepped on campus.
Spotlight on Tulane University
What university ranks in the top 50 and offers a rich cultural experience in the South? Read Caroline’s freshman year update on Tulane University.
Spotlight on Hope College
“Hope College is situated in Holland, Michigan, the cutest town straight out of a Hallmark movie and 14 minutes from the beaches of Lake Michigan, ”writes our latest College Spotlight contributor. Read about the sense of community and tradition that drew Kylie to this midwest college.
Spotlight on Harvey Mudd
Interested in STEM, a small campus surrounded by 4 accessible colleges in southern California? Check out our College Spotlight on Harvey Mudd College.
A Visit to Augustana University
I was excited to drive to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to meet with my students who are there and revisit Augustana. My visit to Augustana University showed me just how much this affordable, private, Norwegian-heritage liberal arts college has to offer. As the largest private university in the state, Augustana retains a strong alumni network and an enthusiastic “Augie” student body. …
Spotlight on Scripps College
Looking for a small women’s college in southern California? Read Arianna’s Freshman year update blog about Scripps College.
Spotlight on Montana State University
Love skiing, rock or ice climbing, and the great outdoors? Check out the Freshman Year Update Spotlight on Montana State University.
University of Manitoba, a very affordable option for US students
Did you know University of Manitoba has reciprocity with Minnesota? Read this Spotlight to learn more about how affordable it is to attend this university just 7 hours north of the Twin Cities.
College Spotlight on American University
Interested in studying International Relations, Political Science, Pre-Law, or Communications and be at the heart of our nation’s capital? Read this College Spotlight on American University located in Washington, D.C. to get a freshman’s perspective on life at the Capital.
College Spotlight on University of Notre Dame
Get a glimpse of what it’s like being a freshman at Notre Dame in this College Spotlight detailing the academic and campus experiences that make this institution a top ranking university in the US. Click here to read the College Spotlight.
College Spotlight on University of Washington
Here is our latest College Spotlight – University of Washington. Read about Mimi’s experience “rushing” to join a sorority and her academic advice for freshman year.
College Spotlight on University of San Diego
Considering a college near the beach in Southern California? Think University of San Diego. Read about Theresa’s freshman year at University of San Diego.
A Visit to Amherst College
About A top-ranked, private liberal arts institution, nestled amongst quaint New England villages, Amherst College is the site of several historic “firsts”: the world’s first intercollegiate baseball game, the country’s first collegiate athletics program, and the nation’s first undergraduate neuroscience program. The 1,800 friendly and intelligent Amherst undergraduates reflect a commitment to geographic, socioeconomic, racial, and ethnic diversity. The institution’s …






























