College

College Spotlight on the University of Edinburgh

Posted on February 17, 2022February 17, 2022 by CE

Solveig’s expectations of a typical college experience have been replaced with the sound of bagpipes and 500-year-old architecture. Read about this freshman’s international adventure at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. Solveig (far left) with friends at sunset.
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A visit to California Polytechnic State University

Posted on February 4, 2022April 12, 2022 by Kris Olson

Kris at Cal Poly in front of the retaining wall with name of the college inscribed.

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 weather was Cal Poly’s commitment to h...
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College Spotlight on American University

Posted on January 26, 2022January 26, 2022 by CE

One of the best ways to learn about a college is to hear from someone who goes there. Each year, we invite freshmen to share their first-year experience, so follow along to get the inside story on campuses across the country. Today we're featuring American University. This suburban-feel campus near the heart of DC gives students plenty of opportunities for learning, exploring and fun. Read why El...
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College Spotlight on the College of Wooster

Posted on January 6, 2022January 8, 2022 by CE

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.
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January 2022 College Expert Newsletter

Posted on January 3, 2022January 3, 2022 by College Expert

Is it truly getting more and more difficult to get into college? Yes…and no. Here are the facts behind the hype. Other articles include: The Best Colleges for Pre-meds – What to consider when making your choice. Financial Matters: College Loans – A look at options, interest rates and lenders. Using Your PSAT Score for Planning – How test scores can help you b...
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College Spotlight on Cornell University

Posted on December 8, 2021December 8, 2021 by College Expert

Richard gives Cornell University an A+ for academic flexibility, quirky writing seminars and a friendly college-town campus. Read about his freshman experience.
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College Spotlight on Lafayette

Posted on December 4, 2021December 3, 2021 by College Expert

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.
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November 2021 College Expert Newsletter

Posted on November 1, 2021November 1, 2021 by College Expert

The right “why this college” essay response shows admissions you’re a serious applicant. Read our tips for standing out. Other articles include: Majoring in Nursing – A healthcare degree with abundant opportunities. Financial Matters: Merit Awards – Private colleges could be more affordable than you think. Social Media: Think Before You Post – What trigger...
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October 2021 College Expert Newsletter

Posted on October 2, 2021October 2, 2021 by College Expert

Are you giving your “likely” colleges enough thought? Read our tips for choosing them carefully. Other articles include: Majoring in International Relations/Poli Sci – Degrees with diverse paths in a global society. Financial Matters: The CSS Profile – The financial aid form for institutional awards. Volunteer Opportunities in a Pandemic – How students are staying...
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September 2021 College Expert Newsletter

Posted on September 2, 2021September 2, 2021 by College Expert

After months of online learning, it’s natural to feel a little anxious about heading back to school. Read our tips to ease the transition. Other articles include: Majoring in Applied Math – Why math-related careers dominate top 20 career lists.Financial Matters – What you need to know about applying for FAFSA.Applying ED/EA – Important considerations before applying ED/EA instead of regula...
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College Expert Celebrating 20 Years

Posted on August 2, 2021August 2, 2021 by sueluse

It’s hard to believe I started College Expert 20 years ago with eight clients from the Class of 2002 and a desire to use my background as a high school guidance counselor to advise students and families on the college application process. Ryan joined me in 2012, and College Expert has since grown to include nine employees (and 3 furry mascots). Now we work with more than 100 students each yea...
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Campus Tours Are Back – But a Little Different This Summer

Posted on June 24, 2021June 24, 2021 by College Expert

Many colleges are welcoming students and families back on campus for in-person visits this summer. But before you go, it’s important to check their website for guidelines and limitations and to plan your visit ahead of time. Colleges generally require advanced registration for events and still have protocols in place to ensure the safety of students, staff and visitors. These vary by school, ...
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Congratulations to the Class of 2021

Posted on June 14, 2021June 14, 2021 by College Expert

College Expert Class of 2021Click to enlarge Congratulations to the amazing Class of 2021! The world is opening up to you in so many ways right now. You've shown you're resilient, flexible and brave, and we can't wait to see what your future holds. All the best from Sue, Ryan and the College Expert team!
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Summer 2021 College Expert Newsletter

Posted on June 2, 2021June 13, 2021 by College Expert

In this issue, five summer activities that will strengthen your college application. Other topics include: Majoring in the Classics – An uncommon choice with a high success rate. Financial Matters – The pros and cons of college payment options. Safety on Campus – Tech tips and other practices to keep you safe at school. Read the June issue.
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Reflections on the Class of 2021

Posted on May 7, 2021May 22, 2021 by College Expert

This year was filled with challenges. College tours were virtual, test scores became optional, and the news was filled with reports about record applications and low acceptance rates. While we are always confident that, in spite of twists and turns, students end up where they are meant to be, everything felt a little more uncertain this year. It was also filled with wonderful surprises. As...
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April 2021 College Expert Newsletter

Posted on April 1, 2021April 1, 2021 by College Expert

The waiting will soon be over. Are you ready to commit to a college? In this issue, our advice for weighing your options. Other articles include: Majoring in Biology – A hands-on field with many possibilities. Financial Matters – Comparing your financial aid offers. Getting Good Recommendations – Connecting with teachers in a virtual world.
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College Spotlight on Lewis & Clark College

Posted on March 29, 2021March 29, 2021 by College Expert

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! Frank Manor House. Photo courtesy of Lewis & Clark College.
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College Decisions and a Challenging Year

Posted on March 22, 2021March 22, 2021 by College Expert

Most college decisions are in or will be very soon, and it’s a season of mixed emotions. The college application process is a rollercoaster, and late March to early April can either be a high, a low or somewhere in between. Between a pandemic and surge of test optional applicants, this has been one of the strangest and most unpredictable application seasons we’ve ever seen, Reg...
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College Spotlight on University of Notre Dame

Posted on March 15, 2021March 15, 2021 by College Expert

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! Notre Dame Basilica of the Sacred Heart
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College Spotlight on Emory University

Posted on March 8, 2021March 8, 2021 by College Expert

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! Ponce City Market with friends
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The United Kingdom (UK) Offers Opportunity for Medical School as Undergraduate Degree

Posted on February 16, 2021June 13, 2021 by Kris Olson

Kris Olson at University of Bristol By Kris Olson, Essay Expert The United Kingdom has some of the top accredited medical universities in the world. From Imperial College London, to University of Bristol in the southwest, to Newcastle University in the north, among others, the UK offers a variety of medical degrees and courses, including dental school and veterinary medicine. One of the ...
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February 2021 College Expert Newsletter

Posted on February 3, 2021June 13, 2021 by College Expert

Considering a gap year? In our February newsletter, learn when taking time off before heading to college can be a good idea. Other articles include: Majoring in Foreign Language – A desirable skill in many professions. Financial Matters – Changes are coming to the FAFSA in 2022-23. Looking to Enhance Your Learning Experiences? – Check out MOOCs like edX and Courser...
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College Spotlight on St. Olaf College

Posted on February 2, 2021February 2, 2021 by Michelle Anderson

Essay Expert, Michelle, describes that at St. Olaf "What mattered to my professors and peers was that I intentionally engaged in the process of learning who I was and how I wanted to positively impact the world." Read what more Michelle has to say about her alma mater! St. Olaf College, Holland Hall
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Spotlight on University of Michigan in Ann Arbor

Posted on January 22, 2021January 22, 2021 by College Expert

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.
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Building Relationships with Teachers Remotely

Posted on January 5, 2021January 5, 2021 by College Expert

By the end of your junior year, you need to be prepared to ask two teachers for college recommendation letters, and it’s a good idea to keep building those relationships throughout high school. While this is a little more challenging in the age of COVID-19 and distance learning, there are still ways you can get to know your teachers so they can provide an authentic, detailed picture of yo...
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