Harvard and MIT

Monthly Newsletter

If you think it’s too early to start planning your summer, guess again. Many programs have early application dates and limited space. In this issue, we explore summer opportunities all over the country, from science research to creative writing. Other articles include:

Focus on Majors: Fire Sciences – A niche degree that offers a surprising variety of paths for graduates. 
Financial Matters – How to evaluate a college’s total cost and answer the question, “Is it worth it?”
Why Teens Should Make Reading a Habit – We reframe this important and often neglected pastime.  

Read the December issue.


A college website is likely your first stop for information. But what should you look for once you’re there? In this issue, we provide tips for getting to know a college through its online presence to see if it aligns with your needs and interests. Other articles include: 

Focus on Majors: Undecided – The pros and cons of applying as an undeclared major. 
Financial Matters – Financial aid pitfalls and how to avoid making mistakes.    
What is Demonstrated Interest? – Extra steps you can take to show a college you're a serious applicant. 

Read the November issue.


If you need accommodations for a learning difference or ADHD, factor that in when selecting a college. Support can vary from basic to comprehensive. Learn more about your options in our October issue. Other articles include: 

Focus on Majors: Digital Humanities – A unique field of study that blends technology and culture.
Financial Matters – How to keep application costs in check.    
Time Management Tips for Teens – Mastering these skills will give you more time for things you love

Read the October issue.


Your back-to-school checklist should include college planning if you are a junior or senior. What to do when? In this issue, we offer some guidance. Other articles include:

  • Focus on Majors: Food Science – From lab work to marketing, the many career paths for food science majors.
  • Financial Matters – How financial aid factors into ED/EA application strategies.
  • Making the Most of Your High School Years – High school is fraught with ups and downs. We offer some tips for keeping things in perspective.

Read the September issue.


Summer is college application season, and you don’t want to wait too long before starting to brainstorm ideas and drafting your essay. The best writing requires self-reflection, and that takes time! In this issue, we offer tips for kicking off the process. Other articles include:

Focus on Majors: Bioinformatics – An interdisciplinary major where biology meets computer science.
Financial and Legal Matters – Turning 18? There are legal considerations you should address with your parents before you head off to college.
Enhancing Learning Through Online Coursework – Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) allow you to explore topics beyond the traditional high school curriculum.


Honors, AP or dual enrollment? Higher-level classes give you an edge in admissions, but being challenged without feeling overwhelmed is also a consideration. In this issue, we provide insight to help you decide. Other articles include:

Focus on Majors: Art & Design – Graphic design or painting; a business setting or studio. This creative field is filled with versatile opportunities.
Financial Matters – Explore your payment options before fall tuition comes due.  
Fostering Teen Success – Eight key components of social maturity are considered predictors of college success.

Read the May issue.


Senioritis may be common, but it isn’t without consequences. Colleges have rescinded offers due to dropping grades or disciplinary issues. How can you stay motivated during the final stretch? Read our April issue! Other articles include:

  • Focus on Majors: Data Science – An exploding field that involves extracting knowledge and insights from data.
  • Financial Matters – How educational tax benefits can help you offset college costs.
  • Handling Denials: How Parents Can Help – Increasingly selective admissions means denials are inevitable – and your reaction as a parent can make all the difference.

Read the April issue.


Say goodbye to bubble answer sheets and No. 2 pencils – the SAT has gone digital. What does this mean in terms of format, navigation and scoring? We cover it all in our March issue! Other articles include:

  • Focus on Majors: Business – A popular major with many career paths and options.
  • Financial Matters – Greek life, study abroad, it all adds up - and adds to the true cost of college.
  • Planning College Visits – They can be exhilarating and exhausting. What to do now if you’re planning spring break tours.

Read the March issue.


According to a survey of 30,000 college graduates, your experiences in college have a bigger impact on your job and life satisfaction than the college you attended. Which experiences matter most? Find out in our February issue. Other articles include:

  • Focus on Majors, Minors and Concentrations – Choosing and customizing your academic path.
  • Financial Matters – Comparing college financial aid offers.
  • Planning for Summer in Winter – A productive summer = an interesting college application.

Read the February issue.


Preparing for college involves more than academics. Giving your student some freedom in high school will ease their transition after they graduate. Read five tips for how to get started. Other articles include:

  • Focus on Majors/Social Work – Passionate about helping others? Explore this alternative to psychology.
  • Financial Matters – Considerations when applying for scholarships.
  • Admission Office Blogs – Links that provide an insider’s view to Georgia Tech, Tulane and others.

Read the January issue.