The College of Wooster (Photos courtesy of Jonathan Brandt)
Monthly Newsletter
Heading off to college is exciting, but during the first weeks on campus, it isn’t unusual to feel overwhelmed. New classes, new friends, a new routine…it’s a big adjustment for any first-year student. In this issue, we discuss common freshman challenges and provide tips for setting priorities — which include mental health. Other articles include:
Focus on Majors – Law schools look for core skills rather than a specific degree, so what should you choose as a major? We look at your options.
Financial Matters – Well-meaning students and parents fall for scholarship scams every year. Here’s how to ensure an offer is the real deal.
Why Giving Back Gives More than You’d Expect – The true value of community service has nothing to do with resumes. Read about the greatest benefits of service.
Some college essay topics are just too overused to get noticed. How do you ensure your unique story shines through? In this issue, we discuss common topics and strategies for writing an unforgettable essay. Other articles include:
Focus on Majors: Sport Management – The ticket to a competitive yet exciting career.
Financial Matters – How to establish positive financial habits freshman year.
Insight into Playing Sports in College – Only 7% of high school athletes continue to play in college. Here's what it takes to compete at that level.
If you’re struggling with your college decision, we have some advice. Start with yourself. Before you compare colleges, get clear on your priorities – then weigh which school is the best fit for you. Check out our April issue for more tips. Other articles include:
Focus on Majors: Artificial Intelligence – An emerging and in-demand major that isn’t just for tech students.
Financial Matters – Is your favorite college out-of-reach? You could ask for more merit aid.
Understanding Letters of Recommendation – Teachers write these as a favor to you. Here’s how you can make their job easier.
Spring break is campus tour season. In this issue, we share insight from two parents on how to plan your trip, get the “real’ feel of campus and encourage your student to take the lead. Other articles include:
Focus on Majors: Languages – An increasingly relevant field in our interconnected world.
Financial Matters – The benefits and potential limitations of your 529 college savings plan.
Social Media and College Admissions – When and why a college might look at your social media – and how to use it to your advantage.
Searching for test prep tutors or classes? Asking the right questions will ensure you find one with a successful track record that doesn’t make unrealistic promises. We provide questions to guide you in our February issue. Other articles include:
Focus on Majors: Nursing – Explore a career with strong job security, competitive pay and meaning.
Financial Matters – Expanded merit aid may mean a private college is more affordable than you think.
Alternative Start Dates for College Freshman – Could a start date other than fall set you up for better success?
Successful college prep looks different for every student. When it comes to choosing classes, we recommend you strive to be challenged without burning out. In this issue, we talk about balancing classes you need to be competitive while also pursuing your strengths and interests – that’s important, too! Other articles include:
Focus on Majors: Philosophy, Politics and Economics – A “Swiss army knife” degree that provides tools to handle our most challenging issues.
Financial Matters – The financial aid timeline shifts you need to be aware of.
Understanding College Deferrals – The best way to handle this ambiguous college decision.
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.
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.
As you plan for college, it isn’t a bad idea to have a few career interests in mind. Not sure what you want to do? This month, we offer five ideas for connecting the dots between your interests, your major and potential careers. Other articles include:
- Focus on Majors/Human Centered Design – Creating products for diverse users.
- Financial Matters – It’s time to complete the FAFSA and CSS Profile.
- Responding to Deferrals – What to do when a college decision leaves you in limbo.
Building your college list? It’s important to understand an institution’s strengths. Some excel in engineering, while others may be tops in education or journalism. In this this issue, we tell you what to look for in an academic department. Other articles include:
- Focus on Majors/Viticulture and Enology – The study of winemaking and marketing.
- Financial Matters – Understanding financial aid terminology.
- After Submitting Your Applications – Next steps, because you aren’t quite finished yet!
Colleges will be on the lookout for ChatGPT generated essays, and while there are legitimate and helpful ways to use the technology, relying on it for writing is risky and ineffective. In this month's issue, read about the implications of ChatGPT. Other articles include:
- Focus on Majors/English – Career opportunities beyond writing and teaching.
- Financial Matters – Important changes that will simplify the FAFSA.
- Digital PSAT – What will change and what will stay the same with this new PSAT format.
You have your college list, now it’s time to decide on an application plan. Your decision can impact deadlines, when you’re notified and whether you’re making a binding commitment. In our September issue, we decode six options, including Early Decision and Early Action, and the pros, cons and requirements of each. Other articles include:
- Focus on Majors/Animal Science – Careers in animal management, medicine, or research and policy.
- Financial Matters – Applicant characteristics and improving your chances of receiving merit aid.
- Doing High School Well – Can you really make high school “the best years” that many people say they are?
Would you rather graduate from a prestigious school or debt-free? Do you love an intimate campus or the energy of a big city? Establishing priorities will help you build your college list. Learn more about finding your fit in our June issue. Other articles include:
- Focus on Majors/Nutritional Sciences – Paths, opportunities and requirements for dietetics majors.
- Financial Matters – The A to Z of college finances.
- Leaving for College – A pep talk for those feeling all the emotions.
Studying abroad is not only fun, some colleges see it as a necessity – whether it’s a short stay, internship or extended immersion program. Wondering about your options for an international experience?
Read our May issue! Other articles include:
- Focus on Majors/Molecular Biology – A path that leads to careers in research, medicine and bioengineering.
- Financial Matters – AP classes, employment and other ways to cut the cost of college.
- Maximizing your summer break – Want to get noticed as an applicant? Make the most of your summer.
- Colleges that change lives – 40 liberal arts colleges that are accessible, affordable and having an impact on students.
Colleges are looking beyond math and science skills to identify the most-qualified applicants for competitive STEM programs. Wondering if you have what it takes? Read our April issue! Other articles include:
- Focus on Majors/Communications Studies – A path that combines liberal arts with practical training.
- Financial Matters – Appealing financial aid awards.
- Dealing with Denial – How to stay positive while facing a disappointing college decision.
Want to really get to know a campus? Read our tips before your next college visit. Other articles include:
- Focus on Majors/International Business – Cultural competence is in demand.
- Financial Matters – How to compare your financial aid packages.
- Navigating the Waitlist – Increasing your chance of acceptance while waiting.
- College Visit Tips for Parents – Your to-dos, and why it’s best to let your child take the lead.
Why is applying to college so much more stressful these days? We look at what’s changed in the last 30 years. Other articles include:
- Focus on Majors/Health Care Administration – Explore this alternative to science or medicine.
- Financial Matters – Tax benefits that help cover the cost of college.
- Feeling Stressed? – Try taming your anxiety with a meditation app.
- Big Fish or Little Fish? – It’s an important question when you’re considering colleges.
While many colleges remain test optional, there are good reasons to prep for and take the SAT or ACT. Read more in our January issue. Other articles include:
- Focus on Majors/Visual Arts – University or art institute, which is right for you?
- Financial Matters – Resources available to help you pay for school.
- “Elite” Summer Programs – Do they make you a better candidate for admission?
- Avoid Senioritis – An admission offer is conditional, so don’t kick back yet!
Considering an honors program or college? The benefits go beyond a diploma designation. Read about the perks of undergraduate honors. Other articles include:
- Focus on Majors/Biomedical Engineering An aging population is driving demand in this field.
- Financial Matters - Writing your way to a college scholarship.
- Early Admission Decisions – What you need to do once early decisions roll in.
- Character Counts – An epidemic of cheating could be hurting students.
While they may not ask specifically, colleges want to know how you’ll contribute to campus. We share our tips for making your case. Other articles include:
- Focus on Majors/Peace and Conflict Studies – A field that’s part theory, part hands-on experience.
- Financial Matters: Do you need to submit the CSS Profile?
- Impact – It’s an admissions buzzword, but what exactly are they looking for?
- Acing that College Interview – How to prepare…and why you don’t need to worry.
You want to provide a complete picture, but should you address low grades or a learning disability in your application? Here are some guidelines to help you decide. Other articles include:
- Focus on Majors/Kinesiology – A field for those interested in science, health and exercise.
- Financial Matters - It’s Time for the FAFSA.
- Avoiding College Application Mistakes – How to avoid careless mistakes before you hit submit.
- Should You Apply Early Action? – Common questions related to this non-binding option.
What do college admission officers really look for? Hint: It’s more than grades and test scores. Read our tips for making the most of high school. Other articles include:
- Focus on Majors/Chemistry – A field for problem solvers and analytical thinkers.
- Financial Matters – Studying out-of-state at in-state prices.
- Do Safety Schools Really Exist Anymore? – Why you should treat every school like it is your first choice.
- Considering Early Decision? – The pros and cons of this binding decision.
Starting a business that matches your interests is a great way to make the most of your summer – and colleges will love your initiative. This month, we share steps for getting started.
- Focus on Fashion Design/Merchandising – Careers paths in this fast-paced, creative industry.
- Financial Matters – Legal limitations once your student turns 18.
- Adjusting to College Life – Preparing for the surprises that come with freshman year.
Summer internships are a great way to gain first-hand experience – and can be a stepping stone to even bigger opportunities. But how do you find one? Read our tips for getting started. Other articles include:
- Focus on Geodesign – A major that connects science, design, people and communities.
- Financial Matters – Talking to Your Kids about Money.
- College Search for Students with Learning Differences – Identifying best fit campuses.
Getting to know a college often requires a visit (or two) and the focus of your tour depends on where you are in the process. Other articles include:
- Focus on Supply Chain Management – A business major with many opportunities.
- Financial Matters – Should you appeal your financial aid award?
- Making that Final College Choice – Helpful tips for sorting out your options.
Upcoming changes to the SAT include a shorter, online format and the use of calculators. Read about the College Board’s updates to this standardized test. Other articles include:
- Focus on Molecular Biology – An in-demand degree for science enthusiasts.
- Financial Matters – College majors with the best ROI.
- Waitlist Purgatory – How to be proactive when placed on a waitlist.
Just like with love, there is more than one college match out there if you’re open to possibilities. Read more in our February issue. Other articles include:
- Focus on Film Studies – A major for dreamers, activists and storytellers.
- Financial Matters: Your ROI – Assessing the costs and benefits of college.
- Should You Take AP Tests? – College credit is only one reason why we say yes.
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 become college ready.
Considering a college honors program? The benefits go beyond a diploma designation.
Other articles include:
- Majoring in Cybersecurity – Fighting crime with digital forensics and ethical hacking.
- Financial Matters: Paying for College – An overview of scholarships, merit aid and loans.
- What to Do if You’ve Been Deferred – The non-decision that gives you a second chance – and time to reflect.
The right “why this college” essay response shows admissions you’re a serious applicant.
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 triggers a college to search your social media?
- What is Holistic Admissions? – What colleges look for beyond grades and test scores.
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 engaged in service.
- How Many Applications? – Why applying to more schools is not always better.
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 regular decision.
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.
The true benefit of a summer program? It isn’t gaining points with selective schools. Read more in this issue. Other articles include:
- Majoring in Visual Arts – A creative path with many options.
- Financial Matters – Staying informed after your student turns 18.
- Brainstorming Your College Essay – Tips to kickstart the writing process.
- Takeaways from 2021 – Advice for juniors creating their college list.
Getting to know a college often requires a visit (or two) and the focus of your tour depends on where you are in the process. Other articles include:
- Focus on Supply Chain Management – A business major with many opportunities.
- Financial Matters – Should you appeal your financial aid award?
- Making that Final College Choice – Helpful tips for sorting out your options.
A parent's response can help turn a college rejection into a new opportunity. Learn how to support your student in our March issue. Other articles include:
- Majoring in the Fine Arts – Deciding between college or an art institute.
- Financial Matters – Appealing your financial aid award.
- Wallowing on the Waitlist – What to do when you're left in limbo.
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:
Which college is the best choice? The answer isn't in rankings. Read our January cover article and learn how to personalize your search based on what's important to you. Other articles include:
- Majoring in Psychology – A degree with diverse paths, from human resources to counseling.
- Financial Matters: Money for College – Five sources for financial aid.
- Avoiding Senior Slump – Zoom fatigue and the danger of second semester senioritis.
- Majoring in Civil Engineering – A field with diverse paths for students who like to design and build.
- Searching for Scholarships – Online resources you can trust.
- The Five P's of Choosing Colleges – A great starting point for family college discussions.
- Dealing with Deferrals – What to do when a college leaves you in limbo.
- Taking a Deep Dive into a College Website – In the age of COVID, online resources are everything.
- Majoring in Communications – An option for students who enjoy language and technology.
- Financial Matters: The CSS Profile – Is this form required for schools on your list?
- Making the Most of Virtual Tours – Doing college research in the digital world (part 2)
- How Will Colleges Make Decisions this Year? – Institutions are reassuring applicants and making changes for the better.
- Majoring in Business/Entrepreneurial Studies – Career paths are plentiful in this popular major.
- Financial Matters: The FAFSA – Learn the basics about financial aid and why you should apply ASAP.
- Making the Most of Virtual Tours – How to maximize your online college connections.
- Making the Most of Virtual Learning – Whether 100% online or hybrid, make the best of this new way of learning.
- Majoring in Archeology – Learn about a fascinating field that can lead to jobs as conservationist or museum curator.
- The Language of Financial Aid – Our guide to a bewildering array of financial aid acronyms.
- Demonstrating Interest-COVID Edition – Tips for connecting with a college when you can’t visit in person.
- Overused Essay Topics – Many applicants do themselves a disservice by taking on topics that don’t resonate with admissions. Learn which to avoid.
- Majoring in Philosophy – Skills honed by philosophy majors are applicable to many career paths, including law, writing and some that may surprise you.
- Before Leaving for College – Wondering what legal and financial issues should be addressed before going off to college? Check out our checklist.
- Staying Healthy – On Campus and at Home – Read these common sense tips for college-bound students.
- Choosing a Gap Year – With the uncertainty surrounding the reopening of colleges in the fall of 2020, a greater number of students than usual are contemplating taking a gap year. Read about the pros and cons of taking a gap year and the process needed to do this.
- Majoring in Biotechnology – Because biotechnology is used in many fields and because the job market for it is projected to grow, biotechnology is a strong subject to major in. Learn about the courses you’ll take, the skills you’ll learn, and the careers to which these may be applied.
- Paying Your Child’s College Bill – A few months before your child starts college, you’ll receive a bill from the college for your child’s first semester (or quarter) expenses. Here are some options to meet these expenses.
- Virtual Summer Programs – Unfortunately, Covid-19 has lead to the closing of nearly all of the campus-based summer programs for high school students. So what can you do with your summer now?
- What to Do When Campus Visits Are Out – With campuses closed due to the coronavirus outbreak and with students sent home to complete the semester online, high school juniors and seniors need to go to their back-up plans.
- Majoring in Economics – A major in economics educates a student about how resource allocation, incentives, and wealth interact. Learn if this major fits your interests and goals.
- Financial Matters: Appealing Financial Aid Awards (updated) – For the class entering fall of 2020, the loss of work due to the COVID-19 virus may affect a student’s eligibility for need-based aid. Check out the best ways to go about appealing financial aid packages you have received from your colleges.
- Making the Most of this Enforced Down Time – With so many high schools closed, it probably won’t take much time before you find yourself looking for activities, so we’ve prepared a dozen ideas you may want to follow-up.
- Spring Admissions
- Focus on Majors – Genetics
- Financial Matters – Appealing Your Financial Aid Award
- Selecting High School Classes
- School-Year Campus Visits
- Majoring in Metallurgical Engineering
- Financial Matters – Understanding Net Price
- “Elite” Summer Programs
- How to Ace Your College Interview
- Majoring in Animation
- Financial Matters: Understanding Your Student Aid Report
- Dealing With Deferrals
- Considering Women’s Colleges
- The Best Majors for Lucrative Careers
- Financial Matters: Merit Scholarships Make Private Colleges Affordable
- After Submitting Your Applications
- The Rise of Test Optional Admissions
- Majoring in Public Administration
- Financial Matters: Early Decision/ Early Action and Financial Aid
- Why Are You Applying Here?
- Fall Timeline for Juniors and Seniors
- Managing Stress
- Interdisciplinary Majors
- Financial Matters: File the FAFSA as Soon as October 1st
- Rigor of Curriculum
- Writing a Note-Worthy Essay
- Advice For New College Freshmen
- Focus on Majors: Environmental Science
- Financial Matters: Pre-College Legal & Financial Matters
- Student Support Services on Campus
- Focus on Majors: Computer Programming
- Financial Matters: College Choices & Return on Investment
- Waitlist Purgatory
- Focus on Majors: Linguistics
- Financial Matters: Comparing Financial Aid Packages
- Social Media & College Admission
- The Meaning of Fit
- Focus on Majors: Advertising
- Financial Matters: Free Money vs Loans
- Choosing Next Year’s Curriculum
- SAT vs ACT—Which Should You Take?
- Focus on Majors: Astrophysics
- Financial Matters: Tax Benefits for Education
- Dare to Be Different
- Planning for Summer in the Dead of Winter
- Focus on Majors: Gerontology
- Financial Matters: College Loans
- How to Handle a Deferral
- Majors, Minors & Concentrations
- Focus on Majors: Criminology
- Financial Matters: Searching for Scholarships
- Understanding & Using Your PSAT Score Report
- Decoding College Application Plans
- Focus on Majors: Pre-Law
- Financial Matters: Filing the FAFSA
- “Doing” High School Well
