Studying abroad is not only fun, some colleges require it – 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 a big impact.
I have been to almost 20 colleges and universities in the Sunshine State, but logistics and timing never put me close to the University of Miami – until recently.
Speaking of location, this is an important point. Despite its name, the main campus is not located right in Miami. It is not located downtown. It is not located by South Beach either (which is probably for the best!). The campus is located in a suburb called Coral Gables, which has kind of an Edina vibe but with palm trees. Being located a little bit away from the city is a bit of a blessing – Miami traffic is some of the worst I have experienced in this country. Fortunately for students, there happens to be a Metrorail right on campus so you won’t be stuck in traffic like I was.
Me touring the balmy U of Miami campus.
My day started with an information session at 9 am packed with so much info there was no time for questions before we were sorted into our tour groups. Since I am too old to be a student and may not immediately seem like a parent, I’m a bit of an enigma when touring solo. My two tour guides, who happened to be girlfriend and boyfriend (which was kind of cute and kind of weird), were energetic and it was obvious they loved their college. It was also obvious how all of us were enamored by the sheer beauty of this campus.
My tour guides loved their school!
This is one of the biggest selling points for the U of Miami. This campus has made my list of the Top Ten of the most beautiful campuses I have toured so far, which perhaps needs to be a future blog. It’s like learning at a tropical resort with the stunning Lake Osceola as the focal point. This is no ordinary pond or pool to jump into like those you find at other colleges; this natural lake has real wildlife and even used to be a home to alligators! While gators are no longer allowed in the lake (I wonder why?) there are manatees, turtles, ducks, exotic birds and even snakes. Read more about it here.
Stunning Lake Osceola.
Some of my favorite highlights of campus besides the lake were: The Fountains of UM, The Courtyard at the prestigious Herbert Business School, the Statue of the Rock (not named after Dwayne Johnson!), and Fate Bridge, which goes over the lake connecting to the student center. I kept thinking how majestic this would all look at sunset.
I ended my day at the popular on-campus and student-run restaurant The Rathskeller, which everyone on campus calls the Rat. I also got to talk to a former student who is a Sophomore and super happy here. He also gave me his Pros and Cons for you to take into consideration.
Pro’s: the classes, the students, the campus, and internship opportunities. Cons: Housing was a problem for the most recent incoming class, Miami traffic, merit scholarships are not easy to get.
It was a great experience finally spending time at the University of Miami. Here are some final takeaways.
Admissions:
Good news and bad news. The good is that this is a really good school! A top research university and the most selective college in Florida, which keeps getting more selective… Over 50,000 thousand applications, 19 percent admission rate (with a huge number going to Early Decision 1 & 2), average unweighted GPA – 3.8, 31-34 ACT, will stay test optional through 2026.
Some of U Miami’s most popular majors are Marine Science, Music, Business, Architecture, Latin American Studies, Finance, Economics, and Biology
The Fit: who would be happy here?
– Students looking for fun, sun and school spirit. – Students looking for a diverse private school in a diverse city, especially Hispanic/Latina/Latino – Students looking for a bougie campus, preppy, fashion-oriented, Influencers and entrepreneurs.
U Miami reminds me of these non-Florida colleges:
University of San Diego Tulane University Wake Forest
Other fun, random facts about U Miami
1. Tough guys Dwayne Johnson and Sylvester Stallone both went to the University of Miami.
2. UM’s colors are green, white and orange, representing Florida’s orange tree! Green for the leaves, white for the blossoms and orange for, well, the orange.
4. The mascot was originally named “Icky” but was renamed after San Sebastian hall which became a university dormitory in 1939. Read more here!
5. One of my tour guides had rescued a parrot and was allowed to keep it as a pet. I also saw more dogs than usual, which are allowed if they are service pups.
6. The Richter Library has the largest collection of Cuban resources outside of Cuba.
7. As a football tradition, Miami players and fans hold up four fingers at the beginning of the 4th quarter.
8. The Miami Hurricanes Men’s Basketball Team was in the 2023 Final Four.
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 disappointment.
Seattle University, founded in 1891, is a Jesuit Catholic University located smack dab in the heart of Seattle’s bustling Capitol Hill neighborhood. Nestled between cutting-edge hospitals up the street on First Hill and the lively night life scene on Broadway Ave and 12th Street in Cap Hill proper, Seattle U is correctly described by its admissions officers to be an “oasis” in the city. Seattle attracts all sorts—skiers, rock climbers, mountain bikers, techies, grunge rockers, and lovers of all things mountains and rain. Everyone seems to have a place on the dynamic Seattle U campus.
Me in front of one of the freshman dorms!
Academics
The university proudly owns its Jesuit heritage at every turn. Their mission is twofold: they aim to educate the whole student by aiding in their professional development and empowering them to be leaders pushing for a more just and humane world. The way the university tries to accomplish these lofty goals is through an emphasis on building community—between students, faculty, and business partners across Seattle.
One of two central cafeterias on campus.The newly built (2021) Sinegal Center.
Boasting an average class size of 18 students and an 11:1 student-faculty ratio, Seattle U gives undergrads the opportunity to connect with their professors in a meaningful way. Pair this with a project-based, hands-on educational model, and direct access to internships at numerous Seattle-based non-profits, hospitals, and corporations like Boeing, Microsoft, Adobe, and Google, it’s easy to see that Seattle U offers an education that prepares students for successful careers in competitive fields.
But Seattle U isn’t just about collaborative education and career readiness, it also wants students to give back. The Jesuit tradition of community service is alive and well at Seattle U. One of the most popular campus events is the 24-hour dance-a-thon that happens once a year at the Space Needle to benefit Seattle Children’s Hospital. Outside of this event, Seattle U students regularly participate in some way in the greater Seattle community. My tour guide Seth, a 3rd year nursing student from Hawaii, said that “pretty much everyone he knows” does some sort of community outreach like this.
Campus Life
In their free time outside of class, internships, and community service, Seattle U students take part in a bustling social scene. There is no Greek life on campus, but since most students stay on campus all four years, there are always opportunities for students to connect with classmates in the dorms or on several of the beautiful quads across the tight-knit campus. Students also avidly follow (division 1) Seattle U sports, especially the soccer and basketball teams, participate in over 150 student clubs, and enjoy a campus-wide concert in the spring called “Quad Stock.” If you’re in the market for a party school, you’re barking up the wrong tree, but many other kinds of community are readily available for Seattle U students, and everyone can find their niche.
The fountain in the academic quad. The College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Nursing in the background.
Fast Facts
There are 4,764 undergraduate students, and 7,291 total students
Seattle U is ranked #139 among all U.S. universities according to U.S. News and World
Seattle U has a law school on campus
The most popular programs on campus are nursing, business, computer science, and environmental science
In 2021, Microsoft, Amazon, and a number of private investors gave funding to build the Sinegal Center for Science and Innovation, a cutting edge STEM facility featuring computer, chemistry, and biology labs, “maker” rooms, cafes, and study spaces in abundance
The majority of students choose to study abroad during their four years at Seattle U
Admissions
Acceptance rate is 82%
Sullivan Leadership Award (full ride) available to applicants who demonstrate significant leadership experience and who complete an additional application
92% of students receive financial aid
$8,000-$25,000 merit scholarships are available for students in addition to financial aid
Test optional
Students may apply direct entry into their major program and start fulfilling requirements on the first day – OR – students can apply for the per-major studies program and declare their major by the end of their sophomore year
Robust core curriculum must be completed by all students prior to graduation
Final Impressions
The students that would be most happy here are those who are independently motivated and enjoy working in community. Seth, my tour guide, said “Seattle U students are always skeptical, but for good reason. They enjoy asking questions and actively seeking answers. And above all, the enjoy being involved in the Seattle community and take initiative on issues they care about.”
During her freshman year, Nandini noticed how isolation during the pandemic was affecting her own mental health as well as that of her peers. To elevate her mood, she turned to journaling, running and working out with her brother. She also began to think about how many people didn’t only struggle with mental health during the pandemic, but throughout their lives, and considered ways she could help.
Mayo High School junior Nandini Iyer created the mental wellness app SafeSphere. (Photo courtesy of the Post Bulletin.)
In 7th grade, she had participated in a Technovation coding camp for girls, and Nandini and her friends received valuable feedback and advanced to semi-finals for a prototype mental health app they developed. The app began to feel even more relevant to Nandini during Covid.
“Stressed students behind screens weren’t able to receive the resources they needed and extracurriculars became virtual, which confined students to Zoom,” Nandini says. “I saw that my community was struggling.”
Picking up where they had left off, Nandini continued to develop the app, SafeSphere, during her freshman year of high school with the goal of offering it on the Google Play Store and App Store and on the web. While some original team members weren’t available to help rebuild SafeSphere, Nandini continued to enlist a team of partners, including an IT expert and a child psychiatrist from Mayo Clinic, business lawyers from the University of Minnesota Law Clinic and her brother, Varun, University of Minnesota psychology major, who is helping to market SafeSphere to other college students.
The goal of SafeSphere is to assess how you are doing and then provide easy access to tools, whether you need a distraction from the daily grind or need to connect with a professional. It includes activities such as journaling; videos and podcasts on topics ranging from mindfulness to the positive impact of music to destigmatizing depression; workout videos inspired by Nandini’s own experience with the benefits of exercise; and links to mental health resources. It even includes a survey where you can “check in” regarding how you are feeling – and ask for help if you need to.
“The key is to accept that sometimes it’s ok to be “not ok”, Nandini says. “It’s important to be honest with oneself and get the support that can make all the difference.”
Now a junior, Nandini plans to build on her experience. She is exploring colleges where she can pursue a degree in Cognitive Science with the goal of a career in the mental health field.
Interested in exploring SafeSphere yourself? Visit www.safespheremind.org for a link to the web app. It also will soon be published on the Google Play Store and App Store for iOS devices.
We often encourage students to look for ways to pursue their genuine interests, whether that means taking an online class, developing a hobby or volunteering in their community. It can help them identify an academic path that excites them. It can also demonstrate the kind of initiative that colleges love.
Nandini’s journey demonstrates how diving into an interest – whether it’s coding, social activism or beekeeping – is not only rewarding, it can help you stand out during college admissions. Looking for ideas to get involved? See our suggestions for potential Unique Teen Activities or talk to your College Expert counselor!
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.
I visited several colleges in the Philadelphia area in early October, and months after my visit Swarthmore College still stands out. It is located in a beautiful suburban area, only 10 miles from Philly and with close, easy access to the airport. There is a train on campus to take students into Philly and all over the east coast, which gives students the flexibility to explore Washington D.C. and New York. Swarthmore is part of a Tri college consortium with Bryn Mawr and Haverford, which expands a student’s academic opportunities and social life, and students can take some classes at UPenn. Swarthmore is known for its Quaker roots and mission. Besides its great academic opportunities, the college’s beautiful 425-acre campus is a nationally registered arboretum with rolling wooded hills.
Iconic Parrish Hall is the heart of the Swarthmore campus.
Academics Swarthmore is very challenging academically, and students don’t just focus on grades there, they love to learn. They also appreciate Swarthmore’s flexible academic requirements, professors and resources. Swarthmore’s strong engineering and computer science programs are unique and hard to find at other small liberal arts universities. Students are required to take some core classes and also demonstrate foreign language proficiency and pass a swimming test. Freshman at Swarthmore are graded on a pass-fail system their first semester to reduce stress, and there is no class rank or dean’s lists. Courses are very challenging, but Swatties are known to be more collaborative than competitive. Class sizes are intimate, with 73% having less than 20 students, and they are taught by professors. Swarthmore does have an honors program that features independent study with written and oral exams like a PhD program. It is among the top 5 colleges in the nation of graduates that earn PhDs.
Campus Life The Swarthmore community is a family of students who not only engage in learning, but are politically active and demonstrate civil responsibility. There is no typical Swattie, but everyone is brilliant with unique talents and interests. They are proud to be called nerds, and they are very diverse and liberal. Many are involved in the arts, 86 percent are from out of state and 15 percent are international. There are no Greeks, which students love. Sports are Division III and more low-key.
Students from all class years live together in housing, and the campus is cash free, which is a part of the Quaker philosophy. Ninety-five percent of students live on campus all four years, and housing is guaranteed all four years. Swatties love their dorms, each with their own personalities and traditions. Thirty-five percent of students study abroad, and 75 percent do independent research with professors. Annual traditions include the Primal Scream at midnight before finals and decorating the library with toilet paper.
Two enthusiastic Swatties served as our tour guides. Swarthmore students are active, talented and proud to be called “nerds.”
Fast Facts Enrollment is about 1700 students, a size the college plans to keep because it is the perfect for student involvement and professor interaction. Great food Free laundry Events are all free A diverse campus 67% students of color Students have intellectual curiosity, love to learn Students are not allowed to declare majors (even engineering) until the end of sophomore year 20 of 32 credits are outside of your major Engineering students can double major
Admissions Regular decision acceptance rate is approximately 6% Early decision (ED) acceptance rate is approximately 23% Half of the class is filled by ED applicants ED applicants have increased 26 percent in recent years Only about 50 students are deferred Your academic profile is more important than test scores Admissions has been test optional for 5 years In 2021-22, 48 percent of students applied test optional; 39 of those students were admitted The yield rate is 43% Admissions is need blind Swarthmore uses the Common App and has only one required supplement about taking intellectual risks and being intellectually challenged.
Who would be happy here Students looking for challenging academics and an intense intellectual atmosphere. If you love talking about philosophy at 4 am, you would love Swarthmore. If you are looking for a liberal, multicultural, close-knit, politically active campus, this might be the right place for you. Learn more here: https://www.swarthmore.edu.
Lilly’s first semester included environmental studies, backpacking adventures and “just the right amount of freedom.” Looking for a Midwest liberal arts college? Learn more about St. Olaf in her College Spotlight!
It’s never too soon to start researching colleges. If you’re college bound, then it’s time to begin. The better you understand your options, the easier it will be to build a college list that excites you and one in which you feel confident. Not sure where to start? There are a number of ways you can learn about a campus to determine if it is the right fit for you.
Colleges responded quickly to develop virtual options for students who couldn’t visit campus due to Covid-19. As a result, there is an abundance of opportunities for you to get to know campuses across the country in addition to in-person tours and information sessions. In fact, there have never been more resources to explore colleges. At College Expert, we’re also available to help. We have visited literally hundreds of colleges in person. If you have questions, just ask! We can give you the inside scoop – or refer you to a student who can.
Here are our tips for doing college research:
Take a virtual tour or attend a virtual event. You can easily find links on a college’s website. Virtual experiences can be both taped and live and range from guided tours to information sessions, Q&A panels and one-on-one sessions. Live events typically require you to register in advance, but taped events are accessible anytime.
Visit a college’s website. A college’s website is always a great place to start. In addition to finding general information about enrollment, admissions stats, campus life and housing, dig into academic departments and browse courses offered, professor bios and undergraduate opportunities like research in your potential major. Look for what makes a college truly stand out to you.
Visit the campus in person. Many colleges are now welcoming students and families back on campus for in-person visits. This is often the best way to find out if a college is a great fit for you. Campus tours generally require pre-registration, so be sure to check the website and hold off making travel plans until your registration is confirmed. In place of a student-led group tour, you may also have the option of doing a self-guided tour using a walking guide or downloaded app.
Follow your colleges on social media. You can learn a lot about campus life on platforms like Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and Snapchat. Some accounts are run by students or feature student takeovers, which will help you get an authentic view of campus. It’s a great opportunity for you to keep up to date with schools or departments, organizations, sports teams, and even professors whose work you admire.
Use online resources and apps. Listen to first-hand student testimonials and tours through websites like CampusReel, College Scoops and YouTube. College Expert students also have access to all the resources in their Custom College Plan, which includes links to guides such as The Fiske guide, Niche and Big Future.
Sign up for a college’s mailing list. Once you sign up, you’ll receive emails from the college as well as notifications of virtual events. An added bonus, a college will track if you’ve requested information and opened their emails, and this can work in your favor because it demonstrates interest.
Talk with current students or alumni. Ask parents, family friends, teachers and others about their college experiences. An admissions office also may be able to put you in touch with a current student so you can get their perspective. Or ask us – we may be able to connect you with a student who attends that school. We also post College Spotlights written by our former students on the blog on our website.
Getting to know a college using these resources will help you to feel informed, confident and excited as you build your list and anticipate going off to college. It’s time to get started!
We love sharing hidden gems with students. One of the benefits of working with us is we often can identify colleges that are just the right fit for a student but that may not be on their radar. Grinnell College is just that kind of school. With an enrollment of only 1,700 students, Grinnell is a small campus with a lot to offer.
Located halfway between Des Moines and Cedar Rapids, Grinnell often ends up on a college list alongside higher-profile east coast schools, such Vassar, Williams and Amherst. It’s a great fit for students who are serious about academics but who think they would prefer an atmosphere where “they can breathe” and enjoy a more relaxed college experience.
Grinnell has need-blind admissions for domestic students and substantial academic merit scholarships. (Photo courtesy Grinnell College)
One hallmark of Grinnell’s curriculum is flexibility. As stated on its website, “Here you are in charge of how your studies take shape and where you want them to take you.” There is no language, math or science requirement. Instead, Grinnell’s open curriculum, which includes only one required class outside of a student’s major, gives students a lot of freedom to explore their interests and design their own plan with the guidance of an academic advisor.
Grinnell also is known as an inclusive campus with a strong commitment to social activism. Students at Grinnell tend to be liberal and progressive. They love the opportunity to be on the front lines in a red state fighting for things like reproductive and gender rights and to become involved to ensure their voices are heard. When it comes to social issues, Grinnell students aren’t afraid to take a stand and challenge “the way things are.”
Admissions Fast Facts: Here are some admissions facts about Grinnell:
50% of the class is accepted Early Decision; there is no Early Action
All domestic students accepted Early Decision receive, at minimum, a $10,000 scholarship, renewable for four years
Accepted students can receive up to $30,000 in merit aid
The acceptance rate is around 10%
Accepted students have mostly As and an average 30-34 ACT score
Deadlines are: ED – Nov. 15, ED II – Jan. 1, Regular Decision – Jan. 15
94% of students are from out of state (the highest number are from NY and CA, but many also are from MN)
Admissions is need blind for domestic students; need aware for international applicants
Grinnell meets 100% of demonstrated need without loans
When reviewing applicants, Grinnell considers demonstrated interest, so you should connect with the college and your admissions representative. Be sure to introduce yourself when they visit your school, tour the college in person if you can, attend virtual events, sign up for an interview and open any college emails you receive. These actions will let admissions know you are a serious applicant.
Academics Grinnell is known for great professors, engaging discussion-based classes, and research opportunities with professors and internships all over the world, including computer science internships in Silicon Valley. Students don’t just learn how to code; they study ethical issues in society and how to become leaders in STEM technologies. Other popular majors include Biology, Psychology. Economics and Political Science.
Campus Life The Grinnell campus is a tight-knit community with opportunities to get involved in music, theater, journalism and athletics, including club sports and intramurals. There are no fraternities and sororities, but there are more than 100 clubs and organizations ranging from debate and ultimate Frisbee to niche interests like a drone team and beekeepers club. Grinnell’s excellent theater and music program are open to all students, and there is strong interest and participation in Black Student Union. There also is a lot of support for the LGBTQIA+ community on campus and through the Stonewall Resource Center
Grinnell students are required to live on campus their first three years and are guaranteed on-campus housing all four years. On weekends, about 95% of students stay on campus. The school offers coed housing and housing for students with disabilities.
Students walk across a sunny campus that includes old and new architecture. (Photo courtesy Grinnell College)
Tuition
Eighty-nine percent of students receive aid to help pay for their years at Grinnell. Grinnell meets 100% of each student’s demonstrated need through student employment, grants and scholarships, so students don’t have to rely on loans. Sixty-five percent of students receive need-based aid and are eligible for, on average, a $52,847 grant/scholarship.
Who would be happy here?
Grinnell is a great option for students who are looking for a break from city life as well as a challenging, yet down-to-earth, liberal arts college. The freedom to create your own academic path appeals to students who are independent and have a wide range of interests. Grinnell also is a great fit for students looking for a liberal and gender inclusive campus with a lot of opportunities to get involved in social and political activism.
Are you a College Expert student interested in exploring Grinnell College? Visit https://www.grinnell.edu/ to learn more and talk to your College Expert counselor about whether it’s a good fit for you.
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. Read 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.
If you’re planning to tour colleges during the long MEA weekend, good for you! It’s a great time to experience campus while school is in full swing and bustling with students. However, to get a thorough experience so you can truly weigh if it’s a good fit for you, you want to do more than just check out the library and dining hall. A meaningful visit involves a little planning before you go. Here are some tips for making the most of your time on campus.
1. Visit a variety of colleges
Carefully choose a variety of colleges to visit and make sure you have some “reach” colleges, schools where you are likely to be accepted, and affordable colleges that fit your budget. Visit a large public university, a small private college, an urban campus, and a college in a small town to get a sense of what feels right to you. If you can’t fit them all in now, consider planning additional visits over spring break.
2. Schedule your visit in advance
Most colleges offer morning and afternoon information sessions and tours year-round, Monday through Friday. They may have special visit days, and sometimes they offer visits on Saturday mornings. Sign up as soon as you can, a month ahead of time is ideal, and be sure to spend at least a half day at each college. You can visit two colleges a day if you plan it right.
3. Learn about the college beforehand
Read material from the colleges you are visiting and check out their websites and social media accounts. Look for things that interest you that you may want to learn more about while you are there. Doing some research ahead of time may prevent you from asking a question that is clearly answered on their website, such as whether they have an engineering program when the website shows they do.
4. Explore the college community
When you are visiting an out-of-town college, stay at a hotel close to campus, and check out local restaurants, shops, and recreational activities. As a student, you will spend most of your time on campus, but the surrounding community may still play a part in the overall fit. Drive by the admissions office ahead of time so you know where it is and where you can park. Make sure you have the address for the information session/tour, not just the general campus address. It is usually held at the admissions office, but not always.
5. Participate in the information session
Information sessions are usually led by an admissions counselor who will give an overview of academics, campus life and admissions. Ask questions that help you clarify the academic programs that interest you and the type of student who is most comfortable and successful there. Pay close attention to the admission requirements and deadlines.
6. Take the student-led campus tour
Take advantage of the opportunity to learn about campus life on the student-led tour. A student can provide insight about the social scene, school spirit and the overall fit. Find out if students stick around on weekends. If you visit a dorm, picture yourself living there. Pay attention to the library and other study areas where you would spend a lot of time. Most importantly, ask yourself, can I relate to the students here?
7. Explore campus life beyond academics
If you are an athlete, checkout the athletic facilities. If you are a performing arts student, check out the theater and concert halls. Look for clues about what campus life is like. Every tour will take you to the student center where students eat and hang out. But investigate further. Read notices posted in the dorms or on bulletin boards. Read articles in the student newspaper. Can you see yourself there?
8. Eat lunch in the student center; watch student interactions
Observe the students. Are they sitting by themselves looking at their phones or are they laughing and talking with each other? Do you feel comfortable among them? What do you think of the dining options? Feel free to strike up a conversation with a student. Let them know you are touring and ask for their impression of the college. Most are glad to share their insight and will appreciate being asked!
9. Arrange for campus meetings in your areas of interest
Learn as much as you can while you are on campus. For example, the admissions office may be able to help you set up a meeting with a coach or, if you are a musician, with the music department. Occasionally they will also let you sit in on a class. If you know a classmate attending that college, try and find a time to meet with them and get their impressions as well.
10. Write down your impressions; send a thank
If you don’t stop to record your thoughts, different schools may begin to blur together. Keep a list of pros and cons for comparison. (Consider taking photos to help you keep track of the campuses you visit.) Evaluate the campus environment. Is it too big or too small for you? How would you get around campus – particularly in the rain or snow? Is it easy to get home? If you apply to that college, you may need to write an essay about why you would like to attend. If necessary, you can revisit your notes for details you may have forgotten.
After you’ve completed your visits, don’t forget to send a thank-you email to your assigned admissions counselor letting them know you visited the campus. Refer to your notes, and reinforce what you loved about the school. Finally, make your college visits as memorable and enjoyable as any vacation. Be a tourist, go to interesting restaurants, take in athletic events or theater productions, see the local sights and enjoy spending time with your family.
Visit www.collegeexpertmn.com for more information about college visits and college planning.
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.
Congratulations Class of 2022! It seems like we were just guiding you through your college applications and essays, and look at you now! While the school year was somewhat more “normal” this year, we know you had your share of challenges. But through them all, we watched you learn, grow and discover what’s important to you, and we can’t wait to see what you do with that knowledge. Best of luck, graduates. We are confident in you and are rooting for you. – The College Expert Team
While admittedly subjective, “character” counts in college admissions. With many colleges abandoning or making optional SAT and ACT test scores, assessing applicants holistically has become an even greater focus, and a student’s ability to demonstrate character has become just as important as demonstrating leadership, intellectual curiosity and achievement.
While character is an abstract concept, we find many students are intrigued to have a conversation with us about character as part of our college planning process. Even those with an initial reaction of “Oh, no…something more to add to my busy schedule” come to appreciate the fact that colleges want a complete view of who they are as a person beyond their grades and test scores. They welcome the opportunity to develop and show through their essays, activities list, supplements and letters of recommendation that they have qualities like grit, resilience and compassion.
The highly-selective colleges, in particular, are turning away from an emphasis on personal success by seeking students who make meaningful, ethical contributions to the common good. Harvard has much to say about this topic, including: “How open are you to new ideas and people? What about your maturity, character, leadership, self-confidence, warmth of personality, sense of humor, energy, concern for others, and grace under pressure?”
Duke’s website is crystal clear about what their Admissions Office is seeking in a candidate: “Duke offers a multitude of opportunities to its undergraduates. We’re looking for students ready to respond to those opportunities intelligently, creatively and enthusiastically. We like ambition and curiosity, talent and persistence, energy and humanity…We especially appreciate students who love thinking hard about things and who like to make a difference in the world.”
And then there’s Boston College: “We seek students who are bright, curious, passionate and engaged. As a Jesuit university, Boston College emphasizes liberal arts education, character development and the cultivation of leaders. Our mission is to graduate men and women who know how to think, make decisions, communicate and act with integrity.”
How do we at College Expert encourage our students to think about character-building in high school? First, we inform our clients of the priority that colleges place on the concept. Then at every meeting we touch on character development as part of the college planning agenda.
Here are some ideas we share with our students:
Find a problem you see in your school, and try to fix it. One of our students noticed that the special needs kids washed the lunch tables every day. She found the practice to be unsettling and successfully approached the school administration to create change.
Start something new and leave a legacy. Another student started a Fishing Club at his high school, eventually expanding the club to include middle and elementary school students.
See a need? Think of it as an opportunity. With encouragement, our budding writers and artists have launched literary arts magazines and poetry slams at their schools.
Look for genuine ways to show gratitude and kindness. Make friends with the lunch ladies, custodians and bus drivers. Reach out to that kid who needs a friend.
Find a cause that you genuinely care about. It does not have to be an epic adventure but can be local and on a small scale. Just take initiative – colleges love to see students who make things happen.
Get to know your teachers. With their guidance, dive deeper into subjects that interest you. We remind our students that they will be asking some of the same teachers to write letters of recommendation. What better recommendation than from a teacher-mentor?
We view our roles as that of guides—helping students navigate through an enjoyable secondary school journey while evolving into the best possible applicants. Character-building is not just for college applications, but rather for the goal of becoming long-term contributors to society.
College Expert students, if you want to learn more about how to build character as well as demonstrate your character strengths to colleges in your application, contact your College Expert counselor.
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. Other articles include:
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.
Extraordinary. After spending an afternoon touring the High Point University campus, I can’t think of a better word to describe it. While I’ve visited hundreds of colleges, many of them more than once, the High Point University campus always makes an impression. When Dr. Nido R. Qubein took over as president in 2005, he made a commitment to transform the university and invest in academic programs, scholarships, facilities and residential communities. From the spacious dorms, to the 90,000-foot Slane Student Center, to the piped-in classical music and campus ice cream truck, you immediately sense there is something different about this campus.
The Wanek School of Natural Sciences lobby
The Premier Life Skills College High Point University is located in High Point, North Carolina, about 30 minutes from both Winston-Salem and Greensboro. Its tagline is “The Premier Life Skills College,” and its call to action is simple and profound: Choose to be extraordinary. All incoming freshman take The President’s Seminar on Life Skills, taught by Dr. Qubein himself, to ensure they not only grow academically but also develop competencies critical to today’s workplace: communication, coachability, fiscal literacy and service. HPU’s website states the university “has a healthy obsession for connecting the foundation-building liberal arts education with career-focused outcomes.” HPU delivers on this promise.
HPU’s focus on life skills helps students prepare for the workplace.
The university’s programs focus on learning by doing and are complemented with experiences like internships, undergraduate research, global education and service. Classroom learning is reinforced with dynamic resources and opportunities: makerspaces for its engineering students; a business competition where winners receive funding for their start-up ideas; a planetarium where, beyond astronomy, visitors can “fly through” 3D models of the human body; and a biometric lab in the School of Communications used to measure responses to marketing messages. Every student at HPU also develops a four-year life skills and career plan that includes tasks like self-assessments, job shadowing, resume writing and networking.
Some Facts about High Point:
Undergraduate enrollment is about 4900
Students come from 45 states and 32 countries; 73% are from out-of-state
The campus sits on 520-acres; it includes 122 buildings, 27 gardens and 6 swimming pools
The HPU Panthers compete in NCAA Division I athletics in 16 sports
HPU has 10 schools and colleges; it offers 60 majors and 63 minors
Clubs, Sports and Campus Life
With its expansive grounds and amenities, campus life is a big part of the HPU experience. In fact, students tend to stick around on the weekends, and with so much to do, it’s easy to see why. With its fitness and recreation facilities including basketball courts, weight rooms, a climbing wall, outdoor swimming pool and sand volleyball courts, the Slane Student Center is a hub of activity. The Greek system is popular, and students love to gather and cheer on HPU’s NCAA Division I teams (tickets are free to students) or compete in intramural or club sports. With more than 100 clubs and organizations ranging from student government and spiritual groups to the performing arts, students have plenty of opportunities to be involved on campus.
One of several pools on the expansive campus.Housing options range from dorms to townhouse suites.
Admissions
High Point University has a Nov. 1 ED deadline, Nov. 15 EA deadline, Feb. 1 ED II deadline and March 1 Regular Decision deadline. Its admissions policy is test optional. The acceptance rate for HPU is about 72%. Characteristics of the Class of 2025 include:
An average unweighted GPA of 3.39
A SAT average score of 1281
An ACT average composite score of 27
Class composition of 57% female, 43% male students
62% public high school graduates; 38% private high school graduates
Popular majors are: Business, Communication, Biology, Psychology and Exercise Science.
Often students who apply to High Point also consider the College of Charleston, Furman University, Baylor University, Texas Christian University (TCU), Southern Methodist University (SMU) and University of Richmond.
Tuition and Fees
The cost of tuition, fees, room and a dining plan is about $58,000 per year (for Tier 1 housing only; there is an additional investment for upgraded housing options). Institutional aid reduces these expenses for many students.
High Point University offers a variety of housing options ranging from double-occupancy rooms (Tier 1) to single and multi-bedroom apartment suites and townhomes. Upgrades from Tier 1 can be anywhere from approximately $4,000 – $12,000 per year. The highest-level residences are impressive and include full-sized beds, granite countertops and an outdoor fire pit.
The biomechanics and physiology lab.Students participate in goat yoga.
Who Would be Happy Here?
Students looking for experiential learning, good internship opportunities, and career preparation. High Point University also would appeal to students looking for warm weather, a beautiful campus and active Greek and sports programs. The student body tends to be more conservative. Students who are active would find plenty of opportunities to get involved at HPU.
Are you a College Expert student interested in exploring High Point University? Visit www.highpoint.edu to learn more and talk with Sue or Ryan about whether it’s a good fit for you.
Ask me if you’d like to learn more about High Point University!
Meeting with students to finalize their college decisions is one of the most rewarding steps in our journey with them. Sometimes they have had a clear goal in mind throughout the process, and we are celebrating that exciting accomplishment. But just as often, the months leading up to that meeting are self-reflective. Their final decision represents what they’ve discovered about themselves, what’s important to them, and where they can best make their dreams happen. Either way, the college decision meeting is not so much an end, but a glorious beginning.
We are so proud of our Class of 2022. While the school year felt somewhat more “normal” this year, it wasn’t without challenges. In college admissions, schools mostly remained test optional, which among other factors led to a record number of applications. As a result, many colleges became an even greater reach. Many students did beat the odds, and we are cheering their success. But denials allowed others to more clearly examine all their options and opened their eyes to the amazing opportunities they had in front of them, which we believe can sometimes lead to an even better fit.
This year’s matriculation list fills us with tremendous pride and satisfaction. We are confident our Class of 2022 is headed to colleges where they can be challenged, find their community and move forward with their own personal goals.
We are excited to report:
100% of our students applied to some colleges by the early action deadline and heard back from colleges before winter break.
35% of our students applied ED/Restricted Early Action and 71% were accepted.
75% of our students who applied to highly selective colleges were accepted.
88% of our students will attend out-of-state colleges (whereas nationally approximately only 11% venture further than 500 miles from their hometown)
95% of our students will attend their first choice or a high-interest college
Drawing on our knowledge, our experience, and hundreds of college visits, we recommended an eclectic mix of colleges, many of which were unfamiliar to our clients. In fact, it’s possible some students never would have considered the colleges they chose without comprehensive and thoughtful discussions about finding the right fit – our guiding philosophy. As a result, they made decisions confident their choice was right for them.
Our Class of 2022 students will matriculate to colleges across the country and around the world. As you can see in our matriculation list, we have many students going to some of the most selective colleges in the country (and acceptances at all the Ivies except for Princeton). We also have students going to national universities, engineering schools, art schools, small liberal arts colleges, colleges out of the country, research universities, Big Ten Universities, and colleges with in-state tuition. We have aspiring musicians, artists, recruited athletes, activists, actors, nurses, engineers, business majors, researchers, doctors, writers and much more. We strive to help families find ways to afford college tuition, and we were overjoyed with the merit scholarships, grants, and aid awarded to our students.
We were honored to help prepare the Class of 2022 for the next chapter and will always remember the challenges and surprises we experienced together during this extraordinary year. We wish our seniors all the best with the journey ahead. Please keep in touch!
Here is our College Matriculation List for our Class of 2022:
American University Arizona State University Baylor University Bethel University Boston University Bryn Mawr College Bucknell University Butler University California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo Case Western Reserve University Chapman University Clemson University College of Charleston College of William and Mary College of Wooster Colorado College Creighton University DePaul University Duke University Eckerd College Georgetown University Gustavus Adolphus College Hamilton College Hamline University Harvard University (Three students will attend) High Point University Indiana University-Bloomington Iowa State University Johns Hopkins University Lehigh University Lewis & Clark College Loyola University Chicago Luther College Lynn University Marist College Middlebury College New York University Northwestern University
Pitzer College Ringling College of Art and Design Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology San Diego State University Santa Clara University Smith College St. Olaf College Stanford University Texas Christian University Tufts University University of British Columbia University of California-Santa Cruz University of Chicago University of Cincinnati University of Colorado University of Denver University of Iowa University of Miami University of Michigan – Ross School of Business University of Minnesota-Twin Cities University of Nebraska University of Notre Dame University of Puget Sound University of Southern California University of St Andrews University of St Thomas University of South Florida University of Tampa University of Virginia University of Wisconsin-Madison Vanderbilt University Villanova University Virginia Commonwealth University Wake Forest University Washington University in St Louis Wheaton College (Illinois) Williams College Yale University
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.
The quarter system at Northwestern allows Lorien to study multiple majors – a huge plus for this student with varied interests. Considering Northwestern? Read about Lorien’s first year at this rigorous Big 10 school!
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. Read more in our April issue. 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.
At Loyola University Chicago, Zara is gaining hands-on experience in the Elementary Ed program and experiencing college life in a major metropolitan city. Read why this freshman loves Loyola!
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.
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 hands-on learning – putting students in “real world” situations to prepare them for their future in whatever field they choose.
Kris at Cal Poly
Learn by Doing
At its core, Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing philosophy “means that we don’t see a difference between the education we provide and the ‘real world.’ Here, experiences are part of the curriculum. That’s because knowledge is inextricably linked to the world around us. To learn is to do. To do is to learn. At Cal Poly, each fuels the other,” according to the calpoly.edu website. And talking with Annika, a sophomore from Minneapolis studying Architecture at Cal Poly, they actually mean it.
“From the beginning of my freshman year I took classes relating to my major in architecture,” Annika said. “It’s very hands-on, and the program integrates California and San Luis Obispo (SLO) into our projects.” And that seems to be the experience of all the students I spoke to while I visited the campus. Carsten, also a sophomore and an architectural engineering major, is also impressed with classes that focus on skills that translate to the real world. (See Annika and Carsten’s top ten lists at the end of this blog)
Cal Polyis the second largest land-holding university in California, second only to UC Berkeley, and one of the largest land-holding universities in the nation, according to the Cal Poly News. In line with its core philosophy, Cal Poly uses all of its land holdings in active support of the education of its students.
Some Facts About Cal Poly
Some quick facts about Cal Poly: Class of 2020 enrolled 21, 447 (51% male, 49% female) undergraduate students, with the College of Engineering having the most students at approximately 27-percent. With more than 150 majors and minors to choose from, Cal Poly supports all of its students with the same “learn by doing” philosophy. The six colleges consist of:
College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Science
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
College of Engineering
College of Liberal Arts
College of Science and Mathematics
Orfalea College of Business
Engineering building at Cal Poly
College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences (about 4,100) is part of the campus that seemed very integrated into the town of San Luis Obispo as well. While dining out in the town, just a 5-minute drive or short bike ride, many of the restaurants boasted produce grown by Cal Poly students as part of their majors. From salad ingredients to flowers and plants, students supply not only the school, but also the community at large with fresh food and student-made products like cheese, eggs, organic produce, chocolate, barbeque sauce, and various meats. And, having experienced the amazing restaurant scene in San Luis Obispo (SLO), I can vouch for the tasty, fresh foods coming directly from Cal Poly that restaurants offer on their menus!
Another unique program Cal Poly offers is Equine Science; If you are into horses, this program encompasses the science, research, management and training of horses. Students can also tailor their curriculum to fit more specific equine-related careers, such as studying nutrition or assisted reproductive therapies. Additionally, Cal Poly has the unique ability to provide enough natural land resources to sustain a large herd of horses, which can often be seen roaming the fenced-in hills around the campus. The Equine Center houses about 100 horses of all ages, uses and disciplines for students to utilize for classes, labs, and riding.
Sports
The Cal Poly Mustangs include 21 NCAA Division 1 teams and have won nearly 50 Big West Conference championships. Sports include men’s and women’s track and field, cross country, soccer, beach volleyball, and golf, among many others.
Cal Poly Beach Volleyball
Clubs & Organizations
There is no shortage of things to do outside of classes at Cal Poly, like hiking, biking or surfing. And because of the near-perfect climate, students can take full advantage of so many year-round outdoor activities. There are over 400 established clubs and organizations, both academic and sports, to choose from, if you are interested in getting involved with like-minded students. From Ballroom Dance to Ultimate Frisbee, Surfing on the coast, or Distance Running, there’s a club for everyone here.
Cal Poly view from hiking path on hill
Cal Poly Rock Wall
Admissions
As a fairly selective university, Cal Poly admitted approximately 30.83% of its applicants for fall 2021. The average SAT score of enrolled students is 1,315 and the average ACT score is 29. While the majority of students are from California, approximately 15% are from out of state, and about 1% are international. Students from 70 countries are represented here, with the majority coming from China, India, and South Korea.
Tuition and Fees
The total cost of attendance (COA) for out-of-state students for the year 2020-2021 was $44,743. This cost includes living on-campus or off-campus, tuition, fees, book & supplies costs, room & board, and other living expenses.
Student Housing
All admitted first-time freshmen are required to live on-campus at Cal Poly, so that they all “have the opportunity to participate in programmatic activities that provide a strong foundation and help students succeed.” The housing for freshmen is in traditional dorms with double and triple rooms, or private bedrooms and shared bedrooms in the campus apartments.
Cal Poly also has a two-year on-campus housing requirement for undergraduate students enrolled in the following programs:
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences
College of Engineering
The Cal Poly Scholars Program
Student-Athletes
Top Ten Lists
Two current sophomores at Cal Poly recently gave me their top ten list of the best things about Cal Poly, as well as a few drawbacks.
Annika (from Minneapolis)
Location – close to beach and surfing, hiking, biking
Learn-by-doing – school is very “hands-on” focused
Integrate California and San Luis Obispo (SLO) into class projects
Start taking classes related to major in freshman year
Very close to the town of SLO – shopping, restaurants, farmer’s market
Fresh foods, produce, meats, cheese from Cal Poly sold at the market
Professors are very experienced and successful in their fields
Great internship opportunities; 4th-year architecture students can decide between interning in San Francisco, L.A., or studying abroad
Passionate and involved students
Real-world projects
Carsten (from Arizona)
Knowledgeable professors who are always willing to help
Students take major-based classes from the beginning of freshman year
Motivated students in a collaborative, non-competitive environment
Great location between the hills and the ocean
Plenty of on-campus job opportunities
Hands-on learning
Weather is great
Skills learned in classes translate to real-world situations
Faculty advising for your major is required before registering for classes to ensure you are taking the right ones.
Study abroad opportunity with sister-school in Lithuania led by Architectural Engineering professor
A few negatives were mentioned, too:
On-campus dining options are limited – only one dining hall (but it’s brand new!)
Some say it is hard to switch majors
Sometimes it’s hard to get into freshman classes
Visit Calpoly.edu for more information on everything this central California coast university has to offer!
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.
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 Elizabeth loves the many sides of American!
