In light of the recent Varsity Blues Scandal, which continues to be in the news four weeks after the first headlines, I thought I would revisit an article that I wrote in 2015 about options to college admissions’ testing. As you know, the two assessments used by college admissions’ counselors are the SAT or the… Read more
Taking AP Exams is WELL Worth the Cost!
In reviewing a student’s transcript, most college admissions counselors check for rigorous classes, such as Advanced Placement. Students who earn a four or five on most AP exams are usually awarded college credit. This results in a substantial savings for parents and students, as the cost for an AP exam is currently $94, whereas the… Read more
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What to Look For When Hiring a College Consultant
A consultant should help reduce anxiety for parents and students during the college admissions process, according to a recent article in U.S. News & World Report. I recently posted a response to the college admissions scandal, and included valuable information on the credentials parents should look for when considering hiring a college consultant. Here’s another… Read more
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Saddened by college admissions scandal
Good morning: Like many of you, I have been following the college admissions scandal that has been in the news these last few days. As an independent college counselor with more than 30 years of experience, I am angry and sad that this is happening today. However, I am not surprised. I have met many… Read more
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Understanding those Critical Financial Aid Letters
“The waiting is finally over!” Mrs. Drew* happily shared with me as I answered my phone in April 2018. “Scott* got into all of the schools on his list, which is wonderful. So, how do we decide where he should go? I have started receiving his financial aid award letters and I don’t understand them. … Read more
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Finding Free Money for College
“The choices you make right now will impact you for the rest of your life” ~ Kristina Ellis. Every time that you think the price of a college education couldn’t grow more ridiculously expensive, costs go up again. As a high school counselor, I can remember sharing my concerns about the rising costs with parents ten… Read more
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Is College Really Worth It?
Actions You Can Take Now to Insure that Your Money is Well Spent. It’s 8 a.m. on a rainy May afternoon. The tenth graders I’m teaching are sitting at their tables alert and puzzled. I’d just put a slide on the screen that showcased how much more money they will make in their lifetime should they… Read more
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The All Important College Visit
The All Important College Visit – What to Look For? What to Ask About? “Early in the morning; it’s the dawn of a new day; New Hopes, New Dreams, New Ways”~ India Arie Last month, I toured 14 colleges in eight days, all schools part of the Florida Sunshine Consortium. I learned a lot, met a lot of… Read more
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Stop Living Your Life Through Your Children
“Nothing has a stronger influence psychologically on their environment and especially on their children than the unloved life of the parent.” ~ Carl Jung The memory of holding my daughter for the first time is as fresh today as it was forty years ago. As the nurse placed her in my impatient, sweaty arms, it felt as if my… Read more
