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
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
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
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
What to do AFTER all the College Applications are done
I recently heard this voicemail from one of my students: “I’ve finished all of my college applications. I’m done, right?” I could hear the pride and fear in her voice as she asked the question. She was proud that she had completed all of her nine college applications, including essays, short answers, letter of recommendation… Read more
5 Ways to Prepare Your Child for College
This article appeared in the COMMUNITY RELATIONSHIPS section of Sass Magazine By KAYLEE HENRY Wasn’t it just yesterday you were watching your child climb the school bus steps for first grade? Now you’re watching the car back out the driveway for senior year. In a blink of an eye it will be college move-in day! Have you… Read more
Partnership will aid first-gen college students
I am a first-generation college student, which I define as the first person in my family to attend and complete a four-year college degree. When I was a senior in high school, I met my guidance counselor for the first time. She was the only adult to ever ask me if I intended to go… Read more
Workshop on the 3 A’s of College: Access, Admissions & Affordability
Attend our 3 A’s of College: Access, Admissions and Affordability to learn from a college admissions’ expert. You’ll discover the proven steps you can take to not only gain admission to one of your dream schools, but to complete college without massive debt. Applying for college can be difficult, overwhelming and stressful. Dianne Keilholtz, NCC,… Read more
The Opportunities and Obstacles of Visiting Colleges During the Summer
Between his two daughters, Chris Snowden and his family have visited more than 15 colleges and universities – some multiple times – during the last five years. “Between AP expectations, soccer, swimming, and lots of homework, finding time to squeeze in college tours meant visiting most schools during breaks,” Snowden says. “Their high school does have a policy of excusing absences to… Read more