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Avoiding Senioritis
High school seniors sometimes believe that because they have worked so hard throughout high school, they’ve earned the right to slack off in their senior year—especially in the last few months. By now, mid-year grades are on their way to colleges, and students may have already been accepted at their favorite school. Why not kick back and enjoy life? We refer to this syndrome as “senioritis.” However, an offer of admission is conditional , and students are expected to maintain
Jan 1


The School Profile
When families think about college applications, they focus on essays, test scores, activities, and transcripts. But there's another document that plays a major role in how colleges understand a student's accomplishments—and most students never even see it. It’s called the School Profile , and it accompanies every transcript your high school sends to colleges. This one- to two-page document is created and updated each year by the counseling office. Its purpose is simple: to gi
Dec 27, 2025


Financial Matters: Tuition Reciprocity
Picture a student who dreams of studying oceanography but lives in a landlocked state—or one living in California, Texas, or Florida, competing for limited seats at their state’s public universities. Both want to explore out-of-state college options. Both are concerned about cost. And both are great examples of students who could benefit from tuition reciprocity programs that make certain public colleges more affordable. What Are Tuition Reciprocity Programs? Tuition recipro
Dec 11, 2025


Focus on Majors: Psychology
If your student is fascinated by why people think, feel, and act the way they do, psychology might be a major worth considering. Psychology is the scientific study of the connections between the mind, behavior, and environment. Students explore how decisions are made, how relationships form, and how internal and external factors shape behavior over a lifetime. What Do Psychology Majors Study? Because psychology is grounded in research and data, most programs begin with found
Dec 4, 2025


Honors Colleges
One way to gain the benefits of a small college while attending a large university is through an honors program . Many public and some private universities offer honors programs that provide valuable perks such as: • Preferential class registration • Special honors courses • Enhanced academic advising • Enrichment opportunities and community-building events Honors classes attract top professors who enjoy teaching bright, motivated students. Most programs don’t require student
Nov 29, 2025


Rethinking Failure and Resistance
Somewhere along the way, many students began treating failure as a personal label rather than a temporary setback. The New York Times once observed that failure has shifted from an action— I failed —to an identity— I am a failure . Any parent who has watched their teen meltdown after a disappointing grade or feedback knows exactly how quickly young people make this leap. Yet every major body of research tells us something very different: failure is not the opposite of succes
Nov 19, 2025


Financial Matters: How to Find Colleges That Offer Merit Aid
Perhaps you’ve realized that you won’t qualify for need-based aid after running net price calculator tools or an SAI tool. That can be discouraging. The good news is that many colleges award merit aid, which is money given for achievement rather than financial need. Understanding how merit aid works, how it differs from need-based aid, and how to find generous colleges can make a difference. Merit Aid vs. Need-Based Aid • Need-based aid depends on your financial situation, a
Nov 13, 2025


Focus on College Majors: Considering a Major in Genetics
Fascinated by heredity and the mysteries of DNA? A major in genetics might be the perfect fit. Genetics is the study of inheritance and variation in all living organisms—from humans to plants and even viruses. It blends biology, chemistry, and computer science and is central to understanding everything from disease prevention to agricultural innovation. Genetics majors begin with a strong foundation in math and science. Most programs require coursework in biology, chemistry,
Nov 5, 2025


Ace Your College Interview
College interviews come in several formats: informational , recommended , and evaluative . Colleges offer interviews because they want to enroll students who will enhance their campus community and bring new ideas. Interviews are also wonderful opportunities for you to ask questions. Think of the interview as a two-way conversation; it's not just the college wanting to learn about you, but also about you finding out as much as you can to make an informed decision. Information
Oct 23, 2025


Beyond the Classroom: Study Away Opportunities for High School Students
As Seen in ScoopCharlotte For high school students looking to broaden their horizons before college, studying away from their home school can offer an unparalleled opportunity for personal growth, language immersion, and global citizenship. Whether your student dreams of perfecting their French in Paris, exploring marine biology in the Bahamas, or attending high school in Spain, numerous programs make this type of experiential education accessible during the summer months, ov
Oct 22, 2025


Helping Your Teen Choose A College Major
One of the most significant decisions your child will face in college is choosing a major. As a parent, your role isn’t to decide for them, but to guide, support, and help them explore options with confidence. Choosing a major isn’t a one-time decision; it’s a process of exploration. By combining honest self-assessment, real conversations with professionals, and ongoing curiosity, your student can make thoughtful choices that lead to both fulfillment and opportunity. Keep in
Oct 13, 2025


Financial Matters:The FAFSA and CSS Profile
As your high school student prepares for college, understanding the financial aid process can make the difference between affordability and overwhelming debt. The good news? October 1st marks the opening of financial aid applications for the upcoming academic year, giving you a clear starting point for this important journey. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is required by every U.S. college and university if your student is applying for need-based financ
Oct 9, 2025


Focus on Majors: Construction Management
Construction is one of the largest industries , shaping skylines and communities. From skyscrapers to renewable energy facilities, every project relies on professionals to coordinate budgets, timelines, safety, and people. That’s where Construction Management (CM) comes in. CM is the business side of building. Architects design structures. Engineers handle technical systems. Construction managers ensure projects are completed efficiently, safely, and on budget. They bridge o
Oct 3, 2025


College Application Mistakes
When preparing and submitting college applications, proper planning and preparation can streamline the entire process. Start by carefully...
Sep 19, 2025


The Truth About High School Grades
If you're a high school student with college aspirations or a parent supporting one, there's a fundamental truth you need to understand:...
Sep 10, 2025


Financial Matters: Staying Smart in Uncertain Times
College planning is always challenging, but in 2025, things feel especially unpredictable. Costs are rising, financial aid systems are...
Aug 28, 2025


Focus on Majors: Pre-Med
When you tell someone you want to be a doctor, the path ahead can seem pretty clear: major in biology, go to college, spend your weekends...
Aug 20, 2025


Why Are You Applying Here?
When high school seniors start tackling college applications, one of the most common and tricky questions they face is some version of...
Aug 15, 2025


Financial Matters: Scholarship Scams Targeting Families
As college costs rise, it’s understandable that families are eager to find financial aid opportunities. Unfortunately, scammers know this...
Jun 12, 2025


Focus on Majors: Not a Major – Pre-Law
If you’re thinking about becoming a lawyer, you might assume there’s a specific “pre-law” major you’re supposed to choose. But here’s...
Jun 5, 2025
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