Student Advice Blog

A Collection of Our Most Popular College Planning Advice Articles

Launching Into Life: Life Skills For High Schoolers

Whether you’re just starting high school or the countdown to graduation has begun, now is the perfect time to start learning practical life skills with lifetime benefits! Whether you’re planning on college or stepping directly into a career, having some practical tools in your belt will make the transition smoother and set you up for ... Launching Into Life: Life Skills For High Schoolers

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Take Advantage of Your Summer

What’s not to love about summer vacation? While summer is the perfect time to take a much-needed break and recharge your mind, it’s also a fantastic time to catch up on things you don’t have time for during the school year. Here’s a list of ways to stay productive over your summer vacation! Get a ... Take Advantage of Your Summer

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Is College Right for You?

Graduating from high school opens lots of doors, and sometimes it’s hard to decide which one to choose. We’re here to help you find the door that’s perfect for you! Picture Your Dream Lifestyle Imagine the kind of life you want to live.  Do you have a specific career in mind?  Do you see a ... Is College Right for You?

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8 Hands-On Ways to Help Your Teen Succeed in High School

You play a big part in helping your teen succeed in high school. Even though teens crave independence, they also want to know you’re still available and care about their success. Here are eight ways to help your teen succeed while giving them the freedom to spread their wings. 1. Keep the Communication Lines Open ... 8 Hands-On Ways to Help Your Teen Succeed in High School

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5 Tips for Choosing (Your) Perfect College

You’re so close to starting one of the most exciting adventures of your life – college! But with so many options, how do you pick the college that fits all your needs, goals, and dreams? Don’t worry, we’ve got you! Grab a comfy seat, and let’s dive into 5 tips to help you choose the ... 5 Tips for Choosing (Your) Perfect College

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What is Direct Admissions?

Direct admissions is a way to get into college without going through the traditional application process. Instead of submitting an application, essays, and letters of recommendation, colleges reach out to students who meet the admissions criteria and offer them a spot at the school. Many different types of colleges are experimenting with offering direct admissions, ... What is Direct Admissions?

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Is College Worth It?

You’ve probably heard a lot of talk about college, and you might be wondering if it’s really worth all the hype. According to the latest research, middle and high school students have the lowest-ever opinion of the value of a college education. So, is college worth it? Does it really affect your social, health, and ... Is College Worth It?

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How to Explore Careers in High School

While starting a career may feel like a million miles away, now is a great time to start thinking about what you’d like to do someday! You have the time, energy, and flexibility to explore careers by taking interesting classes, signing up for new extracurriculars, devoting time to hobbies, volunteering, or even getting a part-time ... How to Explore Careers in High School

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2024-2025 FAFSA® Overview for Parents/Guardians

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, here’s what you need to know before filling out the Fall 2024 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) with your college-bound student.  Timeline The FAFSA application for the 2024-2025 school year is now open. You will file the FAFSA every year your student is in college. ... 2024-2025 FAFSA® Overview for Parents/Guardians

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2024-2025 FAFSA® Overview for Students

Let’s talk about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and what you need to know for the upcoming year. Here’s a quick overview to help you prepare! Timeline The FAFSA application for the 2024-2025 school year is now open. You’ll file the FAFSA every year you’re in college. For the years that follow ... 2024-2025 FAFSA® Overview for Students

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Being Seen in College Applications: Four Strategies After Supreme Court Ruling on Race-Conscious Admission

In a recent landmark decision, the Supreme Court banned race-conscious admission at selective colleges and universities.  Race-conscious admission is a policy designed to tackle racial discrimination. With this policy, colleges could consider an applicant’s race when evaluating them. Colleges who accept a very low percentage of their applicants used this policy to help address some ... Being Seen in College Applications: Four Strategies After Supreme Court Ruling on Race-Conscious Admission

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Passport to Education: How to Choose a School Outside the U.S.

If you ever dreamed of jet-setting across the globe and getting an international education, we’ve got you! Let’s kick-start your incredible adventure with five international locations and what it takes to get into colleges and universities in each one. 1. United Kingdom The United Kingdom hosts a variety of top-tier education options, including big names ... Passport to Education: How to Choose a School Outside the U.S.

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10 Winning Strategies for Starting Grades 11-12 Strong

1. Set Goals Begin the school year by setting clear goals for yourself. They could include improving your grades, participating in extracurricular activities, or building better study habits. Setting specific goals can help you stay motivated throughout the year. 2. Get Organized Organize your school supplies, textbooks, and assignments. Use folders, binders, or digital tools ... 10 Winning Strategies for Starting Grades 11-12 Strong

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2023-2024 Common App Essay Prompts

More than 1,000 schools worldwide accept the Common Application (Common App). This advanced college application platform streamlines the admissions process and allows you to apply to multiple colleges at once. As part of your application, you write a short essay using one of the essay prompts provided.  The essay prompts are the same as the ... 2023-2024 Common App Essay Prompts

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7 Ways to Impress Colleges and Employers

Colleges and employers want to know you’re driven, well-rounded and have skills that will help improve the world around you. Whether you’re just starting to think about your future or it’s staring you in the face, here are some ways to impress colleges and employers and show them your strong character and determination. Join (and ... 7 Ways to Impress Colleges and Employers

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10 Ways to Rock Grades 8-10

As you prepare for a new school year (and maybe even a new school), here are some simple tips to calm any jitters and help you rock this exciting new adventure! 1. Check out the school before it starts. Attend orientation if your school offers it. It’s a great chance to explore the campus and ... 10 Ways to Rock Grades 8-10

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What’s a Superscore and How Do I Use It?

The ACT provides you with a composite score based on the average of your scores in English, math, reading, and science. A superscore combines your best section scores from different test dates, creating a supersized composite score. If you’re applying to a college that allows you to self-report your scores, here are a few things ... What’s a Superscore and How Do I Use It?

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Take Control of Your Time and Achieve Your Goals

It can be tough to be proactive when you’re used to putting things off until the last minute. Here are a few tips to help you boost your productivity. Anticipate Obstacles While it’s important to stay positive and focused, it’s also important to be realistic and anticipate obstacles. Consider patterns from your past that can ... Take Control of Your Time and Achieve Your Goals

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5 Tips for Navigating College Application Season

Students need support as they navigate the college application season. As their parent, guardian, or champion, you can support them and help equip them with the knowledge they need to make informed college decisions.  Here are five ways to help your student choose and apply to colleges perfect for them.  Visit Campuses College fit and ... 5 Tips for Navigating College Application Season

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Cracking the College Growth Mindset Code

It’s never too early to start thinking about what you want your college experience to be like. Are you excited about finding your squad and making lifelong friends? Maybe you’re focused on crushing your academic goals and landing your dream job. Understanding your College Growth Mindset will help you prepare for the college experience YOU ... Cracking the College Growth Mindset Code

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