humbach_education_consulting_v1

Global Mind Health in 2025

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 14:20:23 GMT

Major new global mental health report from Sapien Labs, analyzing data from 2.5 million people across 85 countries. The findings are hard to ignore.

1) The generational flip.
Young adults used to be the mentally healthiest cohort. Not anymore. In every country studied, they are now doing worse than older generations.

2) What’s driving it?
Four factors account for roughly 75% of the decline: weaker family bonds, reduced spirituality, earlier smartphone access, and greater consumption of ultra-processed foods. Not exactly shocking, but now it’s quantified.

3) Wealth isn’t helping.
The decline is most severe in wealthier, more developed countries where kids get smartphones earlier, eat more junk, have looser family ties, and have less connection to meaning or faith.

4) Earlier phones, bigger problems.
The younger a child gets a smartphone, the higher the likelihood of suicidal thoughts, aggression, and other mental health challenges later on.

5) Gen Z = the test case.
This is the first generation raised on smartphones, and the data is clear: earlier access correlates with worse outcomes in adulthood. We’re not just talking anxiety and depression. Think detachment from reality, increased aggression, and suicidal ideation.

Why? Disrupted sleep, exposure to harmful content and predators, cyberbullying, and, critically, less real-world social development. Kids aren’t learning how to read faces, navigate group dynamics, or build human connection.

And the effects? Most pronounced for kids who get smartphones before age 13 . The report is short, accessible, and important. Read it here: https://lnkd.in/gXev9WCK

From Paralegal to College Admissions Expert: The Story of Shelly Humbach

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 16:45:33 GMT

For many students and families, navigating the ever-changing college admissions landscape can feel overwhelming. That’s where Shelly Humbach, founder of Humbach Education Consulting, LLC, comes in — blending experience, strategy, and compassion to help students find their best academic fit.

A Career Pivot Rooted in Purpose

Shelly began her professional journey as a litigation paralegal — a demanding role she excelled in for over two decades. But a volunteer role in a high school Post-Grad Department ignited a new passion: college admissions counseling. What started as service turned into a calling.

With a clear vision, she pursued formal training through UCLA’s College Admissions Counseling Program, graduating with distinction, and became deeply involved in her profession through memberships in every relevant organization she could join. Nearly two decades on, she continues to refine her craft, guiding students with expertise, humor, and no nonsense.

What Makes Her Approach Different?

Shelly’s philosophy centers on customized strategy. Every student receives a personalized plan tailored to their goals, priorities, and return on investment — rather than generic, one-size-fits-all advice. She stays current by visiting campuses across the country, attending educational conferences, and leading workshops, ensuring her guidance reflects the realities of today’s admissions world.

Moreover, Shelly is a Certified Educational Planner (CEP) — a credential that signifies advanced training and professional rigor. This designation gives families confidence that they’re working with someone committed to the highest standards of service.

Facing Challenges With Heart

The road hasn’t been without its challenges. The college admissions process itself is more complex and opaque than ever, creating anxiety for students and parents alike. On top of that, Shelly acknowledges the escalating mental health pressures faced by today’s Gen Z and Gen Alpha students, making her role as both guide and supporter all the more essential.

How to Work With Shelly

Shelly keeps her client roster intentionally limited to ensure deep, strategic engagement. She begins with an initial consultation that focuses on understanding the student’s goals and family priorities within the context of today’s admissions landscape. From there, she crafts a road map that encompasses coursework, testing plans, college selection, application strategies, and more.

She also collaborates with trusted partners in test prep, tutoring, learning differences, and mental health, recognizing that successful college planning doesn’t happen in isolation.

Shelly’s journey from legal professional to college planning expert exemplifies how following a passion — backed by skill, strategy, and empathy — can make a real impact on students’ lives.

If you’re navigating the college admissions maze, her approach might be just what you need to feel prepared, confident, and supported.

Parents of Sophomores: Your “Don’t Panic, But Don’t Snooze” Checklist

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:43:04 GMT

Sophomore year is the quiet workhorse of high school. It’s not flashy like junior year. It’s not celebratory like senior year. But it matters. A lot. Here’s your tight, no-nonsense checklist:

 Academic Rigor Check

Is your student appropriately challenged? Honors? AP? IB? Dual enrollment? Colleges care about trajectory. Upward trends = good. Coasting = not so much.

Grades

This is a foundational transcript year. No “we’ll fix it later” energy. Strong sophomore grades make junior year pressure more manageable.

Testing Plan (Light, Strategic)

Consider a practice SAT/ACT in the Spring. No need to prep - you are looking for a baseline. Diagnostic only.

Meaningful Activities

Random clubs and sporadic community service? Hard pass. Encourage commitment, leadership, and genuine interest. Colleges want to see depth, not breadth.

Summer Game Plan

Catch up on sleep, hang out with your friends…….and one or two of: camps, jobs, volunteering, academic programs, internships, and job shadowing. Summer is for fun and also for showing curiosity or initiative.

Relationship Building

Teachers matter. Not for favors. For mentorship. Strong junior-year recommendations start with authentic sophomore engagement.

Early College Exposure

Casual visits. A local campus tour. Virtual info sessions. Start noticing size, setting, vibe. You’re gathering data, not making decisions.

Financial Reality Check

Run Net Price Calculators. Yes, now. Sticker shock is real. Know your numbers early to inform a great fit college list, and also so senior year isn’t a panic spiral.

Executive Function Audit

Time management. Organization. Study habits. If there are cracks, identify and work on them before junior year hits like a freight train.

Mental Health

Ambition is great. Burnout is not. Balance matters. Always.

Sophomore year is about positioning. Quiet, strategic positioning. No drama. No frenzy. Just smart moves that compound over time.

You’ve got this. And maybe put junior year on your vision board, cause it’s coming.

Parents of Juniors: The College Planning Reality Check

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 20:19:01 GMT

FINANCIAL FIT (a.k.a. Don’t Wreck Your Retirement)

☐ Have an honest family conversation about maximum annual college spend

☐ Run the college website Net Price Calculator for at least 5–8 schools

☐ Complete FAFSA prep (FSA IDs created for student + 1 parent)

☐ Separate dream schools from financially realistic schools

☐ Often sticker price ≠ net price

COLLEGE LIST STRATEGY

☐ Confirm your student’s GPA/test scores in context of each school

☐ Build a balanced list: likely / target / reach / wildcard (no more than 10)

☐ Check which schools are test-optional vs test-preferred vs test-required

☐ Remove any school that makes zero financial sense (yes, even that one)

CAMPUS VISITS (WORK SMART, NOT CUTE)

☐ Schedule official tours and ask about sitting in on a class

☐ Preview virtual tours before visiting

☐ Meet the regional admissions rep

☐ Visit or email the Financial Aid Office - Ask: “Based on our profile, what’s a realistic net cost?”

TESTING (STRATEGY OVER PANIC)

☐ Decide SAT/ACT plan early (spring = ideal)

☐ Compare scores to each school’s middle 50%

☐ Submit scores only if they strengthen the application

☐ Support stress management - not score obsession

TIMELINE & MOMENTUM

☐ Summer after junior year = essay drafting season (Godspeed)

☐ Create a senior-year application calendar

☐ Track deadlines: EA / ED / RD / Scholarships

☐ Keep senior-year grades strong (yes, colleges still care)

PARENT REMINDERS (READ THIS TWICE)

☐ This is your student’s journey - guide, don’t micromanage

☐ Comparison is poison (especially with other parents). THIS.

☐ Prestige does not equal happiness, success, or ROI

☐ A financially sane college choice is a win

The Value of the College Visit — and How To Do It Right

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 20:13:29 GMT

Juniors (and parents), take a breath. The college search can feel like trying to pick a favorite show on Netflix with 4,000 options and no remote. It’s overwhelming, and without a plan, nothing happens except mild panic and procrastination.

Here’s how to cut through the noise:

1. Start close to home.

Visit a small, medium, and large college in your state — even if none of them are on your actual list. You’re gathering data, not declaring allegiance. Pay attention to the basics: campus vibe, feeling of safety, surrounding town. Not every school sits in a picture-perfect bubble. (Looking at you, USC area.) Understanding what size and setting feel right is the foundation for building a meaningful college list.

2. Turn travel into opportunity.

Heading out of town for Spring Break or a long weekend? Add a campus or two to the itinerary. You may think you’d never go to college in that region, but campus visits have a way of changing minds, or reinforcing them. Also, test the travel logistics. If getting from home to campus feels like planning a Mars mission, that’s worth knowing.

3. Make each visit count.

Sign up for the official tour. But if you can skip the info session, do it. They’re often more marketing than substance, and the biggest takeaway is usually a free pen. Instead, ask Admissions if you can sit in on a class, tour the department you’re actually interested in, or talk with a professor. That’s where you get the real story.

A bachelor’s degree is a major investment both financially and personally. Treat the process for what it is: a thoughtful evaluation of your options. The campus visit remains one of the most valuable tools you have. Use it intentionally, and you’ll make smarter choices with far less stress and a fantastic outcome.

College Application Season

Sat, 18 Oct 2025 20:04:01 GMT

College Application Season, a/k/a Application Hell, is upon us. Every year, my Colorado kids are pushed to meet the Colorado Free Application Days, which typically are in early October. This early deadline is both a blessing and a curse. Let me explain. The curse is that it’s early, and the pressure to complete applications and essays is intense. The blessing is that it’s early, which requires students to get their act together and finish their applications and essays.

This dichotomy mirrors my experience working with teens. It is, you guessed it, both a blessing and a curse. Now, I realize I am being over-generalistic, but bear with me. The blessings are innumerable: they are bright, funny, kind, compassionate, and very, very aware. Of all kinds of stuff. Gen Z is fascinating in that they have the emotional intelligence of, say, a 45-year-old mother of three. They are informed and driven to act to impact injustices, locally and globally. And bonus! They can handle any of your persnickety tech issues without blinking an eye. Gen Z restores my faith in humanity, and for that, I am deeply grateful.

And the curse? They cannot write. By the grace of God, each year, I have a handful of students who can write brilliantly, beautifully. But every year, that handful gets smaller, and along with that so does my faith in humanity. I firmly believe and bear witness to the fact that readers make writers. This is true for me. It is true for my children, and it’s just true.

The rant? Devices and social media (I know, I am a broken record) are the culprit. Gen Z is growing up in a world of clickbait communication and constant distraction, fueled by addictive algorithms. The result - many have the attention span of a gnat. NO ONE IS READING ANYMORE. I don’t mean a headline. I mean a full article, let alone a book. Remember those?

As a mother of three adults, functioning children, and a professional who has worked with hundreds of teens, please take heed. Read to your kids. Invite your kids to read to you. Their future depends on it.

No Phone, Ditch the Shoes, Let’s Connect

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 15:05:38 GMT

In June, I hosted my annual Senior Essay Writing Workshop. This was the first in-person workshop since 2019. I bet you can guess why. I was elated to meet my students face-to-face after months, even years, of connecting through the screen. Imagine my surprise at their height, super-smiles, and warm laughter. Dang, it was wonderful.

So, essentially, all my in-state seniors gather at my house for a three-hour intensive workshop on crafting a killer college essay. As I was preparing for the event, it occurred to me that I might be in competition with their PHONE. Classic directness (this is probably a character flaw) led me to inform my students and their parents, in advance, that this would be a no-phone gathering. My messaging went something like this,

Important:

Phones are placed in a basket at the door and retrieved at noon. No exceptions. Parents: If you need to reach your student during the workshop, text me directly at **********.

Now, I am fully on board with the phone-free movement. I support it, advocate for it, and live it (I brilliantly quit all personal media last November). And I thought: my event, my rules. I was a little concerned about how this announcement would land. Turns out my concern was mainly about the parents. The kids? Not so much. In fact, research indicates that students crave phone-free learning environments.

Suffice to say, the workshop was a smashing success. Not a single student pushed back against the policy. One poor soul forgot to retrieve her phone and left it sitting all alone in the basket. Not to worry, though. She didn’t get far before turning back to grab it.

Here’s the truth: We don’t have to bow down to every technological whim or societal pressure. As adults, we know the phone is a problem, and it’s our job to foster healthy, happy individuals. So let's keep this momentum going. As Maya Angelou wisely said, “When you know better, do better.”

Big J Educational Consulting College Admissions Charts

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 12:33:05 GMT

I work with incredible colleagues; collaborative, smart and supportive. They make me better and I am deeply grateful. Every year, Jennie Kent and Jeff Levy of Big J Educational Consulting share invaluable information regarding college admissions. Their research is impeccable and accurate and provides crucial data to help students and families make informed college decisions. Read on, share broadly and give a shout out to these generous professionals!

Early Decision and Regular Decision Acceptance Rates Class of 2028
Domestic Undergraduate Need-Based and Merit Aid Class of 2028
In-State and Out-of-State Acceptance Rates Class of 2028
Financial Aid for International Noncitizens Class of 2028
International Noncitizens Acceptance Rate and Yield Class of 2028
Percentage of Students Submitting SAT and ACT Scores Class of 2028
Athletic Divisions and Conferences (partial list) Class of 2028 - NEW!

These charts are visual, interactive, and easy to use. They make it possible to instantly sort using any column's metrics and to easily compare subsets of colleges. They are free and can be accessed at www.bigjeducationalconsulting.com/resources .

From Jennie and Jeff: We hope you find these resources helpful in your work guiding students. Please feel free to share them broadly as long as they remain in their original unedited form. Permission is not granted to those charging a fee for their distribution. If you find an error after cross-referencing with an institution's Common Data Set, please contact us at info@bigjconsult.com . Thank you!

The Power of Paying Attention

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 12:02:41 GMT

The Power of Paying Attention

When my first child was born in 1991, the circumstances were not as I imagined. Born at 29 weeks, she spent the first six weeks of her life in the NICU. One of the blessings that came from this experience was the pediatrician that we were referred to - one who specialized in caring for premature babies. Dr. Gordon Blakeman saved my little family in many ways, and perhaps the most profound was that at every appointment, he asked a series of questions and listened to the answers.

Do you have dinner together, as a family, and not in front of the TV (today that would include and without devices?)

Do you read to your child?
And later, does your child read to you?

These questions may seem basic, and the answers may seem obvious. But are they? I urge you to get real with yourself. The world is exceedingly digital, virtual, and moving at lightning speed. So little time is spent in the company of others, without that pesky little device firmly in hand. But I will argue till I’m dead (and then I shall be the voice in my children’s head) that the act of paying attention, full, intentional, uninterrupted attention, to your child is the most powerful, meaningful, and everlasting gift you can give them.

And as this article below highlights, parenting teens is tough, and when you lay a solid foundation and regularly practice focused communication, it becomes bearable, if not joyful. The crowning jewel is when your adult children seek your company and time. The reciprocation is divine.

How to Have a Better Relationship With Your Teenager

Parents: Before Your Student Launches, Get These Legal Docs in Place

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 17:57:12 GMT

Parents: Before Your Student Launches,

Get These Legal Docs in Place

If your kid is about to head off to college, there’s one thing you absolutely need to do before the dorm drop-off and the tearful Target run: get your legal ducks in a row.

Most students are 18 or will turn 18 during freshman year. That means they’re legally adults and you no longer have automatic rights to access their medical or academic information.

If an emergency hits, and you’re not legally authorized, you could be left completely in the dark.

Here’s what you need—signed, sealed, and legally legit:

Advance Care Directive for Health Care
Advance Care Directive for Mental Health Care
Durable Power of Attorney
HIPAA Authorization Form
FERPA Release

Let’s break it down:

FERPA Release lets you access your child’s academic records (yes, grades too—but only if they sign off).
HIPAA Authorization allows you to receive health info if your student is hospitalized, injured, or otherwise incapacitated. Without it? You might not even be notified.
Advance Care Directives specify your child’s medical and mental health wishes in case they can't make decisions themselves.
Durable Power of Attorney gives you authority to handle financial and legal matters if needed.

Now imagine this: your son’s at school, ends up in the ER, unconscious. You call for information—and are told nothing. You can’t access his records. You can’t help with care decisions. You’re locked out.

Don’t wait. If your student is 18+, talk to a lawyer or use a trusted service like Mama Bear Legal Forms to get it done affordably and correctly.

Care packages are great. But this is how you actually protect your college-bound kid—and stay legally connected when it counts.

And if you think your little darlin’ won’t do something stupid in college… well, remember your own freshman year.

Is Your Student Ready For College?

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Wed, 14 May 2025 20:47:10 GMT

Is Your Student Ready For College?

Recently, I attended the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) Spring Conference, where I spent most of each day in dynamic and informative conversation and professional development with colleagues from around the globe. The conference was invaluable, and indeed, I am grateful for the many "golden nuggets" of wisdom gleaned from fellow college consultants. There was an emphasis and consistent discussion around the concept of students and college readiness. I am not referring to academic college readiness, which continues to be under immense scrutiny due to the pandemic and phones in schools, but rather the emergence of another critical element of college readiness. Basic Life Skills college readiness.

One of the most challenging components of my work is discovering that a student has not had a successful transition to college. Often, a significant contributor in the student's unraveling and failure to launch is their lack of ability to manage the rote, daily tasks of life (doing laundry, making a meal, managing prescription medications and scheduling a dentist appointment.) The question is, why are so many teenagers ill-equipped to manage the basic tasks of daily life? A consensus amongst Independent Educational Consultants, Therapeutic Consultants and Therapeutic Gap Year Consultants is that high school students are so focused on building an impressive college résumé, that there is little to no time to just do life. Well-intentioned parents do virtually everything for their child, breathlessly running them from one thing to the next, without so much as a backward glance nor a moment to reflect. A trade-off emerges; vast resources going toward the student doing more stuff and far fewer resources devoted to teaching them how to do life.

There is a direct correlation between the possession of life skills and the ability to take care of oneself. As adults, we recognize the importance of proper sleep and nutrition. We are aware of the negative effects of logging an hour too many on our device and if listening, we hear that pesky little voice that says, "slow down, take care". Without healthy habits, we spiral and eventually crash and burn. But as adults, we have the maturity to draw from life's experiences and ultimately correct our course. College students, living newly independent lives and with a ridiculous abundance of freedom, are lacking in their ability to recognize when it's time to call in the cavalry of sense and self-care.

I'm the first one to admit that parenting teenagers is hard as hell and requires a thick skin, serious stamina (especially for the BS), follow-through and the occasional uncomfortable conversation. But of utmost importance is teaching our kids how to take care of themselves. When they launch, they will either sink or swim, and I don't think any parent is voting for the sink. No longer will they be shuttled from one game, tutor, or job to the next. Once in college, they will be required to shuttle themselves, and on time, with no one serving as a safety net. Once your teen flies the coop, they have to know the basics of how to do life, and better yet, with a keen awareness of how to self-care.

I am not saying any of this is easy, but what about parenting is? Further, I deeply appreciate the self-sacrifice that comes with parenting and following through on the hard stuff. But "doing it all" for your child, so they can do more stuff, is in the end, a crippling practice. There are reverberating consequences for the college kid who lacks basic life skills. Think about it, do you want your student using the dorm room microwave to dry their tighty whiteys? Really, what kind of impression does that leave? Um, I really wish I were making this last bit up.

What should your high school student be doing with their precious summer?

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 19:36:10 GMT

Wait for it……they should be having fun.

That’s the answer, the whole answer. As a College Admissions Consultant, I am often asked this exact question. It is not my intention to come off as flippant but rather honest. What was true for my generation (I grew up in the 70s and 80s), is true for Gen Z.

I know, I know, did we really drink water from a hose and ride horses and bicycles from sunrise to sunset? Yes. And we didn’t have cell phones or much in the way of money, plans, or supervision. And God, it was great. I also siphoned gas from my neighbor’s car more than once. But that’s a story for another time. I will argue that an unencumbered, slightly unscheduled, and fun summer will contribute to your student’s mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health more than just about anything else.

Honestly, anything that combines a flexible agenda with a vast reduction in device use will produce a magic potion of goodness and delight. Sprinkle in a job, and we’ve got a home run! Most jobs available to high school students are in a service-related industry. Again, reflecting on my formative years (are those over yet?) I worked as a server and bartender for 11 years, essentially all throughout high school and college (I was on the 6-year undergrad track). I was deeply and thoroughly schooled in humanity, patience, kindness, rudeness, pressure, teamwork, decision-making, conflict resolution and money. And these lessons are my greatest life lessons, serving me in a million ways.

For college admissions, summer activities are often the differentiator between students with similar academic achievements. Admissions offices at competitive colleges value extracurriculars for their ability to reveal who a student is beyond grades and test scores. According to the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) , nearly 44% of colleges consider extracurricular activities moderately important in admissions decisions, and for top-tier institutions, these experiences are considered "important" or "very important" by 88% of admissions officers.

Below, you’ll find just a few ideas on how to “constructively” spend your summer before college that prioritizes fun and exploration for your high schooler.

1. Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer work fosters social responsibility and boosts employability, as teens who volunteer are 50% more likely to find jobs . This can be an AMAZING way to spend those free summer hours, exploring new hobbies, passions, and organizations while learning time management and responsibilities! These, inherently, can be added to your student’s applications as college admissions committees always look for well-rounded individuals who spend time in their community.

2. College Visits

Make a fun summer road trip out of a few college visits - this is a fantastic way to see new places and get your student excited for the long-term goal of attending college. A lot of college towns have students who stick around and work local jobs during the summertime, so it’s a great way to see the town or city your student could potentially be living in during the “downtime” less busy months. It’s essential to ensure your child can picture living in the area and not just life on campus.

3. Personal Growth and Hobbies

Encourage your student to pursue personal interests and hobbies during the summer, as these can contribute to their personal development and enrich their college applications - oh, and have some summer fun. Pitch some out-of-the-box ideas for activities like joining summer clubs, starting a blog, building a summer business, and hiking a long trail (you know your kids best; what are they into?).

4. Developing Time Management and Organization Skills

Grab a summer job! The biggest hurdle most new-to-college students face is adjusting to being in charge of their own schedule and utilizing their free time effectively. Not only will they get a taste of the financial freedom that comes from having a job, but they will also get to practice the basics of organization and time management. Summer jobs offer an entire pool of new friends to make and a great way to practice those impending socialization skills that will be put to the test when starting college.

5. Shadowing or Internships

Have a student who is convinced they want to work in medicine or has never considered another major other than the one they have imagined forever? Try to find a summer internship or job shadowing opportunity in that field and let your student explore the reality of that profession in the real world - they might be surprised by what they learn and it could offset a change in major down the road. Conversely, they could just be the 1% of us who know exactly what we want to be, and it just solidifies their choice! Both are a win-win.

Here are four popular websites that are commonly used to find summer internships:

College MatchPoint , Summer Programs for High School Students: Summer MatchPoint Activity Directory. Discover a wide range of summer opportunities, including courses, research programs, and service projects. The directory covers in-person, online, and hybrid options to fit every preference. This year, we've 2x the number of free options.

LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a professional networking platform with a robust job and internship search section. Many companies and organizations post internship opportunities on LinkedIn, and you can filter your search based on location, industry, and internship type.

Indeed : Indeed is a popular job search engine that includes a wide range of internship listings. It aggregates internship postings from various sources, including company websites, job boards, and recruitment agencies. You can refine your search by location, industry, and internship duration.

Glassdoor : Glassdoor not only provides insights into company reviews and salaries but also has a dedicated section for internships. You can search for internships based on location, industry, and keywords. Glassdoor also provides company-specific information to help you make informed decisions about potential internships.

While these websites are popular and offer a wide range of internship listings, exploring multiple resources and directly checking company websites or utilizing industry-specific job boards for specific internship opportunities is always beneficial. Additionally, leveraging personal connections and networking can often lead to hidden internship openings that may not be advertised on these platforms.

6. Summer WorkAway Program

Do you have a student who’s itching to travel? Who hasn’t spent much time away from home? Workaway programs can range from days, weeks, or months, allowing participants to help work on a vineyard in Italy, harvest agave on a farm in Oaxaca, tend to horses on an equestrian ranch in Spain - you name it, workaway hosts it. These programs offer a place to stay in exchange for hard work and learning new skills and responsibilities. Most of these programs are hosted by caring individuals who will teach you their native language and who genuinely care about giving back to those who come to help them on their travels.

Summers are a sacred time

Contrary to popular belief, I will always argue that a “productive summer” equates to a “fun summer”. Drawing from my experience as a college admissions advisor and reflecting on my upbringing, I emphasize the importance of an unencumbered and slightly unscheduled summer for your student’s mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being.

Reducing device usage and incorporating flexible agendas can create a magical concoction of freedom and self-exploration. Part-time jobs, particularly in the service industry, can provide invaluable life lessons in humanity, patience, teamwork, and decision-making. Peppering in constructive summer activities, including volunteer opportunities, college visits, personal growth and hobbies, contribute to developing time management skills. A job and exploring shadowing or internship opportunities related to potential career paths can all be amazing ways to spend those summer hours. The aim is to prioritize fun, exploration, and personal development authentically, which contributes to a stronger college application and a successful transition to college life.

The Common App and AXS Companion: Deadlines, Dates, Resources and FAQs

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 17:14:50 GMT

"The Common Application, often referred to as The Common App is an online platform that facilitates the college application process for students."

The Common Application, often referred to as the "Common App," is an online platform that facilitates the college application process for students applying to colleges and universities in the United States and a few other countries. It serves as a centralized application system, allowing students to apply to multiple participating colleges using a single application.

The AXS Companion is an open resource tool built by Oregon State University (no, you don’t need to apply to OSU to use it!) in collaboration with college consulting professionals at IECA that helps students navigate the Common App most effectively.New Paragraph

AXS Companion FAQs

1. Is the AXS Companion free to use?

Yes, the AXS Companion is available free of charge to all students and parents who are using the Common App.

2. Can I access the AXS Companion on my mobile device?

Yes, the AXS Companion is designed to be mobile-friendly. You can access it from your smartphone or tablet, allowing you to work on your application anytime, anywhere.

3. What if I have technical issues while using the AXS Companion?

If you encounter any technical issues while using the AXS Companion, you can reach out to their customer support team for assistance. They will be able to help you resolve any issues and ensure a smooth application process.

4. Can the AXS Companion help with college selection?

The AXS Companion focuses primarily on guiding students through the Common App application process. While it does not directly help with college selection, it provides resources and advice on how to present your best self in your application, which can increase your chances of getting accepted to your desired colleges.

5. Can I use the AXS Companion for applications to non-US colleges?

While the AXS Companion is primarily designed for the Common App, it can still be a valuable resource for students applying to non-US colleges. Many international institutions accept the Common App, and the guidance provided by the AXS Companion can be applied to other application platforms as well.

The Common App Deadlines and Important Dates

To make the most of the Common App and ensure that your application is submitted on time, it's essential to be aware of the relevant deadlines and important dates. Here are some key dates to keep in mind:

1. Application Open Date:

The Common App typically opens for submissions in August or September. Check the Common App website for the exact date each year.

2. Application Deadlines:

Different colleges and universities have different application deadlines. Some schools have Early Decision or Early Action deadlines, while all have Regular Decision deadlines. Make sure to research the deadlines for each institution you're applying to and mark them on your calendar.

3. Test Score Submission Deadlines:

If you're planning to submit standardized test scores, be aware of the deadlines for score submission. Some schools require scores to be received by a certain date, while others allow for self-reporting or score updates after the application deadline.

4. Financial Aid Deadlines:

If you're applying for financial aid, be sure to check the deadlines for submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or any other required financial aid forms. Missing these deadlines could affect your eligibility for financial assistance.

5. Decision Release Dates:

After submitting your application, you'll have to wait for the colleges to release their admission decisions. These dates vary depending on the institution. Be prepared to receive decisions between December and April, depending on the application cycle.

Stay organized and create a timeline to ensure that you meet all the necessary deadlines. The AXS Companion can also help you keep track of important dates and provide reminders to help you stay on top of your application process

Additional Resources for Common App Success

In addition to the AXS Companion, there are several other resources available to help you navigate the Common App and increase your chances of success. Here are some additional resources you may find helpful:

1.The Common App Website:

The official Common App website provides a wealth of information and resources to help you throughout the application process. It includes FAQs, video tutorials, and guides on various topics related to college applications.

2. College Admissions Counselors:

Reach out to the admissions counselors at the colleges you're interested in. They can provide valuable insights and answer any specific questions you may have about their application process.

3. College Prep Books:

There are numerous books available that provide comprehensive guidance on college applications. Look for titles that specifically focus on the Common App and offer tips and strategies for maximizing your chances of acceptance. Here are my top 3 picks for College Admissions Prep:

4. Online Communities and Forums:

Join online communities and forums where you can connect with other students and parents who are going through the college application process. These platforms provide a space to ask questions, share experiences, and receive support.

Remember, the college application process can be challenging, but with the right resources and support, you can navigate it successfully.

Additional Guides Here

If these quick tips and tricks helped you, I would encourage you to take a look at our full guide on The Common App and AXS below!

Harnessing the Power of AXS Companion: Take on the Common App with Ease

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 16:28:21 GMT

"The AXS Companion provides step-by-step guidance, tips, and expert advice to help you tackle every section of the Common App with confidence."

Welcome to your ultimate guide to navigating the Common App with the power of the AXS Companion . Whether you're a high school student beginning your college application journey or a parent supporting your child through the process, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools to make the most of this powerful resource.

The Common App is a widely-used platform that allows students to apply to multiple colleges and universities with a single application. However, navigating the intricacies of the application process can be overwhelming. That's where the AXS Companion comes in.

With its user-friendly interface, the AXS Companion provides step-by-step guidance, tips, and expert advice to help you tackle every section of the Common App with confidence. From personal information to academic details, extracurricular activities to essay prompts, this guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you showcase your unique strengths and experiences effectively.

I was so impressed with the AXS Companion, I had to share with my followers as a recommended resource and tool. Let’s help get the word out about AXS and share the news far and wide to help as many students as possible with this new resource. Get ready to unlock your potential and maximize your chances of getting into your dream college. Let's dive in!

What is the Common App?

The Common App, short for the Common Application, is an online platform used by over 1000 colleges and universities worldwide; you can search the full list of Colleges on the Common App here https://www.commonapp.org/explore/ . It simplifies the college application process by allowing students to fill out a single application and submit it to multiple institutions. This streamlines the application process, saving students time and effort.

The Common App covers various sections, including personal information, academic details, extracurricular activities, and essay prompts. It provides a standardized format that allows colleges to review applications efficiently. This means that you can apply to multiple schools without having to fill out separate applications for each one.

Benefits of using the AXS Companion for the Common App

The AXS Companion is a powerful tool that enhances the Common App experience. It offers a range of benefits that can help students and parents navigate the application process with ease. Here are some key advantages of using the AXS Companion:

1. User-Friendly Interface:

The AXS Companion features a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to navigate through the various sections of the Common App. You'll find clear instructions and prompts to guide you at every step, ensuring you don't miss any crucial information.

2. Step-by-Step Guidance:

The AXS Companion provides comprehensive step-by-step guidance on completing each section of the Common App. It breaks down the application process into manageable tasks, allowing you to tackle one section at a time. This approach reduces stress and ensures that you don't overlook any important details.

3. Expert Advice and Tips:

The AXS Companion offers expert advice and tips to help you showcase your unique strengths and experiences effectively. It provides insights on how to craft a compelling personal statement, highlight your extracurricular activities, and present your academic achievements in the best possible light. With the AXS Companion, you'll have access to insider knowledge that can give your application an edge.

4. Time-Saving Features:

The AXS Companion includes time-saving features that can streamline the application process. It allows you to save your progress, so you can work on your application at your own pace. You can also preview your application before submitting it, ensuring that everything is in order.

Navigating the AXS Companion

The AXS Companion is designed to be intuitive and easy to navigate. Here's a brief overview of how to make the most of this powerful tool:

1. Create an Account:

To access the AXS Companion, you'll need to create an account. Simply visit the AXS website and follow the prompts to sign up. Make sure to provide accurate information, as this will be used to personalize your experience.

2. Explore the Features:

Once you're logged in, take some time to explore the various features of the AXS Companion. Familiarize yourself with the layout and navigation options. You'll find a menu that allows you to access different sections of the Common App.

3. Follow the Guidance:

As you begin working on your application, the AXS Companion will provide guidance and prompts to help you complete each section. Read the instructions carefully and follow them step by step. The AXS Companion will ensure that you don't miss any important details.

4. Save and Review:

As you progress through the application, remember to save your work regularly. This will prevent any loss of data in case of technical issues. Once you've completed a section, take some time to review your responses before moving on. The AXS Companion allows you to preview your application, so you can see how it will look to colleges.

By following these steps, you'll be able to navigate the AXS Companion effectively and make the most of its features.

The AXS Companion edge on the Common App

The AXS Companion is your ultimate guide to navigating the Common App with confidence. Its user-friendly interface, step-by-step guidance, and expert advice make it an invaluable resource for students and parents alike. By leveraging the power of the AXS Companion, you can showcase your unique strengths and experiences effectively, increasing your chances of getting into your dream college.

As you embark on your college application journey, remember to stay organized, meet deadlines, and put your best foot forward. Utilize the guidance and resources provided by the AXS Companion and other available tools to ensure a strong and comprehensive application.

Good luck on your college application journey! With the AXS Companion by your side, you're well-equipped to unlock your potential and maximize your chances of getting into your dream college.

Financial Aid 101: Understanding the Basics

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 15:21:09 GMT

What is financial aid?

Financial aid is monetary assistance provided to students and families to help cover the cost of attending college. Aid can come in a variety of forms that we’ll go over in more detail below!

The college financial aid process can be a daunting one but with the rising cost of tuition and other educational expenses, applying for financial aid is more crucial than ever. There is a lot of opportunity out there for financial assistance, but understanding the intricacies can feel like a foreign language. In this post, we will go through financial aid 101 and pull back the curtain on some of the most important terminology to know as you prepare for this process.

Financial Aid Terminology: A Comprehensive Guide for Students and Families

Before diving in, it’s important to understand key terms to set you up for success. My best advice is to have your college financial aid office on speed dial since after all, they are there to answer your questions. Here are some of the most commonly used terms that will help demystify the process and streamline communication.

Cost of Attendance

Don’t be fooled by the base price of tuition. The total CoA should include tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, personal living expenses, and transportation to and from campus, if needed. So remember to compare total cost breakdowns and not just tuition.

Student Aid Index (SAI)

The total amount your family is expected to pay toward college is calculated by the FAFSA (see above). Once you fill out your FAFSA form , you will receive a Student Aid Index (SAI) number. This number should be listed on every award you’re granted. The formula is basic but very important, so make sure it’s always represented accurately. The SAI it is this number that determines the student’s eligibility for federal aid at all colleges, and eligibility for institutional aid at colleges that don’t use an institutional form like the CSS Profile.

Here’s a quick guide to how FAFSA works

Financial Need

Use the equation above to calculate your financial need for each school and then check your award letter. If the school’s total financial aid award is less than your financial need, you’ll be left with a “financial aid gap.” In this case, you’ll have to pay this gap (in addition to paying your SAI amount) with other sources of funding. Scholarships from community groups or other private sources, personal savings, or private loans are some common examples of how students augment the gap.

Grants and Scholarships

Scholarships and grants are awarded based on merit, need, or a combination of both, and don’t need to be repaid. There are a lot of grants and scholarship funds out there, so make sure to do your research and take advantage of these opportunities. And as always, make sure to ask the right questions! Are these grants or scholarships renewable, meaning you’ll receive them every year? Or, did the college front-load the financial aid package by offering an attractive scholarship for the first year only? What are the eligibility requirements that must be kept in order to keep the scholarship for future years (a minimum GPA or certain number of credits)?

Here’s a free tool to take a look at for getting an idea for what’s out there.

Loans

Loans have to be repaid. There are also student loans that are provided by the federal government, banks, and other private lenders, and must be paid back with interest. Here’s a breakdown on how student loans work. Make sure you do your homework.

FAFSA

FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It's a form that students or their parents fill out annually to apply for financial aid for college or graduate school in the United States. The form is used to determine a student's eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs, as well as some state and institutional aid.

Each person required to enter personal information into the FAFSA is called a contributor. Each contributor will log in to the FAFSA separately and will each need their own Federal Student Aid Identification Number (FSA ID). If you don’t already have an FSA ID, don’t wait until the FAFSA is released in December–it is advisable to get yours now at the FSA ID website. The FAFSA is typically available to complete on October 1st each year, and it covers the following academic year. For example, the 2025-2026 FAFSA became available on October 1st, 2024, and covers the period from July 1st, 2025 to June 30th, 2026.

To complete the FAFSA, you will need to provide information about your financial situation, including your income and assets.

This information is used to calculate your Student Aid Index (SAI), which is the amount of money that you and your family are expected to contribute towards your education. Your SAI is then used to determine your eligibility for different types of financial aid.

Some quick tips for filling out the FAFSA include:

Make sure you submit the form by the deadline, which is typically June 30th of the following year. However, some states and colleges have earlier deadlines, so it's important to check with your school to make sure you don't miss any deadlines.
In past years, parents had a choice of whether or not to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool to transfer tax data into the parent section of the FAFSA . The 2024-2025 FAFSA replaces this tool with the FUTURE Act direct data exchange (FA-DDX).
Be sure to review your FAFSA carefully before submitting it, as errors or omissions can delay the processing of your application or result in a lower award.

Here’s another quick guide to how FAFSA works

Work-study

A work-study award is potential income that the student may earn by working part-time in a work-study position. Most work-study jobs are on-campus which can make them convenient, but a work-study award does not guarantee a work-study job. You must apply for work-study positions like any other part-time job. And just like other part-time jobs, you will receive a paycheck for your work-study earnings. It is not automatically applied toward your cost of attendance. Contact the university financial aid office to learn about the availability and application process for work-study positions.

The 4 things you need to know about Financial Aid

Now that you’re familiar with some of the most commonly used terms and their meanings, let’s dive into the key steps to understanding the process.

1. Who is eligible for financial aid?

To be eligible for financial aid, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is used to determine a student's financial need, which you can learn more about here . While it may seem daunting, it’s best to work on this as soon as possible so you have the best understanding and most clear view of what to expect when it comes to available need-based assistance.

2. When should I apply for financial aid?

Students should apply for financial aid as soon as possible, preferably in October or November of their senior year of high school. Many colleges and universities have early deadlines for financial aid applications, and some scholarships and grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. It is important to meet all deadlines and submit all required documents, including tax returns and other financial information. Lean on resources at the financial aid office and in your community. Here’s a great guide for this process.

3. How much financial aid can I receive?

The amount of financial aid a student receives depends on several factors, including financial need, academic achievement, and availability of funds. Scholarships and grants can range from a few hundred dollars to full tuition, while work-study programs provide students with part-time jobs to help cover educational expenses.

4. How do I compare financial aid packages from different colleges?

You should compare financial aid packages from different colleges based on the total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board and travel expenses. It is important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each financial aid package and choose the one that best fits your financial situation and academic goals.

The college financial aid process can be overwhelming, but it is an important part of the college admissions process. By understanding the basics of financial aid, including eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and the types of financial aid available, you’ll have the power to make informed decisions about how to finance your education. Remember to apply early, meet all deadlines, and compare financial aid packages from different colleges to find the best fit for your needs.

You’ve Been Deferred. Now What?

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 18:04:43 GMT

In the Spirit of - More College Admissions Fun - Let’s talk about Deferrals

First of all, and not to be flippant, join the club. When a student's college application is deferred into the regular decision pool, it means that their application was not accepted or rejected during the early decision or early action application process, but has been moved to the regular decision pool of applicants.

A deferral usually happens for one of three reasons:

When the admissions committee wants to review the student's application again in the context of the regular decision applicant pool.
When they need more information or clarification before making a final decision.
When they are focused on protecting their yield . Let’s take a deeper dive into what’s behind door number three because this reason seems to be in very large supply as this application cycle unfolds.

Yield in college admissions refers to the percent of students who choose to enroll in a particular college or university after having been admitted. Colleges use their yield rate in a number of ways, including to advertise their selectivity, which makes them look more desirable or exclusive to applicants; it impacts their overall enrollment numbers, which can affect their ranking, funding, and reputation. Schools also use the yield rate to predict how many students need to be admitted to fill the incoming class–this makes administration easier. For example: If a college needs to fill their incoming class with 1000 students and their yield rate is 50%, their admissions team knows they’ll need to admit 2000 students to fill their class, because half of the admitted students typically enroll.

Yield protection in college admissions refers to the efforts made/strategy used by colleges and universities to maximize the number of admitted students who actually enroll and attend the college, a/k/a increase their yield rate.

In essence, they reject highly qualified applicants who they believe won’t enroll if accepted. By rejecting these students, the school is able to better control their yield rate. To protect their yield, colleges may use a variety of strategies, including offering scholarships or financial aid, creating special programs for admitted students, and offering personalized support during the college decision process. In some cases, colleges may also admit fewer students in their early decision or early action rounds and reserve spots for students who are deferred or waitlisted, in the hopes that they will choose to enroll if they are offered admission later. And this is what we are seeing lots of in this application cycle.

It's important for students to understand that being deferred into the regular decision pool does not guarantee admission to the college. It means that the admissions committee needs more time to review the student's application, (taking into consideration yield protection) before making a final decision. Students who are deferred should not take it as a negative reflection on their qualifications , but should instead use the time to continue to show their interest in the college and to provide any additional information or clarification that the admissions committee may need.

My colleagues and I are in the midst of dealing with the fallout of the enormous amount of deferrals we are seeing this cycle. A deferral, while not as torturous as being Waitlisted, is a delay in the college admissions process, which only adds to the stress and uncertainty of an already demanding and arduous process. That said, while we may be a little shocked we are not surprised at the deferral of so many highly accomplished students. What is a little different this year and honestly, even more surprising is that many deferrals are coming not just from the highly rejectives, but from flagship schools, state schools and even the small liberal arts colleges.

3 Priority Action Items For Every Parent of a College-Bound High School Senior

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 00:16:27 GMT

Incredibly, another year has come and gone; another year of navigating life in the midst of Covid and now flu and RSV. Such fun. Thankfully, many high school seniors are still college bound.

Here are three priority action items every parent or guardian should take long before their student launches.

FAFSA and Net Price Calculators

Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) . Even if you know or suspect your family will not qualify for federal aid, you should file the FAFSA. Why? ~In case circumstances change. Hello, pandemic. ~Just because parents weren’t eligible to receive financial aid one year doesn’t mean that they wouldn’t be eligible in a subsequent year, if their financial situation has changed. ~If you think you may require financial aid at any point in your child’s education. ~Anyone who expects to have more than one child in college simultaneously.

Filing the FAFSA opens the door for all kinds of aid. Federal grants do not need to be repaid, federal student loans have low interest rates and work-study programs can be a convenient way to simultaneously fund an education and build a résumé.

Complete the Net Price Calculator for each school on your student’s list. This calculator is found on every college website (search it). By providing personalized estimates, net price calculators offer a more informed way of deciding which colleges you can afford. Knowing your net price gives you the best idea of what you’ll pay for a particular college; makes comparing colleges easier; and widens your choice of colleges so you can focus on fit instead of price.

Mental Health Care in College

Make plans to have proper, sufficient and accessible mental health care support in place for your student before they leave for college. Let’s face it, the launch is just around the corner. Take advantage of the luxury of time and plan to have support firmly in place. Do not assume that colleges have the mental health care support your child may need. They are literally buckling under the weight of demand and negligible funding. Many times, care and support must be secured off-campus.

Support Your Student

Applying to college in 2022 is beastly and requires serious stamina and perseverance. College admissions deadlines are voluminous and fluid. The pandemic has wreaked all kinds of havoc on the process, requiring more diligence and follow through than ever before.

The Power of Paying Attention

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Wed, 26 Oct 2022 17:15:25 GMT

When my first child was born, in 1991, the circumstances were not as I imagined. Born at 29 weeks, she spent the first six weeks of her life in the NICU. One of the blessings that came from this experience was the pediatrician that we were referred to - one that specialized in the care of premature babies. Dr. Gordon Blakeman saved my little family in many ways and perhaps the most profound was that at every appointment, he asked a series of questions, and listened to the answers.

Do you have dinner together, as a family, and not in front of the TV (today that would include and without devices?)

Do you read to your child?
And later, does your child read to you?

These questions may seem basic and the answers may seem obvious. But are they? I urge you to get real with yourself. The world has become exceedingly digital (you know it’s true) and indeed this is good in many respects. But I will argue till I’m dead (and then I shall be the voice in my children’s head) that the act of paying attention, full, uninterrupted attention, to your child is the most powerful and everlasting gift you can give them.

And as this article below highlights, parenting teens is tough and when you lay a solid foundation and regularly practice focused communication it becomes bearable. The crowning jewel is when your adult children seek your company and time. The reciprocation is divine.

How to Have a Better Relationship With Your Teenager

AXS Companion for the Common App

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 17:45:50 GMT

Talk about a brilliant collaboration! The Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA), in conjunction with Oregon State University have created a fantastic new tool - the AXS Companion (download the brochure here) or visit online HERE .

“The AXS Companion is a free, open online resource to help students navigate the Common Application. IECA volunteers created the content, and Oregon State University’s Ecampus developed the platform with the goal of helping students achieve greater success in completing their applications. The AXS Companion and Common App can be opened and used side-by-side on a phone, tablet, or laptop. The AXS Companion contains 50+ step-by-step tutorial videos, walking students through Common App questions. Additionally, our financial aid experts provide videos to explain how to find affordable colleges and apply for merit and need-based aid.”

The Common App has been around for 50 years and now has nearly 1000 members (colleges and universities). And to add perspective, students submitted 6.5 million applications in the 2020-2021 application cycle alone. I just love progress!

Straight Talk on Transparency

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Sun, 24 Apr 2022 23:35:43 GMT

Ron Lieber (He/Daddy/Abb ) nails it again with straight talk on transparency regarding the cost of college which at most institutions of higher learning continues to be coated in mud.

Kudos to #muhlengerg , #whitman and #wooster for cost transparency and their pricing or merit-aid pre-read. I ask/cajole/push/pressure (call it what you want) parents to commit to asking the tough questions up front.

Are you planning to purchase something (a degree) that may cost upwards of $80,000 per year? And don't you think it makes sense to know, to the extent you can, exactly how much this thing is going to cost? And isn’t it insane that colleges expect you to commit to purchasing this thing, without KNOWING HOW MUCH IT IS GOING TO COST?

It is beyond time to demand that colleges use plain language, with clear definitions when it comes to college costs. To quote one of my favorite lines from a movie, Denzel Washington's character in the film, Philadelphia repeatedly says, "Explain this to me like I'm a 4-year-old".

The Misfortune of High School Course Selection in 2022

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Thu, 31 Mar 2022 21:04:21 GMT

The Conundrum of High School Course Selection: Hmmm, which class should I take - Calculus or Figure Out How Much Money You Need To Make To Survive? Wait, that class isn’t offered.

The Misfortune of High School Course Selection in 2022

February typically brings many student conversations about their upcoming academic year and course selection. And I can’t tell you how much this stresses me out. Why? Because I want students to take classes in subjects they are interested in, not just the classes they think will impress college review committees. But the problem runs deeper.

What is missing from the typical high school curriculum?

Coursework in practical areas such as: cost of living expenses, taxes, balancing a budget and the perils of credit card and student loan debt. I am not aware of any high school courses of this pragmatic nature, apart from Personal Finance. So, are you ready for a large dose of reality? Use this calculator to see if you can afford your dream life. And when it comes to student loans, use this Debt/Salary Wizard to decide how much you can borrow without ruining your life.

Essential Life Skills for a Successful Launch and Transition to College

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Wed, 23 Feb 2022 18:09:17 GMT

Colleges expect students to arrive on campus prepared to succeed but the truth is, many students are ill-equipped for the drastic lifestyle changes, not to mention tons of unstructured time. Many colleges now offer a "first year experience" intended to help students handle the stress of college-level life but often this effort is a case of too little, too late, often resulting in disaster. The best place for a student to learn solid adulting skills is at home, from their parents/guardians. As an Independent Educational Consultant, I have guided hundreds of teens over the past 12 years toward a great fit college and what I know for sure is that there are critical life skills that will either make or break a student's successful launch and transition to college.

Independence

· Can your student make a meal? Do laundry? Grocery shop? Balance a bank account? Order their prescriptions?

· Are they competent with and able to manage self-care tasks such as a healthy sleeping schedule, healthy food, and water intake, waking up, getting to class on time and medication management?

· Do they have a system for managing their schedule? Device, written calendar?

Coping Skills-Self-Advocacy

· Are they comfortable asking for help?

· Are they comfortable accepting help?

· Can they recognize when they are falling behind (in schoolwork, sleep, self-care)?

· Do they know how to locate support services?

· Are they comfortable saying "no"?

· How to they manage frustration? Disappointment? Failure?

· What do they do when they have a set-back?

· How do they keep from losing confidence?

· Do they have a clear understanding of best practices for safety?

Discipline

· Do they have a system for taking notes?

· Are they able to ignore distractions and focus on the task at hand? (I'm not sure many adults have this skill)

· Do they have a system for keeping track of projects, books, and papers?

· Do they have a system for scheduling and managing their time?

· Are they comfortable saying "no"? No to alcohol, weed, ditching class, questionable ethical standards?

We all want students to thrive in college and making sure they have basic life skills is critical to their success. Start the conversation now and keep it going. If you want to take a deeper dive, read How to College: What to Know Before You Go (and When You’re There) by Andrea Malkin Brenner, PhD

Parents of Juniors! The 3 Top Things You Should Be Thinking About

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Thu, 27 Jan 2022 15:28:12 GMT

1. Financial Fit. Get real with the cost of college. The average cost of tuition and fees for the 2021-2022 school year is $43,775 at private colleges, $28,238 for out-of-state students at public schools and $11,631 for state residents at public schools. Discuss the facts with your spouse, child and anyone else who has a say. The only thing more devastating than a student not being admitted to their favorite school is being admitted and realizing it makes zero financial sense.

Hack: Utilize the Net Price Calculator on each college’s website and complete the fafsa4caster right now.

2 . Campus Visits. In-Person and Virtual. Many campuses have reopened to prospective students but check each college website for details and to schedule a formal tour. To greatly maximize the campus visit, encourage your child to explore the virtual visit experiences offered by almost every college as they have seriously upped their virtual game.

Hack: Have your student connect with the regional rep and ask about sitting in on a class and connecting with a current student. And schedule a meeting with the Financial Aid office. Based on your student's profile (GPA/scores) begin to inquire about your expected out-of-pocket costs.

3. Testing. I couldn’t be more over the stress around admissions testing if I tried. In March of 2020, there were approximately 500 test-optional colleges. Today, there are north of 1,815. Why? Because - pandemic. Fast forward; the test optional movement is holding ground. Data from the previous two admissions cycles indicates that students who submitted scores as part of their application review were by and large admitted at a higher rate than students who did not submit scores as part of their admissions review. Testing remains stressful. Support your student and help them manage the anxiety and pressure around this big unknown.

Hack: Follow applerouth: Parents Ask: Top SAT/ACT Questions from 2021 and get your strategy on.

Is Your Student Ready for College?

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 17:40:19 GMT

Recently, I attended the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) Fall Conference where I spent the majority of each day in dynamic and informative conversation and professional development with colleagues from around the globe. The conference was invaluable and indeed I am grateful for the many "golden nuggets" of wisdom gleaned from veterans in the field. There was an emphasis and consistent discussion around the concept of students and college readiness. I am not referring to academic college readiness, which is undoubtedly under immense scrutiny as the effects of 18 months of virtual school have had a devastating effect on students' learning but rather the emergence of another critical element of college readiness. Basic Life Skills college readiness.

One of the toughest parts of my work is discovering that a student has not had a successful transition to college. Often a significant contributor in the student's unraveling and failure to launch is their lack of ability in the rote, daily tasks of life (doing laundry, making a meal, managing prescription medications and scheduling a dentist appointment.) And the question is, why are many teenagers so ill-equipped to manage the basic tasks of daily life? A consensus amongst Independent Educational Consultants, Therapeutic Consultants and Therapeutic Gap Year Consultants is that high school students are so focused on building an impressive college résumé, that there is little to no time to just do life. Well-intentioned parents do virtually everything for their child, breathlessly running them from one thing to the next, without so much as a backward glance nor a moment to reflect. A trade-off emerges; vast resources going toward the student doing more stuff and far less resources devoted to teaching them how to do life.

There is a direct correlation between the possession of life skills and the ability to take care of oneself. As adults, we recognize the importance of proper sleep and nutrition. We are aware of the negative effects of logging an hour too many on our device and if listening, we hear that pesky little voice that says, "slow down, take care". Without healthy habits, we spiral and eventually crash and burn. But as adults, we have the maturity to draw from life's experiences and ultimately to course correct. College students, living newly independent lives and with a ridiculous abundance of freedom are lacking in their ability to recognize when it's time to call in the calvary of sense and self-care.

I'm the first one to admit that parenting teenagers is hard as hell and requires a thick skin, serious stamina (especially for the BS), follow through and the occasional uncomfortable conversation. But of utmost importance is teaching our kids how to take care of themselves. When they launch, they will either sink or swim and I don't think any parent is voting for the sink. No longer will they be shuttled from one game, tutor, or job to the next. Once in college, they will be required to shuttle themselves, and on time, with no one serving as a safety net. Once your teen flies the coop, they have to know the basics of how to do life; and better yet, with a keen awareness of how to self-care.

I am not saying any of this is easy but what about parenting is? Further, I deeply appreciate the self-sacrifice that comes with parenting and follow through on the hard stuff. But "doing it all" for your child, so they can do more stuff, is in the end, a crippling practice. There are reverberating consequences for the college kid that lacks basic life skills. Think about it, do you want your student using the dorm room microwave to dry their tighty whiteys? Really, what kind of impression does that leave? Um, I really wish I were making this up.

College Application Do's

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 21:14:10 GMT

Start Early, Apply Early

The vast majority of colleges give students automatic consideration for merit scholarships if they apply Early Action (read: no separate application). November 1 is a huge deadline for Early Action (non-binding) Applications. That said, UGA and University of South Carolina, to name two, have an October 15 deadline. Know your deadlines. Snooze, you lose .

Communicate with the Admissions Rep

Email them and ask specific questions (not something readily found on the college website). Applying to college is not unlike dating. The more interest you show in them, the more interest they will show in you .

Take the Essay Seriously

Start early, expect to write several iterations and deliver an essay you are damn proud of . If you crank out an essay in 20 minutes, it will read like you cranked out an essay in 20 minutes. Not a great look.

It ain't over till it's over

Follow up like a crazy person and be sure the admissions office has everything required to read your application. Think: Letters of Recommendation, Transcripts, test scores, Student Activity Résumé.

Happy Applying!

The Power of a Pause

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 17:58:04 GMT

College application season is in full swing (and has me by the neck) and for many students this is when the magnitude of writing college essays really registers. Students are encouraged to write about themselves in a meaningful, intimate, and vulnerable way. No easy task for a 17-year-old. In fact, I would argue this exercise would make most adults shudder with discomfort. The essay writing bit is just one of many tasks high school students must complete to apply to college. And right now, they are harried, exhausted and worried.

Today I was reminded of the Power of a Pause. We all run, a million miles an hour, and teenagers are no different. When we take a moment to pause and take a deep breath, we give ourselves a wonderful little gift. A reset. Perspective.

Let's spread the Pause around like glitter.

College Trends

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 18:17:02 GMT

As a college admissions advisor, I marvel at the new and innovative academic programs popping up in colleges and universities across the United States and abroad. One of my favorite academic programs combines the study of Business and Engineering. In 1977, Wharton, at the University of Pennsylvania, launched their first coordinated dual degree program , affectionately known as the M&T Program. Several years ago, the University of California Berkeley launched their Management, Engineering and Technology Program , which also allows students to earn a full Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Berkeley-Haas and a Bachelor of Science degree from Berkeley Engineering. Of zero surprise is the insane selectivity of these programs, and thankfully a few other top universities offer similar dual degree programs. My current favorite is Lehigh University’s Integrated Business and Engineering Honors Program . Of course, Lehigh's program is also selective and seriously designed for the most committed and successful student.

Check out my student, Thong on move-in day!

Godspeed to the Class of 2021

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 13:57:17 GMT

Tis that bittersweet time of year when I bid farewell to my senior class. This year is particularly meaningful because of what we endured together over the last 18 months. The circumstances prompted us to deeply explore what matters and what is needed to provide comfort and happiness. I take solace in knowing that each of my students is headed off to a place that is just right for them. So, as I reflect, I am deeply grateful for the many conversations and thought-provoking discussions. I adore every student I work with, but the Class of 2021 holds a special place in my heart.

Kudos to the Class of 2021!

Let 'em Fly

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Wed, 26 May 2021 17:14:32 GMT

Your child has enrolled, deposited - COMMITTED. Reality sets in. They are about to graduate and matriculate and this phenomenon often turns your teen into a jerk. I remember it well. The summer before my daughter (pick one) was off to college, I noticed an increase in my irritability with her behavior, tone of voice, excessive eye-roll and, basically her very existence. I know you may be thinking, um, this is typical teenager behavior, and it is. But the summer before college it climbs to a fever pitch.

As a parent, you may ask yourself, how can I feel this way when I know she’s about to launch? And therein lies the answer. She’s about to launch. If you can step back and acknowledge that this is unchartered water, you may be able to gain perspective. I have heard from many, many parents that this time is confusing and conflicting, and I agree. But what I know is that you and your child are trying to reconcile with the truth that in a few short months, they will no longer live under your roof. And that is scary stuff for both parties. So, these little (or big) irritations serve to help you become comfortable with the impending separation. It’s time. And if you have moments when you’re thinking, “don’t let the door hit you on your way out”, consider yourself in good company.

Talk About Resilience

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 16:17:54 GMT

Gen Z, a/k/a/ Zoomers and Their Daily "Pivot"

Gen Z, a/k/a/ Zoomers, get a lot of crap (criticism) for a lot of things. This is true of every generation and it’s fair to say that some of it is deserved and some not so much. Say what you want about Zoomers but man, they have got some cajónes. I know I’m not alone when I say that the word, “pivot” has been used ad nauseum, in the past year, so I’m only going to use it once. Teenagers have been asked and expected to pivot. Daily. And they are, indeed, pivoting.

I have pretty lofty expectations of the students I work with. I coach them yet expect them to take ownership of the college search and application journey. I also hold them accountable for their behavior all the while respecting their opinion and encouraging them to find and use their voice. Call me a hard ass but I really believe that this type of coaching sets them up for success in college, and beyond. I know this tact works. Just ask my adult children.

Not to be Debbie Downer but we can all agree that this last year has been taxing, incredibly stressful and sorely disappointing. Some days I was relatively productive, and others brought bouts of tears, rage, confusion and analyzing just how over-rated showers really are. The truth is my students rarely faltered. They showed up, engaged, cared (or at least acted like they did) and got the work done. And here we are in April, and the last of the admissions decisions are trickling in. Lots of surprises this year but one thing remained the same. These kids are still standing, and I am just so incredibly impressed with their work ethic and character. I make sure they know that this next chapter is going to be spectacular. And of course, I continue to express my mantra, “It’s not so much about where you go but rather what you do while there.” I am inspired by the sage words from a colleague, Jim Jump :

A college education has the potential to transform one’s life. The college search should also be transformational.
The value of a college education lies in the experience one has in college rather than the name on the diploma.
The college search is ultimately a journey of self-discovery, and the journey is more important than the destination.
The college process should promote reflection and discernment.
Choosing where to go to college is a huge and essential developmental step in the transition from adolescence to becoming an adult.
The college search and application processes should measure readiness for the college experience itself.
College selection is personal. What is right for me may not be right for you. The goal is finding a good fit, and it is important that the student take ownership of the college search and application processes, as he or she will live with the decision.

It is a privilege to walk alongside these kids and I can’t wait for them to change the world. One pivot at a time.

Increased applications. Increased stress.

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 01:27:02 GMT

Increased applications. Increased stress. As admissions numbers start to roll in for 2020, the findings are a bit overwhelming. Sure, when we consider the fact that nearly 1,700 colleges went test optional for the class of 2020, it stands to reason that many students “threw their hat” into the ring and applied to schools that previously seemed entirely out of reach. Result? Many, many more applications, deferrals and denials. And that, my friends, is driving the acceptance rates down, down, down while simultaneously driving the stress up, up, up.

Here are a few high (low) lights:

• overall applications increased 10%

• applications increased for selective schools (MIT – up 62%) NYU received more than 100,000 applications, a record and the most applications received by any private school ever

• UCLA received north of 140,000 applications

• applications increased at large, public universities

• applications decreased for less selective schools

• early applications skyrocketed

• access and equity challenges are growing

So, like everything in college admissions, many perceived the test optional movement as a potential good thing. As the below data indicates, it’s just not that simple.

Many thanks to my colleague, Judi Robinovitz for crowdsourcing and creating this chart.

Parents of Juniors! Top 3 Things You Should Be Thinking About, Right Now

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Sun, 17 Jan 2021 01:35:19 GMT

1. Financial Fit. Get real with this and discuss the facts with your spouse, child and anyone else who has a say. The only thing more devastating that a student not being admitted to their favorite school is being admitted and realizing it is not affordable.

Hack: utilize the Net Price Calculator on each college’s website.

2. Virtual Visits. Encourage your child to explore the many virtual visit options currently offered by almost every college. Turns out, we are on month 656 of a global pandemic and most campuses are not open to visitors. Good news is colleges have seriously upped their game.

Hack: have your student connect with the regional rep and ask about sitting in on a class and connecting with a current student.

3. Testing. I couldn’t be more over this on-going debacle if I tried. A year ago, there were approximately 500 test-optional colleges. Today, there are north of 1700. Why? Because - pandemic. There is a strong likelihood that this progress will stick but we won’t know until the next application cycle commences. Testing was stressful before. Now it is stressful on steroids. Support your student and help them manage the anxiety and pressure around this big unknown.

Hack: follow http://fairtest.org/ and embrace the test-optional movement.

Creating a routine when school is at home or hybrid

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 13:50:55 GMT

Online classes or some modified version of schooling at home is the new reality for a large majority of students in the country. The coronavirus pandemic has created huge education adjustment for everyone involved – students, parents, and teachers. Many are now worried – especially juniors – about how this new version of school will impact your college admission prospects next year.

Before you get ahead of yourself, think of how can you stay focused and productive. It’s important to not only maintain your junior year grades, but to finish out with strong learning gains which set you up for success next year. Although you didn’t choose this home learning situation, use these school-from-home tips to make the most of your time.

1. Maintain your morning routine – GET UP! Sure, it’s tempting to sleep until noon but you’ll be far better off if you stick with a schedule similar to what you had in school. Get up at the same time, get showered and dressed as you normally would, grab your breakfast and get started.

2. Create a work space – Very little productivity comes from sitting on the couch or lying in bed. You need to find a work space to call your own - especially if your parents and siblings are also home too. Maybe it’s in your room, or at the dining table, or even in a closet. Find a space where you can sit upright in a comfortable chair, preferably the same space each day, and as free from distractions as possible.

3. Schedule breaks – Well, maybe not recess but schedule breaks in your day to have a snack, go for a lap around your house, or just zone out. Just like time between classes, it’s important to take scheduled breaks throughout the day. Decide what works for you – work 45 minutes, take a 15 min break; or work for 1 hour, take a 30 min break. Also set a time for lunch. Stick to your schedule.

4. Have a stopping time – Stop your school work at the same time each day, just like you were in school.

5. Take care of yourself – These are ever changing and stressful circumstances which can take a toll on anyone. Practice small strategies for physical and mental health each day will help you ward off cabin fever. Get outside for a walk or other exercise (everyday if possible), stay connected with friends online, and plan to do something you enjoy each day. Maybe playing a video game, cooking a favorite food, or watching a new show, it’s nice to have something to look forward to after a day of work.

Take Action

You obviously didn't choose this situation and it is understandably will take some getting used to. School from home will inevitably be an adjustment. But maintaining a routine, staying in touch with teachers and classmates, and completing some school work each day will help you fight boredom and stay on track for when school resumes.

Headed to campus in the Fall?

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Wed, 05 Aug 2020 18:46:40 GMT

Plan ahead and pack this COVID Quarantine Bag

The COVID-19 Quarantine bag. It’s today’s First Aid kit. UGH!

Pack an emergency COVID bag in case you test positive and have to quarantine. In these uncertain times, the possibility exists that you may test positive, and have to leave your dorm to quarantine. Check with and make sure you clearly understand your school’s specific protocol for students who test positive for COVID. Have a pre-packed quarantine bag in your closet. It would be so much easier to ask a roommate or friend to grab "the blue Nike bag in my closet and my laptop" rather than hastily try and determine what you need/want for a two-week quarantine.

COVID QUARANTINE BAG:

• Extra cell phone charger

• Water bottle

• List of important contact numbers

• List of any allergies

• List of prescription medications

• Prescription medications

• At least two complete changes of comfy clothes: sweats, PJ pants, T's, underwear, socks

• Fleece throw

• Cough drops

• Tylenol/Advil

• Vicks Vapor Rub

• Mucinex DM or Robitussin Cough & Chest Congestion

• Thermometer

• Body lotion, feminine hygiene, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, hairbrush, hair ties

• Tissues

• Snacks

• Masks

• Some sort of distraction -- e.g., a coloring or sketch book with crayons or colored pencils, deck of cards

• Pulse Oximeter to measure your oxygen level

• A copy of your Medical Power of Attorney and HIPAA Waiver – required for your parents/guardians to be informed of your medical condition and to be able to make decisions for you in the event you cannot.

Success in Life

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Fri, 03 Jul 2020 16:37:02 GMT

Success in life is more than just graduating from the “best” college. However, finding the college that’s the best fit for you can help facilitate that success. Your best fit college may not be the school ranked #1 by US News, or the school your parents went to, or the school your best friend is applying to – you get the idea. So how do you find college that will help you pave the path to success?

Jullien Gordon has some advice on that topic in THIS TEDxTalk . Jullien talks about the four types of capital that you need to develop in order to achieve success

Personal capital
Intellectual capital
Social capital
Financial capital

Understanding these four types of capital can help you choose a college that will open doors for your future.

Take Action

As Jullien explains, you must be able to answer the question “Why do I want to go to college?” . To answer that question, you need to know yourself. Use the summer to consider what these four types of capital mean to you and why you want to go to college. An answer to this question will help you define the best fit college for you.

Congratulations Seniors!

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Fri, 03 Jul 2020 16:14:44 GMT

You did it! You are off to college in the fall!

Now is the time to:

• Pat yourself on the back! Congratulations on a job well done.

• (Virtually) High five your friends! You succeeded together.

• Hug your parents or loved ones! You could not have done it without them.

• Give your teachers a thumbs up! They appreciate knowing their classes influenced you.

As an “official” freshman- you are on your way! You are moving on to new adventures. Connect with your college to find out what your next steps are as a freshman.

It has been our pleasure to join you on this journey and we hope you have benefited from our tips and tools.

Congratulations on your success and best wishes for your freshman year!

AP Scores and College Credit

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Fri, 03 Jul 2020 16:02:55 GMT

Although this year AP tests were “non-traditional”, many colleges have said that they will still award AP credit ( see this list by Prompt ). AP scores will be available online beginning July 15. Scores are released over several days based on the state in which you tested. View the date and location schedule, and your scores, on the College Board website .

What is the AP exam score scale?

There is no “pass” or “fail” on the AP tests. It’s important to understand the definitions of the AP scores.

5 = extremely well qualified | Many universities award college credit

4 = well qualified | Some universities award college credit

3 = qualified | Some universities award college credit

2 = possibly qualified | No college credit awarded

1 = no recommendation | No college credit awarded

Sending Your Scores to Your College

Be sure you send your scores to the college you are attending in the fall. The college needs your official AP scores to award you any college credit. Additionally, your college may use these scores for placement purposes. Even if you do not receive credit, it’s important to send your official score report. Check with your college to confirm their policy on awarding AP credit. You can also find those policies on the AP Credit Policy Search site. You may also hear this information from your advisor at orientation, or see your college credits on your school's student web portal.

What if I have other scores?

Go to www.apscore.org to view scores on tests you took in previous years.

I have other questions about AP scores.

You can contact the CollegeBoard directly for AP questions by emailing apstudents@info.collegeboard.org.

Summer Melt

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Sat, 20 Jun 2020 00:58:03 GMT

Seniors! It's summer!! It’s finally heating up in most places and you might feel like your melting especially if your community pool is closed because of COVID-19.

However ”summer melt” means something very different for colleges. Each year, colleges require students to submit an enrollment deposit to enroll as freshmen in the fall (usually by May 1, but this year June 1 for some colleges). After that deposit deadline passes, colleges count up the number of deposits they have and decide whether they need more students to fill their freshman class. If so, this may lead them to admit students who are on their waitlist. Those newly admitted students probably sent deposits to other colleges but now those students tell the other colleges they are no longer going to attend. So that college has an empty seat and so on and so forth. That’s summer melt for colleges – students who had originally sent their deposit deciding later not to enroll causing the college to fall short of their freshman class goals.

The pandemic has created a lot of anxiety for enrollment managers. Predictions of students deferring college enrollment all together or staying closer to home, has admission directors eyeing their waitlists. Counselors are anticipating students may hear from more colleges about waitlists and other offers even late into the summer.

What does summer melt mean for you? Well, it means that if you were on the waitlist at a school you might get admitted. And although unlikely, it’s possible that you could get a revised financial aid package from a school that admitted you. This may cause you to rethink your enrollment choice. However, unless it’s an admission offer from your dream college or a truly unbeatable scholarship award, you are probably better off to stick with your original deposit. You spent a lot of time weighing your options when you made that initial decision. Don’t second guess yourself unless there is a very compelling reason! Stick with what your gut tells you and look forward to freshman year with excitement. Order a sweatshirt from the bookstore, get a sticker for your car, tell all your friends and be proud of your choice.

Essays, essays and more essays

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Sat, 20 Jun 2020 00:52:35 GMT

The summer of COVID-19! Is it looking a little different for you than expected? No school, no summer job, no hanging out at the community pool or movie theater or coffee shop? You may find yourself with some extra time these days.

The college admission process is also looking different than expected for fall. Many colleges have opted to be test optional for the first time. This means that admission officers are faced with the task of distinguishing between highly qualified students without relying on test scores. How do you choose between hundreds or thousands of applicants who have excellent grades and challenging classes on their transcripts? Needless to say, your essay is one part of the application that can help you stand out.

So why not spend some extra time this summer refining your essays. Especially at test optional schools, your essay can take on special significance. The Common App essay prompts are the same as last year. If you haven’t already started on your Common App essay, now is the time. In addition, Common App has added a special “Additional Information” optional essay about how COVID-19 has impacted you. Should you write this extra essay? Brad Schiller, founder and CEO of Prompt (a writing feedback company), has some advice for you in his blog . You should also check to find out if any of the schools on your list require supplemental essays or short answer questions.

If you are applying to colleges that do not use the Common App, check the college websites to get their essay topics.

Take Action

Write something! Get a first draft of your college essays started now. This will give you plenty of time to get feedback from multiple people (parents, counselor, teachers, even friends). It will also give you a chance to put it aside for now and come back to it later.

Summer Opportunities (and beyond) Volunteer ~ Enrichment ~ Academic

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Thu, 18 Jun 2020 19:14:14 GMT

May I suggest that before you dive into the resources links below you first read this spot on opinion piece by one of the most respected experts in higher education, Brennan Barnard. Several college Deans reflect on high school students and the position they are in. They remind us to make the most of the current situation with a bit more rest, reflection on the state of humanity and the opportunity to lean-in and let go . What a challenge for many high achieving, always-in-motion high school students.

Hopefully you will discover a thing or two that really interests you and then connect.

My two favorite sites for high student volunteer, enrichment and internship opportunities are: TeenLife and VolunteerCrowd
Personalized adventures with SummerFuel
Clemson University Summer Scholars is online this summer
This directory has over 2500 educational resources
Consider a virtual travel program through SAI.

College Affordability

Money.com published a report ranking the best colleges in the US with an emphasis on tuition fees, family borrowing, and career.

Connect with Colleges and College Students

Until campus visits resume and even after they do, speak with former students who attended the colleges you are considering.
Check out Lumiry , a free summer university series to connect high school students and parents with admission counselors.

Student activism

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Tue, 09 Jun 2020 16:50:00 GMT

It was hard to imagine 2020 being any worse, and then the country erupted over the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer. Communities have watched in horror as protests have boiled over into riots and confrontations with heavily armed police and national guard troops. In a summer that already felt uncertain, the civil unrest adds a layer of foreboding that may seem almost impossible to bear. But you can counter that feeling of helplessness with action.

Student activism has long been the catalyst for political and societal change. Civil rights, feminism, LGBTQ rights, environmentalism, anti-gun violence – there are many movements that have been dramatically advanced by student action. No matter your political, social or personal beliefs, college is usually a place where you can find like-minded friends. It can also be a place where your beliefs are challenged.

You can advance anti-racism or another cause safely with some of the following strategies.

1. Educate yourself! Being informed is the first and perhaps most important step to advocacy.

2. Vote! Suffice it to say, the November election may be one of the most pivotal in the country’s history. This may be your first chance to vote. Be informed on the candidates (all of them – local and national) and don’t sacrifice your fundamental role in this democracy.

3. Make your voice heard! Even if you are not old enough to vote, you can still influence others. Campaign for candidates you believe in, advocate for causes that inspire you, share your voice in the classroom, with your friends and family, and on social media. Keep these conversations respectful by being informed (see point 1). Use your skills and talents – be that writing, art, photography, performing, or programming – to tell your story.

4. Take action! Action is often amplified when people come together. Join a group or club of like-minded students, attend a peaceful protest or demonstration, organize an event for your school or community, create a fundraiser for your cause. Taking action not only furthers your ideals but also builds an individual sense of certainty or control.

Although it is a heavy burden, it’s your generation that is capable of creating societal change. Consider the America you want to live in and the role you want to have in building that community. Upending an entrenched system may seem monumental, but history shows that change does happen. As Ghandi said, “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” And for now - be safe and take care of yourself and your community.

Old friends and new friends

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Sun, 31 May 2020 16:22:53 GMT

One of the biggest changes for freshman year is a new peer group. You may have friends that you’ve been with since the beginning of high school or even longer. Starting college should be exciting but it can also be anxiety filled as you think about moving on without your same friends to support you.

As you and your friends head off in different directions, think about ways to stay connected:

1. Celebrate your accomplishments!

Graduation is a time to celebrate! Congratulate your friends, maybe exchange gifts, and celebrate each other. It feels good to have accomplished this goal together. Honor your friends and tell them how much they’ve helped you become the person you are today.

2. Spend your summer together with meaningful experiences.

Create opportunities to make memories with your friends this summer. As states start to reopen, spending time with friends you haven’t seen in months may take on new significance. Plan some shared time – maybe a trip together, or a regularly scheduled meet up, or try something new. Summer will fly by with work, vacation, internships, or other activities. Prioritize time with your friends.

3. Reflect on what you love about your friends and think about new relationships.

There will be many opportunities for you to make new friends in freshman year – from freshman orientation on, opportunities for meeting new people abound. This might be thrilling or terrifying depending on whether you consider yourself an extrovert or an introvert. Stay true to yourself. Think about the qualities you love and admire in your high school friends and consider ways to find people with similar qualities. Shared interests (clubs, sports, activities) or common experiences (classes, dorms, pre-college orientations) are great opportunities to bond with new friends.

4. Plan a visit.

No doubt, you will enjoy meeting new people freshman year. It can also be fun to share your new place with your old friends. If your high school friends are attending colleges nearby, make plans to visit each other. Depending on what colleges allow for the fall, plan to spend the night togethe r in the dorms, or spend a day together on campus. It can be comforting to see old friends during your freshman year.

Take Action

Whether you are heading off to college near or far, with lots of old friends from high school or on your own, plan keep in touch with your high school friends. You’ll likely have a chance to get together during college breaks. Make an effort to maintain your friendships from home as you get to know a new group of peers.

Test optional admissions and taking the SAT/ACT, should you?

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Fri, 29 May 2020 15:21:54 GMT

You may have heard that the University of California system – with 10 campuses enrolling over a quarter million students – announced that it would be test optional for Fall 2021 admission . The new policy phases in changes over the next four years ending in the university either creating a new admission test or eliminating the standardized test requirements for all students by 2025. Although many schools had announced test optional policies for next year in the wake of Covid-19 and canceled spring test dates, the University of California announcement was likely the most significant and could represent a turning point for admission test requirements.

What does this mean for you as an applicant? Should you plan to take the SAT or the ACT?

The answer still largely depends on the schools you are interested in. Although more and more schools are choosing test optional admission policies, the majority still require either the SAT or ACT to be considered. FairTest promotes test optional policies and maintains a list of schools that utilize test optional admissions. This list can help you determine whether the colleges you are considering are test optional. However, you may not want to rule out a college just because they require the SAT or ACT. In that case, it’s still best to register for one or both exams for the fall.

Planning Your College Entrance Tests

1. Review the revised schedule for SAT or ACT test dates.

2. Register early for your test.

3. Allow yourself up to an hour to complete the registration online. There are lots of questions!

4. Upload a picture for your ACT or SAT / SAT Subject Test Registration.

5. Opt in to the Student Search Service when registering for the SAT or PSAT, or the ACT Educational Opportunity Service (EOS) when registering for the ACT to receive emails or mailings from colleges.

Spending money in college

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Fri, 08 May 2020 19:09:53 GMT

Admission offers received – check!

Enrollment decision made - check!

What’s next? You’ll be getting a lot of information about next steps from your college for registration and orientation. Meanwhile, you might want to start a conversation with your parents about a spending money budget for college.

Here are 6 money management tips for you to consider.

1. Open a bank account and get an ATM card (if you don’t already have one). You may want to research the local banking options at the school you will attend. Many colleges have a bank or credit union on campus. Make it a joint account (you and a parent). That way you can access your money when away from home (in college).

2. Learn how to check your bank balance from your phone. It is a good practice to check your bank balance before you get gas or stop by Starbucks, to be sure you have money in your account for the purchase.

3. Learn how to deposit checks. Most bank mobile apps will allow you to deposit checks right from your phone. Great for those graduation checks you will receive.

4. Create a budget. It is essential to have a spending plan. Know how much money you will have each month from your financial aid, a campus job, or from your family. With your parents, create a realistic monthly budget. Then, your biggest task will be to stick to your budget.

5. Learn how to schedule & pay bills from your account. You might have phone bills or other bills you are responsible for. Learn how to pay on time and keep within a budget.

6. Decide with your parents and if you choose, open a credit card account BEFORE leaving for college. Credit card companies will offer many promotions for new students on campus – free shirts, new tech gear, etc. Don’t be tempted by free stuff! Open ONLY one credit card and use this card as a “backup” (if you don’t have cash) to help establish good credit.

Start practicing good money management skills now so that you have one less thing to worry about freshman year.

What’s in a location?

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Fri, 08 May 2020 18:28:26 GMT

How do you describe where you live? City? Suburb? Country? What aspects of your current location do you like or not like – and how far are you willing to go from home? As you explore colleges, one thing to consider is the location of the college. Location can make a significant impact on your college experience. Think about where you want to go to school.

Here are terms and definitions used in college “locations”:

• Major City: Population 300,000 or more: or within a 25-mile radius of a metro area.

• Small-Medium City: Population 75,000-299,999 or within 15 to 25 miles of a metro area.

• Large Town: Population 25,000-74,999 or within 10-mile radius of a large town.

• Small Town: Population 5,000-24,999 or within 5-mile radius of a small town.

• Rural: Population under 5,000, in or near a rural community.

Things to consider related to location:

• Distance from home.

• Nearest airport.

• Nearest large city.

• Nearest outdoor experiences (beach, mountains, etc.).

• Popular student gathering places on campus.

• Popular student gathering places off campus.

• Nearest tourist attractions.

• Movies, shopping, restaurants, or other entertainment activities nearby.

• Employment/Internship opportunities.

• Your faith community, on or off campus.

Be sure to explore all the options. View the college website for virtual tours. Check for info on the surrounding community Most importantly, look it up on a map.

Saying Thank You

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Fri, 08 May 2020 18:15:03 GMT

May 1st is traditionally the official end of the college application process – the finish line! And although this year it may seem like a lot remains up in the air, hopefully you can find some happiness in knowing that at least the applications are behind you.

As you wind down senior year, now is the time to acknowledge the people who have made a difference in your high school experience. Teachers, counselors, coaches and others have all helped shaped the person you have become. Take some time to let them know the impact they have made. A heartfelt thank you note can make all the difference to a teacher or advisor, especially at a time when many of them are also struggling to adapt to these new circumstances.

Here are the top DO’s for saying “Thank you”.

DO:

1. Say “Thank You” in writing. Although a card is great, email will work as well.

2. Write the note yourself. Don’t let your parent write these notes. They should come from you.

3. Be specific in your expression of gratitude. Include a favorite memory of class, or a game, or a moment that stands out to you in your relationship.

4. Tell this person how they made a difference in your life.

5. Set a deadline and write your notes/emails before graduation.

Your teachers, counselors and others who have helped you through high school, rarely get a thank you from the students they served. Especially this year, many will be missing the in-person hugs and high fives on the last day of school. Make their day by remembering and acknowledging their contributions.

“None of us got to where we are alone. Whether the assistance we received was obvious or subtle, acknowledging someone’s help is a big part of understanding the importance saying thank you.” Harvey Mackay

Take Action

Create a task and deadline for yourself to get your thank-you cards completed.

Building Relationships with Teachers and Counselors

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Thu, 30 Apr 2020 18:03:18 GMT

Hoping to get a great recommendation letter for your college or scholarship applications? It’s hard to write a recommendation for someone you don’t know. It’s especially important to have strong relationships with your teachers and counselor but it might seem difficult to cultivate those relationships in the era of “home learning”.

How can you reach out to your teachers?

Here are 3 tips to building good relationships no matter what your school situation is.

1. Show Up! Get to know your teachers/counselor and give them opportunities to get to know you. Be sure to show up for required class meetings (online or in-person) and also take advantage of “office hours” or other chances to interact with your teachers.

2. Speak Up! Make your voice heard by asking questions during class or after hours by email. Share thoughts and ideas, ask for clarification if needed, and be an active participant. Use your voice, even by email. This lets the teacher know you are engaged and interested in their class.

3. S tand Out! Make yourself known. Let teachers know your interests and get to know theirs; you may find common ground. Although many extracurriculars are currently suspended, stay connected with activity advisors and collaborate on new ways to be involved even when school is closed. Teachers will take notice when you take initiative.

Acing AP tests and final exams

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 23:08:30 GMT

Seniors, are you worried about your upcoming AP tests or final exams? In a normal year, these exams can be anxiety producing but this year that may be particularly true. AP exams will now be offered in an online, open-note/open book format. As schools continue to push back open dates or cancel in person classes for the rest of the year, you may find yourself taking online or modified final exams for all of your classes.

With all the information available to you, an online, open book exam should be easy right? Surprisingly, that may not be the case. Open book/open note exams usually push students to synthesize responses that demonstrate comprehension rather than just regurgitating facts. You should expect questions which may ask you to apply concepts in new ways. The CollegeBoard has put together a list of tips for preparing for online exams. Ultimately, knowing the material and having organized notes and resources will be your best strategy. This means you should continue to devote study time to your AP exams just as you would if you were taking them in person.

Thinking about scrapping the AP exams all together? You are not required by the CollegeBoard to take the AP exam (although your high school may have differing policies around this). The main incentive for taking the exam is the possibility of college credit. Although many colleges are adopting test optional policies for admission, most have said that they will still award AP credit the same way they have in the past. CollegeBoard has said that the AP exams will test content covered through early March. You’ve already done the work for the exam; you just need to refine your skills.

Take Action

Find more tips and resources for preparing for AP exams on the CollegeBoard website . You can apply these study tips to high school finals as well as future college exams.

It's time to refocus

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Mon, 27 Apr 2020 17:55:56 GMT

People around the world are adapting to a new normal. Many businesses have reinvented themselves, restaurants are offering delivery and takeout options, television news and late-night shows are broadcasting from home, and most k-12 and colleges in the US have adopted online learning formats. Now that you may be settling in to a different routine, it's time to refocus and adopt some new strategies regarding college admission.

Keep Your Grades Up

Many colleges have announced that they will waive the SAT/ACT requirements for Fall 2021 applications. Some are also discussing how to view junior year grades given the abrupt change to online learning and some schools adopting pass/fail grading. However, it’s impossible to predict how every college will review their applications so maintaining a high GPA is the best advice. Check in with your teachers, ask for help, focus on doing your best with what’s being asked of you. Having consistently strong grades or even an upward trend can only benefit you in the application process.

Study for AP Exams

The CollegeBoard announced that both the May and June SAT dates have been canceled. This means you can stop thinking about the SAT for now. Instead, focus your efforts on studying for any AP exams you may have. AP exams will be given online meaning that you may want to prepare for the test a bit differently. CollegeBoard has a list of helpful tips in preparing for an online, open book/open notes exam format. Acing your AP exams is another way to show colleges your academic chops and potentially earn college credit saving yourself money and time in the future.

Consider Virtual Volunteering or other Self-driven Extracurriculars

With most school extracurriculars canceled, it’s time to rethink your activity list. There are countless creative ways to demonstrate your skills or interests to a college. Jodi Glou, founder and owner of Custom College Consulting, compiled a great list of virtual volunteering opportunities. Virtual volunteering is a great alternative to canceled summer plans and also an opportunity to use your skills to benefit organizations that may no longer have the in-person staff or funding to accomplish their mission.

Take Action

Don’t stress! Andrew Palumbo, dean of admissions and financial aid at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Worcester, Mass, wrote an open letter to high school juniors . Although he admits that there is a lot to worry about right now, he says grades and SAT scores shouldn’t be on that list. His message to students: “We’ll figure it out together.”

What problem do you want to solve?

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 22:42:05 GMT

As “stay at home” orders continue on for many states, you may find yourself with some extra time on your hands. Have you run out of puzzles, family game night getting old, have you reached the end of the internet? Maybe it’s time to think about some of life's big questions – like “what do you want to be when you grow up?”. But before you start there, consider this advice from Jaime Casap.

Jaime Casap is the Education Evangelist at Google. He promotes the power of technology and the web as tools to transform education. He’s also an author and sought-after speaker and he has some different ideas around choosing a career path. He says the question of “What do you want to be?” is the wrong question. What do you want to be leads you to pick a job that exists now. But things are changing rapidly – that job may not exist in the future. Instead, Jaime says to focus on the three questions below.

1. What problem do you want to solve?

2. How do you want to solve that problem?

3. What do you need to learn to solve that problem (knowledge, skills, and abilities)?

Check out this episode of his video blog for more detail as he travels to several locations to talk about this idea. Fun tip – watch to the very end to see Jaime encounter a COVID appropriate piece of technology (even though this video was filmed a year ago).

Take Action

What problem do you want to solve? Start small with a problem you could tackle right now. It might not be your future career path but it’s a good exercise nonetheless. Think about the unique perspective you can bring and check out some online resources (YouTube videos, websites, or apps) that could help you build your skills. Maybe the problem right now is your mom’s cooking. If you solve that one – your family will thank you!

Weighing Your College Choices

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 22:37:46 GMT

Making a final decision without making a visit

Although many schools have postponed their enrollment deadlines, some are sticking to May 1 which is right around the corner. You may still be weighing your enrollment options. With college visits off the table, the choice may seem more difficult than ever. How do you make a final decision without making a visit?

What’s in a visit

College visits let you “see yourself on the campus.” But what does this mean? Usually this is code for “how do you feel about the school?” or “what does your gut tell you?”. Walking around campus on a sunny day elicits a feeling. But feelings are more often about people rather than places. That’s why counselors tell you not to visit on a holiday or a Sunday when there are often less people around. The campus doesn’t “feel” right without people.

So – can you still evoke that same feeling without walking around? Absolutely! The campus may be closed but you can still connect with the same people. Contact the admissions office to ask about your options – ask if you can talk with a student ambassador. If possible, also talk with an advisor or professor in the academic area that interests you. Check with your college counselor to find out if they know current students or alums from your high school or local community. Talking with people – hearing their enthusiasm for the campus (or lack of) - will develop your intuition about a school.

Other things to consider

Going to college is a family affair. Involve your parents and take their opinions to heart. Together as a family, think back to what was most important when making your original list of colleges (things like - academics, location, size, activities).

Four aspects of “best fit”.

1. Academic: Does the college offer your major or field of study? Are there a variety of options if you are undecided? What will your class sizes be? What academic support systems are in place if you need help?

2. Financial: Is it affordable, both for you and your family? Have you been offered scholarships or grants, or will you need loans to cover the cost? Do a cost comparison to see which colleges offer you the best financial aid.

3. Social: Harlan Cohen, author of “The Naked Roommate” talks about the importance of identifying PEOPLE and PLACES you will feel comfortable with on campus (see Harlan’s webinar, 7 Big Mistakes HS Seniors Make When Picking a College). Who will your people and places be?

4. Physical: Take an online tour. Review the campus website for other virtual options – 3D or VR experiences can give you a great perspective of the physical campus. And don’t forget to ask about the weather and the surrounding area.

Take Action

Review your pro and con lists but give credence to your gut feeling as well. As with any big choice, it should be made with your brain and your heart. And once you make your enrollment decision, look forward with enthusiasm - don’t second guess yourself. The college experience is what you make it. Your attitude and ambition will determine your success as much as the college you select.

Decision Time – or is it?

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 17:12:37 GMT

May 1 is traditionally National College Decision Day. Typically, schools require that students choose where they will enroll by submitting an enrollment deposit on or before May 1. That makes April – decision time. Of course, this year things are feeling very different. A large number of colleges have already extended their enrollment deadlines to June 1. Making a college choice right now may feel very difficult (or very easy depending on where you were at in the process). Regardless, you might be asking yourself some of the questions below.

Can I ask for an extension?

Of course! It doesn’t hurt to ask. Although the college may still have a May 1 deadline, many have said they will make extensions on a case by case basis. You could be waiting on a financial aid appeal, or for more information from one college that would affect your decision at another. Make your case requesting an enrollment deadline extension in writing to the admissions office.

What if I’m on the waitlist?

Unfortunately for many students, it seems like colleges are sending lots of waitlist offers this year. Forgive the sports metaphor – colleges want a deep bench in case their freshman enrollment numbers don’t play out the way they typically do. Waitlist updates could continue throughout the summer. As with every year, it’s best to send an enrollment deposit to a second-choice college that has admitted you even if you are on the waitlist at your first-choice. There is no way to know if you will get accepted from the waitlist.

Maybe I should do a gap year?

It’s possible – if you truly feel that’s in your best interest and you have a plan. However, this may not be the best choice if you weren’t already considering this option before the pandemic. Most colleges defer enrollment for only a small number of students and they usually consider those requests on a case by case basis. You should have solid answers for these three questions: 1) why do you want to take a gap year; 2) how will you spend your time; and 3) what will you learn from your experience?

My school is not open, I haven’t talked to my counselor, what about my final transcript?

Colleges understand that these are exceptional circumstances. No one in education has ever experienced a disruption of quite this level. Although colleges require your final high school transcript as a proof of graduation (and many also review your final high school grades), allowances will surely be made to get those transcripts submitted.

We are doing online learning – they say our grades will be pass/fail.

Again, colleges are going to be making way for a lot of exceptions. Don’t panic about final grades not looking like they normally would. High schools across the country are doing their best in this unprecedented situation. Colleges understand that. Whether it’s sending unofficial documents via email, or extending the deadline, or waiving final grade requirements – submitting final enrollment paperwork may look differently this year. The same may also be true for orientation, housing contracts, and registration.

Take Action

The best advice for now is to stay informed. Visit the admitted student websites (often) for the colleges you are considering, attend any online enrollment events, and read all of the email communication you receive from colleges! Be in touch with your advisor (and your high school counselor) as they may have updates about changes to deadlines or policies. And finally, NACAC is providing this online resource to students and families as a centralized place where you can check for updates on all your schools.

COVID Admissions

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 17:01:59 GMT

The ripple effects of COVID-19 are just starting to make their impacts. It’s safe to say that the coronavirus has upended the college admission process for the coming year. You probably have a lot of questions and colleges are just starting to consider how they will adjust their admission process for next year. Here are some of the topics that students and colleges are grappling with:

I was going to take the May SAT but it is canceled.

CollegeBoard and ACT have been monitoring the pandemic in an attempt to provide students with options. Currently the June 6 SAT is still scheduled. ACT has tests scheduled for June 13 (rescheduled from April) and July 18. However, it’s true that you may only have opportunity to take the test. As a result, many colleges have announced they are going to be test optional (at least for the 2020-2021 application year). FairTest has a list of test optional schools and schools that will be temporarily test optional.

All of my activities are canceled for spring – what should I put on my activity list?

Colleges understand – no sports, no spring performances, no student council or volunteer hours. Your activity list may look a bit different than what you had planned. Maybe it will include all the books you read while staying at home, a new language you taught yourself on Duolingo, or the tech support you offered your grandmother so you could all keep in touch. If necessity is the mother of invention, maybe boredom is the mother of creativity. Time to get creative.

We are doing online learning – they say our grades will be pass/fail.

Colleges are going to be making a lot of adjustments to the way they consider applications. Don’t panic about your grades not looking like they normally would. High schools across the country are doing their best in this unprecedented situation. Many colleges are doing the same for their own students – offering them the option to have pass/fail grades. They will be understanding of whatever your school decided for grading.

I think COVID-19 will make a great essay topic.

It’s possible that the pandemic has changed your school/life experience in dramatic ways. It would be natural to think this would make a perfect college essay. But don’t forget, many students are sharing this same experience. You want your college essay to stand out, attract attention, or be remembered by the admission staff. Consider whether your experience or perspective is unique. You don’t want to be just another coronavirus essay...

What about college visits?

Many juniors were planning college tours for spring break and those in person tours were likely canceled. However, there are still plenty of opportunities to get to know a college. Take an online tour, attend a virtual admission events, chat with student tour guides, follow a school on Instagram and comment on a post. Not only does this help you gather information, but colleges also track these online connections as part of “demonstrated interest.” Some colleges consider demonstrated interest in the admission process. Hopefully, in person visits will resume in the fall.

Take Action

The best advice as always is to stay informed. Visit the websites for the colleges you are considering to find updates on admission policies and requirements and be in touch with your advisor about changes to your upcoming applications. NACAC is providing this online resource to students and families as a centralized place where you can check for updates on all your schools.

Creating a routine when school is at home

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 16:32:37 GMT

4. Have a stopping time – Stop your school work at the same time each day, just like you were in school.

Take Action

Defining Financial Aid Terms for Seniors

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 16:16:09 GMT

By now you’ve received financial aid awards from the schools that have offered you admission. But interpreting those awards might seem a bit like reading a foreign language.

Here are six common terms that you will see on a financial aid award and some ideas on how to assess your offers.

In addition, it’s possible that your family’s financial circumstances have changed since you applied. Whether that is related to the current coronavirus pandemic or other reasons, most colleges have a process for reconsidering your financial aid award. This process is typically called Professional Judgement. We’ve included some information below on how to appeal your financial aid award.

1. Cost of Attendance - The Cost of Attendance is more than just tuition; it is an estimate of the total expense for one year of attendance. It should include - 1) Tuition & Fees; 2) Room & Board; 3) Books & Supplies; 4) Personal Expenses, 5) Transportation (getting to and from the campus). If the financial aid award does not include these items, search the website for the information or call the college.

2. Expected Family Contribution (EFC) - The amount your family is expected to pay toward college (your EFC) is calculated by the FAFSA (Free Application for Student Aid). You can find your EFC on the confirmation page you received when you submitted your FAFSA form. This number should be listed on all your awards. If it’s not there, ask the college why.

(#1) Cost of Attendance - (#2) EFC = (#3) Student Financial Need

3. Student Financial Need - Use the financial aid equation above to determine your “financial need” for each school. Then check the college’s award letter. If the school’s total financial aid award is less than your financial need, you have a “financial aid gap.” You must pay this gap (in addition to paying your EFC amount) with other sources of funding not provided by the school. Scholarships from community groups or other sources, personal savings, or private loans are examples of how students pay their EFC plus any financial gap.

4. Grants and Scholarships - Grants and scholarships are awards that do not need to be repaid. Are these grants or scholarships renewable (will you receive them for just freshman year or every year)? What are the eligibility requirements that you must meet to receive the scholarship for additional years (a minimum GPA, a certain number of course credits, etc.)?

5. Loans - Has the college included student or parent loans in your award? This money must be repaid by you or your parents. A financial aid offer with only loans may not be the best choice for you.

6. Work-study - A work-study award is potential income that you may earn by working part-time in a work-study position. Most work-study jobs are on-campus which can make them convenient, but a work-study award does not guarantee you a work-study job. You must apply for work-study positions like any other part-time job. And just like other part-time jobs, you will receive a paycheck for your work-study earnings. It is not automatically applied toward your cost of attendance. Contact the university financial aid office to learn about the availability and application process for work-study positions.

Are you being offered a mix of grants, scholarships, loans and work-study? The more money you don’t have to pay back, or earn by working, (ideally - more scholarships and grants, less loans and work-study) the better.

Virtual Campus Visits for Seniors

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Mon, 06 Apr 2020 23:31:36 GMT

The coronavirus has drastically altered life around the world, and while college admissions isn’t life and death, it’s safe to say that the admissions process has been upended. Colleges around the country have canceled in person classes and most have adopted an online format for the remainder of the semester. With that, it’s certain that spring college visits will be occurring in non-traditional ways. So how can you get a feel for a college when the campus is closed?

In the coming weeks, it’s possible that we will see many colleges postpone the May 1 enrollment confirmation date. For now, it’s best to assume that you may need to make some choices without doing an in-person visit. The NY Times had some great suggestions for “ Making Decisions When Colleges are Closed ”.

It boils down to using your virtual resources.

Virtual Tour – Many schools already have a virtual tour available. In GuidedPath , you can find nearly 500 virtual tours through YouVisit on the college profile pages. Other collections of online campus tours include YoUniversityTV or CampusTours.com .
Extended Virtual Visit – Admissions offices around the country are scrambling to enhance their virtual visit options for seniors. Stay in touch with the schools that have accepted you to find out what they will offer. Zoom meetings with admission officers, chats with student tour guides, FaceTime appointments with financial aid counselors, or phone calls with faculty or advisors. Universities are excited to welcome you to campus as an admitted student even if that means welcoming you remotely.
Crowdsource a Connection – Chances are you may know someone who knows someone who is a current student. And now that those current students have largely returned home, they may be available and excited to chat. Reach out to your friend network or your college advisor to make a connection.
Stay Positive – Although it is certainly an unprecedented time for colleges and the country, college campuses aren’t going anywhere. Students will return to school and you will have a place in a freshman class. For now, it’s all about making the most informed choice possible.

Take Action

The best course of action is to stay informed and stay in touch with the colleges to which you have been admitted. Check your email daily and check college websites for updated deadlines and procedures – including financial aid, enrollment forms, housing contracts, orientation and registration. Expect a lot of communication from colleges in the coming weeks. Be sure to have a method for organizing this information. And keep in touch with your advisor to stay on track.

Virtual Visits for Underclassmen

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 23:26:54 GMT

If your spring break plans included college visits, what should you do now? It boils down to using your virtual resources.

Virtual Tour – Many schools already have a virtual tour available. In GuidedPath , you can find nearly 500 virtual tours through YouVisit on the college profile pages. Other collections of online campus tours include YoUniversityTV or CampusTours.com .
Extended Virtual Visit – Admissions offices around the country are scrambling to enhance their virtual visit options and reformat spring visit days. Stay in touch with the schools you were planning to visit to find out what they will offer. Zoom meetings with admission officers, chats with student tour guides, and many other creative options will give you a first look at the campus.
Crowdsource a Connection – Chances are you may know someone who knows someone who is a current student. And now that those current students have largely returned home, they may be available and excited to chat. Reach out to your friend network or your college advisor to make a connection.
Stay Positive – Although it is certainly an unprecedented time for colleges and the country, college campuses aren’t going anywhere. Students will return to school and you will have a chance to visit.

Take Action

For now, it’s all about staying informed on changes. From new test dates for SAT or ACT, to possible changes to the admission timeline, stay in touch with your advisor for the most accurate information. Check your email daily and check college websites often for updated deadlines and procedures. Expect a lot of communication from colleges in the coming months. Be sure to have a method for organizing this information.

How to Volunteer/Donate/Support and Practice Extreme Self-Care as we Shelter in Place

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 22:39:08 GMT

How to help:

Medical Professionals

From my friend and neighbor, Dr. Lynn Barta, there is a new organization developed by physicians nationwide to help guide the donation of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), whether home-made or factory made, to the places that need them the most.

There is a desperate need for masks for healthcare workers. #MillionMaskMayday instructs on DIY masks for donation. This political PAC is currently accepting donations to order masks and donate them to hospitals in NYC.

Help the people who are helping the rest of us through a Facebook group like Australia’s Adopt a Healthcare Worker and #ViralKindness , which started in England.

Check out the American Red Cross and learn about donating blood and other ways to support this “do-good” powerhouse.

First Responders

Contribute via an online fundraiser or directly to a not for profit organization that supports the mental wellness of first responders.

Elderly

Assisting with buying groceries. Organize via neighborhood associations, churches, mosques, synagogues, school Honor Society, social media, using NextDoor . CNN reported on one teen who organized this kind of effort and volunteers are starting to offer to perform these services on Craigslist.

Providing social connection with the elderly who are sheltering in place. One existing organization uses volunteers to make "Social Calls" to the elderly.

Youth

Read-aloud remotely through an organization like Quarantutors . Remote volunteer tutoring (homework, lessons and activities) for younger students using Nextdoor , social media, community organizations and teachers to find opportunities and contact parents who need help.

Teach online classes/tutor for younger children to help parents and donate the proceeds, organizing friends to help who are also stuck at home.

Listings for a variety of volunteer opportunities can be found on Craigslist . Many companies, such as Khan Academy offer valuable resources. Other websites list multiple links to educational resource companies offering free access and other educational resources during this crisis.

The Arts

Organize virtual fundraisers, virtual concerts or other performances .

Try poetry slam or online ballet , Yoga or taekwondo classes.

The National Theatre will stream a live play every Thursday Night!

The National Student Drama Festival will take place online.

Politics

Remote political volunteering. While the coronavirus crisis is ongoing, our 2020 Election political process continues. Students can volunteer to increase voter turnout through organizations such as Rock the Vote , and Postcards to Voters , which can be written at home. Volunteer opportunities for both sides of the political aisle: Fox News list , Elizabeth Warren's list.

Students with programming skills can do home-based coding for nonprofits that need help through organizations such as Code for Social Good , Benetech , or DonateCode .

Continual Learning

Take an online course or learn to code through IXL , Udemy , Coursera , EdX , Harvard online courses in Social Sciences, Stanford online courses, and Great Courses of the World .

Access the free resources of OpenCulture for eBooks and audiobooks or all of the TEDTalks . The Facebook group Amazing Educational Resources has assembled a pretty comprehensive listing of resources that companies are now allowing everyone to use for free during this crisis.

Or do test prep for AP tests at Fiveable or use Crack ACT practice tests and free practice tests on the SAT CollegeBoard website

Catch up or get ahead by getting tutoring from an online tutoring service:

Chegg Tutors , Varsity Tutors , Fusion Academy . Good Housekeeping's List of 10 Best Online Tutoring Companies

Foreign Languag e

Brush up on foreign language skills through Slow News in French or News in Slow Spanish -- students already know current events; these sites give them familiar content spoken more slowly in the languages they’re studying in school so non-native speakers can follow along.

Science

Do "remote science" through the projects listed here: Citizen Science projects . This website has a searchable database of projects, some, like this one, looking for images of sea lions in photographs. There are even "crowdsourced history" projects.

Colorado

From cpr this is a fabulous collection of suggestions and links for how to help, on the local level. #DoYourPartCO .

Self-Care

Physical (and Mental) Health

Stay fit with the best Pilates on the planet.

What you are feeling is grief. Incredible article from Harvard Business Review .

Get your “culture” on with virtually touring these incredible tours of theme parks, museums and zoos. Or just share your or your group's talents at #Sunshine Songs or #HeyJenLookAtMe

How to Become a College Athlete

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 18:41:18 GMT

Do you have what it takes to play sports in college? Many students do - either at the varsity level, or in clubs and intramural sports. Each athletic division has their own athletic and academic eligibility requirements. More competitive divisions may want to see videos of your events. It’s a good idea to keep a record of all your stats, awards and accomplishments. Fill out the athletic questionnaire on each college website & call or email the athletic director/coach. Game on!

Varsity Sports

• NCAA - National Collegiate Athletic Association

The NCAA includes schools in Div I, Div II, and Div III. They follow academic eligibility and recruiting rules. Div I and Div II schools can provide athletic scholarships, but full ride scholarships are rare. Div III schools do not provide any athletic scholarships. But don’t rule them out. These colleges may offer merit scholarships to make up for the lack of athletic scholarship money.

• NAIA - National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics

Made up of smaller 4-year colleges across the US and Canada. The competitive level is described as being equivalent to the NCAA Div II. The NAIA offers athletic scholarships.

• NJCAA - National Junior College Athletic Association

The NJCAA's mission is to promote and foster two-year college athletics in an affordable and competitive environment. Many scholarship opportunities are available.

Club and Intramural Sports

Colleges also offer club and intramural sport leagues. These are typically less competitive than varsity sports. Club teams usually play against other colleges while intramural teams play other teams within the college (“intra” meaning within, “mural” (or muralis) meaning the walls). Students take part in these teams to compete, have fun, and stay fit.

Where will I be living next year?

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 18:38:14 GMT

One of the big questions for you as a student (and for your parents as well) is ‘Where will I be living next year?” Be sure to explore the housing choices on campus and learn which choices are available to you.

Housing Styles

• Traditional residence halls typically have double occupancy rooms off of a hallway, with shared bathrooms for several rooms. This is usually the most common option for incoming freshman.

• Suite-style residence halls have more of an apartment feel. Several students share a common living and kitchen area, with bedrooms sharing bathrooms. Although often available to upperclassmen, some colleges offer these for freshmen.

• Apartment-style residence halls are as they say - student apartments. These are most often for upperclassmen, graduate students, or married/family housing.

Themed Communities

• Living/learning communities - Many colleges offer themed living communities. Those themes may be honors, specific academic programs, language or culture based, or communities based on lifestyle commitments like green living or substance free.

• First Year Experience - Often in addition to housing together, classes are offered for first year students to take together. Living in first year experience housing gives students opportunity to learn and grow together.

Other considerations

1. Meal Plans: How is the meal plan handled - all you can eat meals, or a la carte? Are there options for extra dollars to use in the coffeeshop or student market? What happens on the weekend for meals? Think about your lifestyle (do you eat on the run or sit down for each meal) and choose a meal plan that fits.

2. Gender housing: Are there single sex dorms? Single sex floors? Transgender friendly housing? Single sex rooms (with both genders in rooms next to each other?) How are the bathrooms set up? What will make you comfortable?

3. Alcohol and Drug policies: Be sure to ask about party rules, for you and guests. Is it a dry campus? Are some dorms designated drug and alcohol free? Obviously, all campuses follow the law when it comes to drinking and drug use, however some schools may have more strict policies for the campus or for certain residence halls.

4. Security: How secure is the housing? Do you have to have ID to get inside the building? What other security measure are in place? Can you have guests? What are the restrictions for guests?

Take Action

Check online for each college’s housing options. Make a list of criteria that are most important to you and ask about housing during your admitted student visits.

College Size Matters

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 18:36:52 GMT

As you explore which colleges are the right match for you, consider the size of the student body. How many undergraduates attend the college? This can make a big difference in your experience on a college campus. Think of college sizes in these four categories (based on undergraduate student attendance only).

Boutique Size (<2000)

Over 500 colleges in the U.S. enroll fewer than 2000 students. These schools are ideal for students with a strong participant learner approach to college. You get to know your teachers and fellow students very well. This provides opportunities to maximize your involvement in activities and construct your own learning experience. Most boutique size schools are private, examples include Juilliard, Amherst, Pomona, California Institute of Technology, Davidson, and Haverford.

Liberal Arts Size (2000-5000)

Over 300 colleges in the US fall in the Liberal Arts size category. Some of the most well-known and prestigious colleges fall into this category including Dartmouth, Rice, Middlebury, Carleton, and Vassar. Small class sizes with a focus on undergraduates, opportunities to engage with faculty and peers, and close-knit campus communities are all reasons to consider colleges of this size.

Just Right Size (5,000-10,000)

“Just Right” refers to the college that is not too big, not too small, as Goldilocks stated, it is “Just Right”. The college is bigger than most high schools, yet small enough to still retain a personal feel. This is the smallest group of colleges in the US, with just over 200 campuses. Both public and private schools fall into this category. Examples include: Princeton, Yale, Stanford, Duke, the College of William and Mary, many California State Universities, Texas A&M Corpus Christi, and many more. This is a campus size where many students feel comfortable.

City University

There are some universities that are comparable to the size of a large town or small city. Students benefit from many choices however the trade-off is you must be your own advocate and reach out. You have the freedom to create your own path on a campus of this size. Of the 58 colleges in this category, most are public schools including Arizona State, UCLA, UC Berkeley, University of Colorado Boulder, University of Michigan, Florida State, UT Austin, University of Alabama and many other flagship state universities. There are a few private schools in this category as well, including New York University, Brigham Young University and University of Southern California.

What if I’m waitlisted?

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 18:33:18 GMT

By now, application decisions should be rolling in to your inbox/mailbox. If you haven’t already heard back from all your schools, the wait is almost over. Most colleges aim to have final decisions to everyone who applied before April 1. But what if your “final” decision isn’t so final?... What does it mean to be on the waitlist?

Why do colleges have waitlists? Can’t they just say yes or no?

With students applying to more and more schools, it’s become more difficult for colleges to predict how many of their admitted students will actually enroll. Students are being accepted to many colleges – but you can only enroll at one. That means many students who have been admitted to the college are not going to attend.

Enrollment targets are a serious issue for colleges – too many students result in overcrowded dorms and classroom, but not enough can mean funding shortages. If a college realizes they may fall short of their enrollment target, they can accept students from their waitlist to fill the gap.

So – I'm on the waitlist. What should I do?

Essentially, you can reply to the waitlist offer one of two ways:

1. “No, thanks!” Although the college offered you a spot on their waitlist, you are not obligated to accept that offer. Maybe the school that waitlisted you is not your first choice – if so, no big deal. You can let the college know that you do not plan to remain on their waitlist.

2. “Yes, I’m willing to wait.” If you think this school might really be the one, let them know that you are interested in waiting. Follow the reply directions in your decision to confirm you intend to remain on the waitlist. It’s also a great idea to follow up with a personal email to tell the school – if they accept you from the waitlist you intend to enroll (only do this if it’s true). You can also reiterate why you think this college is such a good fit and ask if any additional information like new SAT/ACT scores, senior year final grades, etc. could help to improve your chances of admission from the waitlist.

You should seriously consider all of the admission offers you receive. Schedule visits, compare financial aid packages, talk with your parents and your counselor, make a pro/con list, etc. You have to confirm your enrollment with a college by May 1 (that’s the National Candidates Reply Date). Most schools won’t make decisions about their waitlist until after May 1.

In addition, there are typically only a small number of students admitted from the waitlist (sometimes not any). You should confirm your enrollment with one of the colleges that has admitted you (even if you stay on the waitlist at another college). It’s hard to hear that you are on the waitlist (especially if it was your first choice), but maybe it’s an opportunity to get excited about a school that really wants you (and hopefully they offered you great financial aid to prove it). Many colleges can be a good fit if you have the right mindset.

Top Tips for Visiting Colleges as an Admitted Student

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 18:24:43 GMT

Receiving your letter or email of admission is a time for celebration! What's your next step? Many colleges will be inviting you to visit the campus as an admitted student.

These visits can be:

• A designated day event on campus

• A designated weekend or overnight event on campus

• A designated window of time in which to visit

• A scholarship competition

• An orientation

Here are tips for making the most of these visits.

Preparing for the visit:

• Review your priorities for a good college fit. As discussed in the blog What is College Fit, fit includes 4 components; academic, social, emotional and physical.

• Brush up on the details. Refresh your knowledge about the school’s size, academic options, and other details that interest you. Your visit will be more meaningful if you have the basics down.

• Explore advising options for your major. When do you start advising?

• Review housing options. Where would you live?

• Explore activities offered. What appeals to you?

On Campus:

Prepare a list of questions to ask during your admitted student visit. Plan a visit when the college is in session. You need to see the college from the perspective of a student. As a part of the visit, see if you can make the following appointments:

1. Academic Advising. If possible, meet with an academic advisor in your area of study. Learn more about the courses and professors in your selected field of study.

2. Tour housing/dorm options. Where will you live as a freshman?

3. Meet with a financial aid advisor. What is your financial aid package? Do your parents have questions that need answered?

As you visit the campus, ask yourself these questions:

• Would I fit in academically here?

• Would I fit in socially here?

• Do I feel comfortable with the physical location?

After Your Visit:

• Send a thank you for the visit.

• Record your thoughts as soon as possible.

So Many Questions!

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 18:22:07 GMT

So Many Questions...

Have you signed up to take the SAT yet? Or maybe you’ve already taken the PSAT? Did you notice that there are questions about your grades, your interests, your intended college major, etc. in the registration? What’s up with all those questions?

The CollegeBoard Student Search Service

Those questions are part of the SAT Questionnaire. There’s also a box to opt-in to the College Board Student Search Service. By completing those questions and checking the box, you are giving permission for the CollegeBoard to provide your information to colleges and scholarship programs.

Why do colleges and scholarship programs want my information?

You are searching for colleges that are a good fit. Colleges and scholarship programs are doing the same thing – searching for applicants that are a good fit. One of the ways they find applicants and promote their programs is by sourcing student information from the CollegeBoard. Through the Student Search Service, colleges and programs can access your contact information and send you promotional materials by mail or email.

Should I opt-in?

That’s entirely up to you! There are advantages to allowing colleges and scholarship programs to access your information – you may find out about a school or a program that is a great fit for you that you didn’t already know about. However, it also means an influx of mail and email. You can always filter this college email into a specific folder to keep it from cluttering your inbox. You can also decide to stop participating at any time and contact CollegeBoard to opt-out.

What about the ACT?

ACT has the same kind of service for their test – it's called the Educational Opportunity Service (EOS). Just like with the SAT, colleges and scholarship programs are using the ACT to access to your contact information. Opting-in to the EOS is completely optional and you must check the box on the ACT registration form to allow colleges to access your information.

Take Action

If you are a junior, it may be time for you to take the SAT or the ACT. Spring test dates are:

• SAT = May 2 or June 6, 2020 - Register Here

• ACT = April 4, or June 13, 2020 – Register Here

If you are a sophomore, your school may be administering the PSAT or the PreACT. Check with your school counselor to find out the test date.

Gen Z: Carrying the Weight of the World

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 18:16:55 GMT

Gen Z is the newest generation to be named and were born between 1995 and 2015. They are currently between four and 24 years of age with the US population approaching 74 million. The high school students I work with are a part of Gen Z, as is my youngest child and I confess, I am fascinated with this demographic. As an Independent Educational Consultant, I sometimes feel conflicted as to post-secondary choices for high school graduates. After all, the purpose of my work is to guide students and (mostly middle-class) families through the college search and application process. But college is not the right choice for everyone, just as blue hair is not the right choice for everyone. High school students need to be teenagers and explore, test the waters, have fun, screw up. But Gen Z really doesn’t have that luxury. They are so over scheduled with the never-ending list of actions deemed necessary to get into college, that they simply don’t have time to just be and the consequences are significant. Gen Z is emotionally and physically exhausted.

My youngest daughter lives and studies in Europe and as such I am somewhat familiar with the European approach to the age-old question of what’s next, after high school. The contrast between how Americans and Europeans view post-secondary options is profound. In Europe, students finish secondary school (equivalent to US high school) and then most often, they gap a year, or two. During this time, they work, mature, gain experience and clarity on what they like and don’t like and what they are good at and not. Then, based on their recently gained knowledge, if Uni is appropriate, they attend. The vast majority of European undergraduate, bachelor’s degree programs are achieved in three years, often with an option for a masters in four. No, gen ed courses, just straight into their field of study. If the student determines that their immediate life path does not mandate a degree from Uni, they opt for a different one. Trade school, vocational school, tech school, with little, if any, cultural stigma for this choice. Further, in Europe, most Unis are “created equal”, that is, they are there to provide an education and students attend based on the courses offered, proximity to home and affordability. Prestige is not coveted. Practicality is the point.

Of course, in the United States, we have a very different higher education model, one that allows students to explore, test the waters, figure out what they like and then pursue that major. That four-year degree is what Gen Z is pushed toward with mounting pressure that this is the only path. For many, the alternate path of vocational or tech school is looked down upon. And when it comes to four-year schools, Americans are obsessed with prestige and name-brand. Parents are more than willing to (somehow) spend $75,000 per year for their child (ren) to attend Columbia, MIT, or Stanford. Knowing that these schools are extreme reach schools for most does nothing to remotely deter or quash the obsession with being admitted. In fact, the impossible odds of being admitted fuel the frenzy. I am often asked if the education at these highly selective institutions is worth it. Is it worth it to spend $300,000 for an undergraduate degree? I can’t answer that question as the answer is unique to each family and without judgment, I support them and their choices. My job is to provide current and relevant information and data to help them make an informed decision and then guide them through the process.

Whether students go on to a four-year college, begin working, or enroll in plumbing school, I appreciate and respect each unique choice. I desperately wish that American society would support, appreciate and respect the departure from the traditional four-year experience. Students have varying needs, wants and abilities and need support, regardless of the path they choose. And while we’re at it, can we let go of the obsession with schools that virtually no one can get into? Many parents actually believe that the sole road to success and wealth is through these pearly gates. To say I disagree is quite an understatement. It matters far less where a student studies than it does what she accomplishes during her studies. Need more on that, read, The New York Times Bestseller, Where You Go Is Not Who You’ll Be: An Antidote to the College Admissions Mania , by Frank Bruni. And if you are a young person and your parent(s) are aiming you toward one of the dozens of colleges and universities that admit less than 15% of their applicants, how must that feel? Stress much? And parents, think back to your teen-aged years. Could you have weathered this nearly unattainable expectation and ridiculous pressure to perform?

One thing I know for sure is that Gen Z is crumbling under the pressure of “what’s next?” Ask just about any high school student how much of their chosen course work stems from interest in a class versus what they are being told they have to take in order to be a successful college candidate. I often hear from parents that they need my help because applying to college today is nothing like it was back when they went. Truer words have never been spoken. They can’t begin to make sense of the variety of application platforms, the varying deadlines (what the h*** is Restricted Early Action?), she has to write how many essays? He has to interview? Is the interview evaluative or informational? She needs a Student Activity Record? Yeah, you’re right, applying to college today looks nothing like it did, even 15 years ago. Additionally, when it comes to procedure, no two schools do much, if anything, the same way. Like everything else in our culture, college admissions is competitive and increasingly complex. But the biggest problem is the pressure society puts on Gen Z to get into college. And that mandates straight A’s, varsity athletics, launching a recycling start-up, fluency in a second or third language, and leading the youth worship team. Make no mistake, children, from an early age are pushed toward the end goal of college. I recently listened to a podcast by a Gen Z expert, who also happens to be a Certified Educational Planner, like me. He spoke of kindergartners, from a private school in New York who are being introduced to the idea of college and essentially, the importance of thinking about that, when they are five. His webinar is fascinating and invaluable . Let that sink in. I don’t know about you, but when I was in kindergarten, I was just trying to get away with sticking my tongue out at Sally Jacobs and apart from lunch, really only thought about recess.

What are we asking our kids to endure? And for what? What can we do to regain perspective? I implore every parent of Gen Z to take a step back and try to appreciate what these kids are experiencing. They are fearful of lack of resources, both financial (thanks, 2008 recession) and environmental (where do I begin?). They are growing up in a culture of gun violence that is having lasting, traumatic effects on their psyche (my daughter experienced a school-shooting, so I have the right to make this statement). And to top it all off, they are being raised with a hyper awareness that they must attend a four-year college, to the tune of a minimum of $100,000. Seem heavy? You bet it is. I implore every parent of a Gen Z kid to check in with what matters and take an active, assertive step toward shutting out the harmful one-upping chatter. You’re the adult. You know what chatter I’m talking about. And if you don’t, pick up Dr. Jean Twenge’s book, IGen: Why Today’s Super Connected Kids Are Growing Up Less Rebellious, More Tolerant, Less Happy—and Completely Unprepared for Adulthood—And What the Means for the Rest of Us. Or watch this TedxDayton, by Dr. Corey Seemiller, Gen Z: Making a Difference Their Way . Gen Z is different and progressive, just like every generation that has come before. The world continues to evolve as does humanity and as adults, it is essential that we make a concerted effort to support our young people, particularly in light of the unique and powerful obstacles facing Gen Z.

How to Make the Most of Your College Visits

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Fri, 21 Feb 2020 02:47:12 GMT

The College Visit

Depending on your time and interest level, plan one of the following types of college visits:

Basic Visit

Attend an information session. Ask questions about admissions, financial aid, choice of majors. IMPORTANT: Get a business card from an admissions person.
Do a college and dorm tour. What does the campus look like? Where do freshman live? What are the housing options?
Eat a meal on campus. Go to the dining hall or coffee shop and eat. Introduce yourself to some students and ask questions. You will be surprised at how much they want to share about the college.

Extended Visit

In addition to the basic visit schedule – an information session, a campus tour, and a meal on campus – ask if you can add the following appointments at the schools that you are most interested in:

Meet individually with an admissions counselor. Ask more about special programs, what the college has to offer, and your admissions expectations. IMPORTANT: Get a business card from an admissions person.
Meet with a financial aid advisor. What types of financial aid and/or merit scholarships do they offer? What questions do your parents have that need answered?
Meet with an academic advisor in the field of study that interests you. Learn more about the courses and professors in your selected field of study.
Visit a class. Before your visit, get permission to sit in on a class. This gives you a feel for what college will be like, and what it would feel like to be a student there.

Overnight Visit

Some colleges offer prospective students the chance to spend the night on campus to learn more about the school. An overnight visit will provide great insight into student life on campus. These visits are usually organized by the college, and include college tours, classes on campus, and the chance to stay in a college dorm with a college student host.

Check with your counselor for a list of colleges that offer overnight stays. Save overnight visits for your top college choices.

On Your Visit

As you do the college tour of the campus, ask yourself these questions:

Would I fit in academically here?
Would I fit in socially here?
Do I feel comfortable with the physical location?

Follow up after your visit

Send a thank you email to the admissions representative that conducted the information session or that you met with individually.
Record your visit using the Discuss Tab - or download our college visit form. Pros/Cons can be listed on the Decisions Tab under Decision Details.
Add visits as milestones or tasks. Use college profiles to learn about a school.

Take Action

Make plans now to visit colleges on your list. Enjoy your visits and find out which school fits you best!

Seniors: Tips for finding money for college

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Fri, 21 Feb 2020 02:44:38 GMT

You may have thought you were done with writing essays and sending applications, but not quite yet.

Now is the time to look for scholarships. And don’t get discouraged. In this case, one more essay or scholarship application could mean a big pay-off for you. A few more hours of your time could turn into hundreds or even thousands of dollars!

College scholarships typically come from three sources:

The colleges to which you have been accepted.
Local community organizations
National or larger regional organizations

At your College

Most scholarships come from the schools that have admitted you. See the scholarship tab in GuidedPath for your schools. It lists academic scholarships offered to 8 or more students.

Start Locally

Local organizations are the hidden gems of scholarship money. Although the awards are typically smaller in dollar amount, you also don’t have as much competition. Many local scholarships are actually looking for applicants! Churches, service organizations (like the VFW, or the Junior League), local charitable funds, even your parent’s employer may have scholarship opportunities. The key is finding the information – who, what, when, where, why and how to apply!

Check with:

Your high school counseling office

Parent organizations (PTA, Booster clubs, etc.)

Your local library

Expand Regionally

Use your residence as a means to get more money for college. Many states offer scholarships to top students. Check to see what is offered through your state. Check deadlines for any state scholarships you qualify for.

Compete Nationally

There are dozens of national scholarship search engines available. Many are nothing more than a way to market credit cards or other products to you. These are our recommended scholarship search engines.

College Express
College Treasure
Scholarship Match- Unigo

Take Action

Add your college scholarship deadlines to your application plan.

Review the scholarship tab for all colleges on your list and determine your eligibility for specific awards. Add milestones or notes for the scholarships you are planning to apply for.

Road Trip: Preparing for Spring Break College Visits

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Fri, 21 Feb 2020 02:39:22 GMT

Using your spring break to visit colleges is a great idea, but be aware of spring break schedules for the colleges you wish to visit.

It's best to see a college when students are on campus. Here are a few tips to prepare for your spring college visits.

Create a College Visit Itinerary.

Using a map, look at college locations and decide on an itinerary that fits within your given time. Don’t worry if you can’t see all of the colleges on your list. Focus on some of your top choices and then plan other school visits that are within the same geographic area.

Register for college visits online.

Once you have a list of colleges to visit, register for campus tours online with the admissions office. Resist the urge to plan “drive through” visits. An official campus tour takes more time, but gives you a better feel for the college/campus. And don’t plan too many visits in a day - one or two per day is best.

Review your priorities for a good college fit.

As discussed in the blog What is College Fit, fit includes 4 components; academic, social, emotional and physical.

Learn the basics. Look up the school’s size, majors offered, and other details that interest you. Your visit will be more meaningful when you already know the basics.

Create a List of Questions. Write down your Top 10 Questions for each college visit. Focus on what you would study and who would you study with.

Seniors: Comparing Financial Aid Awards

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Fri, 21 Feb 2020 02:31:17 GMT

You got into the top schools on your list. Each has sent you a financial aid award.

One offer looks better than the other two, but is it really? It’s important to compare apples to apples when looking at financial aid offers. Here are 6 questions to ask:

What is the Student Budget?

Does the college list all the costs for going to college:

1) Tuition & Fees;

2) Room & Board;

3) Books & Supplies;

4) Personal Expenses,

5) Transportation (getting to and from the campus).

If the award does not include these items, search the website for the information or call the college.

What is your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) on your Student Aid Report?

The amount your family is expected to pay toward college is on the student aid report generated when you filed the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). This number is needed for comparing financial aid awards. If your family contribution is close to or more than the student budget, then your awards from the college are going to be based on merit, and not on the financial need you have.

Is there a gap?

You should know your EFC from filing your FAFSA.

To calculate how much financial aid you should be receiving, subtract your expected family contribution from the total student budget (all five items from question 1). The remainder is your estimated financial need at the college. Is the college meeting your full need, or only a portion of it?

Total Cost of Attendance – Expected Family Contribution = Need

How much of your award is grants or scholarships?

Grants and scholarships are money that you will not have to repay later. You want to maximize the amount of grants and scholarships you receive and minimize the amount of loan money you must take out. Are the grants or scholarships renewable for four years? What conditions exist for the renewable awards (a minimum GPA, number of credits completed, etc.)?

How much is in student or parent loans?

How much of the offer is parent loan? A financial aid award of a $20,000 parent loan – but no grants or scholarships - is not a good offer. The parent loans (when necessary) should ideally be used to help pay for the expected family contribution not meet your financial need.

Is there a good mix? Is there something missing?

Are you being offered grants, scholarships, loans and work? Look for a good mix. If you are not offered “work study” ask about it. It is especially helpful If you are looking for a campus job to earn money for your personal expenses while in college.

Underclassmen: It’s never too early to start your essays!

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Wed, 12 Feb 2020 02:27:21 GMT

Last week, the Common Application announced that the essay prompts for 2020-2021 will remain the same as they were in 2019-2020 application.

So, what are you waiting for? Now is a great time to start brainstorming topics for your Common App essay.

2020-2021 Common Application Essay Prompts

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
Describe a problem you've solved or a problem you'd like to solve. It can be an intellectual challenge, a research query, an ethical dilemma - anything that is of personal importance, no matter the scale. Explain its significance to you and what steps you took or could be taken to identify a solution.
Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

During the 2018-2019 application year, the most popular topic was #7: “Share an essay on any topic of your choice...” (24.1%). With this last prompt, you have free rein to write about practically anything. How should you decide?

Keep in mind that the colleges will already have a lot of information about you in your application – your high school transcript, your activity list, demographic information, maybe even recommendations. Your essay is an opportunity to tell the college something they don’t already know – to give them greater insight on what makes you – You! The key is to find a topic that allows you to tell your most important story in an authentic voice.

Take Action

Look at each Common App essay prompt. Give yourself two minutes for each question (set a timer) and jot down the first idea (or two or three) that comes to mind. Some prompts may spark multiple ideas – some may challenge you to really think. However, in less than 15 minutes, you’ve already created a working list of essay topics.

Put this list away for now and try this exercise again in a week or two. Do you find yourself gravitating to one or two of the questions? Which answers come most naturally to you? Which is your most important story?

Seniors: College Transition – Are you ready?

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Wed, 12 Feb 2020 02:24:01 GMT

For many students, high school is like a second home.

It's a place you feel comfortable. You know where to find your friends and your favorite places to hang out. Now, you're getting ready to embark on a new adventure – college. This will be unlike any experience you've had in the past. How do you prepare? What should you expect?

Harlan Cohen (the NY Times bestselling author of The Naked Roommate ) shares some thoughts in this TEDx Talk video about what you need to do to prepare for college: Getting Comfortable with the Uncomfortable.

Watch Harlan Cohen's TEDx Talk

Take Action

Talk to your parents and friends about steps you can take to start getting ready to leave home and go to college next fall.

Who's watching your social media posts?

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 19:56:01 GMT

Alan Katzman, founder and CEO of Social Assurity , guides on students creating a winning social media presence. He is a pioneer in developing and advancing techniques to teach students how to use social media to build a compelling and reflective digital presence as a game-changing tool for creating academic and career success at all educational levels. We're giving you his top four reasons why you should be aware of how social media can impact your college planning.

Reason #1: Admission Officers Are Looking at Your Social Media

Thanks to Kaplan Test Prep and its annual survey of college admissions officers, we know that at least 35% of admission officers in the United States looked at applicant social media during the 2016 admissions process. We also know that admissions officers are more likely to look when considering scholarships and when invited to do so by applicants.

Reason #2: Since They’re Looking, Why Not Give Them Something to See?

College admissions officers have neither the time nor the interest to search social media simply to find reasons to reject qualified applicants. If and when colleges look, logic dictates they are looking to learn more about the applicant, opening the door of opportunity for the prepared applicant to make a strong impression and set themselves apart from other qualified applicants.

Reason #3: The Best Offense is a Good Defense

Almost all colleges now have a prominent social media presence and encourage applicants to interact with them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube. By optimizing social media to showcase their activities, interests, accomplishments, and service, applicants can freely and safely interact with colleges and may very well impress the right people as a result.

Reason #4: Managing Social Media is an Essential Life Skill

Social media is here to stay and will continue to influence character and credibility assessments made by colleges, scholarship committees, and employers. Today, a thoughtful, transparent, and reflective digital presence across social media networks can help students achieve their academic and professional goals and aspirations.

Take action

Review your social media accounts. What would you like colleges or others to see about you? Want to do more? Social Assurity offers online classes to get your social media presence right.

Seniors: Are you a procrastinator?

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Sat, 25 Jan 2020 08:18:04 GMT

Are you a procrastinator? Tim Urban, writer and blogger, thinks that deep down maybe all of us are procrastinators in some way.

In this funny TedTalk, Tim explains what’s going on inside the mind of a procrastinator and why we all need to take hold of our instant gratification monkey and get moving toward our goals.

Watch “Inside the Mind of a Procrastinator”

Take Action

Now that you’ve spent the last 15 minutes watching that TedTalk, time to get cracking. Are you still finishing college applications? Or maybe there is something bigger – something without a deadline. What have you been procrastinating on and what can you start making progress toward today?

Underclassmen: The Secret to Success!

Sat, 25 Jan 2020 08:16:06 GMT

What do successful people have in common? Is it brains, talent, fame or fortune?

No! Arel Moodie, bestselling author and speaker, has a different idea. In this TedTalk, Arel explains the secret to student success and how you don’t have to be the smartest or the most talented to be successful.

Arel’s secret – Effort – comes from his personal experience as a student and successful entrepreneur. Numerous studies and authors agree with him. Angela Duckworth, psychologist and distinguished professor at the University of Pennsylvania, is well known for her research on “Grit”. Among the high achievers that she studied, grit (aka conscientiousness) is the common factor and outweighs IQ in predicting success.

Watch Arel’s “Secret to Student Success” TedxTalk

Take Action

Are you struggling with an assignment or a class? Adopt a “Growth Mindset” - that struggle has nothing to do with your IQ or your talent. Instead, is there a way you can strategically increase your effort? Make an appointment to meet with your teacher, raise your hand to ask questions, find a study partner who is doing well in the class. Push yourself to work a little harder to improve your performance in the second half of the year.

Underclassmen: What are the top 5 Myths about Paying for College?

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Thu, 23 Jan 2020 00:26:58 GMT

Here are 5 myths about paying for college that counselors often hear. Don’t fall victim to these myths!

1. My family makes too much money to qualify for financial aid.

This is one of the biggest myths out there. You may not qualify for aid at one school, and qualify for lots of money at another school (see blog How Do You Get Money for College?)

2. It costs more to go out-of-state than to stay in-state.

Not so. With increased tuition rates in many states, it is not always cheaper to stay in-state. There are out of state tuition waivers available for many students. Also, colleges offer scholarships to students for athletes, scholars, certain majors, leadership, and other categories. Don't narrow your list of colleges to just in-state schools.

3. It costs more to go to a private school than a public school.

Not necessarily. Each family situation is unique and you may find it will cost less for your family if you attend a private school. See blog: Can you Pay Less to Go To A More Expensive College? for Jack’s story of paying less at Dartmouth than CSU Los Angeles.

4. Outside scholarships help reduce what you pay out of pocket for college.

Not true. Scholarships don't necessarily reduce your family’s out of pocket expense unless you pay the full cost of college out of pocket. Scholarships are part of your financial aid package. Colleges may subtract outside scholarships from their own merit awards, or from your student loan/work study allocation. Ask colleges for their policies. This is why it is in your best interest to explore your choices for college. Find one that best fits your situation and needs.

5. Financial aid only helps with tuition.

Financial aid is available to pay for ALL college expenses: tuition, room and board, books, transportation, and personal expenses. Colleges realize you need to buy toothpaste and have a pizza now and then. Financial aid can apply to all of these costs.

Seniors: Colleges Still Looking for Students

shelly@humbacheducationconsulting.com (Shelly Humbach) — Thu, 23 Jan 2020 00:23:18 GMT

Did you get started late applying to colleges? Or perhaps you got your December test scores back and you are reconsidering what colleges you are applying to?

Don’t worry! There are many colleges that you can apply to in January and after (even some through August). Here are a few tips for finding colleges/universities with open applications:

Schools with Rolling Admissions: Rolling admission schools review applications essentially in the order that they are received. These schools will continue to take applications for as long as there are still spaces available in the freshman class. The college does not wait for all applications to be submitted before giving you an admissions decision
Check the Regular Decision deadlines: Many colleges have “regular” decision deadlines between January and March. Although, your options for financial aid or scholarships may be somewhat limited the later you apply.
Nearby Public Universities: Public universities, especially those near you, may have local attendance areas. Being in the local area may help increase your chances of being admitted. Some have deadlines that are later than other public universities.
Religiously Affiliated Colleges: Some religiously affiliated colleges or universities will have extended application dates.

Each college profile lists the application deadline for the school. Search for colleges in the above categories, then check their application deadlines. If the deadline has not passed add it to your college list.

Senior Mid-Year Checklist

Thu, 16 Jan 2020 20:19:36 GMT

Welcome back! You are half way to the end of senior year. Hopefully your winter break has you refreshed and ready to dive back into school because this is a busy time of year.

Review this MID YEAR SENIOR CHECKLIST to be sure you are on track. Don’t delay - there are a lot of time sensitive deadlines in the next few weeks.

1. Meet with your high school counselor

o Request a copy of your seventh semester transcript for your records

o Request your counselor send transcripts to colleges as needed

o Ask about scholarship opportunities

o Check on graduation requirements/deadlines

2. Check on college applications

o Check your email and follow up on any requests for information

o Set up college email account if requested by college

o Complete any January-February college applications you are still working on

o Confirm your test scores have been sent to all your colleges

o Confirm all your recommendations have been sent and received by the colleges

o Email an update to any colleges about additional honors/awards received since submitting your application.

3. Finalize your financial aid

o Talk with your parents about their college budget for you

o Attend financial aid workshops with your parents

o Check financial aid deadlines for colleges

o Check scholarship application deadlines

Underclassmen Mid-Year Checklist

Thu, 16 Jan 2020 19:41:12 GMT

Welcome back from winter break! Now is the time to review your MID YEAR CHECKLIST.

January is a great time to get organized, here are a few suggestions:

1. Meet with your high school counselor

o Review PSAT scores with counselor and parents (if you took it in the fall)

o Ask for recommendations for summer programs

o Schedule next year's courses

o Schedule your standardized tests for spring

o Discuss any school based standardized testing (AP, IB, other)

2. Gear up for next year

o Explore summer programs

o Prepare for spring standardized tests using PSAT test scores as a guide

o Ask teachers about their recommendation policies (for summer programs, scholarships, or college applications)

o Job shadow or intern to learn more about potential careers

o Plan college visits

Happy New Year Seniors!

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 18:53:12 GMT

It’s the start of a new year and a new decade (possibly – there's debate about that ). However, there’s no denying that it is the start of a year full of big changes ahead - graduation, college, new people and places.

Start the New Year off right with a few resolutions:

1. Keep your grades up. With only one more semester left in high school, you may be tempted to coast in to graduation. Don't let "senioritis" get the best of you. Colleges will look at your final grades and can take back your admission offer if your grades are not up to snuff!

2. Don't procrastinate! Another symptom of senioritis is procrastination. Develop a system to stay on track of your assignments and deadlines. Creating good habits now will make your freshman year of college will be a piece of cake.

3. Use social media responsibly. Does it pass the “parent” test? If it isn’t something you would want your parent to see- don’t post it.

4. Pick up a book! Make an effort to read a novel each month, or at minimum try reading one long-form journalism piece each week. Reading will improve your vocabulary and make you a better writer.

5. Make someone smile. Find ways to bring happiness into someone’s life each day.

Happy New Year from Humbach Education Consulting.

Happy New Year Underclassmen!

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 18:35:40 GMT

It’s the start of a new year and a new decade (possibly – there's debate about that ). However, there’s no denying that it is an opportunity to take on new challenges.

Start the New Year with these resolutions:

1. Use your phone for something more than social media! Get organized in 2020 by trying a new app or two. Apps like My Study Life , Todait , TinyCards , and Forest – will all help you organize your schedule and study smarter. Here’s another list of the best apps for high school students .

2. Learn about yourself. Take a personality or learning styles survey. Find free online or ask your counselor for links to surveys.

3. Use social media responsibly. Does it pass the “parent” test? If it isn’t something you would want your parent to see- don’t post it.

5. Make someone smile. Find ways to bring happiness into someone’s life each day.

Happy New Year from Humbach Education Consulting!

Are you done with college applications? Check your list twice!

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 18:25:11 GMT

Are you done with your college applications? There are multiple steps to getting a COMPLETE application into the college of your choice. Use the following checklist to see where you are in the process.

College Applications

Filling out the college application is only the first part of the process.

· Common Application

· Coalition Application

· State colleges/universities Application

· Individual colleges/university applications

Transcripts

Check transcript requirements for each college you are applying to.

· Transcript required with application

· Transcript required after application

· Transcript required after enrollment

You may need to send another transcript in January. This is known as the “Seventh semester transcript.” It shows your grades from your first semester in senior year.

Test Scores

Be sure to request the following test scores to be sent to all your colleges. Be sure to include both past and future test scores:

· ACT

· SAT

· SAT Subject

Submit your AP test scores after you graduate, unless requested otherwise.

Recommendations

Check to be sure your counselor and teachers have completed any recommendations you have requested.

Financial Aid forms

College is expensive. Work together with your parents to get your financial aid forms completed.

· FAFSA- ALL colleges use the FAFSA

· CollegeBoard CSS Profile- some private colleges and other programs use an extra financial aid form. It is quite involved and takes a lot of time to complete. Watch for deadlines.

Special applications

Some special programs (such as honors programs) or scholarships require additional applications. Check college website for additional applications and deadlines.

Have you considered taking a year off after high school?

Mon, 30 Dec 2019 22:19:45 GMT

What? Is that insane?! Not at all. This is the perfect moment to take a deep breath and consider taking a break from school before plunging into the next pressurized step. Now is the time to think about a gap year or semester that allows time and opportunity to refocus, polish skills, explore an interest, or simply re-energize.

Gap years still are more common in places like the United Kingdom where up to 25 percent of students who go to college take a year off. In the United States, that number is closer to 1 percent, according to the nonprofit Higher Education Research Institute. The statistics don’t tell why students take off a year, but the American Gap Association (AGA) reports increasing interest and attendance at the gap year fairs it holds around the country to familiarize students with gap programs.

Why even consider a gap? For starters, researchers in Australia found that taking time out from school helped with motivation once students got to college. Gap benefits even outweighed other variables for college success, such as gender and socio-economic status. Researchers even argued that their 2007 survey of 338 gap year students showed that taking a break helped students focus on what they were going to do after college.

And more than 90 percent of 600 gap students responding to a 2015 AGA survey said their time off from school increased confidence, maturity, communication skills, or the ability to get along with people with backgrounds different from their own.

A gap gives teenagers that important chance to be independent outside of the structure of school and athletics and away from the watchful eyes of the usual mentors - parents, teachers, and coaches. It can help develop the grit that students need to be independent and resilient once they get to college.

Gaps have become so acceptable that some colleges, such as Princeton , have set up their own fully-funded programs to encourage students to explore the world and themselves before entering college.

Don’t be swayed by some of the myths about “gap years.” For example:

Myth: A gap lasts a year.

Fact: A gap can be whatever length works with your plan. It could be just a semester or quarter of work and travel, interning, or participation in a political campaign or community service program. Many colleges offer January start dates.

Myth: A gap is exotic.

Fact: Of the students surveyed by AGA, the largest percentage spent their gaps in the United States. A teenager could work on language skills, for example, tutoring in a local immigrant center.

Myth: A gap is out of reach financially.

Fact: A student might work part of a year or semester and use that money to travel or pay for a structured gap program. Some programs or schools offer financial aid or fellowships. And crowdfunding gives students more options to raise money to support time off from school.

Myth: A gap is just for kids who are unmotivated or unsure about college.

Fact: All students can benefit from a break to learn problem-solving, dealing with conflict, understanding their own limits, managing time, and being responsible for themselves in ways that are so very, very important freshman year.

If you’re considering taking a “pause” from your studies, go through the college application process but ask about deferral policies both for academics and financial aid. Thinking about those things now provides time to decide if a gap is a practical option. In the meantime, start exploring gap programs and options. Do you want something structured or freewheeling? Do you want to climb a mountain or work with children? Is this a time to work in a lab or volunteer at an animal hospital? Would you like to become fluent in a language, understand the inner workings of health care, or meet decision makers in Washington, D.C.? You can do all those and more on a gap.

Common FAFSA Mistakes to Avoid

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 23:39:01 GMT

Up to this point, the college application process has been all about you. However, if you are a dependent student , then completing the FAFSA application will be a team effort. Before you dive in to filling out the form, be sure that everyone involved has gathered the information they need (social security numbers, tax information, FSA IDs, etc.). In addition, avoid the following common mistakes when completing the FAFSA form.

1. Not completing the FAFSA. Students and families don’t complete the FAFSA form for a variety of reasons. They think “We make too much money for financial aid” or “the form is too much work”. This is a big mistake! Even if you don’t qualify for federal grants, the FAFSA is also the application for federal work-study (your ticket to a campus job), or federal student loans ( unsubsidized federal loans do not require demonstrated need). If you don’t complete the FAFSA you will lose out on financial aid options.

2. Not completing the FAFSA on-time. Most schools have a preferred filing deadline for the FAFSA form. Students who submit their FAFSA information to the school by the deadline will receive the best consideration for financial aid. Fill out the FAFSA form as soon as possible as it typically takes 3-5 days for the school to receive the FAFSA data (sometimes up to 2 weeks). Start now!

3. Not getting an FSA ID. An FSA ID is the username and password you will use to sign in and complete the FAFSA form. This ID will also allow you to sign and submit the form electronically. You and your parents will each need a unique FSA ID. It can take up to 3 days for your FSA ID to be activated so that you can begin completing the FAFSA. Apply for your FSA ID now!

4. Not following directions. This may sound simple but read the directions and complete the FAFSA form carefully. Inputting incorrect information could cost you thousands of dollars. If you are confused about a question, there is help text and online resources that will guide you through completing the form.

5. Not listing all the colleges you are considering. Each school will receive their own copy of your FAFSA data. You should list every college that you are considering (even if you aren’t sure if you will apply or be accepted). You can list up to 10 colleges initially and there is an option for you to list even more. Don’t worry – the colleges can’t see what other schools you have on your list.

Take Action

Check out more detail on tips above and other mistakes to avoid on the US Department of Education blog “Homeroom" . The National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) also has a detailed list of FAFSA tips and mistakes to avoid . Make it a priority to get your FAFSA done as soon as possible!

PSAT/NMSQT scores released this week.

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 23:34:31 GMT

If you took the PSAT earlier this fall, you should expect to receive your scores sometime this week. The CollegeBoard says scores will be released to students Dec 9-11 (the exact date depends on where you live). Your counselor can access the scores on Dec 2 through the K-12 reporting portal. Be smart by using your PSAT scores to improve your score on the “real” SAT. Your score report explains what areas you need to review before taking the next test.

Viewing Your Scores

The College Board has aligned the PSAT scores with the SAT scores. You can use your PSAT test scores to learn more about how you might do on the upcoming SAT tests. Because now there are a LOT of scores on the test, how do you know which scores to pay attention to?

Here are some tips for you. When viewing your score report, focus on:

1. Raw scores. Look at your Reading/Writing score, your math score, and total score.

2. Ignore percentiles. This is a new test- the percentiles are research based only. Don’t worry about the percentiles.

3. Check your NMSC Selection Index . Is there an asterisk (*) next to it? Learn more about the National Merit Scholarship selection process in this guide .

College and Career Readiness Benchmarks

Don’t spend a lot of time worrying about where you are on the benchmarks. Make a count of how many you have in the following benchmark areas:

· Green (meets or exceeds benchmark)

· Yellow (approaching benchmark)

· Red (need to strengthen skills)

Get Advice from the Experts on Benchmarks

Talk to your counselor or advisor about recommendations to move your red and yellow benchmarks into green.

Using Sub Scores

Find the section of your score report, Your Scores: Next Steps . This is a great resource for you, showing what you are already able to do. It also includes suggestions for improving your skills. These suggestions become the beginning of the Khan Academy personalized preparation plan.

The scores are broken into:

1. Reading Test

2. Writing and Language Test

3. Math Test

Study Smarter, not Harder

If you use your PSAT scores for preparation for the SAT, you will be studying smarter, not harder. Reviewing your PSAT scores will save you hours of studying for the SAT by showing you where you need to focus your preparation. Go over your PSAT scores with parents, counselors and teachers. Use this to create a personalized, study plan for the SAT.

Have you heard from your Early Action or Early Decision schools?

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 00:00:00 GMT

It’s December! Holidays, family, days off from school - and college decisions?! That’s right, if you applied to any of the schools on your list in the first round of early action or early decision, you’ll probably be receiving decisions soon (if you haven’t already). This month be sure to:

· Watch for admissions emails or letters from colleges.

· Decide on your next steps.

Which type of early application did you complete? Pick the type from the following list.

Next Steps

As decisions start to roll in, what should you do next?

1. I was admitted Early Decision. Congratulations!! You are done!! Early decision means that you are required to attend if the school offers you admission. This means no more applications for you! You should call any other school to which you have applied to withdraw your application. You should also not submit any new applications. Revel in the freedom from college applications for the rest of your senior year!

2. I was admitted Early Action (or Restrictive Early Action or Rolling Admission) . Congratulations!! You’ve got some thinking to do. Early action admits have until May 1 to decide whether you want to enroll. You’ll be spending some time over the next few months comparing schools, academic programs, and financial aid awards. You may also want to do visits (or second visits) to the schools you’ve been admitted to before making your final decision.

3. I was deferred. It’s not over yet. The school has not made a final decision on your application. They’ve decided they want more time to consider you. You should follow up with the college to inquire whether you can submit any additional information like senior mid-year grades, new test scores, an additional recommendation, etc. Consider submitting additional applications so that you have some back-up options.

4. I was denied. So perhaps you were not admitted to your early application school(s). That’s ok! You might have known it was a “reach” when you applied Early Decision but it still stings when you aren’t offered admission. Take time to process that and then refocus on your other options. Submit any applications that are still outstanding and consider submitting as an Early Decision II or Early Action II candidate. The second-round early deadlines can still give you an edge with your new first choice school.

An Attitude of Gratitude

Thu, 05 Dec 2019 00:00:00 GMT

School can be busy, even overwhelming at times. You are probably grateful for winter break and the Christmas holiday, and for time to relax with family and friends. Hopefully your teachers spared you from any holiday homework!

During the time off, why not take a minute or two of your time to write a gratitude list? Start small – you don’t have to write much. Think of five people who have helped you in your school journey – teachers, counselors, parents, coaches, friends, etc. How have they change your life for the better? If you are truly inspired, turn that list into a thank you email or note, or tell them in person that you sincerely appreciate their help. Psychologists note that having an “attitude of gratitude” can benefit you in a number of ways. Gratitude can:

1. Increase your feelings of contentment and reduce anxiety.

2. Promote your physical health by reducing symptoms of illness, helping you feel more rested, lowering blood pressure, etc.

3. Strengthen your relationships making you feel closer to friends, family and mentors.

4. Encourage you to “pay it forward” - making you more helpful, generous, and kind.

Spending a small amount of time during your break cultivating your attitude of gratitude will put you in a positive frame of mind when you return to school.

Seniors - Financial Aid

Sun, 17 Nov 2019 00:59:57 GMT

How much will I pay for college?

Paying for college is often compared to paying for airline tickets. No two people pay the same price. So how much will you pay? That depends on many factors. Knowing what those factors are, and how each college will look at your family’s financial situation, will help you determine what your cost of attendance will be.

Am I eligible for financial aid?

Whether you are eligible for financial aid from a college depends on how much money your family can afford to contribute to your education. The FAFSA or the CSS Profile (a financial aid application by the College Board) forms are used to determine your expected family contribution. The forms include questions about:

· Your parents’ income

· Your income (if any) - even babysitting counts

· Your parents’ savings or investments

· Savings or investments in your name

What is an “Expected Family Contribution”?

The data from your FAFSA is used to calculate your “Expected Family Contribution” (EFC). This is the number is the amount (according to the federal government) that your family should be able to afford to pay for one year of college. Colleges use this number to determine how much (if any) need-based financial aid you will receive.

What else is considered?

Besides income and assets, these factors are also considered:

· Your parents’ age. The older they are, the more savings they should set aside to retire.

· Size of your family. Large families need more money to live than small families.

· The number of children in college at one time. If more than one child is enrolled in college simultaneously, the EFC for each child will be less. Unfortunately, parents enrolled in college don’t count.

When do I file my financial aid forms?

Timing is everything when it comes to financial aid. You can complete your FAFSA and CSS Profile now. Plan to file the FAFSA as early as possible. This is the form needed to qualify for financial grants, work-study or student loans from the federal government. The CSS Profile may also be required by the college (or scholarship program). This is the form colleges use to help know who needs money from the college itself. It is their way of distributing their own funds to the students with the most need. Colleges may have priority deadlines for both FAFSA and the CSS Profile. Be sure to meet the early deadlines to have the best eligibility for scholarships and financial aid. Check college websites for deadlines.

What is an SAT Subject test?

Sun, 17 Nov 2019 00:54:30 GMT

SAT Subject tests are based on curriculum you have in class. It's an opportunity to demonstrate your mastery of a particular subject. According to the College Board,

"The SAT Subject Tests offer you an additional opportunity to show colleges what you know and what you know you can do. Many colleges use the SAT Subject Tests for admission, for course placement, and to advise students about course selection. Some colleges specify the SAT Subject Tests that they require for admission or placement; others allow applicants to choose which tests to take.”

Only a handful of colleges require SAT subject tests from students, but many will use SAT Subject test scores as a part of your admissions profile or for placement purposes (especially in foreign language).

What subject tests can I take?

There are 20 subject tests to choose from. A majority of the tests are in foreign languages, with English, History, Math and Science thrown in too. The subject tests are broken down as follows:

Subject	Test
English	· Literature
Math	· Math 1
	· Math 2
History	· US History
	· World History
Science	· Biology - Ecological
	· Biology - Molecular
	· Chemistry
	· Physics
Languages	· Chinese with listening
	· French
	· French with listening
	· German
	· German with listening
	· Modern Hebrew
	· Italian
	· Japanese with listening
	· Korean with listening
	· Latin
	· Spanish
	· Spanish with listening

Are the subject tests the same as the AP tests?

No. There are more AP tests than there are subject tests. For example, there are five Arts AP tests, and no Arts Subject tests.

What about the ACT?

The ACT does not offer Subject tests. They are only offered by the SAT/College Board.

When should I take the Subject tests?

The best time to take a subject test is right after you finish the class. It is also good to take the subject test at the same time you are taking an AP or other subject exam. Schedule subject tests in May of your sophomore or junior year, and November of your senior year.

How long is a subject test?

Most subject tests are 1 hour in length.

How many Subject tests can I take at a time?

You can schedule and take up to 3 tests in one sitting. Most colleges will use your best two scores. Some colleges will use 3 subject tests for admissions. Check college website for testing requirements.

When are the subject tests offered?

They are offered 6 times each year: August, October, November, December, May and June. Subject tests are NOT offered in March. Only the SAT is offered then.

Are all subject tests offered six times a year?

No. Not every subject test is offered six times a year. Plan carefully when you want to take any of the following tests:

Subject	Dates Offered
World History	Aug, Dec, Jun.
French	Not offered in Nov.
German	Jun.
Spanish	Not offered in Nov.
Modern Hebrew	Jun.
Italian	Jun.
Latin	Dec, Jun.
Listening (French, German, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean)	Nov.

Which tests can I take on any date?

The following seven tests are offered every time a Subject test is offered

Subjects

Dates Offered:

Aug, Oct, Nov, Dec, May, Jun.

Literature

Biology E/M

Chemistry

Physics

US History

Math 1

Math 2

Can I see my scores before I send them to a college?

Yes. You can use score choice to see your scores and decide which scores to send to colleges. Remember to check college policies. Some colleges require you to send ALL your test scores.

What is the latest date I can take the subject scores in my senior year?

The latest you should schedule subject tests in your senior year is December. If you are applying to any of your colleges early (Early Action or Early Decision) you should schedule them for October or November.

Do all colleges require the SAT Subject tests?

No. Many colleges do not consider Subject tests for admission purposes. Check the college website carefully for each college's policy on Subject tests.

Do I need to take specific Subject tests for my major?

Sometimes. Many colleges have specific subject test requirements for specific majors. Engineering, science and math majors often require or highly recommend subject tests. This is particularly true if you are applying to any of the University of California campuses. UC's don’t require a subject test, but if it is highly recommended for your major, you will be more competitive if you take the recommended subject test.

How can I prepare to take the SAT Subject tests?

You can prepare for the subject tests in many ways. The CollegeBoard website has subject test prep . Check for local SAT Test Preparation options. Check online. Check with friends and create your own subject study groups.

Extracurricular Activities

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 18:55:35 GMT

Sports, clubs, academic competitions, music, work, social activism? Why do colleges care about how you spend your time outside of class? Your extracurricular activities are a reflection of your interests, your attitude, your work ethic, etc. Admission officers can learn a lot about you by your activity list - but they care less about what you do and more about how you do it. Colleges are looking for three basic qualities in your activities - longevity, leadership, and lasting impact.

1. Longevity. Colleges would rather see you be deeply involved in a few activities over several years, than just show up to one meeting for every group, club, or sport at your school. Choosing a few activities and sticking with them over time gives you a chance to improve your skills, take on leadership roles, and make an impact.

2. Leadership. Being a leader demonstrates that you are a committed member of the group - someone who is ready for a challenge and willing to take responsibility for creating a successful team. Whether in an elected/appointed role, or as the founder or creator of a group, or even as a mentor or role model to younger students, colleges are looking for leaders.

3. Lasting Impact. This is area is where your passion shines through. If you love what you do you are more likely to leave your mark on the group. In addition, admission officers want to learn how the organization has changed you. What have you learned and how have you grown by being involved?

The ultimate activity list is all about quality over quantity. By focusing on the 3 L's - longevity, leadership, and lasting impact - your activity list will not only impress college admission officers but will be a meaningful part of your high school career.

Seniors - have you considered taking a year off after high school?

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 18:47:14 GMT

It’s high season for college applications. Students are polishing off college essays, waiting on final test scores, pushing for that last GPA point. Meanwhile, parents are biting their nails and wrestling with financial aid forms.

So, let’s talk about postponing college.

Gap years are more common in places like the United Kingdom where up to 25 percent of students who go to college take a year off. In the United States, that number is closer to 1 percent, according to the nonprofit Higher Education Research Institute. The statistics don’t tell why students take off a year, but the American Gap Association (AGA) reports increasing interest and attendance at the gap year fairs it holds around the country to familiarize students with gap programs.

Why even consider a gap? For starters, researchers in Australia found that taking time out from school helped with motivation once students got to college. Gap benefits even outweighed other variables for college success, such as gender and socio-economic status. More than 90 percent of 600 gap students responding to a 2015 AGA survey said their time off from school increased confidence, maturity, communication skills, or the ability to get along with people with backgrounds different from their own.

Gaps have become so acceptable that some colleges, such as Princeton , have set up their own fully-funded programs to encourage students to explore the world and themselves before entering college.

Don’t be swayed by some of the myths about “gap years.” For example:

Myth: A gap lasts a year.

Myth: A gap is exotic.

Fact: Of the students surveyed by AGA, the largest percentage spent their gaps in the United States. A teenager could work on language skills, for example, tutoring in a local immigrant center.

Myth: A gap is out of reach financially.

Myth: A gap is just for kids who are unmotivated or unsure about college.

College application season is a stressful time but it’s also the moment to be expanding your world and thinking about what you want out of life. Isn’t it worth some time to explore?

written by Marie Schwartz, CEO and President of TeenLife

Seniors! 5 Tips for Making College Applications Easier

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 19:17:26 GMT

You are on your way! You’ve got your college list finalized, common app essay completed, recommendations requested, and with applications around the corner you’ll soon be finished the college application process. These 5 tips will help you stay organized and on track.

1. Set up Application Plans. Know what is needed to make a complete application at each college you are applying to. Recommendations? Transcripts? Essays? Make a list to keep track of requirements for each school.

2. Check Application Deadlines. Early Action, Early Decision or Priority Deadline? Record the application deadline the you are using for each school on your calendar. Don’t forget - you can only apply to one school as an Early Decision applicant.

3. Follow Directions and Proofread. It sounds simple but carefully check the directions for each application. You don’t want to put credit card information in the section meant for international student visas! Double check your applications for accuracy and make a good impression by avoiding careless mistakes.

4. Don't Wait Until the Last Minute. Although you have the deadlines recorded on your calendar, don’t wait until the night before to hit the submit button. Computers can crash, you could catch a cold, you might also have a test or school assignment due. Don’t let outside circumstances affect your college applications. Submitting your applications early will be a weight off your shoulders.

5. Follow Up. Check in with the college (either through your student portal account or by email or phone) to be sure all your application materials have been received. And check in with your advisor or teachers to know that your recommendations have been submitted (if required). Don’t be caught off guard by a missing test score, or recommendation.

How do you measure your chances for admissions?

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 18:46:47 GMT

How do you measure your chances of admission for any given college? This is based on several factors. Some factors are more objectively measurable in the college applications process than others. The easily measured factors include:

· Your GPA

· Your tests scores on ACT, SAT, Subject Tests and AP.

Less measurable, but also important to your college application are:

· The quality (rigor) of your course schedule

· Your resume of activities, work, and other experiences

· Contributions you made to your community

· Your love of learning

· Your life’s experiences

Using Measurable Factors

Check admissions data for each college on your list. Look at the range of SAT or ACT scores, and GPA’s. Your test scores will put you in one of three zones for the college: green, yellow or red.

What puts a school in your GREEN zone?

· your test scores are in the top 25% of students

· the college has acceptance rates of 60-100%

What puts a school in your YELLOW zone?

· your test scores are in the mid 50% range, along with most other students

· the college has an acceptance rate of 20-60%

What puts a school in your RED zone?

· your test scores are lower than the average scores at the college

· the college has a low acceptance rate (typically under 20%)

How many schools should you have in each zone?

· 1-4 in the GREEN zone. These are your SURE BETS or SAFETY colleges. For schools in this zone you can often expect to receive merit scholarship awards.

· 2-5 in the YELLOW zone. These are your EXPECTED or TARGET colleges. A majority of your college list should be in this zone. It is your sweet spot for college admissions.

· 1-3 in the RED zone. These are your REACH colleges. This is where less measurable factors can be very influential.

Take Action
As you start building your college list, keep in mind the different zones. You should have a balance of colleges from each zone on your list.

Get to know your high school counselor

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 18:43:05 GMT

Do you know your high school counselor? Maybe you’ve met with them to sign up for classes or to make a schedule change. Or maybe not. Depending on your school, your counselor may could be responsible for 30 students or 300+ students so some counselors are more accessible than others. Regardless, it’s important for you to know this person and know what they can do for you in the college search.

1. Make an appointment to meet your counselor. If possible, make an appointment at a time where you won’t be talking about what classes to take next year. This is a separate opportunity to talk mostly about college planning.

2. Ask Questions. The CollegeBoard has a great list of 20 Questions to Ask Your School Counselor .

3. Get Personal. Colleges that you apply to may require a letter of recommendation from your counselor. This is one of many reasons to know your counselor and you want them to know you as well. Give your counselor information about you – what activities are you involved in, what classes do you like or not like, what careers are you considering, what colleges are on your list.

4. Learn about college planning at your school. How do you sign up for standardized test like the PSAT? What about college visits to your school – can you attend as an underclassman? Will there be a college planning assembly or college planning night for parents? Are there forms you need to complete to request transcripts or recommendations? Every school has a college process – be sure to learn the details for your school. Know what you should be focused on now as an underclassman.

5. Follow-up. Send your counselor a thank you email or note. Even just two sentences can suffice - “Thanks for meeting with me. I appreciate your time.” And don’t be a stranger. Meet with your counselor again, or just pop your head in to say hi. Building a relationship with your high school counselor can make your college application process less stressful.

Underclassmen: When should I take the SAT or ACT?

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 18:24:59 GMT

When should you take the SAT or the ACT? Identify which statement below applies to you to help determine the best timing for the test.

Juniors

I am eager!! I want to start early.............	SAT- Nov./ ACT- Dec.
Let’s start the new year right!.................	SAT-Dec./ACT- Feb.
What SAT? I’m only taking the ACT.........	ACT- Feb., or April
What ACT? I’m only taking the SAT.........	SAT- March, May, or June
SAT? Isn’t that for seniors?.....................	SAT- May, June, or August ACT-April, June, or July
No test for me! I am going test optional

Schedule your test based on the table above. Regardless of the timing, don’t take the SAT or ACT without preparing in advance. The CollegeBoard (for SAT) and the ACT both offer a number of free test prep resources.

Sophomores and Freshmen

You will have the opportunity to take the PSAT 10 and PSAT/NMSQT later (11th grade)- so you will get lots of exposure to taking a standardized test. But, taking the real test may also be a good option. Taking the actual SAT or ACT gives you a baseline score. Although you may likely take the test again by senior year, you will know what to expect. As suggested, prepare in advance by taking a practice test or completing a test prep program. Free options exist on the CollegeBoard and ACT websites.

Do early birds get an edge in admissions?

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 18:17:13 GMT

Do early birds really have an edge in admissions? The answer is often yes! The purpose of submitting an application to a college early is to indicate your top preference for that college or a small group of colleges. Colleges appreciate knowing you are likely to enroll if admitted.

With Early Action and Early Decision, you hear sooner whether you’ve been accepted to your “dream” school” and there is often a significant admission advantage to applying early.

What is the difference between the three early application types ?

· Early Action is a plan offered by colleges allowing students to apply early and receive an admissions decision earlier than the regular decision dates. Early Action is typically non-binding (i.e. you are not required to enroll if you are accepted) and you may submit early action applications to more than one school. You can apply regular admissions to any other colleges.

Restrictive Early Action (REA) “restricts” you from applying to any other school under an early action or early decision plan. With REA, you may only submit one early application, however the admission decision is non-binding (you are not required to enroll if you are accepted). In this case, you should decide if this college is your “Dream School”. If Yes - apply using the restrictive early action plan. If No - apply regular decision so that you may submit early applications to other schools that are higher on your list. You can apply regular admissions to any other colleges.
Early Decision is the most restrictive of all the early plans. Students may only submit one Early Decision application and if you are admitted, you are committed to enrolling at the college. If you are accepted early decision, you must also withdraw your applications to any other college you’ve applied to.

Why Apply Early?

There are advantages or disadvantages to applying early. However, the following table shows an advantage in admissions when applying Early Decision at some of the top universities in the country. If you have a school that clearly stands out as your “Top Choice”, it may be wise to apply Early Decision to gain a better chance of admission.

College	Early Decision Acceptance Rate	Regular Deadline Acceptance Rate
Brown	22%	7%
Cornell	26%	11%
Dartmouth	28%	8%
University of Pennsylvania	22%	7%
Vanderbilt University	24%	9%

Financial Aid

You can now submit financial aid forms starting Oct. 1, using last year’s taxes. This gives colleges an opportunity to consider your financial aid or merit awards along with your admissions decision. Often students who apply early are offered more financial aid.

How do you get money for college?

Sun, 06 Oct 2019 23:16:17 GMT

Your eligibility for financial aid will be based on the calendar year starting in January of your junior year. Now is the time to learn what information you and your parents will need in order to file a FAFSA.

What is the FAFSA?

The Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a form students and parents must complete and submit to the federal government to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid?

Who files the FAFSA?

Since this is a federal application, it is for US citizens or students with a legal status in the United States. International students are not eligible for federal student aid. Colleges will also often use the FAFSA to award their own need-based financial aid.

What kind of aid does the federal government offer?

There are three types of aid offered by the US government: 1) Grants , 2) Student Loans, 3) Work-study .

It’s Financial Aid Time!

Sun, 06 Oct 2019 23:14:06 GMT

You can apply for financial aid now!

The first step to getting financial aid is to apply. And although you may still be completing your college application, you can already start filling out the applications for financial aid. The two most used forms are available to be completed now.

Date Application Opens	Financial Aid Form	Form Website
October 1	FAFSA	https://fafsa.ed.gov/
October 1	CSS Profile	https://cssprofile.collegeboard.org/

What is the FAFSA? FAFSA stands for FREE Application for Federal Student Aid - it is the free government application to apply for federal grants, loans, and work-study for college. All US citizens and students with legal status in the US should complete the FAFSA regardless of whether you think your family’s income and assets will put you out of range for need-based financial aid. Most colleges, state scholarship agencies, and foundations use the FAFSA in deciding who gets financial aid and/or scholarships.

What is the CSS Profile? The College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile is an online application managed by the College Board and used by many private colleges (and some public universities) and scholarship programs to award financial aid and/or scholarships. There is a fee to submit the CSS Profile so check the list of colleges and programs to know if you need to complete this application.

Do:

Check Requirements

⬜ Find the FAFSA codes for colleges on your list

⬜ Determine if extra forms such as CSS Profile or a college specific form is required

⬜ Does your state require additional forms for residents applying to state colleges

Gather ALL the information needed. Be sure you have:

⬜ Your social security number

⬜ Parents’ social security numbers

⬜ Your income statement (if you had any) for the past year

⬜ Amount in savings, checking or other types of assets

⬜ Copy of latest tax return

File Early

⬜ File your financial aid forms as early as possible

⬜ Check all deadlines at colleges you are applying to and mark them on your calendar

Inform Colleges of Special Circumstances . Let the college know in a separate letter if:

⬜ A parent lost a job or income went down

⬜ Parents divorced recently

⬜ There is a family member with special medical costs

⬜ There are other financial circumstances in your family the college should know about

Don’t:

Report more information than requested.

⬜ Don’t include assets from parent retirement

⬜ Don’t include a farm your family lives on

⬜ Don’t include a small business income or assets

⬜ Don’t include your family home as an asset

Be ready for the PSAT/NMSQT

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 18:52:28 GMT

Taking the PSAT/NMSQT is important as a freshman, sophomore and junior. Why? It is your opportunity to take a standardized test and see how you do, without having to worry that colleges or programs will see your scores (they don’t). It’s also a great way to prepare for the regular SAT and juniors it is your opportunity to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship. Here are 5 tips to help you get ready.

5 Steps to Prepare for the PSAT in October

1. REGISTER for the PSAT at your high school. The test is offered at your school in October (this year that date is October 16 for most schools). Check with the counseling office about the date and how to register.

2. GET READY. Get a list of what to bring on test day and what to leave at home.

3. GET FAMILIAR with the PSAT. Look at the College Board website for information about what the questions are like in the PSAT, how long it is, and what to expect.

4. PRACTICE for the PSAT. Take a practice test on the CollegeBoard website. Khan Academy also offers practice tests, practice questions and personalized preparation for the test.

5. Take a GUESS . On the PSAT/NMSQT and PSAT10, you earn points for the questions you answer correctly – there is no penalty for getting a question wrong. Give your best answer to every question. If you don’t know, guess (you may get it right). There’s no advantage to leaving them blank.

5 Test Day Tips for Taking the ACT or SAT

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 18:51:12 GMT

You are signed up and ready to take the ACT or SAT test! Here are 5 test day tips to help you ace the test by starting off on the right foot. Have everything you need ready when you leave to take your test on a Saturday morning.

5 Test Day Tips

1) Get a good night’s rest Friday night. Make sure your brain is rested and alert before you take the test. Go to bed early so you can get enough sleep to perform your best.

2) Fuel yourself with a good breakfast. Make sure to include protein (eggs, yogurt, cheese, peanut butter). You will be testing for over 3 hours so you need a breakfast that can sustain you.

3) Perform the 48-hour Essentials check. Gather all the essential items to bring with you to the test in one place 2 days in advance.

· Admission Ticket. Required a printed copy of your admissions ticket.

· Photo ID. Driver’s license or passport. Check for other ID types accepted at SAT or ACT .

· #2 pencils with soft erasers: 2 or 3.

· Acceptable calculators. See the SAT calculator policy . Your phone cannot be used as a calculator.

4) Organize back-up supplies. Pack your backpack with backup essentials:

· Water

· Protein or energy bar

· Watch (you CAN NOT use your phone during the test to keep time)

· Extra batteries for your calculator.

5) Leave it at home. Some items are prohibited at the SAT or ACT tests.

· Cell phone

· Cameras

· Ipad, Ipod, etc.

· Separate timers

· Any device capable of recording, texting or taking a picture

· Bad Attitude - stay positive and you’ll be less anxious.

Demonstrated Interest – what is it and does it matter?

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 18:28:54 GMT

Finding a college is a bit like finding a date to homecoming. You are both trying to get to know each other and size up your chances. Scoping each other out online, liking a post on Instagram, talking to friends, going on a “group date” (aka a college tour). You want to apply to colleges that you like and where you have a reasonable chance of being admitted. Colleges want to admit students who have shown they are interested enrolling. Demonstrating interest tells the college you may want to enroll at their school, which can make you a more attractive applicant. So how do you demonstrate interest?

Start Online

Visit the school website and create a prospective student account. Your student account is the first indication to the university that you are interested. And it will likely be where you receive communications and updates if you decide to apply. You can also do things like follow the college on Instagram or Facebook, like or comment on their posts, chat online with students or admissions staff, etc.

College Visits

Admissions reps spend the fall traveling the country to visit high schools and promote their college. Check your school calendar for dates/times of college visits. Mark these on your calendar. Research the college before you go to the meeting. Have 5 questions to ask the college representative.

College Fairs

Check for college fairs in your area. Some college fairs have hundreds of college representatives attending. It’s a great chance to explore lots of colleges in one place. Some of the most popular college fairs are:

· NACAC college fairs . These large college fairs occur in both fall and spring.

· Colleges That Change Lives . These fairs showcase small liberal arts colleges (based on the book Colleges That Change Lives.)

Ask your counselor about other college fairs in your area and attend with your parents if possible. They have questions too!

Follow Up

If you talk with a representative from a college on your list, send them a follow-up email. You can start with “Hi! We met at XYZ event. Thank you for answering my questions! There’s one thing I forgot to ask...” This reminds the admission rep of who you are and what you’re interested in. They may remember that when reading your application.

Visit the College

This is probably the pinnacle of demonstrating interest. If possible, visit the colleges that are high on your list. It can be for a tour or an open house – but be sure the school knows you are there (don’t just drive through on a Sunday afternoon). Visiting a college earns you many “points” for demonstrated interest because it shows you are seriously considering that college. Plus, visiting will give you a strong sense of whether the college is the right fit.

All of these points of contact - from creating an online account to visiting the school - tell the college that you want to apply and enroll. This is demonstrated interest. Some colleges even take this into account when they are making their decision and may be more likely (by a small margin) to admit someone who has “demonstrated interest”.

Take Action

For each college you plan to apply to, take some of the steps above to show your interest. In your calendar:

· Set up tasks to remind you of college fairs, college visits, or other upcoming events.

The Do’s and Don’ts of College Essay Writing

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 18:28:23 GMT

It’s September - time to finalize your college essays. Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to guide you.

College Essay General Do's and Don'ts

Do's

1. Do be concise and write about something you know.

2. Do be open and authentic. Reveal something about your identity in your essay.

3. Do show rather than tell. Giving examples and illustrating your topic brings it to life.

4. Do write in your own “voice” and style.

5. Do have multiple people help you edit your essay for grammar, spelling, and context (parents, friends, your counselor, etc.).

Don'ts

1. Don't write what you think others want to read.

2. Don't exaggerate or write to impress.

3. Don't use a flowery, inflated, or pretentious style of writing.

4. Don't ramble---say what you have to say and conclude.

Your college essay, along with your high school record, standardized test scores, and extracurricular involvement, will provide the basis upon which the college makes its admissions decision. A thoughtful, well-written essay can positively affect that final decision. Keep this in mind and take full advantage of the opportunity which the college essay affords you.

GPA or Rigor - Which is more important?

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 20:49:24 GMT

When applying to colleges, which is better - a higher GPA or harder classes (rigor)? What are colleges really looking for and how do they decide who to admit?

Challenge yourself!
Of course, having good grades AND rigor in your courses is the best goal. But if the choice is between a challenging class (like AP or IB) and a class that you know you will ace - go for the challenging course! Taking a more rigorous course load is your chance to stretch your abilities and show the college (and yourself) what you are capable of. You should be preparing yourself for college-level work, not coasting by with the easiest courses.

Go competitive
Use the following guidelines when choosing classes in high school to be competitive when applying to colleges. Be sure to check your graduation class requirements. (For example, California public colleges require 1 year of Visual or Performing Arts.)

· 4 years of English

· 4 years of Mathematics

· 3-4 years of Natural Science (including a lab science like biology, chemistry, or physics)

· 3-4 years of Social Science (US or world history, government, geography, etc.)

· 3-4 year of a Foreign Language

· Any number of years of electives, as they fit into your schedule including Fine Arts, Performing Arts, Athletics, etc.

Special classes that are not college prep, such as Student Council, Mock Trial, etc. can be counted as activities on your college applications.

Dual Enrollment
Taking college classes online. or at a local college or community college while in high school, is an additional way to add rigor to your high school courses. Colleges like to see you strive academically. Often 1 semester of a college school class = 1 year of a high school class. Transferable college classes often count the same weight in a GPA calculation as an AP.

Three tips for great recommendations.

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 20:48:37 GMT

Asking for recommendations? You might find this easy, or awkward, or somewhere in between. How do you get the best recommendations for your college applications? Follow these three steps:

1) Get Ready. Before you start asking teachers, counselor or others for a letter of recommendation, do your homework.

a) Focus on familiarity. Teachers who know you best will write the best recommendations. Ask for recommendations from the teachers that you have a strong relationship with even if you didn’t receive the best grade in their class.

b) Check with your school. Many schools have deadlines and requirements for requesting letters of recommendations. Put dates in your calendar and stick to them.

c) Go for the maximum. The Common App and other systems list how many letters of recommendation are required. They also give you a number of how many recommendations are allowed. Plan to request the maximum number.

d) Create a Recommendation Calendar. Check the dates your college applications are due, and work backwards. Add all dates to your calendar.

i) Ask a teacher for a recommendation at least 4-6 weeks (follow your school’s timeline) before your applications are due.

ii) Plan for the recommendations to be done 2-4 weeks before your application is due.

iii) If you are doing early applications, you should request recommendations in September or October.

e) Update your activity list. Give teachers/counselors your activity list, resume or brag sheet. This gives them information to use when writing about you.

2) Make the Ask. Use this checklist to organize your recommendation requests to your teachers. Put the following items together in a large 10X13 envelope and hand to each teacher/counselor you are requesting a letter from:

a) Cover letter. Personal letter explaining the purpose of the recommendation (for scholarships, admissions, or special programs). Include dates you need recommendations completed by. Be sure to sign the letter.

b) Resume/Activity List. List of all your activities through high school.

c) Role of Recommendations. Provide a copy of The Role of Recommendations to teachers/counselors. This document explains what colleges are looking for in recommendations.

3) Follow up. Follow this recommendation checklist after you have requested letters of recommendation:

a) Check progress. The Common Application , the Coalition Application and others allow you to track the progress of your application, including recommendations. Use this to view when recommendations are uploaded.

b) Gently remind. Teachers often appreciate a gentle reminder about upcoming due dates. You want to be sure your recommendations are submitted on time.

c) Write a thank you. Make a teacher’s or counselor’s day with a personalized, handwritten note thanking them for their assistance.

When is the PSAT not a practice test?

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 20:46:45 GMT

Do you know the entire name of the PSAT test? It is officially the PSAT/ NMSQT test. “NMSQT” stands for “National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test” . The only time you can be considered for the National Merit Scholarship is during your junior year. Taking the PSAT is the only way to be considered.

Taking the PSAT by grade level

· Freshman year - It is your first opportunity to take a college prep standardized test. Check to see if your school allows freshmen to take the PSAT/NMSQT. The school may want you to take the new PSAT 9 in the fall or the spring.

· Sophomore year - Take it more seriously- this is the last time you can take this test and not have it sent to the colleges. You may be taking the new PSAT 10 in fall or spring.

· Junior year - Game time! Prepare just as you have for the SAT test. Do your best on this PSAT/NMSQT test. You will have colleges knocking at your door if you do!

Do I need the SAT Essay or ACT writing?

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 20:42:47 GMT

The essay portion of the SAT and the Writing section of the ACT are both optional.

According to the Prep Scholar blog (as of May 2019), only 28 colleges require the SAT Essay although a number of other schools recommend it. Just a note - ALL of the University of California System schools require the SAT Essay. However, odds are that if you are applying to colleges outside of California it’s unlikely that they require the essay.

There are additional schools that recommend submitting the SAT Essay or the ACT Writing - and some schools do use this part of the test for placement purposes or other consideration. Therefore, it’s important to check with each school regarding their standardized test policies . You don’t want to find yourself shut out of applying to a school, or being considered for a scholarship that requires the SAT Essay or ACT Writing. But if you do your research, you may save yourself time and money by skipping the SAT Essay or the ACT Writing.

Take Action

If one of your colleges requires or recommends the SAT Essay or ACT Writing, be sure to register for that optional section of the test. Read up on the SAT Essay or ACT Writing so that you are prepared for this additional section.

Which college essay type are you?

Fri, 23 Aug 2019 16:41:33 GMT

Struggling with those dreaded college essays? Don’t know where to start? “The College Essay Guy”, Ethan Sawyer, breaks down the process of getting to a first draft of your college personal statement in 3 hours!

In his free guide, “The Essay Workshop in a Box” - Ethan teaches you how to write a great college essay using two options from screenwriting/filmmaking - the Narrative Structure or the Montage Structure.

In one of the exercises Ethan uses, you start by answering the following questions:

1. Have you faced significant challenges? (You define "significant".)

2. Do you know what you want to study?

Having answered the questions above, you could classify yourself into one of four essay types :

Check out the rest of the Essay Workshop in a Box by the College Essay Guy - maybe you’ll finish that personal statement this afternoon!

Setting Goals for a New School Year

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 22:02:04 GMT

Setting goals and being accountable for meeting those goals will help you to make the most of this year of high school. Ask yourself these questions below. The answers will help shape your goals for the year.

1. How can I make a difference this year? Is there a community group you can volunteer for? A school activity you want to be more involved in? Make a goal now to make a difference through a group you are already involved with or find a group to participate in and make a difference through.

2. How can I improve my learning? Do you learn by listening to a presentation from a teacher? Or do you prefer asking questions and sharing your opinion? Do you like hands-on porjects and inquiry-based learning? You know you can adapt your study habits to your learning style. Tailoring your study skills to your learning style will save you time and help you to study smarter, rather than longer.

3. How can I be prepared for the future? The future (college, careers, family life, other) is coming sooner than you think. Use this year to job shadow someone in a career you find interesting, research different majors, or learn a new skill/develop a talent.

College Fairs and How to Prepare

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 22:01:22 GMT

College fairs are a great place to start your college search! So, what’s a college fair and what can you expect?

Think “science fair” for colleges. College fairs are events where colleges from around the country will gather to provide students with information. College representatives (usually admission staff or college alumni) are available at tables to answer questions and distribute brochures or handouts about their college. You might also be able to sign up to be on a college’s mailing/email list. College fairs typically happen at your school (or a school nearby), or sometimes at a hotel, community center, or convention center.

Pro	Con
Many colleges (sometimes hundreds!) in the same room giving you access to college representatives and info about a wide variety of colleges. At one event, you can gather information about schools from around the country or even around the world.	Depending on the venue and the number of colleges and attendees, college fairs can be a bit overwhelming. They can be crowded and loud. With many students vying for the attention of the college reps, you will have limited time to get your questions answered.

To make the most of your college fair experience, here are some general do’s and don’ts.

DO:

· Make a plan! Get a list of the colleges that will be at the event and decide which college tables you want to visit.

· Be presentable! You’ll likely be talking with the same college representatives that will read your future application. You want to make a good impression. This doesn’t require a 3-piece suit – but you may not want to come directly from soccer practice. Be prepared to shake hands, smile, and speak clearly.

· Visit a variety of schools! This is your chance to explore colleges of all shapes and sizes. Schools that you may not otherwise consider or visit may offer something surprising. Don’t limit yourself to only colleges that you have heard of or already know something about.

DON’T

· Ask questions that you can find the answer to on the college website - like “Does your school offer XYZ major?”. Show the college representative that you’ve done your research by asking something about a specific about the college. Or ask the same insightful question (like “What kind of student thrives at your school” or “What three words best describe this college”) of every college rep to get a feel for what the college values or the “personality” of the college.

Take Action

Ask you counselor about colleges fairs in your area and add an event to your calendar. Do your research in advance about the schools that will be represented.

Seniors! Early Application Deadlines

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 22:00:28 GMT

Although senior year may be just getting started, college application season is already here! Many colleges are accepting applications even now, and some have deadlines as early as mid-October. Should you apply now? Well, it’s important to know the different types of college deadlines so you can map out a timeline for your applications.

Here are some definitions:

Early Decision (ED): This is the most restrictive type of early deadline. You may only apply to ONE college under an early decision deadline. If you are accepted, you guarantee to the college that you will enroll at their school. Once admitted as an ED applicant, you are required to withdraw your other college applications. ED can give you a significant advantage in the admissions process, but it also means you commit to enrolling before you’ve been able to compare financial aid and scholarship offers from other schools. Use an ED application ONLY if the school is absolutely your first choice and financial aid/scholarships are not a deciding factor for enrollment.

Early Action (EA): Somewhat similar to ED, Early Action deadlines give you an admission advantage (colleges admit a higher percentage of EA students compared to Regular Decision) but without the commitment required by ED. If you are accepted as an EA student, you will still have until May 1 to decide if you want to enroll giving you plenty of time to compare scholarships and financial aid from all the colleges that have admitted you.

Restrictive Early Action (REA): (also known as single-choice early action) In this case, you can apply to only ONE school as a REA candidate (no other ED or EA applications) but if admitted, you are not required to enroll. Just like with ED and EA, you get an admission advantage by applying early. Using a REA deadline also indicates to the college that they are your first choice (because this is the only school that you’ve applied to as an early candidate).

Priority Deadline: This term is used by many state colleges and public universities. It’s very similar to Early Action – advantage in the admissions process but a non-binding admission decision.

Rolling Admission: With Rolling Admission, you can apply anytime through a designated time period and the colleges review applications roughly in the order in which they are received. Therefore, the earlier you apply in Rolling Admission the better chance you have of being admitted.

Regular Decision: This could also be considered the final application deadline. Generally speaking, the Regular Decision deadline is your last chance to apply to the college.

As the saying goes – the early bird gets the worm! Applying early can give you a definite advantage in the admission process and it’s great idea to get those applications checked off your list early in senior year!

Take Action

For each college you are looking at, select which deadline you plan to apply by and add these dates to your calendar.

What’s your learning style?

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 00:26:36 GMT

How do you like to learn? Do you like to talk to the teachers, raise your hand and stay after class? Or do you prefer to learn by being quiet, checking in with your friends, and blending in with your classmates? This reflects your learning style. Your learning style is an important thing to know about yourself as you do your college search. Which of the following Learning Style fits you?

Learning Style 1

Do you:

- Raise your hand in class to answer questions?

- Talk to the teacher after class or before class?

- Sit in groups and discuss material you are learning?

- Prefer working on assignments or projects with a large group of friends?

- Like to lead discussions in class?

Learning Style 2

Do you:

- Sit in the back of the class and listen to the instructor?

- Feel more comfortable working on your own on class assignments?

- Not like to be called upon in class to answer questions?

- Like sharing thoughts one-one with a friend or the teacher, but not is a large group?

- Prefer to turn in written assignments or take tests over doing oral presentations?

If you are more comfortable with Learning Style 1, you are a Participant Learner. If your style is more Learning Style 2, you are an Observant Learner.

· Learn more about these different styles on this infographic: What's YOUR Learning Style . Learn how to pick a college based on your Learning Style.

humbach_education_consulting_v1

Global Mind Health in 2025

From Paralegal to College Admissions Expert: The Story of Shelly Humbach

Parents of Sophomores: Your “Don’t Panic, But Don’t Snooze” Checklist

Parents of Juniors: The College Planning Reality Check

The Value of the College Visit — and How To Do It Right

College Application Season

No Phone, Ditch the Shoes, Let’s Connect

Big J Educational Consulting College Admissions Charts

The Power of Paying Attention

The Power of Paying Attention

Parents: Before Your Student Launches, Get These Legal Docs in Place

Parents: Before Your Student Launches,

﻿ Get These Legal Docs in Place

Is Your Student Ready For College?

Is Your Student Ready For College?

What should your high school student be doing with their precious summer?

Wait for it……they should be having fun.

Below, you’ll find just a few ideas on how to “constructively” spend your summer before college that prioritizes fun and exploration for your high schooler.

1. Volunteer Opportunities

2. College Visits

3. Personal Growth and Hobbies

4. Developing Time Management and Organization Skills

5. Shadowing or Internships

Here are four popular websites that are commonly used to find summer internships:

6. Summer WorkAway Program

Summers are a sacred time

The Common App and AXS Companion: Deadlines, Dates, Resources and FAQs

"The Common Application, often referred to as The Common App is an online platform that facilitates the college application process for students."

AXS Companion FAQs

1. Is the AXS Companion free to use?

2. Can I access the AXS Companion on my mobile device?

3. What if I have technical issues while using the AXS Companion?

4. Can the AXS Companion help with college selection?

5. Can I use the AXS Companion for applications to non-US colleges?

The Common App Deadlines and Important Dates

1. Application Open Date:

2. Application Deadlines:

3. Test Score Submission Deadlines:

4. Financial Aid Deadlines:

5. Decision Release Dates:

Additional Resources for Common App Success

1.The Common App Website:

2. College Admissions Counselors:

3. College Prep Books:

4. Online Communities and Forums:

Additional Guides Here

Harnessing the Power of AXS Companion: Take on the Common App with Ease

"The AXS Companion provides step-by-step guidance, tips, and expert advice to help you tackle every section of the Common App with confidence."

What is the Common App?

﻿

Benefits of using the AXS Companion for the Common App

1. User-Friendly Interface:

2. Step-by-Step Guidance:

3. Expert Advice and Tips:

4. Time-Saving Features:

Navigating the AXS Companion

1. Create an Account:

2. Explore the Features:

3. Follow the Guidance:

4. Save and Review:

The AXS Companion edge on the Common App

Good luck on your college application journey! With the AXS Companion by your side, you're well-equipped to unlock your potential and maximize your chances of getting into your dream college.

Financial Aid 101: Understanding the Basics

What is financial aid?

Financial Aid Terminology: A Comprehensive Guide for Students and Families

Cost of Attendance

Student Aid Index (SAI)

Financial Need

Grants and Scholarships

Loans

FAFSA

Work-study

The 4 things you need to know about Financial Aid

1. Who is eligible for financial aid?

2. When should I apply for financial aid?

3. How much financial aid can I receive?

4. How do I compare financial aid packages from different colleges?

You’ve Been Deferred. Now What?

In the Spirit of - More College Admissions Fun - Let’s talk about Deferrals

Get These Legal Docs in Place