Dream, Plan, Achieve
The Department of Education quietly announced that the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will be open for all families to complete as of November 18, 2024, as it wraps up final beta testing. While the official opening date is set for December 1, the Department of Education is wanting more families to start …
As a college and career specialist at Arizona’s largest high school, I worked with over a thousand seniors who graduated annually. In my meetings with students, I often heard their thoughts on college admissions. Above all, it became clear that these students sought to be truly listened to by their parents, craving more understanding and …
Parents frequently seek advice on the appropriate timing for starting conversations about college finances. It is my conviction that this vital discussion should commence early, possibly as soon as the freshman year, and should be an ongoing topic throughout high school. It’s important to approach this practically, presenting information in small, manageable segments. Financing college …
How are you managing your college applications? The deadlines are fast approaching! October is essentially the final month you have to keep track of the impending deadlines for your submissions. Balancing this task with other competing priorities can significantly affect your capacity to finish and submit on time. How about a few helpful tips and …
The question of whether a high school student should have a job is frequently raised, especially regarding its influence on college applications and its potential to stand out in the competitive realm of college admissions. Many experts believe that the advantages of having a job during high school surpass the disadvantages. This is largely because …
Fall break is a great time to take some time off and focus on your college preparations. With the regular school year underway, finding time to complete many of the additional activities for seniors sometimes gets lost! Fall break is your savior, if done correctly. Below are some of the best ways to utilize your …
It’s interesting that I’m discussing skilled trades vs college degrees, considering that many of the students and families I assist are intent on pursuing higher education. There’s no definitive right or wrong choice. In my capacity as a College and Career Specialist, I often initiated conversations with the question, “What are your plans after high …
A college tour is a crucial step in choosing the right institution for your upcoming four years. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience the campus “vibe” and determine if it’s the right fit for you. Traditionally taken during senior year, an increasing number of parents and students are now visiting colleges during junior and even …
There are numerous aspects to consider. How does one mold themselves according to their guiding principles? These guiding principles have distinguished me from others. They serve as my compass, the guiding standards by which I evaluate myself. Through my work experiences and observations of others, I have refined these principles over time. Here are the …
It’s undeniable that the cost of a college education is on the rise. Many universities are increasing tuition by more than 3% annually. It’s worthwhile to invest time in researching the total cost of attendance, which includes tuition, housing, books, fees, meals, and out-of-state tuition fees. The yearly cost to attend your dream university could …