# Coach Steve > Dream, Plan, Achieve ## Posts - [Preparing for the Common Application: Key Questions to Consider](https://stevebellnow.com/preparing-for-the-common-application-key-questions-to-consider/): Get Ready for Application Season As the common application opened on August 1st, it’s time to start finalizing for this crucial phase in your academic journey. Have you finalized your list of schools? Knowing where you want to apply is the first step in ensuring a smooth application process. Make sure to gather all necessary information about each institution to help you make informed decisions. Carve Out Time for Your Applications Completing the common application requires careful planning and dedication. It is essential to carve out time in your schedule to focus on this task. Set aside specific blocks of […] - [Navigating Scholarships and Financial Aid: A Helpful Guide](https://stevebellnow.com/navigating-scholarships-and-financial-aid-a-helpful-guide/): The fall of your senior year is application season, but scholarship season overlaps big time. Don’t forget about scholarship season. Below is my helpful guide to scholarships and financial aid. Understanding Financial Aid Financial aid plays a pivotal role in facilitating access to higher education for students from diverse backgrounds. It encompasses a variety of funding sources designed to assist individuals in managing the costs associated with their education. The primary categories of financial aid include federal aid, state aid, institutional aid, and private scholarships, each with its own eligibility criteria and characteristics. Federal aid is typically provided through the […] - [A Step-by-Step Guide to Signing Up for the PSAT Test](https://stevebellnow.com/a-step-by-step-guide-to-signing-up-for-the-psat-test/): Contact Your School Counselor The first step to signing up for the PSAT test is to reach out to your school counselor. Every school has its unique registration process and deadlines for the PSAT. Your counselor will provide you with the specific information you need to ensure a smooth registration experience. Freshmen and Sophomores take advantage of testing early. This will assist you in getting familiar with the test. Once you complete the test, you will get your results, and you can develop a plan to improve your scores moving forward. Juniors, this is the time to shine! Check Registration […] - [Effective Strategies for Completing the Common Application](https://stevebellnow.com/effective-strategies-for-completing-the-common-application/): Gather Essential Materials Before diving into the Common Application, it’s crucial to gather all necessary materials. This includes high school grades, transcripts, and any other required documents. Having these documents ready will streamline your application process and save you time. Create Your Account Wisely When you’re ready to start, create an account using a personal email address that you check regularly. Make sure to save your password securely to avoid any access issues later. Do not use your high school email address! A well-organized account setup is an essential first step in completing the Common Application effectively. Add Colleges and […] - [Guide to Selecting Colleges: Steps to Find Your Perfect Fit](https://stevebellnow.com/guide-to-selecting-colleges-steps-to-find-your-perfect-fit/): Reflect on Your Goals When approaching the process of selecting a college, one of the most critical steps involves deep self-reflection. Understanding your personal and academic goals will significantly inform your decision-making and help you identify institutions that align with your aspirations. Begin by articulating what you hope to gain during your college years. This could range from specific academic pursuits to broader personal development objectives. Consider the academic disciplines that captivate your interest. Are you drawn to the sciences, humanities, or perhaps engineering? Defining your major and areas of study can help narrow down college options that provide strong […] - [Top 5 Interview Questions Which Most People Mess Up](https://stevebellnow.com/top-5-interview-questions/): My top 5 interview questions that seem like a trap. I’ve used them often in my interviews. I’ve heard them when I was sitting on the other side of the table. These are broad questions that require the interviewee to be prepared with their knowledge of themself and the company that they are interviewing with. When I review my past performances to these questions, I know I have fallen into the trap. Be prepared and practice so you are genuine in your answers to these interview questions.  1. Tell Me About Yourself? A casual conversation question to kick off the […] - [Essential PSAT Prep Tips for Freshmen, Sophomores, and Juniors](https://stevebellnow.com/essential-psat-prep-tips-for-freshmen-sophomores-and-juniors/): Understanding the Importance of PSAT Testing The PSAT testing set for October is a crucial benchmark for all freshmen, sophomores, and juniors. This preliminary SAT serves multiple purposes, most importantly as a measure of readiness for the SAT and a gateway to the National Merit Scholarship Program. For juniors, strong PSAT scores can significantly impact your future educational opportunities, making preparation essential. How to Prepare Effectively Familiarity with the PSAT format and types of questions is vital. One of the best ways to prepare is to take advantage of free test prep options available online. Resources such as Revolution Prep […] - [Essential Tips for Parents Navigating Their Freshman's Transition to High School](https://stevebellnow.com/tips-for-parents-navigating-their-freshmans-transition-to-high-school/): Many high schools have already started, and many more will begin within the next week. For incoming freshmen, this is a key transition period. From being the big students on campus last year to being the youngest in the next chapter of their educational career. As parents, we have worries about this transition period. From years of working in high school, I have a few tips for parents. For more in-depth information, check out this site. Open Lines of Communication As your child transitions into high school, maintaining open lines of communication is vital. Encourage them to share their feelings […] - [Expectations with Key Focus Areas](https://stevebellnow.com/what-to-expect-and-focus-on-in-hs/): High schools are starting up all over Arizona. Students and parents should review some key focus areas and set expectations for each school year. In your freshman year of high school, you can expect the following: – Academic Expectations:  Grades now count toward your GPA and college transcripts, and classes may be more rigorous or specialized. When I present to freshman classes, I emphasize aiming for a 3.5 GPA in your first year. Setting yourself up for success early is key. – Social Dynamics: You’ll meet new people, and existing friend groups may change as students explore new interests. – […] - [Summertime Is Almost Over!](https://stevebellnow.com/welcome-the-transition-period/): Having a break is awesome, but the break ends. Very soon, for some students, school will be starting back up. For parents, this time is a welcome sight. Getting the kids back into their normal school routine is huge. There are some parents who this year will be a bit worried. If you have a freshman going into high school, that can be a bit of a challenge. Especially if your student is the oldest. Now, if you have a graduating senior, here comes the excitement and worry. The areas that worried me the most in both cases were: Worry […] - [Junior Year: ACT/SAT Testing](https://stevebellnow.com/junior-year-act-sat-testing/): “My child is in his/her junior year. Tell me what I need to know about SAT / ACT testing.” I receive this question, or variations of it, every year. Today, I will guide you through the steps to consider as you prepare for standardized tests used in college admissions. What You Need to Do Current juniors should expect to send ACT or SAT scores to colleges during their senior year. This is the year to keep working on good grades, challenging classes, meaningful involvement, and standardized testing.  If you take care of the SAT / ACT this year, you can […] - [How Do You Make That College Decision?](https://stevebellnow.com/how-do-you-make-that-final-college-decision/): It’s time to start preparing for the important decision of selecting the right college. Many students I’ve helped have already begun narrowing down their list of colleges to apply to. Some have even created a matrix to help them manage their college application workload effectively. Your college applications are in, the schools are evaluating them and will be providing a decision soon. Some key factors to revisit since you developed you application college list to get to which college you would like to attend. Help Yourself by Putting Together a Way to Help Make That Final Decision Over the years, […] - [Your Applications Have Been Submitted - Now What](https://stevebellnow.com/your-applications-have-been-submitted-now-what/): The day you’ve been dreaming about has finally arrived – you just submitted your college applications! Here’s what to do next. Most of the important work is done. You’ve built a thoughtful list full of colleges you’re excited about attending, you’ve written an awesome college essay, and you stayed organized while completing all the pieces of these applications. Let’s not forget how much work that is – it’s a lot and you did a great job of getting it all done. That must feel good! However, once you hit the submit button and wait for admission offices to receive each […] - [FAFSA Now Open to All](https://stevebellnow.com/fafsa-now-open-to-all/): 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 the process while it ensures there are no issues. So, while all families can start the FAFAS process as of today, it’s important to remember that this is still the end of beta testing, and some issues may arise. Families who want to start filling […] - [The 3 Comments Heard the Most from High School Seniors](https://stevebellnow.com/the-3-comments-heard-the-most-from-high-school-seniors/): 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 less advice. Here’s what I learned by listening to my college-bound students. Students want to choose their major and don’t want parents’ input The first question that every new college student is asked repeatedly is, “What’s your major?” I begin with that question too. I usually […] - [College Financial Conversation](https://stevebellnow.com/college-financial-conversation/): 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 education is straightforward but costly. Scholarships offer “free money” and are available at national, local, and college-specific levels. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) provides financial aid based on a family’s financial status, including grants, federal work-study, and loans for students and their […] - [How's Application Season Going?](https://stevebellnow.com/hows-application-season-going/): 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 tricks: Divide the entire application process into manageable sections and establish realistic deadlines for each part. The Common Application consists of numerous sections. Tackling the application in segments might be beneficial. For instance, finish the demographic and activities sections before starting the essays. Complete the […] - [To High School Job or Not (Pros/Cons)](https://stevebellnow.com/to-high-school-job-or-not-pros-cons/): 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 linking a college application to a distinct passion or theme is vital, and employment is one of the various methods a student can achieve this. For high school students considering employment in addition to their studies, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. Pros […] - [Fall Break College Prep To Do’s](https://stevebellnow.com/fall-break-college-prep-to-dos/): 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 fall break. Study for Your Last ACT or SAT If you’re applying to college under Regular Decision or Regular Action, the last chance to take the ACT or SAT is quickly approaching. To maximize your remaining study time, particularly if you’re targeting a higher score, […] - [Discussion on Skilled Trades vs College](https://stevebellnow.com/discussion-on-skilled-trades-vs-college/): 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 school?” Depending on the answer could determine which path. Ultimately, the decision rests with the individual. Let’s look at this debate further. With the U.S. student loan debt reaching approximately $1.77 trillion and continuing to rise, the value of a traditional four-year degree is under […] - [Tips for Parents/Students on College Tours](https://stevebellnow.com/tips-for-parents-students-on-college-tours/): 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 sophomore years. If you’re planning a family vacation and there’s a college nearby, you’re interested in, consider scheduling a visit. For those unable to visit in person, many colleges provide virtual tours on their websites, although it’s not quite the same as observing students in […] - [Guiding Principles](https://stevebellnow.com/guiding-principles/): 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 3 things that are central to me: Be a problem solver! Cultivating a mindset that embraces challenges and actively seeks solutions is crucial, rather than solely relying on static knowledge. Employers value individuals who possess critical thinking abilities, can adapt to new situations, and create […] - [Assistance in Paying for College](https://stevebellnow.com/aissistance-in-paying-for-college/): 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 be $60,000, $70,000, or even over $80,000. US News & World Report has an excellent article college financial aid. From my experience here are six ways you can help pay for college:  Enrolling in numerous college credit courses during high school, such as dual enrollment […] - [Common Myths with College Admissions with Parent Advice](https://stevebellnow.com/common-myths-with-college-admissions-with-parent-advice/): This is the season for applying to your dream school and other esteemed universities. Securing a spot at your dream institution can be daunting. It’s beneficial to be aware of some prevalent myths surrounding the admissions process. Grades are important, but colleges also consider the rigor of your coursework. Therefore, a “B” in an Advanced Placement class may be viewed as favorably as an “A” in a regular class. Test scores will ruin your chances. For many schools, they are just one aspect of the application, and in fall 2024, over 1,900 schools will not require applicants to submit test […] - [Parent Tip: Helping Chose that College Major](https://stevebellnow.com/parent-tip-helping-chose-that-college-major/): The other day, I had a conversation with my granddaughter about her future career aspirations. She’s currently a sophomore in high school. Having worked with students, I’ve always encouraged them to consider their post-high school plans. Now, as your child enters their senior year, they face the significant milestones of selecting a college and deciding on a major, both of which are crucial decisions for their upcoming journey in higher education. Here are a few things to remember when trying to help your child find the right major for their college experience. Do your own the Research Conducting comprehensive research […] - [FAFSA: Paying for College](https://stevebellnow.com/paying-for-college-fafsa/): As a continuation of Paying for College/Trade School post (I understand this is early but fits following Paying for College – Scholarships), it is time to write about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the form required to apply for financial aid from the federal government for college expenses. Annually, more than 13 million students who submit the FAFSA receive upwards of $120 billion in grants, work-study funds, and low-interest loans from the U.S. Department of Education. Additionally, many states and colleges use the FAFSA to decide which students qualify for financial aid and the amount they […] - [Scholarship Season - Paying for College/Trade School](https://stevebellnow.com/scholarship-season-paying-for-college-trade-school/): Paying for college/trade school is a major concern for students and parents. The period from late August until the summer after graduation is often referred to as scholarship season. October starts with FAFSA, Federal Student Aid. Announcement from Department of Education in early August has a limited number of students can apply in October and the complete application will be available early December. An additional blog post on FAFSA coming soon! Scholarships are an excellent way to finance your college education.  Here are some tips I have gathered from students I’ve worked with in the past: There’s no limit to […] - [Letters of Recommendation for Applications/Scholarships](https://stevebellnow.com/letters-of-recommendation-for-applications-scholarships/): Letters of recommendation play a crucial role in both admissions and scholarship application processes. They stand alongside transcripts and test scores as key factors in admissions decisions. As a student, it’s important to know how to request a letter of recommendation for college admissions and scholarships effectively. Now, let’s begin the process to ensure you secure the strongest recommendations for your applications! Why do letters of recommendation matter? Grades and test scores provide admissions officers with a measure of your academic performance in high school, while essays and recommendations reveal your character. It’s crucial that your primary recommendations reflect your […] - [What does "Test Optional" Really Mean?](https://stevebellnow.com/what-does-test-optional-for-college-admission-mean/): Many seniors and parents are in the start of the application process or what I like to call Application Season. That time when you are applying to the universities that you want to attend. There are many requirements to review for each university – one in particular is a bit misleading – ACT and SAT scores are “test optional.” Over the past 3 years I have been looking for a true answer on what does “test optional” mean for college admissions. Ask students: most students feel they do not have to worry about the PSAT, ACT and SAT testing. The […] - [Leadership Development in High School Students](https://stevebellnow.com/leadership-development-in-high-school-students/): In this post, I am thrilled to merge my two greatest passions: leadership and student success. Can a high school student be a leader? Common perceptions may suggest they’re too young or lack experience. Yet, consider high school sports, where leadership is evident. I’ve observed these young leaders engaging with their teammates and broader school community. Similarly, club leaders often embody the same qualities as a football or soccer team captain. Leadership is indeed present among them. During “mock interviews” with students, their leadership abilities clearly shine through. What Are Leadership Skills in Students? Based on my experience, being a […] - [Guide to PSAT/NMSQT - Benefits Await!](https://stevebellnow.com/guide-to-psat-nmsqt-benefits-await/): What is PSAT/NMSQT? Straight from Wikipedia: The PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is a standardized exam administered by the College Board and cosponsored by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) in the United States. Here’s what you need to know about it: Purpose: The PSAT/NMSQT serves as a practice test for the SAT, which is commonly used for college admissions. It also qualifies students for the National Merit Scholarship Program and other scholarships. Content: The test includes sections on Reading and Writing and Math, similar to the SAT. Digital Format: The PSAT/NMSQT is completely digital, making it easier to take. It provides […] - [To High School Senior Parents - A Few Reminders](https://stevebellnow.com/to-high-school-senior-parents-a-few-reminders/): Exciting times are ahead! Plans for life after high school should be coming together. A series of “lasts” are occurring at every turn, like the last first day of high school, with more to come. Seniors who plan to pursue further education face an extra workload that can overwhelm them. As stress builds, how will you manage or provide assistance? Here are some reminders for you: Being the Parent: Responsibility In the senior year, there often arises a confusing mix of push and pull between the child and parent regarding responsibilities. It’s time to sit down and formulate a plan […] - [School Mode Starts Now](https://stevebellnow.com/school-mode-starts-now/):  Summer has flown by! High school has started for some, with others joining weekly! Kicking your brain back into “school” mode:  As the lazy days of summer come to an end, it’s time to shift gears and prepare for the upcoming school year. Instead of sleeping in and staying up late, it’s time to start waking up early and getting ready for school. There are a few important things to keep in mind, so let’s go over these key points for each grade level in the next couple of weeks. Seniors: How are you doing on your plans for “after […] - [High School is Back - Welcome Freshmen](https://stevebellnow.com/high-school-is-back-in-session/): Some high schools have already started. Each week more and more students will be heading back to high school. For freshmen, this is a big step that comes with nervousness and anxiety. Seniors are making that first day of high school for the last time! Juniors are coming in thinking they are getting closer to the end but have plenty of worry for their toughest academic year. Sophomores are just looking forward to the fact that they are not the new kids on the block anymore. For their parents, there is the excitement of sending them back to school. The […] - [Why Hire Me to Assist?](https://stevebellnow.com/why-hire-me-to-assist/): Why hire a private college consultant and career counselor? Cost of Attending College The cost of attending college is on the rise with an annual tuition growth rate of 8%. In 2023 the average cost of college for one year per student is $36,436. The average cost of a private school is $55,840 and state school is $27,091.  A private college and career coach can determine what types of colleges are best suited for the student ensuring money put towards tuition dollars is a well-researched and planned investment. Start College with a Career Direction 80% of students change their major […] ## Pages - [Appointment cancellation confirmation](https://stevebellnow.com/appointment-cancellation-confirmation/) - [Cancel Payment](https://stevebellnow.com/cancel-payment/): Sorry! Something went wrong. Your payment has been failed. - [Appointment canceled](https://stevebellnow.com/cancel-appointment/): Sorry to hear that you have requested for cancel the appointment. We have sent an email notification for cancel appointment. So please click on the button to cancel the appointment. - [Thank you](https://stevebellnow.com/thank-you/): Booking ID: Your Appointment Booked successfully! We have sent your booking information to your email address. Service: Date & Time: Customer Name: Add to Calendar - [My Bookings](https://stevebellnow.com/my-bookings/) - [Book an Appointment](https://stevebellnow.com/book-appointment/) - [Blog](https://stevebellnow.com/blog/) - [Services Provided](https://stevebellnow.com/service-provided/): College Admissions Coaching Choosing the right college to pursue your education at is no easy feat. It takes years of schoolwork preparation, agonizing over standardized tests, writing essays about yourself, numerous hours in co-curricular activities, multiple campus visits, financial aid decisions, scholarship applications and figuring out which campus fits your personality. This is where my coaching and support become crucial. Together, we’ll devise a strategy to ensure you gain admission to the college you’re eager to attend.  The services I offer to help you find the right college are: Career Coaching What do I want to be when I grow […] - [Appointment cancellation confirmation](https://stevebellnow.com/appointment-cancellation-confirmation/) - [Cancel Payment](https://stevebellnow.com/cancel-payment/): Sorry! Something went wrong. Your payment has been failed. - [Appointment canceled](https://stevebellnow.com/cancel-appointment/): Sorry to hear that you have requested for cancel the appointment. We have sent an email notification for cancel appointment. So please click on the button to cancel the appointment. - [Thank you](https://stevebellnow.com/thank-you/): Booking ID: Your Appointment Booked successfully! We have sent your booking information to your email address. Service: Date & Time: Customer Name: Add to Calendar - [My Bookings](https://stevebellnow.com/my-bookings/) - [Book an Appointment](https://stevebellnow.com/book-appointment-2/) - [Contact](https://stevebellnow.com/contact/): Contact Coach Steve! I’m thrilled at the prospect of meeting you and guiding you through your college admissions, career, or management journey. Feel free to reach out with any questions you may have. Let’s arrange your complimentary 25-minute session today to devise a strategy that will help you achieve your educational, career, and life aspirations.     - [Home](https://stevebellnow.com/) - [About](https://stevebellnow.com/about/): Hello! I’m Steve Bell, and it’s a pleasure to meet you. My work experiences have been instrumental in shaping my current self. My journey began with being the first in my family to attend college, followed by service in the US Army, and then a career at Intel. Upon retiring after over 25 years in corporate America, I have committed myself to public education. Throughout my life, I have harbored two professional passions: management/leadership and college and career consulting. Here’s a summary of my professional experience: ## Optional - [Agent (MCP protocol)](websites-agents.hostinger.com/stevebellnow.com/mcp) [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)