Preparing for College

Early decision application responses are being sent out and for some students, their college dreams are falling apart. After committing the time to create the dream college list and working hard to finalize applications – hearing crickets or receiving that decline now can be devastating. A rejection for early decision applications hurts. But, I want to remind you that this news doesn’t have to be the end of your college journey. Take some time to feel how you’re feeling now, but when you’re ready – here’s a great back up plan for your college admissions! Be patient:   This is especially true if your application was deferred. Unless it’s a downright “no,” there is still the possibility that you might be accepted in the second wave of application reviews. In some cases it’s not over until it’s over. So, it might just be a matter of waiting a little longer. You can still make alternative back-up plans. But don’t give up hope completely if you had your heart set on one college. Reassess your initial strategy:  Some students can get very interested in one particular college in the rush to apply. You might not realize that it was out of your reach all along, or maybe you ignored another great college where you could be a standout student. Take a moment to review your options and the other schools you initially considered.  Rethink your application: When you’re ready, take an honest look at your application and think about whether or not it really presented your potential in the best possible light. If not, it’s time to reconsider your application approach. You can also have a trusted and unbiased individual help you look it over like a guidance or career counselor. If there’s something you want to change, now is the time to do so before submitting new applications.  Check out new possibilities:  Go over your initial list of colleges again, and revisit those you might have overlooked the first time. Check out their websites and their regular admission deadlines. Use your focus to apply to them, using whatever you’ve learned from this first round of applications.  Reflect:  This is a time to reflect on what may have made your application stand out more or if you are really ready for this journey. Not every student needs or wants to start college right after high school graduation. It may be worth considering that this isn’t the possibility you actually want right now. If it is, then it’s time to regroup and send in more applications! It can be hard to not take this rejection personally but consider a time for reflection and growth.  If you do apply to any colleges that were not on your original list – be sure to add those colleges to your completed FAFSA. This gives them the opportunity to consider your financial circumstances, in the event you are accepted and do qualify for financial aid. Focus on the positives and remember that you now have the opportunity to compare financial aid packages and admissions offers from multiple schools during the Regular Decision process. That’s such an exciting moment to look forward to this spring! Not getting accepted into your early decision or early action college choice can be a disappointment, but it does not have to ruin your senior year. You’ve got this!  More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

As college application season heats up, many high school students are weighing their options, and one popular choice is applying for Early Decision. If you’re considering this path, it’s important to understand what it entails and how it can impact your college journey. Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know about early decision college applications! What is Early Decision? Early Decision is a special application process that allows you to apply to your top-choice college early—usually by early November. If you’re accepted, you’re committed to attending that school and must withdraw your applications from any other colleges. This commitment can be a great opportunity, but it’s essential to be sure about your choice before you apply. Why Consider Early Decision? There’s a few reasons to consider early decision applications. Many colleges tend to accept a higher percentage of students who apply early decision compared to those who apply during the regular decision round. This can be an advantage if you have a strong application. Applying early decision also demonstrates to colleges that you are serious about attending. This can work in your favor when admissions officers are reviewing applications. Getting accepted early can alleviate some of the anxiety that comes with the college application process. Instead of waiting until spring, you’ll know where you’re headed much sooner. Why You Might Not Want to Apply Early Decision Make sure that the school you choose for early decision is truly your first choice. This commitment is binding. There is no going back if you are accepted. Be sure that you like the school and the campus, and that it’s a good financial fit for your family. One other  downside of applying early decision is that you may miss out on comparing financial aid offers from different schools.  Applying for Early Decision can be a strategic and beneficial move in your college application process. It can provide you with an edge, reduce stress, and help you secure a spot at your dream school. Just remember to weigh your options carefully, do your research, and put your best foot forward in your application. Good luck and happy application season!  More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

Applying to college is a large part of many seniors’ experiences in their last year of high school and it’s a process that requires careful planning and organization. College applications have many steps and lots of components that have to be completed in an accurate and timely manner. They’re the first impression you give to the schools that you’re hoping to attend, so it’s important to be prepared. While the bulk of the application process occurs in your senior year, there’s plenty you can do in your early high school years to help prepare too. Today I’m sharing a timeline for college application success – that includes what you can do throughout your high school career for success!  Freshman and Sophomore Years By now, most students have decided if they’re interested in the college route. If that’s the plan, here’s a few things to do in your first two years of school:  Explore Interests: Participate in extracurricular activities like clubs, after school sports, or the arts programs to discover your passions and develop new skills. It’s important to show that you’re dedicated to your time outside of the classroom, too. These two years are also a good time to build volunteer experiences and showcase your care for others. Finally, form connections with teachers and counselors who can later provide strong letters of recommendation when the time comes.  Focus on Academics: In your first two years of school (and all of them, frankly!), enroll in the honors or Advanced Placement courses to strengthen your academic record. If that’s not feasible for you, that’s okay too! Make sure you’re showing a strong academic start to your high school years regardless of the classes you take.  Junior Year Spring: In the spring of your junior year, start researching colleges and/or universities that interest you. Consider factors such as location, size, majors offered, and campus culture. Talk with your family about planning a visit to campus (read my tips on that here!) so you can experience what it’s like in real life. The spring is also the time to register for your SAT or ACT. It’s also the perfect time to study for them!  Summer: By now, you’ve hopefully completed your campus visits and tours. Take the time in the summer to compile a list of potential colleges based on your research and visits. At this point in the year, you can review common essay prompts and begin brainstorming ideas for your applications. Personal statements can also be hard to write, so I recommend beginning on that process, to!  While it’s important to rest and recharge during the summer, it’s also a good time to participate in activities that interest you, such as internships, jobs, or volunteer work. If you have a job, work to save some of the money for college expenses – they add up quickly!  Senior Year Fall:  Narrow down your list to a mix of safety, match, and reach schools. By now, you’re going to be completing your applications so ask teachers and counselors for letters of recommendation. Provide them with necessary information and deadlines – I always recommend buffering that deadline by a few days so everything is turned in early. In the fall, retake any SAT or ACT tests if necessary.  If you’re applying for Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA), ensure applications are submitted by early November. Don’t forget that the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) should open on October 1. Complete it as soon as you can and check if any colleges require the CSS Profile. Financial aid applications should be done as soon as possible once they open. Oftentimes, financial aid is first come, first serve so you want to submit your paperwork as soon as you can!  Winter:  Complete and submit regular decision applications by early January. Once your applications are in, regularly check application portals for updates or additional requirements. If the schools do need any clarifications, adjustments or updated documents, ensure that you return them in a timely manner.  Spring: In the early spring, students will begin receiving acceptance letters and financial aid award letters. Review each offer carefully, aiming to compare apples to apples – especially where money is concerned. If you haven’t already visited the campuses, make one final trip out for your top choices before committing. By May 1st, you should decide where you’re attending. Notify other colleges of your decision so that students on the waitlist will be offered a spot, if possible.  Once all of that is done, you get to kick back and relax! Congratulations! I know that the process to college can feel tiring and long – but it is so worth it. Good luck!  More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

As high school and college students begin to navigate their financial independence, understanding the concepts of credit and debt becomes crucial. These financial principles play a significant role in shaping personal finances. Students can learn about financial responsibility from managing everyday expenses and planning for major purchases and investments. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help students grasp the fundamentals of credit and debt and make informed financial decisions. What is Credit? Credit refers to the ability to borrow money or access goods and services with the promise of repayment at a later date. When you use credit, you are essentially borrowing money from a lender, such as a bank, credit card issuer, or retailer. Key aspects of credit include: Credit Scores:  A numerical representation of your creditworthiness, based on factors like payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, types of credit accounts, and new credit inquiries. A higher credit score indicates lower credit risk, making it easier to qualify for loans and credit cards with favorable terms. Credit Cards: Cards issued by financial institutions that allow you to make purchases on credit. It’s important to use credit cards responsibly! Remember to pay off the balance in full each month to avoid interest charges and maintain a good credit score. Loans:  Money borrowed from a lender, often for specific purposes like buying a car, financing education, or purchasing a home. Loans come with interest rates, which determine the cost of borrowing. Managing loans responsibly and making timely payments is crucial to maintaining good credit. What is Credit Card Debt?  Debt arises when you borrow money and are obligated to repay it, usually with interest. Debt accrued from using credit cards to make purchases. If not managed properly, high credit card balances can lead to costly interest charges and negatively impact your credit score. Establish Good Credit Habits: Start building credit early by using a credit card responsibly. Paying bills on time and keeping credit card balances low relative to credit limits also helps build your credit score. This is something college students can do by buying their school supplies each semester. Have them pay off their purchases in full and on time. It’s an easy way to begin using their credit card and establish a history with small purchases that are necessary and planned.  Monitor Your Credit Score: Regularly check your credit report for accuracy and monitor changes in your credit score. Many financial institutions and credit bureaus offer free credit monitoring services. Create a Budget: Develop a budget to track income and expenses. Allocate funds for essentials like housing, transportation, and groceries, while setting aside money for savings and debt repayment. Avoid Excessive Debt: Borrow only what you can afford to repay comfortably. Prioritize paying off high-interest debt, such as credit card balances, to reduce overall interest costs. Understanding credit and debt is essential for high school and college students as they transition into adulthood and manage their finances independently. By grasping these concepts early and adopting responsible financial habits, students can build a solid foundation for financial success!  Get tips on difficult money discussions in my book, Secrets of a Financial Aid Pro. It answers questions that help parents talk to students of any age about money and debt. It also takes readers through the entire college money process of applying for financial aid, using student loans, and searching for college scholarships. No matter how old your child is, start involving them in discussions about how your family will pay for their college education. More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

Sending your child off to college is a significant milestone, both for you and your student. As the first tuition payment looms, it’s essential to have open and honest conversations about various aspects of college life. These discussions can help set expectations, clarify responsibilities, and ensure a smooth transition into this new phase of life. Here are some crucial conversations to have with your student before that first tuition payment is due: Financial Planning and Budgeting: Discuss the financial aspects of college, including tuition, fees, room and board, and personal expenses. Help your student understand the cost of attendance and the resources available for covering these expenses, such as scholarships, loans, and savings. Teach them basic budgeting skills and encourage responsible spending habits. Educational Goals and Expectations: Talk to your student about their academic interests, goals, and expectations for college. Discuss the importance of attending classes, seeking academic support when needed, and maintaining a healthy balance between academics and extracurricular activities. Encourage them to explore different majors and career paths while staying open to new opportunities. Time Management and Organization: College life can be busy and demanding, so it’s crucial to discuss the importance of time management and organization. Help your student create a schedule that includes time for studying, attending classes, socializing, and self-care. Emphasize the importance of staying organized with assignments, deadlines, and important dates. Health and Wellness: Prioritize discussions about physical and mental health before your student heads off to college. Talk about the importance of eating well, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and seeking support if they’re struggling with stress, anxiety, or other mental health issues. Familiarize them with the campus health services and resources available for support. Personal Safety and Responsibility: Address safety concerns and emphasize the importance of personal responsibility. Discuss topics such as alcohol and drug use, sexual health, consent, and campus safety protocols. Encourage your student to make smart decisions, look out for their peers, and seek help if they find themselves in risky situations. Communication and Support Systems: Maintain open lines of communication with your student and encourage them to reach out if they need guidance or support. Discuss how often you’ll check in and establish alternative communication methods, such as phone calls, texts, or video chats. Encourage your student to build a support network of friends, mentors, and campus resources. The more support your student feels they have, the better!  Career Planning and Internship Opportunities: Start conversations about post-college plans early on, including career goals and aspirations. Encourage your student to explore internship opportunities, networking events, and career development resources available through the college. Discuss the importance of gaining practical experience and building a professional network while in school. Before the first tuition payment is due, take the time to have meaningful conversations with your student about the various aspects of college life. By providing guidance, support, and encouragement, you can help your student navigate the transition to college with confidence and resilience. Congratulations on this exciting transition!!  More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

Congratulations! Your student made the exciting decision to attend their dream college. As they embark on this thrilling journey, navigating the enrollment process smoothly is crucial to ensure a seamless transition into campus life. Taking care of enrollment allows their first few days at college to feel exciting and not bogged down with stress!  To help your student along the way, here are ten essential tips for enrolling in college at their dream school!  Review Admission Requirements: Take a thorough look at the admission requirements outlined by the college. Ensure that your student has met all criteria and completed any necessary documentation before proceeding with enrollment. Submit Required Documents Promptly: Whether it’s transcripts, test scores, or recommendation letters, make sure to submit all required documents promptly. Missing deadlines could delay the enrollment process. Understand Financial Aid Options: Familiarize yourself and your student with the financial aid options available at the college. Explore scholarships, grants, and student loans, and don’t hesitate to reach out to the financial aid office for guidance. Remember to review any payment requirements with your student so they know what they’re responsible for.  Complete the FAFSA: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible. The information provided in the FAFSA determines eligibility for various types of aid, so don’t delay. Explore Housing Options: Research the housing options available on campus and off-campus. Determine which option best suits your student’s experience, preferences and budget, and submit any required housing applications within the specified deadlines. Not all schools allow freshmen to live off-campus, so check requirements carefully.  Register for Orientation: Most colleges offer orientation programs for new students to acquaint them with campus life, academic programs, and support services. Your student should register for orientation sessions as soon as possible. It can be a great way to meet fellow students, too!  Meet with an Academic Advisor: Your student should schedule a meeting with an academic advisor to discuss their academic goals, course requirements, and potential major. They can help you plan your class schedule for your first semester and provide valuable guidance throughout the college journey. Attend Admitted Student Events: Take advantage of any admitted student events or receptions offered by the college. These events provide an opportunity to connect with current students, faculty, and fellow incoming freshmen, giving you a glimpse into campus life. There are often events for both families and students.  Stay Organized: Encourage your student to keep track of important dates, deadlines, and tasks related to enrollment using a planner or digital calendar. Staying organized will help ensure that they don’t overlook any critical steps in the enrollment process. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unsure about any aspect of the enrollment process. Whether it’s regarding financial aid, housing, or academic requirements, college staff and advisors are there to assist you and your student every step of the way. Enrolling in college is an exciting milestone, and by following these essential tips, your student will be well-prepared to start their academic journey at your dream school. Your student should stay proactive, informed, and engaged throughout the enrollment process, and embrace the opportunities and experiences that await them in college. Congratulations again, and best of luck to your new college student on their college adventure! More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

Graduation marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. It’s an exciting time but also one filled with anticipation and perhaps a healthy dose of uncertainty. For high school seniors transitioning to college freshmen, this period of change can feel both exhilarating and overwhelming. So much is changing – from where you live to actually being in charge of (almost) all of your choices alone. But amidst the whirlwind of emotions, there lies a world of opportunities waiting to be embraced.  Reflections on Graduation High school graduation is a time for celebration, reflection, and looking ahead to the future. It’s a milestone that marks the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and growth. 18 years of your life have gone by – filled with so many incredible memories and lots of hard work. Graduation is also the end mark of all of your college application woes and experiences!  As you bid farewell to familiar surroundings and embark on new adventures, take a moment to reflect on your journey and the lessons you’ve learned along the way. Embrace the memories, cherish the friendships, and acknowledge the challenges that have shaped you into the person you are today. It’s easy to wish for that last summer to fly by so you can move into your new dorm or home, but slow down and savor what’s left of this special time in your life.  Embracing New Beginnings: Seek Guidance:  Transitioning from high school to college can be daunting, especially when it comes to navigating the complexities of financial aid and budgets! Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from school counselors, financial aid advisors, and other trusted sources who can provide insight and support. Learning to navigate how to handle your own money is scary. I’ve shared some important money lessons on the blog before. Review them and remember that how you live now will set up much of how you operate after graduation.  Explore Financial Aid Options:  Take the time to research and explore the various financial aid options available to you, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs when paying for school. Each one has its own pros and cons. One of the most important aspects is being honest about how much money you will owe after graduation and whether or not you’ll be able to pay. Avoid setting yourself up for overwhelming debt following your college graduation.  Create a Budget:  Developing a budget is essential for managing your finances as you embark on this new chapter of your life. Take stock of your expenses, including tuition, fees, books, housing, and personal expenses, and create a realistic budget that aligns with your financial resources. Have your parents help you develop a system that will work. Include any money from jobs and aid that you’re responsible for. Learning to live within your means now is key to financial success as an adult!  Maximize Aid Opportunities:  Be proactive in seeking out opportunities to maximize your financial aid package. This may include applying for additional scholarships, completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) early, and exploring alternative funding sources. Scholarships are a great way to find extra money each year (that you never have to pay back!).  Stay Flexible and Open-Minded:  Embracing change means being willing to adapt to new circumstances and opportunities as they arise. Stay flexible and open-minded as you navigate the transition to college life, and be prepared to embrace new experiences, challenges, and opportunities for growth. This is such an exciting chapter of your life and one that you should enjoy whole-heartedly. Let yourself be led by curiosity and experience all that’s ahead.  By embracing change with an open heart and a willingness to explore new possibilities, you can navigate this transition with confidence and optimism. Plus,  with careful planning, strategic thinking, and a proactive approach to financial aid, you can set yourself up for success as you embark on the next chapter of your academic and personal journey. Here’s to embracing change, embracing opportunities, and embracing the adventure that lies ahead. Congratulations!!  More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.

Spring is here – and March, in particular, has ushered in the famous “March Madness” tournament. But around here, March Madness is about more than just basketball! High school seniors are determining where they’re going to school and how to pay. High school juniors are beginning to get their college application journey started. All of these events (including the basketball tournament!) will definitely result in big celebrations. But until then, it can feel chaotic and overwhelming – especially to those juniors who are figuring out their college application to do list. One of the biggest ways to kick off the to do list is to begin setting up campus visits. Campus visits are critical to determining if a particular school will make it to the final list for applications.   Why Plan Campus Visits?  The purpose of campus visits are to determine if the atmosphere and location are a good fit for you. It’s also a great chance to meet members of the school and subgroups around campus that might be a potential part of your student’s experience there. On the blog, I’ve shared tips about what to ask the financial aid office during campus visits but today, I want to discuss questions that you should ask an admissions office. These questions will help you and your student determine if it makes sense to apply to this school.  What benefits can this college offer me?  Although attending college provides many benefits in terms of expanding your horizons, introducing you to new people, and helping you grow up, the primary purpose is to provide an education that will help you achieve your life goals beyond college. So, get serious and ask detailed questions about how each specific college prepares its graduates for the next life phase. It’s smart to ask how many students graduate – and how many of them are doing so within 4 years.  Get a list of professors and classes in your field of study to see if they interest you, ask about internship and job placement assistance, and find out how many students go on to jobs in their major and how much they earn. This is a two way street – so don’t be surprised if you’re also asked questions. They want to learn about you. You both have to decide if you’re the right fit!  What are your application deadlines?  Make sure you completely understand the differences between admissions and financial aid deadlines. Pay particular attention to those that go with the colleges you are most interested in attending. Find out if they offer early decision, early action, regular admissions or rolling admissions so you don’t get left out by missing a deadline. Early admissions is a great way to lift a big of stress during your senior year!  What are your admission requirements?  Understand exactly what you need to do to apply to this college and your major. Find out which application form they subscribe to, their test requirements and how much they rely on test scores, how many letters of reference are needed, and learn whether you have to submit a portfolio or video as part of your application package. You want to understand what they look for in potential students. It’s also important to  know how they evaluate applicants during the admissions decision process. When you get home, begin planning out all of your upcoming deadlines so you don’t forget a thing!  What other information is available?  Other questions might elicit answers that give you that one little morsel which indicates that perhaps this is the college for you. Find out whether they have a substantial grant and scholarship program, learn about on-campus and off-campus work opportunities, and ask if there are clubs that focus on your major or if you can start one, because you want to find out what is different about this college or why other students choose to attend it. Learn whatever you can about what matters most to you during your college experience.  Remember,  you are trying to determine whether the campus is comfortable for you, and whether you are the type of student who will thrive here. Collecting information now will help you in narrowing your college list. All of this information will also help you make a solid application plan so you don’t miss a single thing.  More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.