When it comes to choosing a college, the allure of a prestigious name can be hard to resist. As parents, we want the best for our children, and it’s easy to assume that a well-known university automatically translates to success. But let’s be real—prestige doesn’t pay the bills.

In today’s economy, college costs are soaring, student debt is crippling families, and financial security is more important than ever. That’s why smart parents are choosing price over prestige when building their teen’s college list.

The Harsh Reality of College Costs

I recently worked with a family whose daughter was accepted into an elite private university with an annual price tag of over $70,000. They were thrilled—unti...

The college admissions process can be a rollercoaster, and if your teen has been placed on a waitlist, you’re likely feeling a mix of frustration and uncertainty. But here’s the truth: A waitlist decision is not a rejection. It’s an opportunity.

Colleges use waitlists to manage their enrollment numbers. They admit a certain number of students but know that not all will accept their offer. A waitlist allows them to fill any gaps left by students who decide to go elsewhere. So while it’s not an immediate ‘yes,’ it’s also not a definitive ‘no.’ Your teen still has a chance—but only if they take the right steps.

Step 1: Respond to the Waitlist Offer Immediately

Colleges won’t assume your teen wants to ...

The college admissions process is filled with stress, uncertainty, and endless information. Parents and students alike often feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of tasks they must complete—researching schools, writing essays, securing recommendations, and strategizing for success. It’s easy to get lost in the chaos.

But what if there was a way to simplify it all? What if, instead of more stress, you could focus on just four key elements that actually matter? We’ve created a simple yet powerful framework: L.E.S.S.—List, Essay, Story, and Strategy. By focusing on these essentials, you can help your teen not only survive the process but thrive in it.

1. The Power of a Balanced College List
   The foundation...

Want Your Teen to Stand Out? You Need a Story and a Strategy. 

Welcome to the College Application Action Plan (CAAP)!

Let’s be real—college admissions is wild right now. Acceptance rates are plummeting, competition is fierce, and schools are looking for students who don’t just check boxes but stand out in meaningful ways. The problem? Most students (and parents) don’t know how to tell that story effectively. 

That’s why I created the College Application Action Plan (CAAP)—a program designed to help families cut through the noise, get strategic, and make sure their teen stands out.

For $47/month, families gain access to expert advice, structured guidance, and real-world strategies that turn the chaot...

Course selection isn't just about picking classes that look interesting or fit neatly into your teen’s schedule. It’s a strategic decision that can directly impact their college admissions outcomes. The classes your teen takes in their junior and senior years carry the most weight—colleges want to see students who challenge themselves while maintaining strong grades.

If your teen is heading into their senior year, their course choices are even more critical. Admissions officers start by reviewing senior year courses first, then junior year grades, and work their way backward. That means your teen’s upcoming schedule needs to reflect both academic rigor and balance.

1. Take Appropriately Rigorous Co...

Your teen’s school counselor is one of the most important people in their college admissions journey. But let’s be honest—how well do you actually understand their role? Many parents assume counselors will handle everything from building a college list to reviewing essays to crafting a strategy for admissions success. But the reality? That’s not always the case.

School counselors are hardworking professionals with the best intentions, but they’re often stretched thin. In many schools, each counselor is responsible for hundreds of students, making it nearly impossible to provide the individualized attention your teen needs to stand out in the competitive college admissions process.

Every year, I spe...

For many families, the college admissions process is overwhelming. Between finding the right fit, figuring out financial aid, and ensuring academic and social success, there’s a lot to consider. Unfortunately, many students never get the full picture when it comes to one of the most powerful options available—Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

If you’re a parent of a high school student, Black History Month is the perfect time to explore why HBCUs are more than just a cultural choice—they’re a strategic, valuable, and often overlooked option in higher education. Let’s dive into why your teen should have at least one HBCU on their college list.

1. The Rich History of HBCUs

HBCUs ...

Parents, let’s talk about summer. While it’s a time for your teen to relax and recharge, it’s also an incredible opportunity to build a college application that stands out. But not all summer activities are created equal. Some can significantly enhance their profile, while others might do little to move the needle.

Here’s what you need to know about making the most of the summer months.

Why Summer Matters for College Applications

Colleges are looking for students who use their time intentionally. Summer provides a chance to:

1. Showcase Passions and Interests: Whether it’s through a summer job, internship, or specialized academic program, the activities your teen chooses should align with their in...

The world of college admissions has seen monumental changes over the past few years, and test-optional policies are at the center of this evolution. If you’re the parent of a high school student, chances are you’ve heard about test-optional policies and wondered: What does it really mean? Is it truly optional? And could it hurt my teen if they don’t take the ACT or SAT?

Let’s break it all down so you can feel confident in your decisions about standardized testing—and ultimately set your teen up for success.

First, let’s clarify: Test optional doesn’t mean test blind. Colleges that are test-optional allow students to choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application. How...