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...

Why Visiting Colleges Matters

Campus visits provide an unparalleled opportunity to experience a school firsthand. Brochures and online tours are helpful, but nothing compares to walking the campus, interacting with current students, and getting a feel for the culture and environment.

These visits allow your teen to envision themselves at the school and assess whether it aligns with their academic, social, and personal goals. Visiting also gives you a chance to assess logistics, like travel distance, nearby amenities, and cost of living.

But visiting colleges without a plan can lead to stress, frustration, and wasted time. Let’s talk about how to make this process work for you and your family.

Ste...

As we enter the final stretch of college application season, many high school seniors and their families are focused on getting every detail right. If you're a parent of a senior, you're likely feeling the pressure, too, as each aspect of the application—essays, recommendation letters, college lists—comes together in what feels like the blink of an eye. But here’s an important question: Are you truly confident that your teen’s application reflects their best potential?

I know from years of guiding families just like yours that college application review sessions provide an essential opportunity to make sure every component of the application is complete, accurate, and impactful. A review session is ...

If you’ve ever felt the warm, nostalgic glow of homecoming season, reminiscing about your college days and dreaming of your child walking those same halls, you’re not alone. We know this season well — schools buzzing with alumni and families reconnecting with college memories. But let me get real with you: as much as these alma mater connections feel powerful, they’re undergoing a huge shift in college admissions, and it’s time to address what that means for your child’s future.

 Do you know what legacy admissions used to mean vs what it means now? Legacy admissions — the practice of giving preference to applicants with family ties to a college — have been around for generations, helping to cultivat...

As parents of high school students, I know you're starting to hear the buzz about colleges in the South. More and more families are shifting their focus away from the Northeast's Ivy League tradition and considering Southern schools for their teens. Maybe your child has already expressed interest in attending a big Southern university, and you're wondering, “why is everyone suddenly so excited about these schools?"

Well, it's not just about the weather or college football—though I’ll admit, both are compelling reasons for any teenager! It’s about a shift in what students and families seek in higher education and understanding that will help you guide your child in making the right decision. In this ...

As a parent of a high school senior, the college application process can feel overwhelming. Between standardized tests, extracurricular activities, and essays, it's easy to lose sight of something critical: the importance of first-quarter grades.

Here's the truth: Colleges do care about senior-year performance, especially early in the year. While consistency throughout high school is paramount, a strong first quarter (or trimester) sets the tone for the rest of the year and sends a powerful message to admissions officers.

Why First Quarter Grades Hold Weight

Think of college applications like a story – a narrative showcasing your teen's academic growth and potential. Colleges want an upward trajector...

As parents of high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors, you're in a pivotal stage of your teen's academic journey. While it may seem like a whirlwind of applications, deadlines, and decisions, it's also an exciting time to explore the possibilities of college life. College visits offer a unique opportunity to see campuses firsthand and gather crucial information. However, the real challenge lies in asking the right questions to ensure your teen finds the best academic and social fit.  

Today, I’ll share three essential questions that you, as a parent, should ask on college visits. These questions will help you gain deeper insights into the college experience, ensuring that your teen’s academic, soc...

The journey can feel overwhelming when it comes to preparing your high schooler for the college admissions process. The abundance of information makes it difficult to know which reliable and helpful tools and resources. As a parent, you want to ensure your child uses the right resources to make informed decisions about their college future. 

Below are four essential websites and tools to help simplify the process and provide your family with the information needed to prepare for college admissions successfully. These resources are user-friendly, thorough, and effective. Whether your child is a senior on the brink of submitting applications or a freshman just starting to explore their options, these too...

Welcome to the 2024-2025 college admissions season! As the Chief Education Officer and founder of Strategic Admissions Advice, I’m thrilled to guide you through this pivotal time. August marks a crucial period where parents and students can collaboratively tackle two essential aspects of college preparation: building the college list and crafting stellar essays. These tasks, while daunting, lay the foundation for successful college applications. Let’s dive into the key pillars that will help you and your high schooler navigate this season effectively.

Building the College List: Four Key Pillars

1. Cost

When it comes to selecting colleges, the cost is a paramount consideration. College educati...