Let’s talk about one of the most overlooked — but most important — parts of the college process: location.

Not just “how far from home?”
Not just “what state is it in?”
But really… who will your kid become because of where they go?

Every month at Strategic Admissions Advice, we focus on one critical element of the college admissions journey. This month is all about college list building — and location is one of the big four factors (along with cost, major, and career goals).

But this week? We’re zooming in on why location deserves more than a passing glance.

🧠 Environment = Mental Health = Motivation

Let’s be honest: college is a transition. It’s exciting, sure — but it’s also tough. So where you...

The school year is winding down—AP exams, finals, and the countdown to summer break. But if you're the parent of a high school student, this time of year is more than just wrapping things up—it's an opportunity to get ahead in the college admissions process.

We’ve worked with thousands of families, and we can tell you this: May and June are some of the most important months to plan ahead.

Here are three key things to focus on before your teen logs off for summer.

📆 1. Have a Clear Testing Plan

Standardized testing is changing, but it’s still relevant. Whether your teen is gearing up for the SAT, ACT, PSAT—or hasn’t decided yet—this is the time to map it out.

Ask yourself:

• 🧠 What tests should my
...

I’m not here to bash school counselors. They’re doing important work under tough conditions. But as a parent, you deserve to know what your teen should be receiving from their school counselor this spring.

And if you're not getting it, it’s okay to ask for more.

Here’s what I want you to look for—especially if you have an 11th grader.

1. You Should Have a Timeline Right Now

It’s April. That means decisions need to be made, and actions need to be taken.

You should have a clear timeline from your school:

• When is your child taking the SAT or ACT?
  
• When are teacher recommendations due?
  
• When should you start the personal statement?
  
• What are your summer visit plans?
  

Ask yourself:
Have you se...

The cost of college is skyrocketing. The admissions process is a maze. And parents like you are being left to figure it all out on your own.

It’s frustrating, stressful, and unfair. But here’s the truth: You don’t have to do this alone.

What’s Happening to College Admissions?

If you’ve been paying attention, you know that major changes are happening in higher education. Federal policies are shifting, financial aid programs are in jeopardy, and colleges are making admissions decisions in ways that feel unpredictable.

Here are some key challenges families are facing right now:

• Soaring Tuition Costs: Many private colleges now cost over $75,000 per year. Even public universities are becoming more e...

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 ...

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...