1. Reassess the College List

If your teen was deferred or rejected, one of the most immediate questions to ask is this: Were we realistic in our list of schools?

Many families shoot for the stars when it comes to their child’s college list—and that’s okay! Ambition is a great thing. But the truth is, the admissions process is extremely competitive. Top-tier schools are rejecting more students every year, including those who are incredibly qualified.

If your list leaned heavily on reach schools, now is the time to regroup and ensure there’s a better balance. A strong list includes reach schools, target schools, and safety schools.

Here are a few key questions to consider:

• Did...

What is Early Decision 2, and Why Does It Matter?

Early Decision 2 is a second opportunity for students to commit to a college as their top choice. While ED1 deadlines are typically in November, ED2 deadlines fall in early January. Colleges that offer ED2 use it as a way to fill more of their incoming class with highly committed students.

Here’s why this matters:

• Colleges prioritize their yield rate. The yield rate is the percentage of students who accept offers of admission. ED applicants—whether in round one or two—are 100% committed to attending if admitted. This makes them more appealing to colleges than regular decision (RD) applicants, who may be less likely to enroll.
• ...

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...

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 —...

For over two decades, I’ve been guiding families through the college admissions maze. I’ve seen it all—from the highs of acceptance letters to the heartbreak of dashed hopes. Today, I want to speak directly to you, parents of high school seniors. Right now, your involvement is crucial, and a few key actions can make all the difference in your child's college journey.

If you’re a 12th-grade parent, I know you’ve put in time, effort, and likely a fair share of stress into this process. But don’t let your foot off the gas just yet. There are three things you must focus on right now to ensure your child’s success and finish strong. Whether you're balancing...

As a parent of a high school senior, I know how daunting the college application process can be. With so many deadlines and requirements, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when time is ticking away. But here’s the deal—you don’t have to go through this alone, and more importantly, your child doesn't have to suffer through last-minute chaos. I’m here to help you understand the importance of deadlines, what your student needs to meet them, and how you can be involved every step of the way.

Why College Application Deadlines Matter

Deadlines aren’t just dates; they are opportunities. Each one represents a chance for your child to shine before admissions officers....

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...

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...

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,...

College admissions can be an overwhelming process, especially when it comes to writing the all-important essay. For many parents, guiding their teen through this part of the application can feel like a daunting task. But with the right tools and strategies, you can help your high schooler create an essay that stands out to admissions officers.

Why the College Essay Matters

The college essay is a critical component of the admissions process. While test scores and grades provide colleges with a snapshot of a student’s academic achievements, the essay offers something more personal—a chance to see the human behind the application. It's an opportunity for your teen to showcase their...