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The content published on our website is written within the context of  existing FAFSA rules.  These rules are subject to change for students entering or already in college in 2024.  Please read our newsletter to regular updates on the status of these proposed changes which, though codified into law, are still subject for revision by the Department of Education.”

7 Ways to Choose a College If You’re Undecided About Your Major

High school students who already have a college major in mind can choose a college that has a strong program for their desired field of study. But for the many students who are undecided about their college major, choosing a college can feel more difficult.  However, it’s totally fine to go into college without a declared major. At many colleges, students don’t have to declare a major until the end of their sophomore year. If your student is undecided about…

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The after effects of the pandemic on students and their mental health 

Most families were happy to have their kids back in school full time this year, but many also had anxiety about their kids getting sick. Trying to balance everything mentally has been a struggle for most families. But, most importantly, how about the anxiety of students? Some kids were fully remote last year or hybrid and their lives changed drastically - emotionally and socially. Sure, being nervous the first day of school is normal, but is there anxiety that’s not…

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3 Things To Do If You’re Waitlisted

Your student may have dreamed of attending a certain university for several years, believing it to be a perfect fit, only to receive notification of being waitlisted.  When you have high hopes of a smooth transition and entrance into college, being waitlisted can feel very discouraging. Do not panic.  Although it can be difficult, you do have some control over how you handle this news.   What does it mean? Earning the status of waitlist is not a decline of admission,…

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The Cost of Friendship – the Expenses you Need to Know About Before Going Greek

Can you put a price on friendship? That is the question many families grapple with when considering whether or not their son or daughter should join a fraternity or sorority. Before proudly displaying those Greek letters on everything you wear, these are the costs you should be aware of: After rush is over and you’ve selected a house, payment is due for your fully booked social calendar: the average per semester cost for a traditional Panhellenic sorority or fraternity as…

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How to Access Educational Accommodations in College

Transitioning to college for the first time can be a challenging time for anyone, especially in the first few weeks of classes.  Between the adjusted living arrangements, the classroom environment, and the differences in learning expectations, many students are bound to feel overwhelmed.  Students who received educational accommodations under Section 504 of the Americans with Disabilities Act or through an IEP under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) have a responsibility to request educational support on their own behalf…

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Billie Jo Weis

What most parents don’t know about the 529 Plan!

Anyone can contribute Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and friends often want to help out with college expenses, frequently in the form of savings bonds. Although bonds can be saved and used for school, 529 contributions are often an option as well. Parents own 529 accounts and set their child as the beneficiary, but for most plans, anyone can make a contribution to the account. Reported as a parent asset on the FAFSA The 529 is reported on the FAFSA as a…

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How to Manage College Stress

Our fast-paced, technology-driven world coupled with the recent global pandemic has pushed our student’s mental stress levels to the limits.  Our mental health is just as important as our physical health and learning to manage stress will serve you well throughout life.  The college experience is chock full of stressors and major life decisions.  The lengthy reading, research, studying, exams, and deadlines can all be extremely stress-inducing. Develop strong coping skills Coping skills involve the management and regulation of your…

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Test-Optional Applications: Too Good to be True?

There are many factors to consider when applying test-optional. Over the last several years as a counselor, an increasing number of my students are asking if they should apply test-optional. Do they submit an ACT or SAT score for admissions, or do they follow the college's criteria to apply without an ACT/SAT?  Even before the pandemic took hold in March of 2020, many colleges and universities across the country were turning to test-optional admissions incoming freshmen. I believe this was…

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The Graduate Mindset: 4 Things To Expect While Pursuing Your Master’s

Graduate school isn’t for everyone. For some, going to grad school is a must depending on career paths such as medicine or law. For others, grad school may be a stepping stone to further your degree or the start of a career change.  For those of you considering immersing yourself in the world of graduate school, it’s important to know exactly what to expect and how it may differ from your undergraduate experience. Virtual or not, it’s a good idea…

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Before Using That College Net Price Calculator, Read This

What is the Net Price Calculator About, Anyway?  In their quest to prepare for the costs associated with college, many families look to the Net Price Calculator on college’s websites to help them get an idea of how much they will have to pay for their child’s education. Net Price Calculators are supposed to calculate the amount that a student would pay to attend a college or university in a single academic year, considering any scholarships and grants the student…

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