Author Archives: Navigatio

Grades matter most! Classes you have taken and grades you have earned in those classes comprise the single most important component of college applications. Admissions counselors will IMMEDIATELY direct their attention to your academic record. While a high GPA is … Continued

We’ve seen students lighten their academic load senior year because they erroneously think it doesn’t matter to colleges—definitely not advisable. Colleges want to see the “most recent you,” academically speaking, so it is important that you continue to demonstrate your … Continued

The post-graduation summer can be emotionally taxing for parents and students alike. Students often have mixed emotions when it comes to anticipating college: tremendous excitement combined with fear. Recent grads are exhilarated with the brand new feeling of independence, yet … Continued

College essays should be started in the BEGINNING of summer, and honed all summer long so they are well developed by the time fall rolls around. (The Common Application and UC Application both open August 1st—you can Google “UC essay … Continued

Is your student wondering: Where to apply? How to approach and craft essays & extracurricular activities that tell their story? If their grades and test scores match their aspirations? What colleges are out there that speak to their interests? Where … Continued

SOU is a mid-sized public liberal arts school located in charming Ashland. The undergrad population stands at about 5470, and students at SOU enjoy the perks of a campus life that reportedly feels like a “private school education.” What we … Continued

Research financial aid once your student enters 9th grade. Preparation is key. By setting aside some time to do your financial aid homework, you can be informed about what aid options exist! (Where your student attends college is a HUGE … Continued

The best essays have been revised multiple times. Write many drafts of your personal statements to ensure they are exactly what you want. Try different ideas. Write in very conversational tone, as if you are sitting across an admissions desk … Continued

2019 Update: Students can plan for August SAT and/or Septemeber ACT. There will be no July ACT in California or New York. Here’s what you need to know about testing: Higher scores can result in BIG scholarships. Students & families … Continued

Outside scholarships are an excellent way to put together a little extra money to buy essential items like computers, books and bicycles! Although most scholarship money comes straight out of the universities, smaller outside scholarships can help pay for those … Continued