How to Choose the Right College Admissions Help for Your Family

This article is provided by the Higher Education Consultants Association and highlights information regarding the role of an independent college guidance counselor. If you feel your child could benefit from such assistance, contact an ICAN consultant to set up a free consultation.  
http://www.hecaonline.org/choosing_consultant#.T7QLr33xxnA.facebook

80% Of College Admissions Officers Use Facebook To Check Out Students

Is your Facebook profile appropriate for all?  Is your email address offensive or cause for question?  During a session at the Association for College Admission Counseling Super Conference, admissions counselors from Colorado College, USC, Whitmore, and Colorado State presented a Common Application submitted by a student with the email address of “lazyboy23@yahoo.com.”  All but the representative from Colorado State said that this email address would cause them to “pass” on granting this applicant admission to their schools.  This student otherwise had good test scores, a 3.7 GPA, was an Eagle Scout, and was a recruited athlete.  You may think your email address and/or Facebook profile is funny or cool, but remember that adults are the ones that are reading your applications and they won’t have the same perspective.  You don’t get a second chance at making a first impression! 
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/02/28/facebook-college-admissions_n_828487.html

5 Ways to Narrow Down Your List of Colleges

Some of you may have no trouble creating a long list of colleges where you think you want to apply.  Your challenge may be getting that list down to a manageable number.  Don’t forget those application fees!  Even if your list isn’t very long, you will find these tips helpful in fine-tuning the one you have started.  For further assistance, contact an ICAN consultant.
http://www.morethanatestscore.com/2012/04/03/5-ways-to-narrow-down-your-list-of-colleges/

Getting In Doesn’t Matter if They Can’t Stay In

There are so many things to consider when choosing a college—majors offered, quality of professors, extracurricular activities, resources available, surrounding community, etc.  The biggest challenge may not be getting in, but staying in and graduating.  Here are some things to consider before committing to that top choice school that may be a stretch in more ways than one.  
http://collegeprepresults.com/staying-in/

Colleges Where Applying Early Action Helps

Do you have a top choice school where you have a strong chance of gaining acceptance?  You might want to consider applying Early Action.  Many colleges have higher acceptance rates for students who apply early.  Early Action differs from Early Decision in that students who apply Early Action are free to apply to multiple colleges without having to make a commitment to enroll if accepted.  Early Action applications can be due as early as November 1st at some schools.  Contact a consultant at ICAN if you would like assistance in preparing to apply Early Action or guidance with any of your college research or application needs.    
http://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/applying/applying-101/articles/2009/09/30/colleges-where-applying-early-action-helps

The Top 10 Things Colleges Look for in High School Students

The time to start filling out those college applications is right around the corner.  A little effort now will be immensely helpful and eliminate a lot of stress when you are actually sitting down to prepare them.  The following report by the Independent Education Consultants Association (IECA) entitled "The Top 10 Things Colleges Look for in High School Students" gives you a good idea of what information is important to include.  Make sure you are journaling about your activities and summer experiences, paying particular attention to areas where you have shown leadership.  Find ways to show productive demonstrated interest in the colleges on your application list.
http://www.iecaonline.com/PDF/IECA_CollegeTopTenList.pdf

7 College Summer Programs High School Students Should Consider

Be productive with your time this summer.  Check out 7 College Summer Programs High School Students Should Consider for some ideas you may not have considered.
http://www.morethanatestscore.com/2012/03/22/7-college-summer-programs-high-school-students-should-consider

College Admissions: Volunteer Service That Gets You Into College

Have you started an Activities Resume?  Started a list of essay topics?  What is going to set you apart from the crowd?  Here is an article to get you thinking about effective ways to spend your time that will actually help you distinguish yourself in the application process. 
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/05/college-admissions-volunt_n_1129917.html

20 Very Scary Online Application Mistakes to Avoid at all Costs

Sadly, summer break is coming to a close.  For seniors, this will be your busiest fall semester ever.  Ideally, you have a few essays ready to submit with your college applications.  Check lists are great tools to help you stay organized and on top of things.  This article includes a list of common mistakes made on online applications.  You might find a printout useful as you navigate your way through your applications.  Take note of #20 – Refusing to Ask for Help.
http://www.examiner.com/article/20-very-scary-online-application-mistakes-to-avoid-at-all-costs

2012-2013 Common Application Essay Prompts

Are you aware that many college applications include some type of essay?  There are now 456 colleges in 46 states and the District of Columbia, as well as in France, Germany, Italy, Scotland, and Switzerland that use the Common Application.  Take a few minutes to look over the Highlighted Preview of the 2013-14 Common Application, which will launch on August 1.  Make special note of page five, which includes the essay prompts.  Students should be considering what they might want to write about, jotting down ideas as they come to them, and even starting writing in times of inspiration.
https://www.commonapp.org/CommonApp/Docs/DownloadForms/2012/2012-13FY-FinalHighlightedPreview.pdf

Top Ten Tips for Writing a College Essay

For those of you soon-to-be high school seniors, the summer is a great time to get a jump on writing your college essays. Whether it is a personal statement needed on the University of California application, or the Common Application and supplemental essays required by many  private (and public) schools, you should take some time over the summer to brainstorm and start writing. Here are some tips to help you get started - and if you need further assistance, contact an ICAN consultant.
http://www.nacacnet.org/studentinfo/articles/Pages/Top-Ten-Tips-for-Writing-a-College-Essay-.aspx 

Major Matters For U.S. College Graduates Seeking Jobs

Not sure what you want to study in college?  Before you make a substantial financial investment into an education that may not produce many job options, you may want to be more proactive about learning more about your career interests and pursuing majors with more employment opportunities.
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-05-15/major-matters-for-u-s-college-graduates-seeking-jobs.html

PayScale College Salary Report

You have probably heard the argument that graduates of more prestigious colleges make more money and you have likely also heard the counter argument that while that may be true for initial starting salaries, it all evens out mid-career.  As you explore colleges, majors, and careers, you may find the information provided at payscale.com both interesting and useful.  Research such topics as Salary Potential by School Type, Degrees that Pay You Back, Popular Schools by Job, and more.  Is that big price tag worth more than just social prestige? 
http://www.payscale.com/best-colleges/top-colleges.asp

Newsweek and The Daily Beast 2012 College Rankings

College rankings are always interesting.  This link offers such topics as Most Rowdy, Most Rigorous, Happiest, and Most Affordable, among others.  They used many resources including the National Center for Education Statistics, the Institute for College Access & Success, PayScale, and College Prowler.  See where your colleges of interest pop up.
http://www.thedailybeast.com/newsweek/features/2012/college-rankings.html

Save on College Tuition with CLEP

With the costs of college tuition rising faster than inflation and over half of all college students taking an average of six years to graduate, everyone is looking for ways to save time and money on obtaining that college degree.  The College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) exams offered through the College Board may help students and families achieve just that.  CLEP is a credit by examination program offering 33 exams in five subject areas that is accepted by 2,900 colleges and universities.  Prepared and motivated students can earn up to 12 credits and jump right into advanced college courses, validating their experience and knowledge.
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/get-in/testing/learn-about-the-clep-program

Tools & Calculators

One of the first conversations that needs to take place as you start your college research is regarding what is affordable and practical for your family.  I like the analogy of don’t get your heart set on a Ferrari if you can only afford a Volkswagen.  Although discussing finances can be uncomfortable, you can avoid hurt feelings and a lot of stress if you address this topic honestly and early in the process.  This link provides several tools to help with everything from estimating costs, researching scholarships, comparing financial aid packages, and more.  These tools are available through the College Board, the same organization that administers the SAT.  If you haven’t already created an account, you are missing out on a lot of great resources.  If you would like further assistance in your college research and application process, contact an ICAN consultant.  
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-for-college/tools-calculators

The Net Price Calculator: Financial Aid ‘Game Changer’?

This is an interesting blog from the NY Times defining and explaining the newly mandated Net Price Calculator.   Just as there is a wide variation among colleges and their financial aid awards, there is a wide variation in design of this tool among  colleges.  It is wise to visit the websites of each school your student is interested in and figure out your bottom line costs at each institution.  This is it is a great tool to facilitate a serious conversation about college costs prior to receiving those “Congratulations–You’re In!” notifications.
http://thechoice.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/09/09/net-price-calc/

What Student Debt Looks and Feels Like From a Graduate's Perspective

Have you had a candid discussion regarding financing that college education?  This blog provides a glimpse into the reality of student debt.  As uncomfortable as the idea of having this discussion may be, it is important.  This needs to be one of the first conversations you have with your student.  Have it before you invest too much time and energy (and hope and excitement) into pursuing an option that is not realistic for your family.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/matthew-ross-smith/student-debt-loan-interest-rates_b_1474141.html?ref=student-loans

Top Ten Ways to "Test Drive" a College_

You wouldn’t buy a car without test driving it.  Likewise, it is a good idea to check out a college before you commit to spending four plus years there.  Check out the link to the Top Ten Ways to “Test Drive” a College for advice on how to get the most out of your campus visits.  For assistance with creating a list of schools that fit your college objectives, contact an ICAN consultant. 
http://www.iecaonline.com/PDF/IECA_TestDriveColleges.pdf

Ten Tips for a Tension-Free College Visit

We just spent this past week touring 15 SoCal colleges and were amazed by what we learned.  We hope that you are out visiting the campuses of the colleges to which you plan to apply.  While it is ideal to visit campuses when classes are in session, you can still get a feel for the atmosphere visiting during the summer.  Parents should plan on taking separate tours from their teen.  Think of it as getting a two-fer.  You both can have a different experience and compare notes after.  If you are still unsure about what type of college you want to attend and it isn’t practical to travel to the various campuses you think you might be interested in, take advantage of the colleges that are nearby.  We have a great variety of colleges right here in San Diego.  Check out the link to “10 Tips for a Tension-Free College Visit” for more great advice on how to have productive stress-free college visits.     
http://www.morethanatestscore.com/2012/04/11/10-tips-for-a-tension-free-college-visit/

The Ultimate College Packing List

You’ve made it through the application process, you’ve decided where you will attend, and you will be moving into your dorm room before you know it. Check out The Ultimate College Packing List for great suggestions to make your transition as smooth as possible. Don’t forget to consider what you might be able to purchase at or near your new campus. You can only pack so much! 
http://www.morethanatestscore.com/2012/06/06/the-ultimate-college-packing-list/?utm=hmpg

Colleges Adjust Admissions Policies for 2012-2013

You may think you have all your ducks in a row and are ready to get going on your college applications, but some colleges have made changes to their admissions policies for THIS year.  Check out the attached article to see if there are any changes that pertain to colleges on your application list.
http://www.examiner.com/article/colleges-adjust-admissions-policies-for-2012-13?cid=PROD-redesign-right-next

You Survived High School…is a University, Community College, or Gap Year Next?

It is application time and lots of decisions are being made.  Are you considering alternatives to the traditional path following high school?  Here are a few options to consider as you contemplate how you will begin this next exciting stage of life. 
http://www.morethanatestscore.com/2012/05/23/you-survived-high-school-is-a-university-community-college-or-gap-year-next/

The Most Challenging College Essay Prompts of 2013

Are you feeling a little intimidated with the college application essay prompts?  Not sure if you even understand the question?  The most important aspect to remember is that the reader is trying to get an idea of who you are and how you would contribute to their college community.  This is a good article that gives insight into how to decipher the sometimes cryptic essay prompts.  
http://info.getintocollege.com/blog/bid/230023/The-Most-Challenging-College-Essay-Prompts-of-2013

Is Applying to College DURING a Gap Year a Disadvantage?

A gap year (a year off after completion of high school, prior to enrolling in college) can be of great benefit to a student who is either not academically or emotionally prepared to head straight to college after high school graduation. It also might be of interest to a student who plans to pursue a demanding major that might not afford them the opportunity to study abroad during their undergraduate experience. A gap year can provide the opportunity for personal, emotional and physical growth and does not necessarily put the student at a disadvantage when applying to college. The following article shares how the perception of gap years is changing.
http://www.collegeconfidential.com/dean/archives/is-applying-to-college-during-a-gap-year-a-disadvantage.htm

Seven Really Smart Things to Do When Filling Out College Applications

You have filled in your biographical information, your educational information, and your academic information. You have uploaded your essays and filled out all of your activities and honors.  Ready to hit the submit button? Wait just one minute.  Don’t forget to proofread. Proofread again. Then, have someone else proofread for you.  Once you hit that submit button it is as if you dropped a hard copy in the mail.  You will not be able to make any changes to your Common Application to that particular school.  If you plan to apply to other colleges that accept the Common Application, you will be able to submit different information for each school so long as you submit each application separately, i.e. a different essay, short answer responses, or updated test scores.  Make sure you have taken plenty of time to thoroughly review your entire application before sending it off.  The attached article provides additional items to consider when filling out your college applications.  
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/marjorie-hansen-shaevitz/college-applications_b_2115374.html

Did Your College Receive Your Test Scores?  Check the Portal

The Internet certainly has made many things in life much more convenient.  However, it isn’t 100% reliable and does require some follow-up.  With so many colleges accepting and processing applications online, it is more important than ever to check to make sure each college you have applied to has received everything necessary to process your applications.  Don’t rely on them to send you a notice that they haven’t received something.  Be proactive and check the portals or make a phone call to the admissions office to confirm that they have everything they need.  Checklists are also helpful to monitor what still needs to be done.  This article points out some potential problems and how to avoid or resolve them.  
http://greatcollegeadvice.com/did-your-college-receive-your-test-scores-check-the-portal/

Ask Students About Admissions and Campus Life

The college application process can seem overwhelming.  You probably feel stressed out about where to apply, whether or not you will get in, and how to make the right choice.  What better source for advice but from those that just went through the process?  This article offers insight from two college freshmen about how they made their choice, their transition to college, what college life is like, and what advice they would give to juniors and seniors who are applying to college. 
http://thechoice.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/11/29/guidance-office-ask-college-students/

December College Checklist for Juniors

Okay Juniors, this is a great time for you to start preparing for your college application process.  As pointed out in the attached article, starting to dedicate a little time each week now will leave you well situated for your senior year.  Discuss your college objectives with your parents to make sure everyone is on the same page.  You have some great resources available right here in San Diego to help you get a better idea of what type of college would be a good fit for you.  Even if you are planning on “going away” to college, you can research several types of campuses without the expense of travel by visiting the variety of schools located here in San Diego.  To name a few, there is San Diego State, a large public university; USD, a private Catholic university; Point Loma Nazarene University, with a small suburban campus; and UCSD a large research institution.  Take advantage of such opportunities to get an idea of what you are looking for in your college experience.  And don’t forget you can still have that “away” experience without going across country.  
http://thechoice.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/12/04/counselors-calendar-december-juniors/

College Decision Beckoning to be Unveiled?  Please, Let It Wait Until You Get Home.

Many of you have applied Early Decision or Early Action and are awaiting your responses.  As pointed out in this article, many schools are sending their admissions decisions electronically.  Although it may be tempting to open that email immediately, you might want to wait until you can do so privately to avoid an awkward moment.  Committing to attend a college is a big decision and something you want to be sure about.  Have your feelings about attending that school you felt was your top choice changed?  It is a good idea to think about why you felt that was your top choice school in the first place.  Did you create a “pros and cons” list?  You will want to review your offer(s) carefully to make sure you are making a decision that will be an all around good fit for you. 
http://thechoice.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/12/12/college-decision-beckoning-to-be-unveiled-please-let-it-wait-until-you-get-home/

Making Sense of ED/EA Outcomes

So, you’ve received your responses to your Early Decision or Early Action applications.  As the following article points out it is important to read through the entire letters carefully and understand your next steps.  If you have been accepted, it is important that you continue at “the same level of performance that won you admission” through the completion of your senior year.  If you have been deferred, there is still hope.  It means they want to see updated grades or accomplishments and may consider you for “regular” admission.  If you have been denied, it is time to move on to your other options.  
http://www.theadmissiongame.com/blog/archives/769

10 Best Paying Jobs for Community College Grads - Forbes

Attending a traditional four-year college isn’t the right choice for everyone.  There are other options that can lead to fulfilling and lucrative careers.  With rising tuition and cost of living expenses, you may be looking at ways to expedite your college education and minimize costs.  The community college path may be one you should seriously consider.  The attached article spotlights ten of the best paying jobs for community college grads.  Many community colleges also have on-campus housing, so you won’t necessarily have to give up that part of the college experience should you choose to pursue this option.  For assistance in researching such alternatives, visit our website at www.ICANConsultingGroup.com or contact an ICAN consultant.  
http://www.forbes.com/sites/jennagoudreau/2012/12/18/the-10-best-paying-jobs-for-community-college-grads/?goback=%2Egde_3872181_member_199214524

College Financial Aid and Registering for Selective Service

While the US no longer has mandatory military service, young men ages 18-25 are required to register for Selective Service, commonly referred to as the “draft."    Registering with Selective Service does NOT mean that you will automatically be inducted into the military.  In a crisis requiring a draft, men would be called in a sequence determined by random lottery number and year of birth.

What does this have to do with college financial aid? Males applying for either federal or state financial aid through the FAFSA or Cal Grant will need to show that they have registered with Selective Service.  Question #22 on the FAFSA even has a circle to fill in and they will register for you.  For more information on Selective Service or to register, go to http://www.sss.gov.  Visit http://www.fafsa.ed.gov for information on and to complete the FAFSA.  

5 Tips for Being the Best College Applicant

Regardless of how “premier” the colleges on your list may or may not be, presenting yourself in the best possible light through your applications is vital.  The attached article includes five tips for doing just that.  Remember colleges are “building communities.”  Take the time to become familiar with your schools of interest.  How do your grades and test scores compare with their averages?  Do you participate in any extracurricular activities that will make you stand out?  Take a look at application supplements, they will give you a better idea of what is important to each college.  
http://www.collegebound.net/blog/5-tips-for-being-the-best-college-applicant/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+collegeboundblog+%28U.+Got+It%3F%29

Now It’s Up to You:  Choosing Your College

The last of the admissions letters are in.  The ball is now in your court.  It is decision time.  Did the stress factor just get turned up in your world?  This is a great article to bring things back into perspective.  One of the tools that we use at ICAN is the College Visit Pros and Cons worksheet.  You can find this in ICAN Documents under the Resources tab.
http://collegeadmissionbook.com/blog/now-its-you-choosing-your-college