questions & answers

College Prep: 9th Grade College Planning Checklist

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on May 31, 2023

Did you know that students shouldn’t wait until their junior or senior years to start prepping for college? That’s right! Younger students should be prepping, too. So, what should 9th graders be doing to prepare for college? When you’re just entering high school, you should focus on your interests, create a plan for your high …

college admissions

What NOT To Do in An Admissions Interview

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

We recently covered how to properly prepare for an admissions interview, but do you know what you shouldn’t be doing? When it comes to these meetings, you absolutely shouldn’t be showing up late, dressing inappropriately, seeming disinterested, or chewing gum. DON’T Go In Unprepared One of the worst things you can do when it comes …

tips tools & advice

How to Use Social Media Wisely for Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022

Did you know that colleges often check your social media if you applied to their school? The things you post there could greatly impact your admissions chances, so it’s important to take steps to make your social media work for you rather than against you. Here’s a checklist of how to use social media wisely …

careers & internships

4 Great Reasons to be a Teacher

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

High demand, summers off, shaping the future generation – these are all great reasons to be a teacher. With many states facing a teacher shortage, it’s important to consider why should you become a teacher – and what will the career path look like after you graduate. Our kids need you! 4 Reasons to be …

college applications

How Long Does a College Application Take to Fill Out?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

When it’s time to apply to college, how long should you take to complete your application? There is no one timetable for all applications out there, but here’s a rundown of what you need to know, what an application generally requires, and other steps you’ll need to take to complete the college application processes. How …

college applications

How to Pass Scholarship Interviews

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Although not all scholarships require that you attend an interview, many do, and interviewing can be intimidating. But with practice and preparation, it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips we put together for you on how to pass scholarship interviews.   Practice, Practice, Practice One of the best ways to get comfortable for an …

financial aid

Good Excuses for Financial Aid Appeal

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 24, 2023

Did you receive a financial aid offer that was less than you expected? Or have financial circumstances changed where the financial aid you received doesn’t reach what you need to attend college? You need good excuses for financial aid appeal, but it is possible. Meaning, you need to have an acceptable reason in order to …

questions & answers

Comparing Award Letters: Financial Aid Offer Comparison Tool FAQ

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 6, 2023

Comparing award letters can be confusing. And comparing school A to school B even more so. Our Financial Aid Offer Comparison tool cuts through complex and confusing language and makes comparing financial aid offers so much easier. Most importantly, it gives you a clearcut comparison based on net price and expected debt at graduation. Here …

student life

5 Top Spring Break Locations

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022

Where will you be traveling for your spring break? If you haven’t decided just yet, you might just want to consider some of these top spring break locations, which are regularly ranked in the top 5 best places to visit! Orlando, Florida Between the theme parks and short drives to the beaches, there’s no wonder …