Why Hire A College Counselor (Advisor)

by | Mar 15, 2025 | Before, College Admissions, College Planning, College Readiness

Occasionally, we all need an advisor or coach to help us navigate the unknown. For parents of high school students, deciding what to do after high school can be daunting. That is where a college counselor can help. A good counselor is unbiased and nonjudgmental and is working for the sole purpose of helping a student succeed. A counselor (advisor) should be trained and knowledgeable in all aspects of planning and funding college and keen to be able to help students and families find the four rights to life after high school: the right education pathway, for the right reason, and at the right school for an affordable investment. (The four rights i follow in my private practice)

Parents and students should begin working with a counselor around October of the junior year, when their student takes the PSATs, earlier if possible. A counselor should provide insights and direction on how to pay for college, where to consider going, and how to apply. They’re there to answer questions, share insights, identify deadlines, and help manage connecting the dots between admissions, financial aid, scholarships, and student recruitment.

As my youngest son reminds me, hundreds of students and families navigate the process and successfully enroll in college every year. Yes, that is true, but for the select few who find themselves overwhelmed, paralyzed, and fearful of failing, a college counselor (advisor) can be the key to their sanity and students’ success.

Finding the right fit is based on working with a student and their family to align them with colleges and universities where they can continue to grow academically, feel personally safe, have a chance to have a strong, supportive social network, and where the cost of enrolling is affordable. Finding the right fit is a personal, individual process that takes time and discovery and can benefit from having a college counselor or an advisor helping to guide the way.

Here are a few other reasons:

  1. Personalized Guidance
  • Through regular meetings, we help students identify schools that are the best fit academically, socially, and financially.
  • We provide insights on raising the bar to show interest through email campaigns, 1-1 meetings, and keeping the school aware of a student’s strengths, interests, and goals.
  • Help to identify different paths after high school and navigate the conversation at home.
  1. Application Strategy & Organization
  • Advisors help manage deadlines, essays, recommendation letters, and standardized testing schedules.
  • They create a structured timeline to reduce stress and last-minute scrambling.
  1. Essay Coaching & Editing
  • Many advisors assist students in crafting compelling college essays that stand out.
  • They provide feedback to ensure authenticity while meeting the expectations of admissions officers.
  1. Financial Aid & Scholarships
  • A good advisor helps families navigate financial aid forms like the FAFSA and CSS Profile.
  • We provide endless training on how to hunt for scholarships, including starting early and never stopping.
  1. Reducing Stress & Family Conflicts
  • Involving a third party can ease tensions between parents and students and ensure open communication and shared goals.
  • Were neutral, unbiased, and nonjudgmental with the student and their family’s objective always in mind.
  1. We Focus on the Probability of Acceptance
  • At the right college that falls under three categories, unlikely >30%, but let’s apply; targeted <50% and Likely >75%.
  • Advisors provide insights into what colleges are looking for in prospective students.
  • We assist with interview preparation, extracurricular planning, and strong application positioning.
  1. Knowledge of Changing Admissions Trends
  • The college admissions landscape changes frequently (test-optional policies, holistic admissions, financial aid, government intervention, college and university business decisions), etc.
  • As an advisor, I stay current on these trends and help families adjust their strategies accordingly.

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, paralyzed, and fearful of failing your student, give a call or text – 617-240-7350, Every good ending starts with a good conversation!!

2025 SPRING COLLEGE FAIRS & EVENTS

by | Mar 8, 2025 | Before, College Admissions, College Planning, College Readiness

2025 SPRING COLLEGE FAIRS & EVENTS

They want to meet you.  Who? College, university, and trade school Admission Representatives. They will be at your high school and regional and national college fairs. They want to meet you to discuss their academic programs, campus life, clubs, and extracurricular programs. They are coming to pique your curiosity as a prospective student.

This is your chance to connect with colleges, universities, trade schools, and members of the Armed Services recruiting students. An opportunity for you to meet with Representatives on your list or learn about ones to add. Time to explore, ask questions, shake hands, and sign up to receive information. PLUS, share your high school resume!!

If you cannot attend one of these events, don’t worry; in the future, you will be able to participate in a virtual meeting sponsored by the individual colleges, NEACAC (New England Association of College Admission Counselors) and NACAC.(National Association of College Admission Counselors).

Check with your Guidance Department to learn about colleges and universities attending!!. College Fair Checklist

Here are events happening in the evenings, weekends, and special events in Massachusetts this spring

High School Visits and Collee Fairs

  • Lowell Catholic College Fair
    Wednesday, March 5 at 6:00 PM
    Lowell, MA
  • Brookline High School College Fair
    Tuesday, March 11 at 7:00 PM
    Brookline, MA
  • Reading Memorial High School College Fair
    Wednesday, March 12 at 6:30 PM
    Reading, MA
  • Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School College Fair
    Thursday, March 13 at 8:30 AM
    Upton, MA
  • Billerica Memorial High School College Fair
    Thursday, March 13 at 6:00 PM
    Billerica, MA
  • Upper Cape Cod Regional Technical High School College Fair
    Thursday, March 13 at 6:00 PM
  • NACAC Springfield
    Tuesday, March 18 at 9:00 AM
    West Springfield, MA
  • Littleton High School College Fair
    Tuesday, March 18 at 6:00 PM
    Littleton, MA
  • Great Northeast Career & College Fair
    Wednesday, March 19 at 5:30 PM
    Middleboro, MA
  • Catholic Memorial High School Mini College Fair
    Wednesday, March 26 at 8:30 AM
    West Roxbury, MA
  • Boston College High School College Fair
    Wednesday, March 26 at 6:30 PM
    Boston, MA
  • NACAC Boston – Morning Session
    Thursday, March 27 at 9:00 AM
    Boston, MA
  • NACAC Boston – Evening Session
    Thursday, March 27 at 6:00 PM
    Boston, MA
  • NACAC Boston – Morning Only
    Friday, March 28 at 9:00 AM
    Boston, MA
  • Greater Essex County College and Career Fair
    Thursday, April 3 at 6:00 PM
    Newburyport, MA
  • Malden Catholic High School College Fair
    Thursday, April 3 at 6:00 PM
    Malden, MA
  • Bishop Stang High School College Fair
    Tuesday, April 8 at 5:30 PM
    N Dartmouth, MA
  • Phillips Academy-Andover College Fair
    Monday, April 28 at 5:00 PM
    Andover, MA
  • NEACAC Merrimack College Fair
    Sunday, May 4 at 6:00 PM
    North Andover, MA
  • Bishop Feehan High School College Fair
    Wednesday, May 7 at 6:00 PM
    Attleboro, MA
  • NEACAC Assumption College
    Wednesday, May 14, 5:30 PM
    Worcester, MA
  • Woburn High School Junior College Fair
    Thursday, May 22 at 8:00 AM
    Woburn, MA
    NEACAC Bridgewater State University
    Thursday, May 29 at 9:00 AM
    Bridgewater, MA

 

 

 

Pivotal Year Begins Now

by | Sep 23, 2024 | Before, College Admissions, College Planning

FALL PLANNING

We are back into the swing of learning, fall sports, performing arts, extracurricular activities, and even little work. Families of 12th-grade seniors are actively finalizing essays, narrowing college options, and working to be prepared to hit their admission and financial aid deadlines.

As parents of 11th-grade high school students, it is time to launch the all-important planning process. It begins with early fall activities and kicks into high gear in January 2025.

  • PSATs— The PSAT exam, scheduled for mid-October, is a crucial milestone in the college planning journey. It serves as the unofficial starting point for students and families, paving the way for the Spring SATs. The results of the PSAT can be instrumental in identifying areas where a student might require academic support. Moreover, it is a gateway to the most prestigious academic scholarships offered by the National Merit Scholarship Program and its partner institutions. Understanding the significance of the PSATs will empower you as a parent to guide your child effectively.
  • Define My Pathway— As students and parents look to the future, it is critical to start discussing life after high school. The education-to-work pathway is not a one-size-fits-all concept. Whether it’s attending a traditional, four-year public or private college, starting at community college to transfer, volunteering, serving our country, entering an apprenticeship program, or pausing the button to work and plan some more, there’s a perfect fit for your child’s unique talents and aspirations. The variety of pathways should reassure you that there is no wrong choice, only the right one for your child. This diversity of options should inspire a sense of open-mindedness and reassurance in you as a parent.
  • Funding Assessment—How will we pay? What are our resources? Investing in education after high school is a significant financial commitment. Parents should begin assessing their family’s financial capacities to craft a college funding strategy. This process can be time-consuming and knowledge-intensive and may necessitate the help of external resources. College is too substantial an investment to be left until the last minute or, worse when it is time to accept the college offer.
  • Grades, Writing, and Mental Health—While challenging academic performance, a strong GPA, well-written essays, and a robust high school resume are critical. As parents, we want the best for our students, as do colleges, but not at the expense of their well-being. It is essential to utilize the value of time to manage the college planning process at the student’s pace. Let us remember to let students be students.
  • Too Far; Not Too Close— Distance is measured in feet or miles. Planes, trains, and automobiles are the measurements for college. Plus, are we talking about the burbs of a big city or the trees in the country? These open questions can present a stumbling block for many when building their college list. Use the Fall to help students get their GPS bearings.
  • Meet the Representatives—Before we visit a campus or take a tour, students create a list of schools that meet their goals and college preferences—a list of possibilities to research and uncover to find the right fit. We use technology and apps and attend local and regional college fairs. Many students and families can meet admission counselors during these events in the fall. Attend one in your area.
  • January 2025—Mark your calendar. As the holidays end, college planning begins. The journey will be exciting and emotional, with the occasional uncertainty and questions. Remember, it requires time, patience, knowledge, curious minds, and a plan.

To obtain a comprehensive 11th-grade planning checklist email tom@getcollegegoing.com or visit www.getcollegegoing.com.

2024 Fall College and Career Fairs

by | Aug 20, 2024 | Before, College Admissions, College Planning, Uncategorized

Time to Meet Your College Counselors

High school gyms, cafeterias, and local auditoriums open their doors so students and families to meet college representative and learn about life after high school options..

Families of 10th and 11th grade students its time to explore and learn about colleges and universities, locally, statewide and in other parts of the country. You will learn about educational offerings, cost and how to get in. For seniors on the door step of graduation  and the end of high school its a chance to ask unanswered questions, share a resume and shake hands with a member of the Admissions decision making team.

Specialty events are also held for students and families interested in visual and performing arts, and STEM.  Events are always open to students and families living or working in the immediate area of the fair.

Maximize Your Event

  • Bring your list of prospective schools
  • Learn about new “unknown” possibilities
  • Ask questions, and be inquisitive
  • Register for information
  • Shake hands, introduce yourself, and collect business cards
  • Leave Behind Your Resume

Hint: When you return home, send your current and new interests an introductory email with a second copy of your resume (leave off your GPA and test scores).
Let the ‘reverse’ recruiting begins!!!!

Stay alert to announcement from your Guidance Department on when a specific college or university will be visiting your high school. It could be your one to one interview.

2024 Massachusetts Fall Evening and Special Event College and Career Fairs
Check with the host school or organization for a list of colleges and universities scheduled to attend.

To learn more about our services, and approach to assisting family’s with planning and funding your student’s educational pathways after high school, visit www.getcollegegoing.com. Start a Conversation- the office is always open.

 

School Bells Will Be Ringing

by | Aug 15, 2024 | College Admissions, College Planning, Financial Aid

School Bells Will Be Ringing

Yes, I am happy to report that the new school year begins shortly. There will be new surroundings, classes, new and old, and opportunities to explore and grow. But before they go, there’s time to talk…

Don’t forget to read the bottom

Exploration with New Skills

The high school scene will welcome 9th and 10th graders who will quickly realize they’re not in Kansas anymore. The size of the build(s) and student body, new classroom demands, and personal (social) pressures can derail expectations. Students in these grades must learn about study skills, time management, accountability, and how to explore their academic interests and hobbies. Their abilities are there if they’re already involved in athletics, dance, gaming, robotics, and performing arts. It’s time to get them to gel in the classroom.

Pivotal Time

There is no time like the present: 11th Grade is the critical period to spark the life after high school conversation. It’s the time to organize thoughts and ideas and schedule activities, visits, and action items. Yes, final decisions come next year, but the clock ticks quickly from here on in. Academic interest, test or no test, where to go, how to get in, financing confusion, and what if I’m not ready? There are too many critical decisions, and it is time to talk, plan, and prepare for the future – A pivotal time.

Scrambling

If a plan is not in place and ready to be acted on, it’s senior scramble time!! What typically takes the whole junior year must be condensed into 3-6 months. It’s doable but faster with a focus on details and deadlines. Planning and preparation are essential whether you’re heading to college or considering a different path. The scenery might change, but the need for a solid plan doesn’t.

College Class of 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028

Don’t underestimate your responsibilities as a college student. If you are returning with a year to complete or enroll for the 1st time, your job awaits. Upper grades are about internships, networking, research projects, and preparing to enter the workforce or grad school. New surroundings, friends, and the reality that college academics are more challenging than anticipated await 1st year students. Time management, seeking help, getting involved, and leaning on trusted faculty and peers will make college successful. Don’t forget your parent(s) and loved ones are thinking of you; check in occasionally.

5 Keys to Successful Life After High School Planning

  1. Communication – #1 ingredient – the secret sauce for a successful experience. An open and two-way flow of information and conversation.
  2. Expectations – agree or disagree, revealing what they are and how everyone understands their merits keeps things open.
  3. Understanding the Game—Knowledge is power—Asking questions is vital to finding answers, and seeking information makes you a wiser consumer.
  4. Be Realistic—Dream big, but have your feet on the ground. Students should be encouraged to find their education, work, and career path. However, out of fear, societal pressures, and the lack of honest guidance, students limit their options to find their authentic selves. Let’s eliminate the focus on rankings, better is best, myths, and those dam societal pressures. Let’s shift the conversation to Dream Big, Be Realistic, and Be Proud!
  5. Have a Plan – Mapping a student’s path after high school can create uncertainty, confusion, and an overwhelming sense of lack of control. College, work, skilled professional, military service, a gap year can easily lead to I don’t know! Sometimes, the pressure can make one seem like the Mad Hatter: too much to do, not enough time. Managing a student’s individualized plan for life after high school can reduce stress and help everyone stay focused on the goal.

The start of the school year is an exciting experience, whether for students, families, or those watching and supporting from the sidelines. Use resources, the talents of professionals, and your plan.

READ FIRST – IF you answer one question from this article, let it be: How will you pay? How will you finance the cost of college, community college, an apprenticeship, or a call to service? What if there were no college scholarships, student loans, or even a one-way airline ticket to boot camp? Do you have a financing strategy in place? No, maybe we’re talking. It should be #1 in your comprehensive life after high school plan. Why, call me!!!

Protecting You and Your College Student

by | Jun 28, 2024 | College Planning

Updated June 28, 2024

September is right around the corner.

Negotiating the deposit, reserving the dorm room or off-campus housing, attending orientation, and calculating the financing of the remaining balance are all top of mind for new and returning college-bound students. But there is more!

Protecting your college student, new or returning,  and your family is critical. Please take a minute to take the important steps to make their 2023-2024 academic year successful.

What’s the big deal – as students transition from high school to college, many will be turning 18 years of age —a milestone in their lives and a new designation in the eyes of colleges and universities, the legal and medial world. They are now ADULTS.

Our children will always remain young at heart, but when they turn 18 years of age, the rules change. An eighteen-year-old becomes responsible for themselves. Their medical care, status as a citizen to vote, legal and law enforcement, and other consumer actions. As adults on campuses, travel to and from, and begin to live independently it is critical to have the proper documents, and agreements in place to be able to support and protect your college-age student and family.

Before They Settle In

Here is a summary of the important documents and areas to help protect your student and family:

  1. FERPA Agreement – signed by the student and parent(s) annually; the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), is an agreement that permits school administrators to speak with parent(s) about academics, housing, financial, campus life, infractions (public safety), and more. .
  2. HIPAA Authorization Form – allows a physician to speak with a parent regarding the medical needs and condition of an individual eighteen years or older. Having a HIPAA Form (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996) in place can assist a college student when seeking medical attention. Keeping the jointly signed document (parent(s), legal guardian  and student) in a students smart device is recommended.
  3. Health Care Proxy, also known as a Healthcare Power of Attorney –   it allows the designated individuals (parent or guardian) to act on behalf of the student to make health care decisions on their behalf if unable to make or communicate those decisions. Check your specific state guidelines
  4. General Durable Power of Attorney – acting on behalf of a a student, the designate can assist in managing financial needs, pay bills, and assist in matters business related matters.
  5. Living Will – for students who have assets, are part of a family trust or other investments.
  6. Tuition Insurance – protect your investment when your student can not complete a semester due to injury, illness or an unforeseen reason. School do not issue refunds and have stricter guidelines before they due. Plans due not cover early separation due to academics.

PLUS

  • Immunization records must be current, including all vaccinations. For many higher education institutions this now includes COVID-19.  for the Fall. Check with the college to determine if they have a specific form that a student’s primary care doctor must complete before arriving on campus. Medical records take time, don’t wait.
  • When students are attending school outside the families normal health care insurance network it is important to determine upfront if there are other providers covered within their insurance providers network.
  • For students who plan to attend college outside of the US (full-time or study abroad) having a valid US Passport is vital. With the current reported backlog, student’s should plan accordingly to apply for a new or renew a current document.
  • Student bring lots of items, some valuable which can potentially be miss placed, lost or stolen. Smart devices, laptops, and other technology can be a huge temptation parents should check their coverage through their homeowners insurance policy.
  • If a car is going on campus (commuting or dorm student) parents should check their coverage, personal injury and property.
  • Personal safety, self-defense and situation and awareness is huge on a college campus. Learn 10 School Safety Tips every student, high school or college-age should know. Enroll your son or daughter in a personal safety course before stepping on a college campus or when they are back on break..

Individuals who are part of the Sandwich Generation, caregivers for their parents may be very familiar with some of these documents, but many times miss executing them for the college students. Consult with your Family Law, Estate Planner, and insurance agent to add protect.

Sending a young mind off to college can be like opening the barn door and letting the horses run free. Help your college-age student understand the need to be their own advocates and make wise and safe choices. There is no denying it, annually, many college students consume an excessive amount of alcohol resulting in visits to the ER to have their stomachs pumped or worse, The temptation is huge and even for the most mature, pressure can out way wise choices. As a dad four college-age students, I encourage all parents to have a frank and honest conversation about drinking, drugs, and making wise social decision.

Their choices are the key to a successful college career.

For more information on these and other college planning needs, please feel free to contact me, Tom O’Hare at Get College Going