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

 

 

Springtime at College

by | Apr 10, 2024 | College Admissions, College Planning, Financial Aid, Uncategorized

Springtime on a college campus is among the best places for young minds. The energy is fantastic, the spirit high, and there is a general sense of excitement. As they await graduation in early June, seniors are finalizing job offers or applications for grad school. Freshmen, sophomores, and juniors are finishing projects and papers as they study for finals and prepare to return home in mid-May to work, relax, and volunteer.

However, another group remained on campus hanging out until they had to return home, only to explain that they couldn’t return. Would you believe the average number pushes upwards to 20% or higher? Due to poor academic progression, health, and difficulty keeping up with the rising cost of education, students must withdraw from school.

I have advised countless students and families and recognize that college is the means to financial security and upward movement for many. I’m the dad of four, all of whom attended college, graduated, and now contribute to society as working adults. But I am increasingly worried about the 20% who need a different path after high school. If taken, they could match their peers while at the same time not shouldering education debt.

What’s Happening this Month

  • College and Career Fairs are happening in high school cafeterias and gyms, culminating with the big show at the Boston Seaport Convention Center. These events are important opportunities for families of 10th and 11th-grade students to obtain information, meet college counselors and get the journey started. Learn more about local events on my blog page.
  • Colleges and universities are moving to eliminate unpopular and undersubscribed majors to reduce costs and remain strong institutions. Ask your school what’s up.
  • Colleges continue to delay issuing their financial aid offers due to the FAFSA debacle. Critical information affects a family’s ability to say yes to the college of choice.
  • The elite and highly selective school remain resolved to hold firm on the May 1st Acceptance Deposit date while other institutions move their date to accommodate anxious students and parents. Check with your final choice of schools to confirm their date.
  • A new unsettling practice by colleges is to pressure students to submit Housing Deposits before choosing their school. Don’t fall victim. Acceptance Deposit first, then housing.
  • If you are college-bound in September, access a copy of my 2024-2025 Financing Checklist to help with your family’s financial strategy. Don’t wait for the bill to arrive!

Since switching in 2012 from working directly with colleges, universities, and specialized career schools to offering family-focused college advising, I have had the chance to implement a 360-degree Six Stage approach to helping families manage their college enrollment process. What is different from the “other” hope and dream approaches is that I begin with considering what a student’s interest might be after high school and how a family has planned to pay. Every household is different so every college plan should be too. The journey to find the right education pathway at the right school for the right reason and at a cost an family can afford is our goal.

Spring is essential for all high school and college-aged students and families. Planning, preparing, and exploring for the future happens now. If you are a parent concerned, confused, or feeling paralyzed, reach out. We’re here to assist with your student and family needs before, during, and after high school.

To learn more about our services and approach that can assist you and your family plan and fund your student’s educational pathways after high school, visit www.getcollegegoing.com. Start a Conversation- the office is always open.

Housing Before Yes – Wait a Minute

by | Mar 3, 2024 | College Admissions, College Planning, College Readiness

The college admission process is stressful enough … add this year’s financial aid debacle, and you have sources of students and families on edge. But, no, let’s make matters worse.

If it isn’t hard enough for families to navigate the college planning, finding, applying, and funding process, colleges and universities are exerting more pressure on anxious students. It comes from all places: housing and resident life.

As an education advisor already trying to stem the stress and strain of the admission decision-making process and uncertainty on how to pay, I now hear from students and parents that emails are arriving with a message: no housing deposit, no room.

Growing up in the industry, the process, procedure, and protocol that college-bound students and families follow have been to find a school, apply, get accepted, learn about financial aid (or lack thereof), and then, after evaluating your options, say yes, here is my May 1 deposit. Add me to the list of incoming first-year students. Only then was the next step to send a housing deposit to secure a dorm room.

Did I miss a significant shift in the process? A new business decision on campus. If not, Presidents, Deans, VPs, Directors, and Managers on campus, why are you putting the cart before the horse? Why are you adding to the already emotional, stressful period in the lives of many highly vulnerable young teens?

On behalf of my students and families, please share the why?

Posted on Linkedin and FB – 3/3/2024 – no campus comments yet.