Drumroll…class of 2020!

It’s May 1 (National College Decision Day) and although this May 1 looks quite different from past May 1s, I want to sincerely say “Congratulations!” to College Advisory’s Class of 2020. Although you will forever be considered the Class of COVID-19, your spirit, resourcefulness, flexibility, and resilience will support you through these unprecedented times as you make your way into the next chapter of your lives.

Students have decided to attend Boston University, Bowdoin College, Cal Poly SLO Liberal Arts, Cal Poly SLO Science & Math, CSUN Cinema & TV Arts, Colorado College, DePaul University, Harvard University, Montana State U Honors College/Engineering, Northern Arizona U Honors College, Parsons School of Design, San Diego State University, Sarah Lawrence College, UCLA, University of Chicago, Vassar College, Villanova University, and Wesleyan University. In addition to need-based financial aid, students were offered institutional merit scholarships ranging from $6,250 to $32,500 per year.

College Advisory’s seniors who graduated from high school in 2012 through 2020 have been admitted to following colleges and universities. What I hope is apparent is the range of options that College Advisory’s students have and the diversity of interests and strengths they possess.

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Will COVID kill the SAT?

A powerful argument and a student-centered response against standardized testing from NACAC (National Association for College Admissions Counseling) including the concern that “standardized testing at its most useful needs to be standard and not dependent upon a student’s home life, access to technology, and time zone.”

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COVID-19: Graduations, milestones

For many young people, sheltering at home means missing milestones and public recognition of their achievements. Here’s some helpful advice for parents of graduating high school and college seniors.

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Celebrating humanity through music

We’re all in this together! This is worth a watch.

Over 5,000 People singing 🔸 66 countries 🔸 3 part harmony 🔸 One humanity

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COVID-19: Considering a gap year?

With COVID-19 creating uncertainty around a traditional campus experience this fall, some high school seniors are considering postponing college and taking a “gap year” instead. Admissions deans are encouraging students not to rush their college enrollment decisions as the coronavirus timeline continues to emerge, and many colleges are allowing students to deposit now and request a deferral down the line, even during summer, depending on institutional policies. Here’s some helpful advice if you’re undecided and want to explore gap ideas now.

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College decision: head, heart…wallet

Making the college enrollment decision? The author of this article, a veteran school counselor (and dad), makes the case for considering three key factors: head, heart, and wallet. 

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“Elite” summer programs worth it?

As high school students consider their summer options, it’s worth reading this article about expensive pre-college programs at highly selective colleges. These programs are designed to generate revenue for the college, and with very few exceptions, they don’t give students a leg up in the admissions process. There are often more productive — and less expensive — ways to spend your summer.

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Is your major important?

Sage advice from the CEO of a tech firm who majored in French: “College [is] less about learning job skills and landing a career than it [is] about learning how to learn.” Don’t fall into the trap of believing there’s a singular academic path to success. Here’s the college advice he’s giving to his kids — including why he doesn’t care what they major in.

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College Admissions: Fake News

It’s impossible to get into college. This is the impression of many students and families who hear about declining acceptance rates and increased application numbers. They are ready to give up before they even began. Fake news! As research reveals, the majority of colleges and universities in this country accept many more students than they deny,

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Gap year: a smart solution?

“Not on my sofa!” was one parent’s response at the prospect of their child taking a gap year before starting college. Fair enough, yet if well planned, could a gap year be a smart solution? Evidence suggests that students who take a gap year after graduating from high school are more likely to engage meaningfully in college life. A gap year is not for everyone but it can be transformative.

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