Student Advice Blog

A Collection of Our Most Popular College Planning Advice Articles

Supporting Your Student in Finding Their Fit

As your student navigates through the college process, it is important for them to keep match and fit in mind. For the sake of clarity, when we talk about match, we are referring to academic factors. And when we discuss fit, that’s based off non-academic factors. Both build an ecosystem of support and success for a student ... Supporting Your Student in Finding Their Fit

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When You’re Unable to Pay Tuition

First thing we want to say to anyone suddenly unable to pay their tuition: you are resilient. It takes strength to pursue your education when financial insecurity is a part of that experience. This is a stressful circumstance, and we want to help. With these steps, we hope to equip you with the knowledge you ... When You’re Unable to Pay Tuition

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Tuition Bill Breakdown

Looking at your tuition bill, you may be shocked at the total expense. Here we will puzzle together your tuition bill, and answer some common questions associated with making these payments.   What’s included on my tuition bill? Tuition Part of your tuition bill includes the tuition itself. “Tuition” refers to the money you pay to ... Tuition Bill Breakdown

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Taking a Gap Year During the Pandemic

There are many reasons students are postponing their college plans and taking a gap year during the pandemic. For some, college is simply too costly to take on at this point in time. Others hope to wait until they can attend college courses in person rather than continue with virtual learning. If you are taking ... Taking a Gap Year During the Pandemic

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What to Do Your First Week of College

Surviving the hectic rush of move-in day, you’ve recycled the cardboard boxes, hung your clothes in the closet, and waved goodbye as your folks drove away. Now what? Check out our to-do list for your first week of college. 1. Get settled in your dorm You probably feel a combination of excitement and nervousness living ... What to Do Your First Week of College

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What Is Privilege?

When logging on to social media or watching the news, you may often hear the word “privilege” being used. For many, this can be a confusing concept to grasp. Learning about privilege will allow us to become more open-minded, and move towards a world that is more inclusive and empathetic to the challenges of others. ... What Is Privilege?

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Tips for Common App Essay Prompt #6

As you begin your college application process, you may decide to apply through the Common Application. The Common Application (also known as the “Common App”) is an advanced college application platform that allows you to apply to multiple colleges at once. The Common App has seven essay prompts for you to choose from. Here are ... Tips for Common App Essay Prompt #6

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Tips for Common App Essay Prompt #3

As you begin your college application process, you may decide to apply through the Common Application. The Common Application (also known as the “Common App”) is an advanced college application platform that allows you to apply to multiple colleges at once. The Common App has seven essay prompts for you to choose from. Here are ... Tips for Common App Essay Prompt #3

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Tips for Common App Essay Prompt #2

As you begin your college application process, you may decide to apply through the Common Application. The Common Application (also known as the “Common App”) is an advanced college application platform that allows you to apply to multiple colleges at once. The Common App has seven essay prompts for you to choose from. Here are ... Tips for Common App Essay Prompt #2

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Tips for Common App Essay Prompt #1

As you begin your college application process, you may decide to apply through the Common Application. The Common Application (also known as the “Common App”) is an advanced college application platform that allows you to apply to multiple colleges at once. The Common App has seven essay prompts for you to choose from. Here are ... Tips for Common App Essay Prompt #1

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The Importance of Asking for Help

Growing up in a culture that praises independence, asking for help may feel like the ultimate defeat. You should be able to handle everything by yourself, right? WRONG! We’re here to remind you that asking for help is not a bad thing. Here are some reasons to ask for help and how to do so. ... The Importance of Asking for Help

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Susana @ Siena College

Meet Susana, an English major at Siena College in Loudonville, NY. She previously attended Port Chester High School.

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Schools for Student Parents

The thought of simultaneously raising children and earning a college degree may seem like an impossible undertaking. With the pandemic shifting the way colleges and universities are approaching the balance between work, life, and education, there are tons of schools with programs dedicated to student parent success. If attending college is a dream of yours, ... Schools for Student Parents

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High School Bucket List

High school can be one of the most exciting times in your life. You’re making friends, experiencing new freedom, and getting ready for college or a career. High school is about preparing for your future, but it’s also about making incredible memories!  To make the most of your high school experience, start making a high ... High School Bucket List

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Fiercest College Sports Rivalries

All across the country, from sports to academics, there are striking rivalries between universities. With competition that is typically built upon geography and history, check out a few of the most passionate rivalries in college sports: 1. University of Alabama vs. Auburn University University of Alabama and Auburn University are two of the largest public universities in Alabama. ... Fiercest College Sports Rivalries

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Conservatory vs. College

If you are interested in the arts, you may have to decide between college and conservatory. Here we will cover the ways conservatory differs from college arts programs. We will also talk about how you can make the choice for yourself.  How Does Conservatory Differ from College? First things first, what is conservatory? It’s a ... Conservatory vs. College

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College Orientation: What to Expect

College orientation: a summer event that soon-to-be college freshmen simultaneously dread and look forward to. Your college orientation will give you a feel of college life and allow you to meet other new students who are just as nervous as you are. Of course, orientation is different at every college and university, but here’s a ... College Orientation: What to Expect

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College Expectations vs. Reality

As you prep for college, you are probably forming ideas about your college experience. Whether you are gathering your information from movies, TV shows, or wild stories from your older cousins, we are here to dispel a few myths so that you can confidently enter your freshman year knowing what to expect. Roommates Expectation Many ... College Expectations vs. Reality

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Benefits of Articulation Agreements

Articulation agreements, also known as transfer agreements, are formal partnerships between two or more colleges. They document a clear path from one program to another. In other words, these partnerships make it easier for you to transfer schools and know your credits will be accepted. Read on to explore the ways articulation agreements may help ... Benefits of Articulation Agreements

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Applying to College with a GED

There are plenty of reasons why people pursue a GED (General Education Diploma) in lieu of a high school diploma. Whether you’ve already earned your GED or you’re considering one, you may be wondering how the college admissions process will look for you. Read on to learn more! About the GED Test For those considering ... Applying to College with a GED

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