The blog

Jennifer Almoney Jennifer Almoney

Want to Work in Sports? Here’s What It’s Really Like

These days, I have so many students wanting to eventually work in an area of sports, whether that’s through a business angle, management, or with the teams directly. If you’re crazy about sports but think your talents are more off the field, you’re in luck! The sports industry isn’t just about playing; there’s a huge, fast-moving world behind the scenes, and it needs all kinds of people to make it run.

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Jennifer Almoney Jennifer Almoney

Why GPA and Rigor Are the First Step in Building Your College List

When families ask me what matters most in the college admissions process, I always start with this: your GPA and the rigor of your high school transcript. These two pieces tell admissions officers the clearest story about the kind of student you have been over four years. They also serve as one of the very first clues to what types of colleges might make sense for you to consider.

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Jennifer Almoney Jennifer Almoney

Why College Fit Matters More Than Rankings

Choosing a college isn’t about picking the school with the “biggest name” - it’s about finding the place where a student will thrive, both academically and personally, through genuine engagement and involvement. Definitive research from Stanford in 2018 shows that long-term success after college depends far more on what students do in college - the relationships they build, their level of involvement, and their academic engagement - than on a school’s selectivity or where it falls in published rankings.

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Jennifer Almoney Jennifer Almoney

Fall College Visits: Why Juniors Should Explore Campuses Now

Fall is the perfect season for high school juniors to explore colleges. From lively campus events and football games to local hangouts and student insights, discover why visiting in autumn gives the most authentic college experience—and how to make the most of every tour.


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Deanna Burks Deanna Burks

When the Kids Head to College: Surviving the Empty Nest

When the last child leaves for college, the house suddenly feels too quiet. But instead of seeing the silence as a loss, this stage can be a fresh beginning filled with freedom, laughter, and rediscovery. Here’s how to navigate the empty nest with humor and a little creativity.

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Deanna Burks Deanna Burks

Essential Legal Documents to Prepare Before College

Sending your teen to college? Don’t forget these crucial legal documents! Learn why Health Care Power of Attorney, HIPAA and FERPA authorizations, and proper ID and insurance documentation are must-haves for every college-bound student. Get practical tips to ensure your student’s safety, privacy, and a smooth transition to campus life.

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Deanna Burks Deanna Burks

Seniors Packing for College: The Ultimate Guide

Getting ready for college move-in? This ultimate packing guide for seniors covers everything you need—from dorm essentials and smart packing tips to a comprehensive checklist. Learn how to pack efficiently, coordinate with roommates, and make your new space feel like home for a smooth transition to college life.

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Deanna Burks Deanna Burks

Overused Essay Topics

High school juniors: Discover expert tips for writing a unique and memorable college essay this summer. Learn which topics to avoid, how to make your application essay personal, and creative prompts to help you stand out to admissions officers.

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Deanna Burks Deanna Burks

Making Your Final College Decision

Struggling to choose a college? Discover practical tips for high school seniors to evaluate options, prioritize needs, and confidently make the best college decision before May 1.

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Deanna Burks Deanna Burks

Changes in the Common Application for the 2025-2026 Season

Stay ahead in the college admissions process with the latest updates on the Common Application for the 2025-2026 season. Learn about unchanged essay prompts, new "Challenges and Circumstances" prompts, and how to prepare effectively for a successful application."

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Deanna Burks Deanna Burks

Social Media and College Admissions: What High School Students Need to Know

This comprehensive guide offers essential campus visit tips for high school parents and students in 2025. Learn how to strategically plan college tours, starting as early as sophomore year, and make the most of your visits during the academic year. Discover the importance of balancing parent and student roles during tours, with advice on asking key questions about campus life, traditions, and unique programs. The article provides practical tips for capturing impressions after each visit and emphasizes the value of exploring the local area. With these insights, families can navigate the college visit process more effectively, helping students make informed decisions about their future education. Whether you're just starting your college search or finalizing your list, this guide is an invaluable resource for optimizing your campus visit experience.

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Deanna Burks Deanna Burks

Campus Visit Tips for Parents and Students

This comprehensive guide offers essential campus visit tips for high school parents and students in 2025. Learn how to strategically plan college tours, starting as early as sophomore year, and make the most of your visits during the academic year. Discover the importance of balancing parent and student roles during tours, with advice on asking key questions about campus life, traditions, and unique programs. The article provides practical tips for capturing impressions after each visit and emphasizes the value of exploring the local area. With these insights, families can navigate the college visit process more effectively, helping students make informed decisions about their future education. Whether you're just starting your college search or finalizing your list, this guide is an invaluable resource for optimizing your campus visit experience.

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Deanna Burks Deanna Burks

Staying True to Yourself in the Admissions Process

Discover the importance of authenticity in the college admissions process. Learn how to focus on controllable factors, embrace individuality, and find the right college fit. Guide your student to create a genuine application that showcases their unique strengths and aspirations.

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Deanna Burks Deanna Burks

So You Want to be a Nurse?

Explore the rewarding field of nursing, including career prospects, education pathways, and tips for high school students to become competitive applicants. Learn about BSN, ADN, and diploma programs, job growth projections, and how to prepare for a successful nursing career.

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Deanna Burks Deanna Burks

Do Juniors Need a Resume? Yes!

Discover why creating a resume is crucial for high school juniors preparing for college admissions. Learn how resumes showcase achievements, aid in recommendation letters, and help identify areas for growth. Get tips on crafting an effective resume using AI tools.

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Deanna Burks Deanna Burks

College Admissions Trends to Be Aware of in 2025

Discover the latest college admissions trends for 2025, including application deferrals, the comeback of standardized testing, and geographical shifts in applications. Learn how these changes impact your high school student's college application strategy and prepare for a competitive admissions landscape.

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