When families think about college applications, they often focus on essays, test scores, activities, and transcripts. But there’s another document that plays a critical, yet often invisible, role in the admissions process: the School Profile.

Most students never see it, but the School Profile is sent along with every transcript your high school submits to colleges. Created and updated each year by your school’s counseling office, it offers a concise overview, usually one to two pages, of your high school’s academic environment, curriculum, and student body.

When it is time to build next year’s schedule, it can feel like one wrong move will close doors for college. The good news is that a few clear principles go a long way. If you keep rigor, consistency, and long-term goals in mind, your student can end up with a schedule that both challenges them and keeps options open for senior year and beyond.

Somewhere along the way, many teens began treating failure as a statement about who they are instead of something that simply happened. A tough grade or critical comment can quickly turn into “I am a failure,” and parents often see just how fast that spiral can happen. Yet research and experience tell a different story: failure is not the opposite of success, but a normal and often valuable part of growth.

Seeing the word “deferred” in your portal can feel confusing and disappointing, but it does not mean the college has closed the door on you. A deferral usually means the admission office wants more time and context before making a final decision, often because they still need to review the entire applicant pool or compare candidates across the regular decision round. You are still being considered, and there are practical steps you can take to strengthen your file.

Navigating the holidays with college students home is a time for reconnection, but it also requires flexibility. College kids often see winter break as a chance to catch up on sleep and reconnect with high school friends. Keeping an open mind and showing empathy for their evolving independence can make the holidays warmer for everyone.​

When the weather gets colder and winter sets in, summer may feel far away, but now is actually the prime time to start planning how high schoolers can get the most out of those precious weeks off. A little early planning opens doors to unique opportunities, academic growth, and experiences that can really shape a student, both for life and for their college journey.

Participating in extracurricular activities is about much more than boosting a résumé – it’s a powerful way for students to discover interests, develop key skills, and build the foundation for future success. As the second post in the “Building a Balanced College List for Students” series, this piece dives into why activities matter so much, how they shape student identity, and the role they play in creating a focused, personalized list of potential colleges.

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.

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.

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.

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.

College supplements like “Why Us” and “Why Major” can trip up even the most experienced writers. The secret? Go beyond the brochures, dig deep for specifics, and make your story personal—so every essay truly stands out to admissions officers.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Discover unique and creative summer activities for high school students, including blogging, podcasting, volunteering, and 3D printing projects. Learn how these experiences can help you stand out on your college applications and make the most of your summer break.

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.

Maximize your study abroad experience with these three key strategies: plan your academic journey, explore beyond your host country, and foster personal growth through cultural immersion and self-reflection.

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."