Create Your Own College Rankings

Choosing the right college for you significantly impacts your future career path, social network, and personal growth. With thousands of universities to consider, the process can feel overwhelming. Traditional college rankings offer a one-size-fits-all approach, often prioritizing factors that may not align with every student’s priorities. Enter The New York Times’ groundbreaking tool, which empowers prospective students and their families to build personalized college rankings based on criteria that matter most to them.

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Sarah DohlComment
The Evolution of College Admission Decisions: Insights from the National Association for College Counseling's Latest Report

Understanding what factors significantly influence college admission decisions is crucial as students navigate the complex journey toward higher education. The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) has recently shed light on these critical components in its latest report, focusing on the Fall 2023 admission cycle.

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Sarah DohlComment
Understanding College Testing Policies in 2024

As the global COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, the college admissions landscape underwent significant transformations, especially regarding SAT and ACT testing requirements. With many students unable to sit for standardized tests in 2020, many U.S. colleges and universities pivoted from their traditional SAT or ACT requirements to adopt test-optional policies. Here’s what you need to know in 2024.

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Sarah DohlComment
Virginia Moves to End Legacy Admissions: What Parents and Students Need to Know

In a landmark policy change, on Tuesday, the Virginia House of Delegates unanimously passed legislation to eliminate legacy admissions at its public universities, a move set to reshape the college application landscape. Understanding the implications and strategizing accordingly is crucial for parents navigating this new terrain. Here’s a comprehensive overview and guide on how to adapt to these changes.

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Sarah DohlComment
How Rich (or Not) Do You Have to Be to Get Into the Ivy League? A Response.

The college admissions process is often shrouded in mystery and misconceptions, especially for Ivy League schools. A recent article in New York Magazine raised a provocative question about the role of family income in determining a student's chances of getting into these prestigious institutions. The article's headline itself, "How Rich (or Not) Do You Have to Be to Get into the Ivy League?" instantly captures attention, but does it capture the whole truth? Let's dive deeper.

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Sarah DohlComment
Considering Finances: Appealing the Award

Finding the perfect college is an exciting milestone, but it's important not to lose hope when the financial burden becomes overwhelming. If your dream college's price seems daunting, you can appeal the financial aid award outlined in your award letter. Although colleges may not openly encourage appeals, financial aid officers can make adjustments if warranted. Here are some steps to follow when considering an appeal.

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Sarah DohlComment
MAJOR SPOTLIGHT: Communications Studies

Ranked as the second most popular college major by Princeton Review, Communication Studies offers an intriguing blend of theory and practical application. But what exactly is Communication Studies, and can it pave the way for a promising career? This article delves into the fascinating field of Communication Studies, highlights renowned programs, and explores the diverse career opportunities available to graduates.

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Sarah DohlComment
Mastering the STEM Application: Essential Skills and Experiences for Success

In recent years, while overall college enrollment has stagnated or declined, the demand for STEM degrees has continued to surge. As a result, competition for coveted seats in STEM programs has become fiercer than ever. Aspiring students must start preparing early to stand out among the crowd and secure a spot in a top-tier STEM program. This article delves into the critical qualities that make a strong STEM applicant, encompassing hard academic and essential soft interpersonal skills.

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Sarah DohlComment
Getting College-ed: April 2023

Every month, College Solutions features a new edition of Getting College-ed, an editorial cartoon created by College Solutions’ own Lee Ann Gun. Check out this month’s edition below, and sign up to get future editions straight to your inbox.

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Sarah DohlComment
What to Do Before, After, and During Your College Visit

The team of counselors at College Solutions has visited more than 800 colleges, to say nothing of the visit programs we have coordinated while working at colleges. Trust me when I say that we know a thing or two! This two-part article will walk you through the important steps to take before, during, and after a visit to a college. 

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Sarah DohlComment
Getting College-ed: March 2023

Every month, College Solutions features a new edition of Getting College-ed, an editorial cartoon created by College Solutions’ own Lee Ann Gun. Check out this month’s edition and sign up to get future editions straight to your inbox.

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Sarah DohlComment