Juniors- Use Your Spring Break Effectively

It’s Spring Break!  Now is the time for juniors to begin visiting colleges and narrowing down their list of potential choices.  Visiting colleges while they are still in session will give you a clearer picture and feel for the campus.  Go with an open mind, and thoroughly explore the campus, academic buildings, dining halls, and dormitories.  Try to imagine yourself in each setting.  On average, students spend 15 hours a week in class, so you want to make sure you pick a college campus where you believe that you can live peacefully.

If possible, talk to students who attend each college; put together a list of possible questions in advance, so you feel more comfortable in starting conversations.

Also take photos and notes along the way, to help you remember the pros and cons of each college later, when you’re comparing campuses!

Here are some factors to consider during your break:

Consider your options

There are a wide variety of options available: private universities, public universities, liberal arts colleges, community colleges, etc.

Two-year community colleges are a good route for some.  They provide the opportunity to complete general education requirements that will transfer into a four year university, which can save tens of thousands of dollars on college tuition.  If you plan carefully, it is possible to transfer from a community college to a university and still graduate within four years.

Here is a great article about private vs. public colleges: www.collegeconfidential.com/dean/archives/000294.htm

Create a list of 10-15 colleges that are of possible interest

Here is a great website that can help lead you in the right direction: www.princetonreview.com/college-education.aspx

For more information about how to select the right college, and how Klaar College Consulting can help lead you to college success, call us at 301-834-6888 and visit the many resources available on our website.

High School Students: Time to Get Back to Work

Summer is over and it is now time to get back to school. No matter what you have done in previous years, this is an opportunity to reinvent yourself and become the student that you want to be. As you get closer to graduation, you need to begin thinking about college or a job. That means that it is time to grow up and recognize that your parents will not be there to hold your hand and fight your battles for you. What you have learned and how you approach your responsibilities will determine the college who will accept you, the job you will get, and the success you will have. No one else can do that for you or shield you from the realities of life. Knowing this should encourage you to begin to do your best work, take the most challenging classes, take your work seriously and, most of all, feel the thrill of success that you know you have earned.

If you are a high school senior, it is not too late to find a college that will want you. There are many great colleges that will help you learn and grow. If college is your goal, don't let anyone discourage you from trying no matter what your high school record looks like. There are schools that will help you get the education you want, if you are willing to do your part. We are here to help you find the college that will fit your style and your family finances. Don't give up the dream!