Getting ready for the college selection and application process can feel intimidating, and you probably have numerous questions.  The good news is that you are not alone!

Choosing a college is no easy task. Considering it is a choice that will lay the groundwork for your career and that college is one of the biggest financial investments you will ever make, most students and their parents are aware that it is not a decision to be taken lightly.

While it is important to ask a lot of questions, some of the most significant ones should be the ones that you ask yourself. Figuring out your own learning style and choosing schools that play to those strengths are one of the most important keys to your educational success.

Some Frequently asked Questions and Answers:

When should a student start their college search?

The best time to begin your college search is when you are ready!  Keep in mind that there is no disadvantage to an early start but the longer you wait, the less time you will have to conduct a thorough college search and carefully complete all application materials. Regardless of where you are in the in the college process when you sign up with CCC, we will get you to the finish line in time.

WHY SHOULD WE HIRE A PRIVATE COLLEGE COUNSELOR?

School counselors are on the front line of supporting our nation’s young people but access to these support systems is wildly unjust and inequitable, resulting in limited availability of post-secondary planning services. Many school budgets have been reduced because of Covid-19 and counselor resources are at an all-time low when they should be more important than ever.
An experienced independent private college counselor can help. Also known as college consultants or college coaches, the best admissions consultants help alleviate the ubiquitous stress and confusion by guiding students and their families through every step of the process of preparing for and applying to colleges that are the best fit for them.
 
The investment parents and their children make to engage a top-notch college counselor is a very sound one. College is extraordinarily costly, and it is critical to have a professional who is highly knowledgeable about the admission process.  Under the best of circumstances, this is a stressful time for parents and students alike. Considering it is a choice that will lay the groundwork for your child’s career and that college is one of the biggest financial investments you will ever make, most parents and students are aware that it is not a decision to be taken lightly.

Which college is right for me?

Choosing a college or university is a significant decision. With hundreds of schools to consider, many high school students can feel overwhelmed by the process. There is no magic formula for choosing a college, but there are steps you can take to find a good fit: a match for your academic, social, and financial needs and for your career goals. We have the necessary tools to help you identify priorities and select appropriate colleges to add to your list.

Are standardized tests still relevant?

The most significant change since the spring of 2021 is the standardized testing requirement. Students are no longer required to submit scores as the majority of US colleges and universities have instituted “test optional” programs. In response,  college admission officers have transitioned to a more  holistic approach when evaluating a student’s application. We will help you determine what is the best course of action for each college on your list as to whether or not you should submit your scores.

What are some important factors to keep in mind so I can find the right college for me?

We assist our clients in identifying important factors in the college search, which may include:

  • Geographic Location
  • Academic Rigor
  • School Size
  • Overall Cost and Financial Aid Options
  • Housing
  • Food
  • Campus Environment and Cultural Diversity
  • Religious Affiliation
  • Study Abroad and Cooperative Education Programs
  • Resources and Support Systems
  • Sensitivity to students with diverse learning styles and individual needs

How many colleges should I apply to?

A general guideline is to apply to at least 2-3 reach colleges, 3-4 matches, and 2 likely/safety schools. They should all be colleges you would be happy to attend.

WHAT ARE REACH, MATCH, AND SAFETY SCHOOLS?

  • Reaches: Your GPA and SAT or ACT® score are lower than the average score range of the previous year’s admitted students.
  • Matches: Your GPA and SAT or ACT® score are solidly in the same range as the previous year’s admitted students.
  • Likely/Safety: Your GPA and SAT or ACT® scores are higher than the average score range of previous year’s admitted students.

Declaring a major.

If you are truly undecided, you are not at a disadvantage because up to 70% of incoming freshmen chose “undecided” instead of identifying a major. With the exception of career-focused programs  such as computer science, nursing, engineering or architecture declaring a major is generally not critical.  Formulating a strategy as to the best approach is an important step in the process.

The most significant change since the spring of 2021 is the standardized testing requirement. Students are no longer required to submit scores as the majority of US colleges and universities have instituted “test optional” programs. In response,  college admission officers have transitioned to a more  holistic approach when evaluating a student’s application. We will help you determine what is the best course of action for each college on your list as to whether or not you should submit your scores.

How important are sports and extracurricular activities on your college applications?

While extracurricular activities may not be the first thing college admission officers look at, they are important. A stellar list of activities won’t make up for a weak essay, sub-par testing, or a transcript riddled with poor grades. All other things being equal they can, however, enhance your fit.  They will also give the admission officer a better picture of who you are, what you do, and what your values are.  They are not as interested that you are involved in as many activities as possible, but that you are committed to those you choose. They are looking for a student who demonstrates commitment and passion outside of the academic setting. We refer to this as “depth over breadth.”

How am I going to pay for college?

Asking “How do I pay for college?” is like asking, “How do I get healthy?” or “How do I learn another language”? If you’re like most students and families, you’ll cobble together funds from multiple sources. Our goal is to provide relevant information and  helpful resources, as well as to assist you throughout the entire financial aid application process.

Let’s Connect

Contact us today at (508) 572-0681 to schedule a complimentary consultation with Norma Greenberg.

You may also send us an email us for more details, or submit an online inquiry.

Appointments available in our office, your home, by phone, or virtually via Zoom, FaceTime, of WhatsApp.

Virtual Services are available anywhere, and many of our very busy students prefer working this way, as it allows us to meet anytime that is convenient for them!

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