Prescreening Colleges using their Websites

Researching colleges can include visiting college campuses, attending information sessions, and meeting college representatives. However, before scheduling a visit, students should begin their research on the college’s website.

Start with the college's homepage, and from there, explore sections such as "About Us," "Academics," "Admissions," "Student Life," and "Research." Reading the mission statement provides insights into the college's history and values. When it comes to academics, explore the majors and departments you are interested in. Check for research opportunities, academic facilities, available minors, and study abroad programs. Investigate resources such as subject tutoring or learning disability support, which could be vital during your college years.

The admissions page is another crucial area. Here, you’ll find application requirements and deadlines.

On the admissions page, sign up to receive email notifications about admissions events. You can also schedule tours and info sessions, both online and in person. Connecting with admission counselors can give you a more personal understanding of the college.

You won't be studying 24/7, so it's important to explore what student life at each college looks like.  This will be an important part of your college experience, so take the time to review options for clubs, study abroad programs, and volunteer opportunities. Check to see if you can find the link to issues of the student newspaper or other student-run publications. Reading these will give you further insight into the school. Look into housing options and how roommate matching/selection works. If you have a special hobby or interest, see if the college offers living-learning communities.

Health and safety should not be overlooked. Investigate the Student Health Center, counseling services, and campus security. Be sure to ask about dorm security, escort services for late-night walks, and the availability of emergency services. If transportation is a priority, find out whether first-year students are allowed cars and explore campus shuttle options, especially if you’ll need transportation off-campus.

On the financial aid page (typically a sub-page to the admissions page) use the online Net Price Calculator to assess affordability, and reach out to financial aid officers with specific questions. Many schools offer scholarships, so ensure you’re aware of all financial aid opportunities.

Lastly, don’t forget to explore the college’s career center. Look for internship programs, job fairs, and alumni connections that support your long-term career goals. Most colleges offer resources such as resume-building workshops and meetings with industry professionals. 

For each college on your list, your Journey Ahead list will include class size, student-faculty ratios, and graduation rates along with data about acceptance rates, average GPA, test scores, and other useful statistics. This data helps assess whether the college aligns with your profile. 

By thoroughly exploring these sections of the college’s website, students can make more informed decisions about which schools align with their academic, personal, and financial needs.

Pros and Cons of Applying Undecided/Undeclared

Feeling unsure about what major to pick for college? You're not alone! Many students, even those interested in STEM, aren't sure which subject to focus on, or they have so many interests they can’t choose just one. According to a U.S. Department of Education report, about one-third of students change their major within three years of starting college. Some schools report that 50-75% of students change their major at least once. 

For those students who are unsure what major to declare, one option is applying as “undecided” or “undeclared.” This allows you to take your time discovering what excites you before committing to a major. 

Pros of Applying to College Undecided

If you enjoy different subjects—such as physics and history or graphic design and entrepreneurship—applying undecided gives you the freedom to take a wide variety of classes before settling on one major. This flexibility can be ideal for students who want to explore multiple interests.

Deciding on a major can feel overwhelming. Applying as undecided gives you time to experience different subjects and discover what truly interests you. Most schools do not require that students officially declare their major until the end of their sophomore year.

Many colleges provide special advising for undecided students, helping guide them toward the right major. Universities such as Brown, University of Hartford, and Oregon State University offer support through mentorship and career advising for undecided students.

Some colleges offer exploratory tracks in specific fields, such as business or engineering, without requiring you to declare a major right away. 

Cons of Applying to College Undecided

Certain competitive majors—including business, engineering, or nursing—may be difficult to enter later if you don’t apply directly as a freshman. These programs often have strict entry requirements and/or a limited number of spaces, so it’s important to check each school’s policy before applying undecided. For example, transferring into an engineering program from a university's College of Arts and Sciences can be difficult or impossible, as there are often requirements in math and sciences that students will not have met yet.

Some colleges offer specific exploratory options to help students figure out the major they want to pursue.  Some examples of this include Ithaca College, Rochester Institute of Technology, and University of Colorado Boulder.

Just because a college allows you to apply undecided doesn’t mean it’s the best fit for your academic goals. If you have a specific field in mind, it’s beneficial to choose a school with strong programs in that area, even if you haven’t declared your major yet.

If you’re thinking about applying undecided, look for schools with flexible curriculums. Be sure to check for major restrictions, especially for competitive fields such as business or engineering. Think about your interests and ensure that the school offers strong programs in areas you may want to explore.

Applying undecided can provide the time and space to discover your academic path. Whether you have multiple interests or are not sure exactly what you want to study it keeps your options open while allowing you to explore. 

Learning Differences and College Selection

Transitioning to college can be a significant change, especially for students who require academic accommodations for ADHD and/or other learning differences. Though some students are hesitant about applying for accommodations in college, it’s better to have them in place and not use them than to wish you had applied for them.

Colleges offer differing levels of support to students with learning differences and ADHD. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, all schools must provide a basic level of accommodations to students with physical, psychological or learning disabilities. Academic accommodations, such as extended time or a non-distracting room for exams, are meant to equalize the learning environment and are available at no cost.

A key distinction students should be aware of is the difference in how accommodations are handled in high school compared to college. In high school, accommodations are usually provided under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which focuses on student success. Schools, teachers, and counselors proactively identify needs, implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), or 504 plans, and ensure the necessary accommodations are provided. The school bears much of the responsibility to make sure students receive the help they need.

In contrast, college accommodations operate under a different legal framework—mainly the ADA and Section 504. These laws prioritize access, not guaranteed success, meaning that while colleges must provide accommodations to create equal opportunities, students are expected to take much more responsibility for managing their own support.

The basic accommodation model can work well for students who have developed good learning skills, can self-advocate, and don’t need individualized support. Students at colleges that offer basic accommodations must take the initiative to secure the appropriate academic accommodations. While all colleges must offer at least minimal services, some provide additional programs such as time-management workshops and access to assistive technology.

Schools with structured support go beyond basic accommodations and offer additional support outside the classroom. This can include group or individual sessions to help students with reading comprehension, writing, speaking, listening, and time management. Some of these programs also provide summer pre-orientation sessions to prepare students for college courses, familiarize them with campus resources, and introduce them to peers with similar learning differences.

Other colleges provide more comprehensive support. These programs teach learning strategies and skills based on a student’s learning style. One of the most well-known comprehensive programs is the Strategic Alternative Learning Techniques (SALT) Center at the University of Arizona. Students are assigned to learning specialists who provide individualized academic support and help them learn new strategies for success in the university environment. Specially trained tutors and writing support are available, as is a computer lab that provides access to assistive technologies.

Another option is a school such as Landmark College in Vermont that focuses exclusively on students with learning differences, dyslexia, Autism, executive functioning challenges, and ADHD. Students receive extensive support as they develop learning strategies, and most go on to pursue a bachelor’s degree, either at Landmark (which also offers associate degrees) or at another college. Programs that offer support beyond basic accommodations usually charge fees, which can run several thousand dollars a year, depending on the level of service.

Students who need support in college for a disability must have proper documentation. Check with each school for their requirements. Colleges require current documentation of a disability, often within three years, from a medical or educational professional. When visiting colleges, students should stop by the academic support office to find out the available services offered. The attitude of the staff is important in determining whether a college offers a good environment for a student. Talking to students who have similar learning differences is also a great way to determine whether the school is supportive.

Students who know their strengths and challenges are in the best position to find schools that offer the support they need and are likely to be successful in college. For more detailed information, the K&W Guide is a good resource.

Juniors and Seniors: Making the Most of Fall

As summer comes to a close, it's time for high school seniors to buckle down and focus on the college application process. 

For both juniors and seniors, attending college presentations from admissions representatives at your school is highly recommended. These visits are more than just informational sessions; they're opportunities to make a personal connection with the college representative who might be the one reviewing your application. If a college of interest isn’t visiting your school, be sure to explore their website, do a virtual tour, and don't hesitate to contact the admissions office to learn more.

For Seniors

Seniors, this is your crunch time. Start by finalizing your college list. Make sure you have a balanced mix of reach, target, and safety schools. With many colleges using a holistic admissions process, it's important to show genuine interest in the schools on your list. Finish your research and be ready to articulate why each school is a good fit for you.

Essay writing is another critical task. Many colleges require the personal statement from the Common App, in addition to college-specific essays. Look for overlaps in the prompts to see if you can use the same essay for multiple applications. This can save you time and ensure each essay is polished and thoughtful. Make sure to personalize it for each school. Your Journey Ahead counselor will guide you on essay brainstorming, and provide feedback and editing.

If you haven’t already done so, asking for letters of recommendation should be done ASAP. Choose teachers who know you well and can speak to your strengths. Provide them with a brag sheet or resume to help them write a detailed letter about your strengths.

Don’t forget to arrange for your high school transcript and counselor recommendation to be sent to colleges. This process can take time, so coordinate with your guidance office early.

Try to meet with college representatives at local college fairs, join college-specific panels, or online info sessions to learn more and demonstrate your interest.

If needed, prepare for and sit for you final ACT and SAT. Register before deadlines and have your official test scores sent by the testing agency to colleges at least two weeks before the application deadline, where required. Many colleges are still test-optional, but good scores can enhance your application.

Family discussions about college costs are essential. Explore financial aid options and scholarships together. Understanding the financial obligations and finding the best ways to manage them will make the process smoother.

Finally, maintain strong grades. First-semester grades are important, and colleges may consider them in their admissions decisions. Remember, colleges are looking for students who challenge themselves academically to the best of their ability. 

For Juniors

Juniors, this is a time to lay a strong foundation for your senior year. Start by visiting colleges whenever possible. Take campus tours and attend information sessions. Official virtual tours are a good substitute if you can’t tour in person. These visits can help you get a feel for the campus environment and what you’re looking for in a college.

Attend college seminars and financial aid workshops to become familiar with the application process. 

Take the PSAT, which is also the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. If you are a top student, taking practice tests can boost your performance and open up scholarship opportunities.

Meet with your guidance counselor after winter break to review your senior year courses. Make sure you’re on track with your academic goals and challenge yourself when possible. Your Journey Ahead counselor will be checking in with you to discuss and recommend your senior year coursework.

Look for leadership opportunities in your activities. Leadership is a quality highly valued by colleges, and taking on roles that showcase your ability to lead and collaborate will strengthen your application.

Additionally, it’s important to continue building your foundation of school and community involvement. Whether it’s through clubs, music, athletics, service projects, or other activities, focus on demonstrating depth, commitment, and growth.

Colleges are looking for students who show sustained involvement and have made meaningful contributions to their communities. And, of course, stay focused on your studies. Junior-year grades are particularly important because in many cases colleges don’t see senior-year grades when students apply. Your performance this year will carry significant weight.

Remember, the path to college is a journey. Stay organized, keep your goals in sight, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. 

Early Decision, Early Action and Financial Aid

Navigating the college application process can be stressful, especially when considering how financial aid factors into different application strategies. Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA) are two popular options, each with distinct financial implications.

Early Decision (ED) is a binding admission plan. Students who apply ED agree to attend the college if accepted and must withdraw all other applications. ED deadlines usually fall on  November 1st or 15th, with some schools offering a second ED option around January 1st. This binding commitment makes ED ideal for students who have thoroughly researched their options and are certain about one school being their top choice.

While ED can significantly increase your chances of admission, it has potential financial drawbacks, particularly for students who need financial aid. Since ED is binding, you won’t be able to compare financial aid offers from other colleges if accepted. Therefore, it's crucial to understand the financial aid policies of the school you’re applying to under ED. Use the school’s Net Price Calculator to estimate your financial aid package and ensure that you and your family are comfortable with the probable financial commitment.

Talk to your Journey Ahead counselor about whether and how much applying ED increases your admissions chances at your choice college.

Early Action (EA) allows students to apply and receive an admission decision early without the binding commitment of ED. If accepted, you can still apply to other schools and have until May 1 to make your final decision. The non-binding nature of EA generally makes it a safer choice for students concerned about financial aid, as it allows more time to compare financial aid packages or explore other opportunities without the pressure of a binding agreement.

Students applying through Early Action typically receive the same need-based package they would during the ED and regular admissions cycles. However, unlike ED, EA allows families to compare financial aid offers from various schools before making a final decision. This flexibility can be crucial in choosing the most affordable option. The potential downside is of applying EA is that students do not get the potential admissions advantage of applying ED.

General Financial Aid Tips

Whether you choose ED, EA or Regular Decision, here are some essential tips to help navigate the financial aid process:

Apply for Financial Aid Early: Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), scheduled to open on December 1st. This may delay financial aid packages for ED and EA students. If the college requires the CSS profile, fill it out as soon as possible. Early submission may improve your chances of receiving need-based aid.

Understand Each School’s Financial Aid Policies: Schools have different financial aid policies and deadlines for early applicants. Research these policies thoroughly so you know what to expect.

Communicate with Financial Aid Offices: If your financial circumstances change or if you have concerns about your financial aid package, don’t hesitate to contact the financial aid office. They may be able to offer additional assistance or advice.

Making the Most of your High School Years

High school can be one of life’s most exciting and transformative times. It can also be fraught with ups and downs, socially and academically. Here are some suggestions to help you navigate your high school years.

Join or Form a Club

One of the best ways to enhance your high school experience is by joining or forming a club. Clubs provide a sense of community and allow you to explore your interests outside the classroom. If you can’t find one that matches your interests, don’t hesitate to start your own. Leading a club can further develop valuable skills and create a space for others who share your interests.

Don’t Worry About the “Popular” Kids

High school can sometimes feel like a popularity contest, but in reality, popularity is fleeting. Focus on building genuine friendships rather than worrying about fitting in with the popular crowd. True friends will stand by you through thick and thin, and those relationships will be far more valuable than any social status. 

Volunteer

Volunteering is a fantastic way to make a difference in your community and gain valuable life experiences. It can also be incredibly fulfilling and fun. Volunteering teaches you empathy and responsibility. Studies have shown that volunteering also can improve your mental health.

Challenge Yourself Academically

High school is a time to push yourself academically to the best of your abilities. Take challenging courses that interest you and broaden your horizons. Don’t overload yourself to the point of burnout. Leave room for other activities and relaxation.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

Everyone struggles at some point during high school. It’s important to remember that asking for help is a sign of strength. Whether you’re having trouble with a subject, dealing with personal issues, or feeling overwhelmed, there are resources available to you. Seeking help early can prevent small problems from becoming big ones.

Keep Grades in Perspective

While it’s important to do your best academically, it’s equally important to keep your grades in perspective. A bad grade isn’t the end of the world. Learn from your mistakes and strive to improve, but don’t let academic pressure take over your life. Your worth is not defined by your GPA. 

Take Care of Yourself Physically and Emotionally

High school can be demanding, so it’s crucial to take care of yourself. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. Physical health directly impacts your ability to perform academically and to enjoy life. Equally important is your emotional well-being. Find healthy ways to cope with stress, such as talking to a friend, writing in a journal, or practicing mindfulness. If you’re struggling with mental health issues, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.

High school is a time for growth, learning, and fun. By joining clubs, challenging yourself academically, focusing on genuine friendships, volunteering, asking for help when needed, keeping grades in perspective, and taking care of yourself, you can make these years enjoyable and memorable.

Financial and Legal Matters for New College Students

When teens turn 18, they love the idea that they are now legally adults. They can vote, serve in the military, sign contracts and even get married. Emotionally they might still be our babies, but the law considers them adults. 

That being said, there are a few legal and financial issues that should be addressed before your teen goes to college. If your child has turned or will turn 18 during the next year, they are legally an adult, and you, their parent, lose the legal authority to make decisions on their behalf. That means you have no legal right to see their grades, manage their finances (although you remain responsible for paying their college tuition), make medical decisions, or speak with their doctors.  So, before they go off to college, consider asking them to sign some documents that will allow you to keep informed.

FERPA release:  with your child’s permission, you can speak with the college about their performance.  Colleges often have their own FERPA  release forms, so ask your student’s college for a copy.

HIPAA Authorization: this allows you to access your child’s health records and speak to their doctors about medical issues.

Advance Care Directive for Health Care:  allows you to act on your adult child’s behalf in the event that they are incapacitated and unable to make decisions for themselves.  

Durable Power of Attorney: allows you to act on your adult child’s behalf regarding legal or financial matters.  

You can get the previous three forms from your family lawyer.  Each of these forms can be revoked at any time, but having them in place while your child is away at college may provide the whole family with extra peace of mind.

Here is a link for more information:

Make Sure These Health Forms Are Sorted Out Before Your Kid Goes to College

This is also a good time to address money management issues.

Make sure their bank account allows you to easily transfer money between accounts.  An online bank account may be the most useful, especially if the bank has special student accounts available that will give parents access to bank information.  Find out which banks have ATMs close to campus—college kids usually don’t write many checks.  Be sure to check on fees for using an ATM that are not part of your bank’s network.  

Make plans to protect student property.  College kids tend to have a lot of valuable electronics and computer equipment.  Renter’s insurance can protect your investment if these items were to disappear.  Your homeowner’s policy might also cover dorm room possessions—check with your agent.  

Health insurance:  check out options provided by the college and compare these policies with your existing family medical coverage.  

Car insurance:  check with your agent.  If your child does not have a car at college, you may be eligible for a discount on your auto rate.

Discuss credit card dangers:  college students are besieged with credit card offers—discuss the difference between high-interest fees that credit cards may charge and bank debit card options.

AP, Honors, or dual enrollment? Which one?

At every college information session, a parent will ask, “Is it better to get a “B” in an AP class or an “A” in a regular class?” The admissions officer answers, “It’s better to get an “A” in an AP class,” and everyone moans. With an increasingly intense admissions process, decisions about what higher-level classes to take can feel daunting. Honors, Advanced Placement (AP), and Dual Enrollment all offer a competitive edge to applicants; however, there are differences between the levels of rigor, work, impact on GPA, and attainment of college credit.  

A student’s curriculum is evaluated in the context of their high school, so if ten AP courses are offered, and a student has just taken one, admissions officers at competitive colleges will wonder why. But if a high school only offers a couple of AP courses, students can’t be expected to take classes that don’t exist, and they would not be at a disadvantage in the admissions process. 

While students in honor classes usually cover the same material as in the regular class, honors provides a rigorous study of each subject, requiring more projects, tests, and time. Honors courses follow a teacher-designed curriculum. Honors are valued in the admissions process. However, unlike APs, they don’t offer college credit and are not as highly regarded.

APs are designed to give students a college-level course experience within a high school setting. We recommend that all students who take an AP course, take the exam in the spring.

AP exams are scored on a system from 1 to 5, with anything above 3 considered to be passing. While every university has a different policy, many colleges award credit for scores of 4 or 5 on an AP exam, and some for a score of 3. If they don’t give credit, APs can be used to place out of introductory courses, have the flexibility to double-major, or even help you have a lighter class schedule while doing an internship. 

In dual enrollment classes, high school students can take actual college courses taught by college professors or a high school teacher who has been trained and approved by the university. Programs, pricing, and course schedules vary by school. Classes are graded on assignments and tests, so unlike they AP system, one exam does not determine the outcome. Further, it’s not a guarantee that all dual enrollment classes will be accepted for college credit. 

Taking higher-level classes prepares students for a more successful future in college, while simultaneously giving them an extra nudge on the admissions table. Preparing for college is important, but so is preserving mental health and not overloading the plate with challenging classes. This might involve opting for AP classes in one’s stronger subjects or selecting a handful of APs to spread out throughout high school.

Admissions officers, of course, like to see intellectual curiosity, but they also like students who will contribute to the college community. Students who also spend time discovering and pursuing their passions outside the classroom will be attractive applicants. This means that finding a healthy balance between scholarly pursuits and extracurricular activities, community service, or other interests is just as important. Colleges are searching for dynamic individuals with various talents and perspectives who will diversify their campuses.