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Let's Break The Ice!š§
We're so happy you found us!š This community is for parents and guardians seeking trusted advice and direction on getting their child to college or into a career. Itās a safe space to connect and share with others on the same journey, with access to top experts on the path to college. Letās kick things off with anā¦
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6/17 The Summer Advantage: Crafting a Standout College Essay
The Summer Advantage: Crafting a Standout College Essay Tuesday, June 16, 2026 7:00ā8:00 pm ET REGISTER HERE Most students don't start their college essay until September. By then, they're buried in schoolwork, scrambling on supplements, and writing under pressure. The students who stand out start in June. In this webinar,ā¦
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No Connections? No Problem. How to Help Your Child Network Into Any Industry
For many parents and guardians, the word "networking" carries a heavy connotation of "who you know" (implying that if you don't already have a contact at a Fortune 500 company or a family friend in the trades, your child is behind). The reality is that networking doesn't have to just be "who you know"! Its a learned skillā¦
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Check out our June Events š„
Kaplan Community Grounds for Growth Meetup June 17 | 12:00 - 1:00 PM ET | REGISTER HERE The Summer Advantage: Crafting a Standout College Essay June 16 | 7:00-8:00 PM ET | REGISTER HERE Free MCAT Bootcamp Preview Class June 7 | 6:00 - 8:00 PM ET | REGISTER HERE Connect: Healthcare Networking Meetup June 22 | 12:00 - 1:00ā¦
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The Annual Digital Audit: 10 steps to curating your students' online legacy
Managing a studentās digital presence isn't just about "privacy settings" anymore; itās about ensuring their online footprint accurately reflects the person they are becoming. For college admissions officers, recruiters, and even scholarship committees, a digital profile often acts as a silent resume. Here are 10ā¦
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What are some college costs BEYOND tuition that parents should be prepared for?
Let's build a master listā¦bonus points if you also add $$$ so people can budget. š deposit for on-campus housing approx $300-500 š summer orientation visit fees $200 (without travel) š books | this totally depends on major ā don't forget the online book access fees
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Fall SAT test dates are open for registration
Heads up for those of you who haven't even gotten to summer yet! Registration is open for the fall SAT test dates! Some of these dates and locations fill up fast! https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/dates-deadlines
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The "Magic Binder" that Makes College Applications 10x Easier
It starts in freshman year. The conversations about college applications, "building the resume," and applying for scholarships start heating up. For parents and students alike, it can feel like staring up at a mountain. Where do you even begin to categorize four years of a life? How will they remember that writing awardā¦
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Securing Your Studentās Digital Real Estate: A Practical Guide
As our high schoolers prepare for whatever comes after graduation (college, a trade, or entering the workforce), we spend lots of time helping them prep for the future. But in todayās world, their "digital handshake" often happens before theyāve even walked into a room, and it's something we should help them be aware of,ā¦
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Join us 5/19 for our College Application Event! Make the most of your summer!
Intentional Profile Development: Building an Unforgettable Applicant Brand Tuesday, May 19 | 7:00-8:00 PM ET | Register Here The most competitive college applicants donāt just participate; they build a focused applicant brand. Is your studentās profile demonstrating their full potential? Join Kaplan for a free webinarā¦
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"Adulting" Starter Kit...what would you add?
Lots of parents are getting ready to send their kids off for their first "adulting" adventure. Some to college. Some to the military. Some are moving to their first apartment. Others are looking for a great graduation gift. What would you put in the kit?
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Check out our May Events!
Intentional Profile Development: Building an Unforgettable Applicant Brand Tuesday, May 19 | 7:00-8:00 PM ET | Register Here Kaplan Community Grounds for Growth Meetup Wednesday, May 22 | 12:00 - 12:45 pm ET | Register Here Focus & Flourish: Specialized Financial Designations for Career Growth Wednesday, May 20 | 12:00 -ā¦
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What's one "unspoken rule" about sending your child off to college?
The real stuff. The things nobody puts in the brochures. Share one piece of advice, perspective, or truth you learned during the transition from high school to college life.
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From the PTA to the Boardroom: Translating Your Parenting Years into a Professional Resume
The "resume gap" is one of the most persistent myths in the professional world. We often treat a hiatus from the traditional workforce as a void, but if you have spent the last decade managing a household or leading community initiatives, you haven't been "off." You have been in an intensive, 24/7 leadership lab. It isā¦
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No one talks about how hard Decision Day actually is for parents
Checking in with the Class of 2030 parents and guardiansā¦how is it going?? For those of you who have already been down this roadā¦how did your student end up deciding, and after the first year, were they happy?
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What questions would you recommend your child ask in a job interview?
Job interviews are a major milestone for high schoolers, whether they are applying for a first-time summer gig or a long-term role in a trade. While we often focus on helping them answer questions, the questions they ask are just as important. It shows the employer that your student is curious, professional, and seriousā¦
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Do Thank-You Notes Still Matter for College and Job Interviews?
Is a formal thank-you note actually still a thing? Or are we just coaching our kids to do something that hiring managers and admissions officers find annoying? The short answer is that while the medium has changed (email is now the gold standard), the impact hasn't. For parents and guardians, teaching this skill is lessā¦
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Tues 4/21: Get an "insider look" at how top colleges evaluate applicants beyond grades and scores
If you have a student starting the college search, you might want to check this out. Itās a 45-minute deep dive into how colleges evaluate kids beyond just the GPA and SAT scores. You'll hear why two identical students can get totally different results. Itās free and is a good "insider look" for anyone in the thick ofā¦
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What's your advice for taking college tours?
We want to hear from the parents whoāve been there. Whatās the best piece of advice youād give to someone just starting their campus visits? Help our community out with your best "tour hack" in the comments.
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The big college decision: How did your family choose 'the one'?
Choosing a college is a big moment for any family. Whether you're remembering your own journey or helping your student with theirs, weāve all felt the pressure to get it right. What was it that made the final decision for you?
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Don't miss: How Top Colleges Evaluate Applicants Beyond Grades and Test Scores
MCAT Practice Test Masterclass & New Resource Reveal Sunday, April 19 | 7:00 PMĀ -Ā 8:00 PMĀ ET | Register Here How to Prep for the MCAT Over the Summer Wednesday, April 22 | 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm ET | Register Here The Hidden Criteria: How Top Colleges Evaluate Applicants Beyond Grades and Test Scores Tuesday, April 21 |ā¦
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Navigating the "Hard" Questions: A Practical Interview Guide for Your Teen
As parents and guardians, watching your teenager prepare for their first "real" interviewāwhether itās for a summer job, a scholarship, or a college programācan be just as nerve-wracking for you as it is for them. We want them to shine, but we also know that behavioral questions can feel like a minefield to someone withā¦
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What Should My Child Wear to Their First Interview? Wardrobe Tips for Parents and Guardians
When helping your student dress for their first interview, the goal is to balance professionalism with comfort so their confidence can take center stage. Aim One Step Above: Research the workplace "uniform" and dress one level more formal. For most entry-level roles, chinos or slacks paired with a clean button-down orā¦
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Coaching Your Teen Through the Digital Interview
We know our teens arenāt strangers to FaceTime, and many are even comfortable recording and creating videos for their social media. However, there is a big difference between chatting with friends and a video interview for a dream college, a competitive scholarship, or a first job. Professionalism on camera is a learnedā¦
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What was your very first job in high school, and what was the #1 lesson it taught you?
Weāre all looking for ways to help our kids build character and independence. Sometimes, the best lessons aren't learned in a classroom, but behind a cash register or mowing a lawn. To help us brainstorm how to guide our own teens, weād love to hear your story: What was your very first job in high school, and what was theā¦
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Shaping More Than Just a Resume āØ Fill in the blank!
The world of work is changing faster than ever, and while we can't predict exactly what jobs our teens will have in ten years, we can certainly hope for the kind of life theyāll lead. We want more for them than just a paycheckāwe want a purpose. āØ Real career fulfillment isn't obtained by luckāitās a discovery process.ā¦
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Does Your High Schooler Really Need a Resume Yet? (Short Answer: Yes!)
It may feel a little early to talk to your teenager about a resume. Especially when they are probably currently worried about their Chemistry lab or Friday nightās football game, right? But hereās the secret: A high school resume isn't only about the job. Itās about helping our kids see their own growth on paper before theā¦
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Share your advice! Trade School and Workforce Path
We often hear that a four-year degree is the only finish line, but for many teens, the real 'aha!' moment happens far away from a lecture hall. Maybe it was the spark in their eyes during a shop class, the pride they felt after their first paycheck, or the realization that they learn best by doing. We want to celebrateā¦
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Planning Ahead: Summer Camps and Volunteering
It's never too early to get ahead of the game. Just ask @Sara_AdmissionsConsultant, who shared her thoughts in a post on " How to Summer Smarter!- Summer Experiences That Truly Stand Out to Colleges". Here are 3 reasons why you should start planning volunteer opportunities and summer camp enrollments NOW. 1. The Bestā¦
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Don't Miss the March 22: Applying to Med School in 2026 - Everything You Need to Know
[Parents & Guardians Welcome] Wanted to be sure everyone knew the Kaplan team is hosting a free webinar: Applying to Med School in 2026: Everything You Need to Know Sunday, March 22 5:00Ā -Ā 6:30 PMĀ ET There's nothing quite like the medical school admissions process. Let our Kaplan expert admissions consultants guide youā¦
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Strategically Planning Your Seniorās Career Path This March
The job market has fundamentally shifted. A four-year degree is no longer the only path to a high-paying, stable career. In fields like cybersecurity, healthcare, and renewable energy, targeted skills often outweigh a traditional diploma. If your high school senior wants financial independence without the weight of studentā¦
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How to Help Your Student Build a Resume: Download the PDF Checklist!ā¬ļø
When our kids start hunting for their first job, that blank 'Experience' section can feel like a brick wall. They don't realize that their daily habitsājuggling school, sports, and choresāactually count as real-world skills. Our role is to help them translate those 'kid' activities into professional language that grabs aā¦
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How to Build a College List That Actually Makes Sense
Making your college list can be overwhelming for many students. With thousands of colleges out there, how do you narrow it down to the right ones? Too many families rely on rankings, name recognition, or word of mouthāand end up with a list that's either too top-heavy, too random, or missing schools where the student wouldā¦
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What surprised you most about the college admissions process?
As our kids get closer to graduation, the 'college talk' starts to feel a lot more real. Whether youāre just starting to look at schools or youāve already sent off the final applications, weāve all had those moments where we realized things aren't quite like they were when we applied! Iād love to hear about your journey soā¦
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Financial Aid: Navigating the Fine Print and Securing Your Funding
Once youāve identified the types of aid in your letter, the next phase is "reading between the lines." Not all offers are created equal, and some come with strings attached. 1. Distinguish "Direct" vs. "Indirect" Costs Your award letter might show a high "Cost of Attendance" (COA), but you won't pay all of that directly toā¦
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š£ Senior Year Playbook - Parent & guardian wisdom needed š
Calling all parents and guardians! š£ Iām looking to crowdsource the ultimate 'Senior Year Playbook' for our rising seniors. We know the academic side is covered, but what about the life side? I want to fill this comment section with the kind of advice that turns a busy year into an unforgettable one. Whatās one nugget ofā¦
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Which high school elective class turned out to be the most 'real-world' useful for your teen?
Beyond the standard math and English credits, some classes just seem to prepare our kids for adulthood better than others. Whether it was personal finance, shop, or a digital arts class, Iām curious: Which high school elective class turned out to be the most "real-world" useful for your teen?
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How important is it to highlight leadership in a college application?
When admissions officers sort through thousands of applications with identical GPAs and test scores, they aren't looking for the "best student"ātheyāre looking for the best future contributor. If youāre wondering how much weight leadership carries in the college admissions process, the answer is: it is often theā¦
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Is there a scholarship forā¦ everything? šāØ
If you have a teen in high school (or even in college), you know the "Scholarship Hunt" is a full-time job. We all know about the academic and athletic ones, but sometimes the best opportunities are tucked away in the most unusual places. From the "Duck Brand Duct Tape Stuck at Prom" contest to scholarships for beingā¦
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5 High-Impact Leadership Roles Your High Schooler Should Explore
We know that "leadership" looks great on a resume, but for many students, the idea of running for Student Government feels either too competitive or just not their style. The good news? Leadership isn't about being the loudest person in the room or winning a popularity contest. In todayās job market, employers defineā¦
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Boosting Student Hireability: Why Early Leadership Opportunities Matter
When we talk about leadership for high schoolers, we aren't just talking about being the captain of the football team. Weāre talking about initiative, emotional intelligence, and problem-solving. Here is why exposing your student to leadership roles now is the ultimate "career insurance" for their future. 1. The "Softā¦
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Parent & guardian wisdom needed š
Whatās one thing you did to help your teen prep for their first interview? (job or college)
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Which "post-high school" path is your child considering?
There are so many paths our kids can take after high school, which include but are not limited to the 4-year college route. Which post-high school path is your child considering? VOTE NOW and check out these related articles that can help through the process! If your child isn't sure yet, check out this post first onā¦
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Pause or Pivot? - The realities of taking a gap year
We spend four years sprinting toward high school graduation, but more and more families are asking: "Does my teen really need to start college right now?" A gap year can be a life-changing reset or a total momentum killer. If youāre weighing this decision, here is the breakdown of the pros, the cons, and the "logistics"ā¦
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Is Virtual School Better Than In-Person Learning? Pros and Cons Compared
As parents and guardians, youāre often forced to choose between two very different worlds for your teen: the traditional classroom and the virtual one. After observing how high schoolers adapt to both, itās clear that the "best" option isn't universalāitās about matching the environment to the student's specific learningā¦
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Share your advice!
Beyond grades, what is one "life skill" (laundry, budgeting, self-advocacy) you are intentionally teaching your teen this year?
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Breaking Down the GED: Is It the Right Option for Your Student?
As a parent or guardian, you want nothing more than to see your child succeed. But sometimes, the traditional high school pathāfour years, six periods a day, lockers, and pep ralliesādoesn't look the same for every student. If your teen is struggling to keep up, facing personal hurdles, or simply feeling "done" with theā¦
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Community Roll Call!
Welcome to our new community members! We'd love to get to know you more! Let us know what grade your child is in by voting in our poll, and in the comments, tell us what topics you would like to see us cover in the community. Also, be sure to check out our icebreaker! :)
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What do you think?
Should parents/guardians help their teens pick which colleges to apply to, or should it be solely the studentās decision?
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How to navigate supporting your student through drop out decision
For those who have navigated a student dropping out in their first semester: What were the most helpful things you didāand what do you wish you had done differentlyāto support their mental health and motivation?
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How Did You Help Your Student Find a Meaningful Summer Job or Internship?
Summer choices can feel weirdly stressful especially when youāre trying to help your student find something thatās more than ājust a way to kill time.ā Weād love to learn from your real experiences š What did your student do during their summer that made the biggest impact? Internship Where was it? Why was it a good fit?ā¦
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What Helped Your Family Cope With College Rejection? Parent Advice Needed
College rejection can hit harder than anyone expects especially when your student worked so hard and did everything right. As parents and guardians, we often feel helpless. We want to fix it, soften the blow, or say the perfect thingā¦and sometimes there just isnāt one. š¬ If you've been through this: What helped your familyā¦
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Why the Holidays Are the Perfect Time To Visit Colleges
The holidays are a time for family, food, andā¦college visits? It may not sound like the most festive activity, but winter break is a secret weapon in the college search. As parents and guardians, we know how valuable a campus visit is, and a holiday trip can offer a different, and often more revealing, perspective. Hereāsā¦
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Be Your Own Boss: A Guide to Freelancing & Entrepreneurship While Still In High School!
Is your child not sure if the traditional college path is for them? They're not alone. The world of work is changing, and more high schoolers are choosing to become their own boss through freelancing and entrepreneurship. If they've got a passion and the drive to create, this could be the perfect route for your child.ā¦
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š College Decision Letters Are Here: Advice From Parents Whoāve Been Through It
This is one of those big moments for many Seniorsā¦.it's college decision time! Some families are celebrating big wins. Some are quietly holding broken hearts. Some are staring at a waitlist and living in the most exhausting kind of limbo. If youāre a parent or guardian right now, youāre probably juggling your own emotionsā¦
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Now What? What to Expect After You Submit College Applications
The college application journey is a marathon, and hitting that "submit" button feels like crossing the finish line. š But for many high schoolers, the period that follows can feel like an endless waiting game filled with anxiety. The truth is, the race isn't quite over. As parents and guardians, this is a crucial time toā¦
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The Tech Career Crash Course: From Gamer to Coder
Your love for video games is a huge advantage for a career in coding. You already have a great eye for what makes games work. Hereās how to turn that passion into a profession, with two main paths to choose from. The Trade School Route (Hands-On & Focused) This path is perfect if you want to get into the workforce quicklyā¦
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Application Deadlines!
Though some schools have earlier application deadlines, the bulk of colleges have deadlines just around the corner. Here's a checklist to help you catch up and finish strong: Whether you're finishing up a last-minute application or just need to confirm you've done everything, this checklist is designed to help you and yourā¦
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Tech is Everywhere: The Careers You Didn't Know Existed š - Military Edition
When you think of a career in tech, you probably picture someone writing code in a bright office or designing the next big app. But what if I told you that some of the most advanced and mission-critical tech jobs are found in a place you might not expect: the U.S. military? That's right! The Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines,ā¦
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Start Early, Stand Out: Why Your "Brag Sheet" is Your Secret Weapon
When you think about getting into a great college or landing that first big opportunity, your grades are just one piece of the puzzle. What you do outside of the classroomāyour extracurricularsāare just as important. They tell a story about who you are, what you're passionate about, and what you're capable of. The best wayā¦
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What is the ASVAB?
TheĀ ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery)Ā is the test you must take to join the U.S. military. It measures your strengths in different subjects like math, reading, science, mechanical knowledge, and word skills. What It Tests The ASVAB is broken into sections that look at things like: Math skills (arithmetic,ā¦
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Start Early, Stand Out: Why Your "Brag Sheet" is Your Secret Weapon
When you think about getting into a great college or landing that first big opportunity, your grades are just one piece of the puzzle. What you do outside of the classroomāyour extracurricularsāare just as important. They tell a story about who you are, what you're passionate about, and what you're capable of. The best wayā¦
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Managing Finals, Tests, and Apps!
November brings finals, standardized tests, and application deadlines, which can feel overwhelming. But youāve got this! Hereās a quick guide to help you stay organized: 1. Conquering Finals Create a Study Schedule: Avoid cramming by scheduling specific times to review each subject, focusing first on your most challengingā¦
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How taking a language in high school can improve your hireability!
Learning a foreign language in high school is a powerful way to boost your career prospects and earning potential. The ability to speak a second language gives you a significant advantage in the job market. Key Benefits Higher Earning Potential: Bilingual employees in the U.S. can earn 5% to 20% more on average thanā¦
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Jumpstart Your Career: 5 Quick Certifications to Get Right Out of High School
Getting a head start on your career can make all the difference, and you don't always need a four-year degree to do it. Many certifications can be earned quickly, often in just a few weeks or months, and can significantly boost your resume. Here are 5 certifications that are great for high school students or recentā¦
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Top 5 jobs that pay well without a degree!
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top jobs for which a degree isn't required are grouped under Construction and installation Maintenance and repair Transportation Check out the top 5 careers below and let us know if you're considering any of these or which you'd like to learn more about in the commentsā¦
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šøHalloween Photo Share: Share Your Costumes, Pet Costumes & Decor!
Happy Halloween, everyone! Whether you're hitting up a haunted house or just handing out candy, we'd love to see how you and your family are celebrating. Share a picture of your awesome costumes (or your high schooler's!), your pets all dressed up, or your favorite spooky or fall decorations. Let's make this a fun, festiveā¦
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Creative Careers: Photographeršø - How to Start Your Journey While Still in High School
What a Photographer Does šø A photographer captures and processes images to tell a story or record an event. Their work goes beyond just taking pictures; it involves creative planning, technical expertise, and an understanding of composition and light. Many photographers are self-employed and specialize in a specific areaā¦
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Let's Talk Financial Aid And How to Get Your FAFSA ID!
Financial Aid š° FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2026-2027 school year opened on October 1, 2025. Parents and guardians should complete this as soon as possible, as some aid is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. You'll need an FSA ID to get started. CSS Profile: Some privateā¦
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Creative Career Spotlight: Acting and Performing š
Becoming an actor or performer is a challenging but rewarding career path. While there is no single route to success, here are some common steps you can take to get started: Develop Your Skills: Take acting classes, workshops, or private lessons to improve your technique. Get involved in local theater groups, schoolā¦
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College Application Timeline: 9th Grade
If it seems like everyone around you is anxious about college applications, thatās probably because they are! Luckily, so much of that anxiety can be squashed if you have a good grasp on the right timeline for your childās (your) college applications, and you take time to breathe along the way. Hereās a quick timeline ofā¦
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Career Spotlight: What does a successful ART CAREER look like?
Ever thought about what an artist's career really looks like? It's way more diverse and dynamic than you might imagine, with tons of possibilities beyond just galleries or studios. People often get stuck on traditional ideas of what an art career "should" be and what "success" means in that world. But here's the thing:ā¦
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College Application timeline: 10th grade
Are you or your student a current or rising 10th grader? Hereās a quick timeline of what you might consider each year in the lead up to actually filling out a college application. Tenth Grade: Have another conversation with your guidance counselor and parents. Are you challenging yourself appropriately in all areas ofā¦
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College Application timeline:11th grade
For current or rising 11th-grade students, here's a helpful timeline to consider throughout the year as you prepare for college applications. In the fall of eleventh grade, start to research colleges with intention. Make sure you have an organizational system that works for you to keep notes about what you like, what youā¦
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Career Spotlight: Culinary Careers
A great way to explore career options is to start with your passions. If youāre passionate about cooking and all things culinary, then the culinary profession might be for you! Letās break it down: What is the Culinary Profession? The culinary profession is dynamic, with a wide range of jobs. So yes, āchefā is one option,ā¦
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Test Driving Careers While In High School Through Volunteering
Volunteering is a great way to test-drive a career and see if it's a good fit for you. It provides a no-pressure way to gain experience and insights. Get a Realistic Look: Volunteering gives you hands-on experience with the day-to-day tasks of a job, helping you see beyond the description and understand the real workā¦
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College Application timeline: 12th grade
Senior year is KEY! Whether you will soon be a senior or you're currently in your senior year, here's a detailed breakdown of what to keep in mind throughout this time to stay on top of things during the application process. Summer before Senior Year: This is when youāll really start to get going on the nitty-gritty ofā¦
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Real Estate as a career after high school š”
It's never too early to start thinking about your career, and for motivated high school students, a career in real estate can be an excellent option. Unlike many other professions that require a four-year degree, becoming a real estate agent is a fast track to a professional career with a high earning potential. With theā¦
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Ask an Expert: 5 Reasons You Should Attend A College Fair
Thereās a good chance that over the next few months, there will be college fairs happening near you. They may seem like they could be overwhelming, but I promise you, they are incredibly valuable to attend! Here are five reasons why you should consider going: Youāll learn about new colleges and universities: There areā¦
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What Is A Youth Apprenticeship?š
Deciding what to do after high school can feel overwhelming, but a youth apprenticeship is a powerful, "earn while you learn" option that offers the best of both worlds. A youth apprenticeship is a structured, paid program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. It's designed for high school studentsā¦
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Ask an Expert: 5 Reasons to Have the College Budget Talk Now
Talking about money and college can feel uncomfortable, so a lot of families put it off. But having the budget conversation early is so much better than trying to fix things later. Here are five solid reasons to sit down and have that talk now. 1. Avoid heartbreak later When students get their heart set on a college thatā¦
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My child hates college...what to do???
One of my friends just messaged me this! When I read this, my heart sank. We are 3-4 weeks into them being on campus. They are hours away at the school they dreamed of attending. They don't like the dorms, the food, or some of their classes. They didn't hit it off with their roommate and aren't making friends like theyā¦
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Top 5 Paths in the Beauty & Personal Care Services Industry! āØ
The beauty and personal care industry is thriving, offering creative and rewarding careers for those with a passion for helping people look and feel their best. If you've ever considered a profession in this field, here are 5 of the top careers you can pursue: Hairstylist / Cosmetologist: The ultimate hair expert! Thisā¦
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What advice do you have for parents of high school seniors? š
Itās a big yearā¦full of pressure, milestones, and a whole lot of emotions (for students and parents). Whether youāve been through it before or are in the thick of it now, what tips, encouragement, or āI wish I had knownā¦ā advice would you share?
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Parents: Worried about the Empty Nest?
Just saw this post on Instagramā¦with various celebs discussing this transition. Have you experienced this yet? What advice would you add?
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Explore Your Dream Career: A Guide to Job Shadowing
Curious about a specific career? Job shadowing is one of the best ways to get a real-world look. What is it? It's when you follow a professional through their workday to observe their daily tasks, responsibilities, and the work environment. It's a low-commitment way to explore a career firsthand. Why is it beneficial? Itā¦
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What Makes An Essay SPARKLE?šāØ
The most impactful essays are authentic, reflective, and deeply personal. They: Tell a Story: Instead of listing achievements, encourage a specific experience that shaped them. What did they learn? How did they change? How will they carry it forward? Show, Don't Just Tell: Use vivid details to bring their story to life.ā¦
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High School Skills that Prep You For The Workforce
As a former hiring manager who often interviewed high schoolers and graduates, I've seen how intimidating it can be for high schoolers to apply or interview with āno experience." But did you know that many of the skills your high schooler currently possesses or is learning in high school directly translate to theā¦
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High School Junior Year: The Most Pivotal Year - A Timeline for Success!
Junior year is often considered the most pivotal year in high school because it's how colleges get the clearest, most complete picture of your academic ability before you apply. It plays a key role in admissions decisions, scholarships, and setting yourself up for a strong senior year. But don't worry, staying on track isā¦
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Waitlisted? Look at these University of California stats!
Saw this interesting article in the San Francisco Chronicle about the University of California admissions and their wait lists. I knew that students could only accept one offer of admission to college, but I didn't realize they could also accept spots on multiple waiting lists. Looking at the chart below from the articleā¦Iā¦
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Military Service as a Powerful Post-High School Career Option
Military service is a powerful career option right out of high school, offering structure, training, and direction during a pivotal stage of life. For young adults who may be unsure of their next steps, the military provides a clear pathway to personal development and professional achievement. From day one, recruits gainā¦
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Navigating College Athletic Recruiting: A Strategic Guide
College athletic recruiting is a marathon, not a sprint! Effectively preparing for the recruiting process requires careful planning and execution. Each sport has unique nuances, from recruitment timelines to the specific methods, events, and social media platforms coaches use to identify prospects. Understanding how toā¦
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Understanding AP: What it is and why students should take it!
Hi everyone, Iām Angela Tartaro, Director of Barronās Educational Series, where I lead the development of AP resources used by thousands of students and schools across the country. My team works directly with AP teachers and experts to ensure students are preparedānot just to earn top scores, but to build the confidenceā¦
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From Campus to Cast Member: How Our Daughter Found Confidence Through the Disney College Program
When our daughter Addison started college, we never imagined her journey would take her all the way to Walt Disney Worldābut thanks to the Disney College Program (DCP), it did. Addison discovered the program early in her freshman year and took full initiativeāresearching, applying, interviewing, and getting acceptedā¦
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š§Top 5 In-Demand Construction Tradesš ļø
The construction field is a dynamic and evolving industry. As infrastructure and urban areas grow, demand for skilled tradespeople remains high. Here are five of the most in-demand trades with promising job prospects and competitive wages: 1. Electricians are vital for installing, maintaining, and repairing electricalā¦
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Common App 25-26 updates - is your HS counselor in the loop?
If youāve been through the Common App process before or youāre feeling unsure whether your high school counselor is fully in the loop, you might be interested in this video! š„ The Common App just released their official webinar for the 2025ā2026 application season, and itās packed with important updates. [Noteā¦the webinarā¦
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High School Transcripts: Thinking Ahead!
Pro Tip š Avoid last-minute transcript panic! As soon as your high schoolās registration office opens once school starts, order a copy of your studentās transcript. That early head-start gives you time to spot and fix any errors well before college-application deadlines. Drop a š if youāre powering through applicationā¦
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5 Practical Things Seniors Can Do To Prep For Success In The Workforce!
College isnāt the only way, itās not for everyone, and thatās totally ok! If you or your child is a senior and already knows college isnāt in the plans, senior year can be the perfect time to get ready for what's next. Here are 5 practical things seniors who wonāt be going to college can focus on to set them up forā¦
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Common App: a quick video on how to get started š„
Have you started applying yet? The whole process is a bit intimidating! Wanted to share this quick video from the Common App YouTube channel that shows how to get started!
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Common App is open - Share your tips to survive
A couple of things come to mind for what worked for our familyā¦ 1. Don't wait until the last minute to start. Dive in now so you have plenty of time to see how the app works. You also need to identify where you want to apply and see if the Common App works or if you must do a separate direct application. 2. Don't overapplyā¦