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. 

Copyright © 2024 by The College Advisor, Inc. All rights reserved.

Financial Matters: ED/EA 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 aid 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.

Early Action (EA), by contrast, 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.

General Financial Aid Tips

Whether you choose ED or EA, 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.

Copyright © 2024 by The College Advisor, Inc. All rights reserved.

Focus on Majors: Food Science

Have you wondered what makes microwave pizza crispy or why some foods seem addictive or more appealing than others? If so, majoring in food science might be for you.

Food science combines the disciplines of biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering as it applies to food safety, product development, nutrition, and packaging. This major aims to teach how agricultural products are developed into the foods we see at stores. Majors learn everything from the harvest of goods to the safe and efficient ways to transport and prepare food.

This major is appropriate for students who are comfortable in math and science, enjoy working in a lab, are interested in the chemistry of food, and like to solve problems. Problem-solving is an essential component of this major because food scientists are always looking for ways to increase the safety and efficiency of all steps in the preparation of food.

Some programs offer internships and research opportunities for students. Depending on the school, programs may focus on different aspects of food science, including food chemistry or food processing.

Another notable consideration is whether or not a program is accredited by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT). The IFT accepts food science programs that establish and maintain high standards in areas it deems necessary. Students who are a part of IFT-certified programs are eligible for a Feeding Tomorrow Scholarship. Scholarships range from $1,500 to $5,000.

Students who choose a food science major will leave the program with a wide variety of skills. They will gain a strong knowledge base in key sciences. They will become well-versed in the methods of food harvesting, transportation, and processing. 

Students will understand how foods affect human health, and how fertilizers and pesticides impact the safety of foods. Because food science majors work in labs and address real issues, students graduating from the program leave with well-developed problem-solving skills. They also become adept at handling equipment, designing and running experiments, and drawing conclusions from data. 

There are many components in the food production process, so majors have a wide variety of opportunities. Creative students who work well in teams may make good food technologists, where they would research and develop new foods out of existing ingredients. Food technologists must make sure all laws are met and safety is prioritized. 

Dietitians and nutritionists evaluate the health of their clients through nutrition assessment and diagnostic laboratory testing. Based on their findings, dietitians and nutritionists advise clients on behavior modifications and intervention plans, including which foods to eat—and which to avoid—to improve their health.

Sensory scientists work to understand the characteristics of foods and then make sure that food is not only safe and nutritious but also appealing.

Students who are organized, strategic, and enjoy collecting data may be interested in working as a quality assurance manager. QA managers ensure that food products meet all regulations and requirements. As someone ascends the ranks in this job, leadership skills become important.

Students may also become marketers for food product companies, food toxicologists, or research managers. For more information and resources go to Students - IFT.org


Career Paths for Food Science Majors

· Laboratory Technician

· Food Technologist

· Nutritional Therapist

· Food Scientist

· Clinical Dietitian

· Executive Chef

· Microbiologist

· Quality Control Specialist

· Production Supervisor

· Biotechnologist

· Food Chemist

· Food Engineer

· Food Sales Representative

· Development Researcher


Copyright © 2024 by The College Advisor, Inc. All rights reserved.

Enhancing Learning Through Online Coursework

Regular high school courses can get monotonous, and with a schedule packed with AP and honors classes, it can be difficult to break away and explore new topics. But what if you could dive into something completely different? Could you picture yourself studying the behavior patterns of sharks? What about delving into the philosophies behind social protests, or immersing yourself in an introduction to Italian opera?

Renowned institutions and industry leaders have opened their virtual doors, providing a wide array of free online courses called Massive Open Online Courses, or MOOCs (rhymes with Kooks!). EdX, a non-profit MOOC operator created by Harvard and MIT in 2012, is now home to more than 20 million learners. Coursera, a for-profit venture, has reached over 75 million students. Students are able to choose from thousands of courses ranging from the unconventional, such as hypnosis 101, to the practical, such as programming, physics, and nutrition.

The hallmarks of MOOCs are reflected in their acronym—the enrollment is huge, they are open to whoever wishes to take part, and generally are free and carry no credit. The instructor may be a renowned university professor, though other classes are simply taught by engaging instructors who make learning the material fun.

Usually, MOOCs consist of video lessons, readings, assessments, and discussion forums. The most successful courses use short video lectures followed by a quiz to make sure users understand the material. Enhancing Learning Through Online Coursework

Many MOOCs require homework and some offer proctored exams. The material can be engaging and interactive, and there are often study groups composed of fellow students to help ensure learners get more out of the class. As the courses are self-paced, it provides a flexible schedule for those enrolled.

To access these MOOCs, just use your search engine! Top educational institutions such as Harvard, Stanford, and MIT, as well as corporations such as Microsoft and Google, provide online courses. There are also many popular hosting platforms, including EdX, Coursera, Udacity, and FutureLearn.

It can be difficult to narrow down which courses you want to take when there are so many options. Try making a list of a few subjects you’re interested in and look through different courses on your desired topic. Reviewing the course content, necessary prerequisites, and course level, as well as evaluating time commitment, can help you find a MOOC that fits your schedule. It is also beneficial to search for reviews and feedback, which can offer insight into the quality of the course and learning experience.

Although MOOCs may not always offer college credit, they provide students with the possibility of studying subjects beyond the scope of a traditional high school curriculum. Taking a MOOC could be a constructive way to keep school breaks fun and intellectually stimulating. MOOC exploration can help students investigate potential college majors, or it can simply serve as an indulgence into the pleasure of learning.

Copyright © 2024 by The College Advisor, Inc. All rights reserved.

Focus on Majors: Bioinformatics

In an era where data drives discovery and technology reshapes the boundary of what we thought possible, bioinformatics stands as a centerpiece of innovation and a dynamic area of exploration. Each day we see new advancements in biology and medical technology, in part due to breakthroughs by bioinformatic professionals who are fusing science and computation. It can be confusing at first glance, but think of it as biology meets computer programming. With a growing number of new job opportunities and a high post-graduate starting salary, bioinformatics is a lucrative field of study.

Bioinformatics is an interdisciplinary major that uses the fundamentals of mathematics, statistics, biology, computer science, and engineering to study biological data. Through bioinformatics, professionals develop algorithms and systems to analyze complex data such as DNA, cellular organization, and genome annotation. They work to discover insights about health and biology for the betterment of humanity. In doing so, these scientists impact areas like pharmaceuticals, medical technology, biotechnology, and medical Information.

In undergraduate courses, bioinformatics majors focus predominantly on biology and computer science. Students take courses in molecular modeling, structural biology, genetics, microbiology, chemistry, and physics. They learn how to complete mathematical computations that are pivotal to biological research. Students also develop problem-solving and verbal skills. While the courses are biology-heavy, the major allows bioinformatics students to do interdisciplinary research and develop a specific lens of focus. At many universities, undergraduate students are active participants in real-world biology experiments and programs emphasizing hands-on learning. Students who are strong analytical thinkers, pay attention to detail, and are diligently studious would be a good fit for the major. It is common to pursue a Master of Science or a Ph.D. in a specific subset following an undergraduate degree, such as biological models, biomedicine, computational algorithms, or computational genetics.

Bioinformatics does share certain characteristics with other fields; however, it is much more interdisciplinary. Work within bioinformatics would substantially involve software and computer tool development. Additionally, while it does fall under the umbrella of public health-related work, bioinformatics is predominantly centered on the cellular level of the human species. If computer programming is not your passion, explore similar fields overlapping with biology such as:

Biostatistics is the application of statistical techniques to health-related scientific research. Professionals in this field gather data related to living things and design research studies. Biostatisticians will often pursue research outside the scope of human health since studying plants and animals is crucial to analyzing certain Diseases.

Biomedical Engineering majors study the overlap of engineering and principles of biology and chemistry. They learn how to create and design medical devices that can aid in the treatment of diseases, and to develop new technologies that can repair the human body. Biomedical engineers will sometimes also use computer programming to research and analyze diseases.

Computational Biology students use mathematical and computational methods as a means to address experimental questions in biology. Using these methods, computational biologists study biological, behavioral, and social systems and create practical applications. Although similar to bioinformatics, computational biology is viewed as a subset of biology whereas bioinformatics develops the tools that are used in biological Experimentation.

Over the next ten years, it is predicted that we will see more than a 30% growth in demand for mathematicians and more than a 20% growth in demand for computer and informatics scientists.

Bioinformatics majors are well positioned to enter a broad range of fields that require specialized skill sets. The interdisciplinary nature of computational biology also makes thedegree highly valuable. While they can engage in research and be employed through research organizations and universities, bioinformaticians are more likely to work for an industrial or corporate employer, such as pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies. Daily work centers around writing code and evaluating results using computation and software tools. Importantly, these data may be used to develop and revolutionize new treatments and medical products.

Career Paths for Bioinformatics Majors

  • Bioinformatics Scientist

  • Bioinformatics Analyst

  • Bioinformatics Engineer

  • Bioinformatics Programmer

  • Biotechnologist

  • Biostatistician

  • Computational Biologist

  • Clinical Lab Technician

  • Epidemiologist

  • Research Specialist

  • Technical Writer

  • Professor/Lecturer

  • Medical Technologist

  • Physician

  • Agriculturalist

Copyright © 2024 by The College Advisor, Inc. All rights reserved.

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, to manage their finances (although you remain responsible for paying their college tuition), or 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.

Set up a bank account that will allow you to easily transfer money to their account. 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’s 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.

Copyright © 2024 by The College Advisor, Inc. All rights reserved.

College Essay: Telling Your Story



As the junior year of high school comes to an end, college application season begins. The components of a strong application consist of grades, test scores, extracurricular activities, and teacher recommendations. And then, there are the essays. The main essay is typically the Common Application (CA) essay with seven prompts to choose from and a 650-word limit - note that they are prompts, not questions to answer: Common App Essay Prompts.

The essays are your opportunity to share your voice and personalize your application, making the whole package a compelling story of YOU. Having had several years to perfect the art of an academic essay, you may find it challenging to face the demands from colleges that your essays are personal, unique, and interesting. Rarely do young people have the time for self-reflection that such an essay requires – they are so busy – but this self-reflection is important to free up the ideas that will ultimately become your best essays.

Take the time to sit quietly and think about what makes you uniquely “you.” What are your passions, life experiences, activities, and interests? What do you want the admissions officers to know about you that isn’t already in your application? Make lists; consider your life as a movie and write down the highlights and outcomes. Chat with family and friends about what they think makes you special. The essay doesn’t need to be about anything traumatic; rather, it can be about a slice of your life.

By early summer, focus on some free writing – write for at least five minutes every day- don’t stop, just write, and you’ll soon see some themes emerging. Keep refining your ideas and start building some specific outlines. Don’t worry about the prompts; if you have a variety of ideas, we’ll connect to 1 or 2 of them later. In late July, we’ll have our Essay Brainstorming sessions and you can jump in and start putting your ideas in action. If you have been working hard on self-reflection, free writing, and outlines, you will find it much easier to create solid drafts of your essay and complete your final version before the end of August. My aim to have your CA essay completed by late August or early September.

Share your polished essay with friends and family and ask them to give you a few words that summarize what they have learned about you. Is that what you want to say? If not, rework your essay. Show it to someone who doesn’t know your writing nd see how they respond. But don’t allow others to rewrite your essay – admission officers are acutely aware of how the tone of an essay can change when a parent has been allowed to work on a rewrite!

As with all good writing, never forget your reader. In this case, it’s probably a tired, overworked, young admission officer who may well be a recent graduate of that institution – make him or her sit up and take notice when your essay appears on their monitor. As you brainstorm ideas, find ways of incorporating your personal growth and your readiness for a bigger future, and make a connection between your past, present, and future. You want your reader to see you as a mature and valuable asset to their campus community.

Remember that your best essay will be a polished and authentic story of who you are and what makes you tick. Admission officers are not looking for Pulitzer Prize-winning essays; they just want to learn as much as possible about you, and how you might strengthen their institution. Finally, if you can be vulnerable, take some risks, and share your personal story you will get to know yourself better too and that is always a great thing.

Copyright © 2024 by The College Advisor, Inc. All rights reserved.

AP and Dual Enrollment

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 register for 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 only 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 their regular counterparts, 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 any college credit and are not as highly regarded. 

APs are designed to give students a college-level course experience within a high school setting. With a high score on the AP exam, a student could potentially earn college credit and save money on tuition in the future. 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, most 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 to help you have a lighter class schedule while doing an internship. The great thing about AP coursework is that the curriculum is standardized across the US. Colleges know exactly what you are learning - and what you are learning is the same as students across the country. Because of that, it’s very easy for colleges to understand the rigor of AP coursework. 

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 and state. Classes are graded based on a combination of assignments and tests, so unlike the AP system, one exam does not determine the outcome. Dual-enrollment or Running Start (Washington state only) is a great option for students who have exhausted all the challenging coursework at their high school. Unfortunately, English 101 at a community college in Washington is not necessarily the same as English 101 at a community college in Texas. Because of this, 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.   

Copyright © 2024 by The College Advisor, Inc. All rights reserved

Focus on Majors: Art and Design

Have you ever thought to yourself, “I enjoy being creative and finding unusual solutions to visual problems?” Or, “When I see a blank page, I’m compelled to draw on it?” Or even, “Making art is the one thing I am passionate about?” If you have these thoughts or ones similar, then majoring in the arts may be for you. 

The power of art is its versatility. Students are not limited in what they are able to study and can specialize in a wide variety of options, such as, painting, photography, film, animation, architecture, ceramics and more. Art is a field that allows students to explore different cultures and perspectives while also equipping them with 21st century skills needed for the rapidly changing workforce of the future. Artists create value for everyone in society by producing forms of entertainment that can be enjoyed by all. However, an artist’s creative expertise plays a lesser-known but equally essential role in many other career fields. Artists do crucial work as innovators, merging the fields of science, education, and art. For instance, artists are key to revitalizing communities through developing civic infrastructure and city beautification projects. Regardless of the schooling programs or type of degree, studying art prepares students for a career through developing and blending skills including creativity, visual literacy, critical thinking, and project management. Here are some potential pathways within the art field:

Fine Arts comprises many different areas of study and courses depending on the specific field. Students will learn about history, skills, and methodologies in their artistic field. There are five main fine arts categories: visual arts, theater and dance, film and photography, music and creative writing. Application for fine arts programs usually requires a portfolio, which is dependent on the type of concentration a student is entering. 

Design majors gain a variety of skills with practical applications through their studies. It is a blend of critical thinking, innovating, and teamwork.  Classes in the design field can range from exhibition or product design to fashion to illustration and even computer programming. Graduating with a degree in design can open a huge number of career paths spanning multiple fields. 

Media Arts involves the study of film and videos. Students can focus on media history and visual aspects of film and photography but can also study production.  Through media arts programs, students will learn versatile skills that build a foundation for a successful future. Graduates with a degree in media arts often enter the entertainment or communication industry, including advertising, film, or public relations. 

An art institute is appropriate for those individuals who truly wish to immerse themselves in art.  For visual artists they generally award a Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) degree and often require a portfolio, or a collection of a student’s art pieces, as part of the admission process. B.F.A. programs train their constituents for art-based careers; students may prepare for a future in fashion, auto or interior design, video game development, animation, or the graphic arts. At an art institute, students will generally start with foundation courses such as basic design and history of art, then focus on an area of concentration during the later part of their studies. 

It’s important to consider, however, that studio art classes require hours of hard work and students at art institutes have little time or opportunity to get the breadth of education that is possible at a liberal arts college. Additionally, most art institutes do not offer the variety of extracurricular clubs, sports, and activities many college students seek. Therefore, if you’re interested in focusing on art but would also like to explore other interests, pursuing an art major at a liberal arts college is another great option.  Although students in Bachelor of Arts programs do not get the intensity of experience that BFA graduates do, they benefit from the more rounded college-life experience available at a comprehensive institution. Both the B.F.A. and B.A. programs prepare students for graduate programs in the arts. A master’s degree is generally required for those hoping for employment in museums and galleries or for teaching at the high school level. Museum curators, directors, and college professors often have Ph.D.s.

 Careers for Art & Design Majors

Fortunately, the notion of “the poor starving artist” no longer rings true today.  The arts and culture sector is a key area in state-level economic growth, and 80% of working creatives are poly-occupational, meaning many hold more than one job at a time. All art majors should seek out internships to gain real-world experience. Art majors may go on to work in a variety of art-related fields. You can learn more about careers in the visual arts by using the Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Career Paths for Art and Design

· Motion Graphics Designer

· Visual Effects Artist

· Video Game Artist

· Virtual Reality Artist

· Augmented Reality Artist

· Art/Creative Director

· Fashion/Costume Designer

· Film/Commercial Director

· Graphic Designer

· Interior Designer

· Photographer

· Industrial Designer

· Production Designer

· Matte Painter

· Look Development Artist

· Craft or Fine Artist

Copyright © 2024 by The College Advisor, Inc. All rights reserved

Financial Matters: Payment Options for College

Students who will begin college in the fall semester should receive their tuition bill a few months before the term begins. If you need more information, contact the bursar’s office or student financial services. Check the bill carefully to make sure you (if applicable) received awarded financial aid. Some schools require you to accept the financial aid offer, which is found in the student’s portal.

Tuition Payment Plans - Tuition payment plans provide you with the option to spread out tuition payments. Plans vary among colleges. Some allow multiple installments, while others require that you pay one lump sum per semester. A possible advantage to most tuition payment plans is that you might not incur the interest and finance charges that come with loans and borrowed money. Contact your college for more information about their tuition payment plan options.

Home Equity Loan or Line of Credit - An alternative or additional measure to pay for college is to use the equity in your home to help fund a college education. There are both home equity loans and home equity lines of credit. The difference between a loan and a line of credit is that loan proceeds are received in one lump sum. Although each person’s financial situation is different, you and your family may decide that one of these options is right for you.

Parent PLUS Loan - Parent PLUS loans are Federal loans designed to help parents pay for college costs.To apply for a PLUS loan, your family must complete the FAFSA financial aid application. Some colleges require additional paperwork. Parents may borrow up to the total cost of attendance, minus any other financial assistance received by the student.  Repayment begins 60 days after the loan is disbursed, although some parents may qualify to defer payments until after the student leaves college (note—interest continues to accrue during deferment). The current interest rate on PLUS loans is 8.05%, which is fixed for the life of the loan. There’s also a loan origination fee of 4.228% of the amount borrowed.

If you request a deferment, you don’t make payments if your child is enrolled at least half-time and for an additional six months after the student graduates. You can speak with your loan officer about the deferment of payment. All borrowers must complete credit counseling for parent PLUS loan borrowers. Loans are typically paid back in 10-25 years.

Credit Cards - About 85% of colleges now accept credit cards for tuition and fees. On the surface, this seems like an easy way to pay for college and perhaps rack up some rewards points at the same time. On the downside, many colleges charge additional fees for using this option.

According to creditcards.com, two-thirds of colleges charge a service fee - 2.75% is the most common – for this option.  Charging $10,000 in tuition to your card could add an extra $275 to your cost.  Add in the higher interest rates generally charged by credit card companies, and the added benefit of those “rewards” start to shrink pretty quickly.

Copyright © 2024 by The College Advisor, Inc. All rights reserved

Avoiding Senioritis

Senioritis sounds like a medical condition, but is rather a condition of the mind when high school seniors become unmotivated and feel academically apathetic. This usually happens in the last quarter of high school when mid-term grades have been sent, and college acceptances have been received. Students might decide to skip classes or turn in subpar work. It is important to remember that colleges’ offers of admission are conditional and often states, "Your admission is contingent on your continued successful performance." This means colleges reserve the right to deny you admission should your senior year grades drop. Students are expected to maintain their academic performance throughout their senior year. Every year, colleges around the country rescind admission offers. 

Signs of senioritis can be difficulty concentrating on schoolwork, caring less about grades, poor attitude, and out-of-control behavior. Suggestions for “curing” senioritis:

  • Accept the feelings you are having and know that they are normal.

  • Set academic goals in order to have a strong finish.

  • Get a job and make some money to use for college.

  • Find time to try something new that will feel invigorating, such as volunteering or trying a new activity.

  • Spend time with family and friends.

  • Celebrate your accomplishments. 



Colleges admit you based on the information in your application, and if there are any changes, you need to let the college know. If you have dropped a class that was listed on the transcript you submitted to colleges, your application has changed. Colleges receive your final transcript during the summer, and you don’t want to find out in July that you no longer have a place in the freshman class. 

It is much better to be proactive and explain why you dropped the class or your grades have dropped. If the drop in academic performance is severe enough to jeopardize your acceptance, admission officers can advise you on how to salvage your admission.

There’s another reason to keep working hard in school. It makes the transition to college-level work easier. That’s one of the advantages of taking AP courses, which require a high level of commitment throughout the senior year to prepare for AP exams in May. The anti-slacker curriculum built into AP classes will help you adjust to college coursework more easily.

If you start procrastinating during senior year, it’s difficult to get back to good study habits when you arrive at college, where there will be lots of distractions and no parents reminding you to finish your history paper before you go out for pizza with your friends.  

While you do need to keep your grades up, making sure you have some fun will help you avoid burnout. Just don’t go overboard. Summer is less than a few months away, and you will have plenty of time to work and play before going to college. 

It’s not only lower grades that can torpedo an offer of admission. While spray painting the school gym might seem like a fun prank to you and your friends, a disciplinary issue can also mean the end of your college acceptance.

Students who keep senioritis under control will get their reward when they embark on the great adventure of college, in just a few months. 

Copyright © 2024 by The College Advisor, Inc. All rights reserved

Focus on Majors: Data Science

With the widespread adoption of mobile phones and computers and the resulting huge quantities of data generated from these devices, there is now a demand for analysts to extract knowledge and insights from that data. It is now easier for organizations to learn about their users as they interact with the company’s website, social media, or mobile channels, all of which leave records that can be accessed and analyzed. Such datasets are information-rich and can help guide organizations to improve products and services. Accessing and analyzing this data requires trained data scientists, and demand for them is high. To address this demand, many colleges and universities have created programs specifically focused on data science and ancillary studies. 

What is data science?

Data science is an interdisciplinary field. In this major, students learn to combine statistics, computer science, mathematics, information science, and knowledge about systems to pull and analyze data for a specific purpose. As this is a rapidly changing field, data science degree programs aim to teach students how to think about the field flexibly and to engage critically with new problems.

An undergraduate studying data science will start by building a basis of knowledge in mathematics, particularly calculus and linear algebra, and take several statistics and computer science courses. While computer science will provide the programming skills needed to extract data and use helpful software tools, a statistical background will provide students with the analytical skills needed to interpret data scientifically. In addition to focusing on these core subject areas, many data science programs have specialized fields of study:

Machine Learning is focused on using data to make predictions. To do this, students learn the basics of neural networks and artificial intelligence to mimic how neurons in the human brain work together to solve problems and arrive at conclusions.

Data Analytics uses large data sets to find trends and answer questions. Data Analytics can be valuable to businesses and other organizations not only to improve decision making, but also to increase employee productivity and help create personalized customer experiences. 

Inference uses experiments, predictive modeling, and A/B testing of data to predict outcomes. Inference typically requires additional courses in statistics. 

Natural Language Processing (NLP) uses Machine Learning (ML) technology to enable computers to understand natural language as humans do. Whether the language is spoken or written, natural language processing can use AI to take data, process it, and make sense of it in a way a computer can understand.

What careers stem from this major? 

With an undergraduate degree, students can pursue junior-level roles as data analysts or data engineers at a wide variety of companies. While analysts focus on organizing and interpreting raw data, data engineers help build the systems analysts use. These careers can be found at both large and small companies in industries as diverse as healthcare, agriculture, technology, and consulting, to name a few. 

Within the role of a data analyst, there are specialties such as risk management, market research, and business analysis. Risk management analysts tend to work for insurance companies or on risk prevention teams. Typically, the goal is to ensure maximum profit. Students may also become database administrators, focusing their skills on overseeing a company’s database.

To pursue higher-level positions or research-based careers, students may also choose to obtain a graduate degree, which can take up to two years or more while they attend full-time.







Career Paths for Data Science Majors




· Database Administrator

· Data Analyst

· Data Engineer

· Market Research Analyst

· Applications Architect

· Tableau Developer

· Operations Research Analyst

· Data Scientist

· Business Intelligence Analyst

· Risk Management Analyst

· Market Researcher

· Business Analyst

· Clinical Data Manager

· Quantitative Researcher

Financial Matters: College Tax Credit

College is expensive. Educational tax benefits can help students offset the cost of college by reducing their or their parents’ federal tax bill. The person filing taxes can claim a tuition tax credit for money spent on your college expenses if you are listed as their dependent.  Many American families, however, aren’t aware these programs exist. The federal government offers a range of tax breaks designed to help families save and pay for college. These include tax credits, as well as several tax deductions. The main difference between tax credits and tax deductions is that credits are discounted from the amount of tax you owe, rather than reducing your taxable income. Here are three key benefits to be aware of as your child plans for college.

American Opportunity Tax Credit

The American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) is a credit for qualified education expenses for an eligible student for the first four years of higher education. The amount of credit is 100 percent of the first $2,000 and 25% of the next $2000 (or up to $2500 total) for tuition, fees, and required course materials paid for students enrolled at least half-time in college.  Expenses for room, board, transportation, and personal expenses are not included. Up to $1,000 of the credit is refundable even if you owe no Federal income tax. There is a limit of four years of credit per student,

and it cannot be claimed in the same year as a Lifetime Learning Credit or

the Tuition/Fees deduction. To claim the full credit, your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) must be $80,000 or less ($160,000 or less for married filing jointly).

Lifetime Learning Credit

The Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC) is similar to the AOTC but less restrictive. This credit is for qualified tuition and related expenses. This federal tax credit can reduce your taxable income by up to $2,000 if you're pursuing an undergraduate, graduate, vocational, or non-degree program. Course supplies, living expenses, and transportation costs are not qualified expenses for the Lifetime Learning Credit.

The credit is available for 20 percent of the first $10,000 of qualified education expenses or a maximum of $2,000 per return. The LLC is not refundable, so you can use the credit to pay any tax you owe, but you won’t receive any of the credit back as a refund.  There is no limit on the number of years this credit can be claimed, but it cannot be combined with the American Opportunity Tax Credit in the same tax year.  Who’s eligible in 2023: For tax year 2023, the amount of your LLC is gradually reduced (phased out) after your MAGI reaches between $80,000 and $90,000 ($160,000 and $180,000 if you file a joint return).

How to Claim College Tax Credits

Claiming college tax credits is a straightforward process, typically done when filing your annual tax return. To claim these credits, you will need to:

· Obtain Form 1098-T: Educational institutions are required to provide Form 1098-T, which summarizes the tuition payments made during the tax year.

· Complete IRS Form 8863: This form is used to calculate and claim the AOTC or LLC. You will need to provide information about the student, educational institution, and expenses paid.

· Include the Credit on Your Tax Return: When filing your taxes, include the calculated credit amount on the appropriate line of your tax return.

College Savings Accounts

Opening a 529 account allows families to pay for future expenses associated with college. Contributions to a 529 plan are not deductible and do not have to be reported on federal income tax returns as long as the money you withdraw is used to pay qualified education expenses. The contributions will grow over time while benefiting from tax advantages such as tax-deferred earnings and tax-free distributions. Qualified education expenses include:

· Tuition and fees: Funds can be used to pay for tuition and mandatory fees for enrollment at an eligible institution.

· Room and Board: Students need to be enrolled at least half-time; room and board can be covered by a 529 fund up to the allowance calculated by the schools.

· Books and Supplies: Necessary books, supplies, and equipment required for coursework.

· Technology Expenses: Computers, software, and internet access may be considered qualified expenses.

In addition to these three educational tax benefits, parents and students may be eligible for a host of other educational tax benefits. Families should investigate all available options, and consult with an accountant or tax consultant to decide on the most beneficial educational tax benefits. For more information on tax credits, visit IRS Tax Benefits for Education: Information Center.



Handling Denials: How Parents Can Help

Watching your teen's face crumble when they receive a college denial can be heartbreaking. Parents are inclined to try to make the situation feel better for their child. Remember, this is a time to listen and understand that your child’s experience of denial may be different than yours. For some students, there may be a sense of shock that they were rejected. Either way, it is important to watch their emotional cues and support them. If you seem upset or angry they may feel that they have disappointed you. Denials are inevitable in an atmosphere of increasingly selective admissions, but they can also be seen as an opportunity for growth. 

The first step is to accept that dealing with denials are complicated by your child's emotions, your emotions, and both of your preconceived ideas, hopes, and dreams about college and the future. This becomes even more difficult when students feel pressure to fulfill expectations of their classmates. Worst is the judgment many students feel from their parents as a sense of disappointment in them and their efforts. Parents need to know and accept that where their child gets admitted and chooses to go to college is not a reflection of their parenting skills or an indication of their child's future success and well-being.

When your child is ready to talk, reframing the situation is helpful. They may feel this is the end of the world, but as we know, there are many paths one can take in life that lead us to our goals. Remind them that they are not the only ones who have been denied. The colleges do not know your child as a person and all they have to offer. Colleges base admission decisions on facts and figures, along with their institutional priorities that factor into who they will accept any given year. 

Warren Buffett, the extremely successful chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, said that, “Everything that happened in my life…that I thought was a crushing event at the time, has turned out for the better.” One of those “events” is the rejection he received from Harvard Business School.

Don’t get caught up by the prestige factor. It’s important to recognize that a brand name doesn't equal success or, more importantly, doesn’t equal happiness. Your child’s performance during their undergraduate experience will be the biggest factor that determines their job placement opportunities. Sometimes denials can send a student to a different school, down a different path, and in line for unexpected opportunities. Some students think they want big schools and realize they’ll have more opportunities to shine at a smaller school. Be positive about other institutions.  Celebrate your child’s acceptances!

For many students, the “denial letter” may be the first time they have experienced serious disappointment. Their egos are bruised, but the truth is, as all adults know, they’ll grow and they’ll get over it. Handling this “no” will make them better prepared for future obstacles. College rejections happen to almost all students, but they don’t need to define the rest of their lives. 

Financial Matters: Comparing College Financial Aid Offers

After months of anticipation, your child’s college admissions decisions have arrived with great news. Congratulations!  But, before making a college choice, many families still have one more very important thing to do: compare the financial aid offers from all of the colleges to which their student has been admitted. 

Your family should receive financial aid and scholarship offers from your child’s colleges soon. If you have not received a financial aid offer from a college to which your child has been admitted to by the first week in April, call the financial aid office immediately to find out why.  Don’t put this phone call off!

Once you have received all of your child’s financial aid letters, the following three-step process can help your family accurately compare the offers and make a smart decision about which college to attend.

Step 1: Determine your  total cost of attendance for each college 
While colleges provide estimates covering tuition, room, board, fees, and additional costs like books and personal expenses, these may not align with your family's actual expenses. Certain majors or distant locations may incur extra costs (e.g., lab fees, and travel expenses). Research specific factors like airfare, major-related expenses, and local living costs. Don't rely solely on the college's estimate; create your own "estimated total cost of attendance" for accurate comparison when evaluating financial aid offers.

Step 2: Compare your family’s out-of-pocket costs for each school
Every college expects each family to contribute something to their student’s education.  To make sure you’re accurately comparing what each college will cost your family, compare each of the following items from each financial aid letter one by one:

Student Aid Index (SAI): The SAI has replaced the EFC (Expected Family Contribution). Though similar to the EFC, the SAI figure is used as a guide to determine how much aid a student is eligible to receive. This figure is determined by the sum of parental and student income and assets.

Student Loans: Most financial aid offers from colleges will include student loans.  You may choose to turn down loans or only accept part of the loan amount offered. Borrowing a manageable amount to cover college expenses can be a good plan.  However, the keyword is “manageable.”  All loans are not created equal.  Federal student loans tend to have the lowest interest rates and, for some types of Federal Student Loans, interest does not begin to accrue until six months after you graduate from college.  Some colleges include private loans in their financial aid offers.  The interest rates on private student loans are significantly higher than Federal student loans. Use caution when considering taking expensive private student loans, even for a “dream” college.

You’ll want to carefully consider the types of loans each college has offered you and make sure you and your child understand the full cost of each loan, including loan origination fees and interest costs over the life of the loan. 

Parent Loans: To help parents pay their expected share of college expenses, the Federal Government offers loans for parents called PLUS loans.  PLUS loans, if used wisely, can help cover your family's SAI if you don’t have savings or income to pay the full SAI, but keep in mind that interest and monthly payments begin as soon as you sign for a PLUS loan.  Again, you can turn down any PLUS loans in your financial aid offers, but you will need to make up the difference out of pocket. Make sure to understand the terms and interest rate if you do borrow. 

Federal Work Study: Federal Work Study helps cover personal expenses and books by providing on-campus jobs. Students earn up to the awarded amount, contingent on finding a work-study job and working sufficient hours. Failure to meet the criteria affects the financial aid offer. Work Study funds are not available until the student begins working. Despite this, it offers valuable resume-building opportunities. Research indicates that students working 10-15 hours per week, the typical work-study commitment, often achieve better grades. Calculate the total of SAI, loans, and Work Study for each college, and subtract from the cost of attendance to determine the family's "out-of-pocket" cost.

Step 3: Consider the “free” money in each financial aid offer
After assessing out-of-pocket costs, focus on the "free" money offered by each college, such as grants and merit scholarships. Grants act as a discount on total attendance costs and don't require repayment. Be aware of GPA requirements for scholarships. However, don't base decisions solely on grants and scholarships; prioritize total out-of-pocket costs from Step 2. The college with the most significant scholarship may not be the most cost-effective. Comparing offers accurately is crucial for an informed decision. Contact financial aid offices for clarification, and once you determine costs for four years, make a family decision for the most sensible choice.

Financial Matters: The Hidden Costs of College

College financial aid packages should start arriving this month. Sometimes additional fees are built into the budget information provided by colleges, and sometimes it’s not. When you begin to compare your out-of-pocket costs, be sure to include expenses that go beyond room, board, and tuition.  These costs may vary from one institution to another, but they add up quickly. Here are some of the additional costs to keep in mind:

Books- According to the College Board (2021-2022 academic year), full-time undergraduates at a four-year university spent an average of $1,240 on books and supplies. Buying new textbooks from the university bookstore is expensive. Students can look on Amazon, Cheapest Textbooks, or even Barnes and Noble, and they can also buy used textbooks to save money.

Another possibility is the campus library, though this option may not always be available because of the amount of text books available. When done with the books, consider reselling them.

Food- Meal plans differ from college to college—buy the plan that best reflects the way you are likely to eat. According to the Education Data Initiative (August 2023), college students spend an average of $410 a month eating off campus, in addition to the average meal plan of $331. Food costs also vary depending on the location of the college.

Transportation- Distance from home and availability of lower-cost travel options should be considered.  If you will be traveling by air, buy tickets well in advance for peak travel periods such as Thanksgiving.  Bringing a car to campus? Better add in the cost of parking, gas, and maybe some parking tickets.

Greek Life- Costs associated with going Greek can be expensive.  In addition to chapter dues, initiation fees can range from hundreds to even thousands. Sometimes even higher costs are incurred when living in a sorority or fraternity house rather than in campus housing. Special activities also can be costly.

Club and Organization Fees- These can include fees for intramural sports, political groups, or professional organizations.

Studying Abroad- Expenses are often incurred including air travel, living expenses, and visas.  Some colleges will provide stipends to cover additional expenses so that more students can experience a semester abroad.

Decorating and Furnishing Living Spaces- Dorms usually provide basic furniture and lighting. Students will need to provide their bedding, lamps, rugs, and posters. Once they move off campus, they may also need to buy furniture, beds, and kitchen supplies.

Emergency Expenses- Though unpredictable, they are inevitable, whether it is a trip to the emergency room, a car repair or a lost laptop. It is helpful to have some money reserved.

By keeping these additional costs in mind you and your student can more effectively compare the cost of attendance at the colleges you are considering. Please reach out if you would like to meet about the different college financial aid offers you are receiving. I am happy to help you break down the costs and compare apples to apples!

Focus on Majors: Majors, Minors, Concentrations

Students are typically asked to choose a major when going to college. Understanding choices beyond a major allows them to broaden their area of expertise and interests.

Majors:  Your major is defined as the specific, primary area of study you will focus on during your college career. Typically, you don’t have to declare your major until the end of your second year to graduate on time. Anywhere from 1/3 to 1/2 of your classes will be within this area of study. Your major selection will appear on your official transcript. Coursework will move from introductory classes, through the intermediate level and on to advanced senior level in a cohesive arrangement. 

Minors:  A minor course of study is a set of classes, from 15 to 18 credit hours,  designed to complement and enhance your choice of major. Some college majors require a minor, but typically, the choice of minor is an individual one for each student to consider. A minor can be your opportunity to explore a new subject of interest or add coursework that enriches your choice of major. Many colleges permit more than one minor and will identify that minor on the official transcript.

Concentrations:  This is a coordinated group of coursework that represents a sub-specialization or emphasis within a specific major field of study. Concentrations are defined within your major and allow you to customize your experience. The selection of your concentration, sometimes called a 'track', will provide a potential employer with more information about your specific areas of interest and expertise.

Most high school students have no clear idea of what they want to study in college – they just know they want to get into the best possible college to help them realize their unique goals and ambitions. When looking at colleges, it is important to review each listing of academic majors available. Is there more than one that draws your interest? According to the National Center for Education Statistics, about 80% of college students change their major at least once. As a nod to the understanding that many young people are unclear about their choice of major, some colleges are creating programs designed to encourage exploration across the range of liberal arts disciplines. One more great possibility for some hard-working and talented students is the completion of two majors – this is known as a double major. Careful attention to graduation requirements is critical to successful completion. 

The opportunity to broaden your undergraduate career by selecting a minor is easily available to most students. Colleges often offer many minors, and several allow students to complete more than one. It is important to work closely with your advisor to be sure that you graduate on time. Two strong reasons for selecting a minor are personal fulfillment and professional enhancement. It also reveals to a prospective employer that you are knowledgeable about several fields, thus making you a more desirable candidate.

Students who resist being ‘put in a box’ will be excited to review concentration options within their choice of major. This gives students the chance to choose something that matches their interests, allowing them to explore and gain expertise in a sub-specialization of their major. Examples include Tourism and Hospitality Management with a concentration in Destination and Event Management, English with a concentration in Science, Medicine, and Literature, and Business Management with concentrations in Entrepreneurship and Accounting. 

Have you heard of Shakespeare’s metaphor about the world being your oyster? Well in this case, a college degree can be your own personal pearl - to be selected, enhanced, and completed through a variety of course offerings, all designed to create a customized degree program that will reward you with both personal growth and professional opportunities. 

Majors, Minors, Concentration Possibilities

Major: Environmental Design

Concentrations

· Environmental Product of Design

· Architecture

· Landscape Architecture

· Sustainable Planning and Design

Major: Business 

Concentrations:

· Operations and Business Analytics

· Sports Business

· Entrepreneurship

Major: Biological Sciences

Concentrations:

· Endocrinology

· Genetics

Major: Engineering

Minors:

· English

· Foreign Language 

Double Majors: 

· Marketing and Communications

· Business and Art

· Economics and Global Politics

· Environmental Science and 

· Public Policy

Planning For Summer

Admissions officers want to see that students have spent some of their summer productively. As you explore options, remember to engage in something you are interested in or passionate about rather than choosing a program because you think it will look good on your college application.

Some colleges allow high school students to attend summer sessions, where they can study subjects that are not offered in high school, explore possible college majors, and earn transferable college credits.

Choosing a residential summer class housed at a university is a great way to experience life away from home. Living with a roommate and even doing one’s own laundry can help students feel more independent and self-confident. Many enrichment programs don’t offer college credit but do provide an opportunity for students to pursue their interests. Students who want to perfect their Spanish may want a homestay in Spain or Latin America. A budding engineer might enjoy a camp where they build robots.  

For others, community service is the way to create a meaningful summer experience. The Student Conservation Association sends crews of six to eight students with two adult leaders to national parks, forests, and urban green spaces to hike trails, build shelters, fight invasive species, and protect wildlife habitats. Of course, you don’t have to travel across the country to be involved in community service.  Many local organizations also offer the opportunity to stay involved throughout the school year.

Some students need or want to earn money over the summer. Having a job can help you learn how to work with people, prioritize tasks, and manage time. Earning a paycheck can also provide a wonderful boost to self-esteem.

Summer jobs can also offer opportunities to explore career interests.  If a student wants to be a veterinarian, a job at an animal hospital is an excellent way to see what’s involved in being a vet. Working as a camp counselor is great for students interested in teaching or psychology.

Some students create their own summer programs. A prospective science major might contact professors at local colleges doing interesting research and see if they could use some help in the lab over the summer. This can be a way for a student to check out if microbiology is really where she’s headed, and if things go well, ask for a recommendation letter.  Internship spots fill early; contact prospective mentors now.

With so many options, students need to keep in mind that there’s not one “best” summer activity. If you find something you are excited about doing, you’re likely to experience the kind of personal growth that makes for interesting college applications.

Copyright © 2024 by The College Advisor, Inc.  All rights reserved.

College Experience Tied to Success

When it comes to being satisfied with work and life after college, it’s not where you go to college, but what you experience in college that matters, finds a study from Gallup and Purdue University.

Researchers surveyed over 30,000 U.S. college graduates about their job engagement and overall satisfaction with life.  The study found that the type of college attended – public or private, small or large, very selective or not very selective – had little effect on a graduate’s long-term work satisfaction or sense of well-being.  

Instead, researchers found strong correlations between the types of experiences students have in college and their odds of being engaged at work and thriving in other areas of life. Specifically, college graduates were more likely to report feeling engaged in their current jobs if they’d had one or more of these key experiences in college:

- An internship or job that allowed them to apply what they were learning in the classroom.

- Actively participated in extracurricular activities on campus.

- Worked on academic projects that took a semester or more to complete.

- Had a professor who cared about the student as a person.

- Had a professor who made them excited about learning.

- Had a mentor who encouraged them to pursue their goals and dreams.

Students who reported that they’d had three or more of the above experiences more than doubled the odds of work satisfaction after college. Additionally, the study found that finishing college in four years doubles the odds of work satisfaction for working graduates.  Commitment to work is an important indicator of whether or not a graduate feels they are thriving in other areas of well-being, such as feeling socially connected, healthy, and financially stable.  The study found that a college graduate’s odds of thriving in other aspects of well-being are 4.6 times higher if they feel they are engaged at work.  Not surprisingly, if graduates felt that their college had prepared them well for life outside of college, they were 2.5 times more likely to express satisfaction with other aspects of their well-being. As with work engagement, however, the type of college attended had little correlation with other aspects of well-being.  

Another key factor in the future well-being of college graduates: student debt.  The study found that the higher the amount of student debt, the worse graduates scored on well-being. Only 4% of graduates owing between $20,000 and $40,000 in student debt were thriving in all areas of well-being, compared with 14% of those who did not take out loans to pay for college. 

What implications does this study have for students and parents weighing college options?  “When it comes to finding the secret to success, it’s not ‘where you go,’ it’s ‘how you do it’,” note the study’s researchers. “These elements – more than any others – have a profound relationship to a person’s life and career.”

Resource: The full Gallup-Purdue University study, Great Jobs Great Lives, can be downloaded at this link: http://www.gallup.com/poll/168848/life-college-matters-life-college.aspx.