Author: College Expert

March College Expert Newsletter

March 2024 College Expert Newsletter
Say goodbye to bubble answer sheets and No. 2 pencils – the SAT has gone digital. What does this mean in terms of format, navigation and scoring? We cover it all in our March issue! Other articles include: Focus on Majors: Business – A popular major with many career paths and options. Financial Matters – Greek life, study abroad, it all adds up - and adds to the true cost of college. ...
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February College Expert Newsletter

February 2024 College Expert Newsletter-4x6
According to a survey of 30,000 college graduates, your experiences in college have a bigger impact on your job and life satisfaction than the college you attended. Which experiences matter most? Find out in our February issue. Other articles include: Focus on Majors, Minors and Concentrations – Choosing and customizing your academic path. Financial Matters – Comparing college financi...
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Making the Most of Your Summer

Are you longing for summer as much as we are? While you’re dreaming of warmer days, you should also start looking ahead for summer opportunities either close to home or on a college campus. While summer programs are completely optional, they are a great way to dive deeply into one of your interests, and colleges like to see how you’ve engaged with something you love outside of c...
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January College Expert Newsletter

Jan 2024 College Expert Newsletter
Preparing for college involves more than academics. Giving your student some freedom in high school will ease their transition after they graduate. Read five tips for how to get started. Other articles include: Focus on Majors/Social Work – Passionate about helping others? Explore this alternative to psychology. Financial Matters – Considerations when applying for scholarships. Admiss...
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December College Expert Newsletter

December 2023 College Expert Newsletter
As you plan for college, it isn’t a bad idea to have a few career interests in mind. Not sure what you want to do? This month, we offer five ideas for connecting the dots between your interests, your major and potential careers. Other articles include: Focus on Majors/Human Centered Design – Creating products for diverse users. Financial Matters – It’s time to complete the FAFSA and C...
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November College Expert Newsletter

November 2023 College Expert Newsletter
Building your college list? It’s important to understand an institution’s strengths. Some excel in engineering, while others may be tops in education or journalism. In this issue, we tell you what to look for in an academic department. Other articles include: Focus on Majors/Viticulture and Enology – The study of winemaking and marketing.Financial Matters – Understanding financial aid ...
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October College Expert Newsletter

October 2023 College Expert Newsletter
Colleges will be on the lookout for ChatGPT generated essays, and while there are legitimate and helpful ways to use the technology, relying on it for writing is risky and ineffective. In this month's issue, read about the implications of ChatGPT. Other articles include: Focus on Majors/English – Career opportunities beyond writing and teaching. Financial Matters – Important changes t...
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September College Expert Newsletter

September 2023 College Expert Newsletter
You have your college list, now it’s time to decide on an application plan. Your decision can impact deadlines, when you’re notified and whether you’re making a binding commitment. In our September issue, we decode six options, including Early Decision and Early Action, and the pros, cons and requirements of each. Other articles include: Focus on Majors/Animal Science – Careers in anim...
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What is the True Cost of College? Read Sue’s Interview in the Star Tribune

Star Tribune headline and image of dollars flowing out of graduation cap
College costs far exceed tuition, books and room and board. What’s the true cost of college? Sue was interviewed for a recent Star Tribune article addressing hidden costs that can add up to thousands of dollars. Read the article for budgeting and spending advice and learn why “who pays for what” should be addressed in advance.
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Four Trends Shaping College Admissions

College admissions is a changing landscape. Each year trends emerge as a result of new technology, new practices and shifting priorities. For example, years ago the introduction of the Common App streamlined the process and drove up applications. And after Covid, test optional became the norm rather than the exception. It’s important to consider trends like these as part of the college pl...
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June College Expert Newsletter

June 2023 College Expert Newsletter
Would you rather graduate from a prestigious school or debt-free? Do you love an intimate campus or the energy of a big city? Establishing priorities will help you build your college list. Learn more about finding your fit in our June issue. Other articles include: Focus on Majors/Nutritional Sciences – Paths, opportunities and requirements for dietetics majors. Financial Matters – Th...
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Reflections on our Class of 2023

Silhouette of a group of graduates tossing caps
Each year, we are privileged to get to know our high school students across the state and country as they complete their college journey. And every May, we reflect on their stories and accomplishments with gratitude and awe. We are so proud of you, Class of 2023! This has been the most competitive year for admissions since we started College Expert 20+ years ago. Most colleges remained...
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May College Expert Newsletter

Studying abroad is not only fun, some colleges require it – whether it’s a short stay, internship or extended immersion program. Wondering about your options for an international experience? Read our May issue! Other articles include: Focus on Majors/Molecular Biology – A path that leads to careers in research, medicine and bioengineering. Financial Matters – AP classes, employment an...
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April College Expert Newsletter

College Expert newsletter banner
Colleges are looking beyond math and science skills to identify the most-qualified applicants for competitive STEM programs. Wondering if you have what it takes? Read our April issue! Other articles include: Focus on Majors/Communications Studies – A path that combines liberal arts with practical training. Financial Matters – Appealing financial aid awards. Dealing with Denial – How t...
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March College Expert Newsletter

Want to really get to know a campus? Here are some tips for your next college visit. Other articles include: Focus on Majors/International Business – Cultural competence is in demand. Financial Matters – How to compare your financial aid packages. Navigating the Waitlist – Increasing your chance of acceptance while waiting.    College Visit Tips for Parents – Your to...
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Seven Great Ways to Get to Know a College

Three students walking outside science building
It’s never too soon to start researching colleges. If you’re college bound, then it’s time to begin. The better you understand your options, the easier it will be to build a college list that excites you and one in which you feel confident. Not sure where to start? There are a number of ways you can learn about a campus to determine if it is the right fit for you. Colleges responded quickl...
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December College Expert Newsletter

December 2022 College Expert Newsletter
Considering an honors program or college? The benefits go beyond a diploma designation. Read about the perks of undergraduate honors. Other articles include: Focus on Majors/Biomedical Engineering – An aging population is driving demand in this field. Financial Matters – Writing your way to a college scholarship. Early Admission Decisions – What you need to do once early decisions rol...
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November 2022 College Expert Newsletter

November College Expert newsletter
While they may not ask specifically, colleges want to know how you’ll contribute to campus. Read our tips for making your case. Other articles include: Focus on Majors/Peace and Conflict Studies – A field that’s part theory, part hands-on experience. Financial Matters: Do you need to submit the CSS Profile? Impact – It’s an admissions buzzword, but what exactly are they looking ...
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October 2022 College Expert Newsletter

October 2022 College Expert Newsletter
You want to provide a complete picture, but should you address low grades or a learning disability in your application? Here are some guidelines to help you decide. Other articles include: Focus on Majors/Kinesiology – A field for those interested in science, health and exercise. Financial Matters: It’s Time for the FAFSA. Avoiding College Application Mistakes – How to avoid careless mis...
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10 Tips for Planning Your Fall College Visit

If you’re planning to tour colleges during the long MEA weekend, good for you! It’s a great time to experience campus while school is in full swing and bustling with students. However, to get a thorough experience so you can truly weigh if it’s a good fit for you, you want to do more than just check out the library and dining hall. A meaningful visit involves a little planning before you go. ...
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September 2022 College Expert Newsletter

What do college admission officers really look for? Hint: It’s more than grades and test scores. Read our tips for making the most of high school. Other articles include: Focus on Majors/Chemistry – A field for problem solvers and analytical thinkers. Financial Matters – Studying out-of-state at in-state prices. Do Safety Schools Really Exist Anymore? – Why you should treat every school l...
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Congratulations Class of 2022

Class of 2022
Congratulations Class of 2022! It seems like we were just guiding you through your college applications and essays, and look at you now!  While the school year was somewhat more “normal” this year, we know you had your share of challenges. But through them all, we watched you learn, grow and discover what’s important to you, and we can’t wait to see what you do with that knowledge. Best ...
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Character Counts: Why Personal Qualities are Gaining Importance in College Admissions

Female high school student helping younger student with homework
While admittedly subjective, “character” counts in college admissions. With many colleges abandoning or making optional SAT and ACT test scores, assessing applicants holistically has become an even greater focus, and a student’s ability to demonstrate character has become just as important as demonstrating leadership, intellectual curiosity and achievement. While character is an abstract c...
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June 2022 College Expert Newsletter

June 2022 Newsletter
Starting a business that matches your interests is a great way to make the most of your summer – and colleges will love your initiative. This month, we share steps for getting started. Other articles include: Focus on Fashion Design/Merchandising – Careers paths in this fast-paced, creative industry. Financial Matters: Legal limitations once your student turns 18. Adjusting to College...
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Reflections on our Class of 2022

Meeting with students to finalize their college decisions is one of the most rewarding steps in our journey with them. Sometimes they have had a clear goal in mind throughout the process, and we are celebrating that exciting accomplishment. But just as often, the months leading up to that meeting are self-reflective. Their final decision represents what they’ve discovered about themselves, wh...
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May 2022 College Expert Newsletter

May 2022 College Expert Newsletter
Summer internships are a great way to gain first-hand experience – and can be a stepping stone to even bigger opportunities. But how do you find one? Read our tips for getting started. Other articles include: Focus on Geodesign – A major that connects science, design, people and communities.Financial Matters – Talking to Your Kids about Money.College Search for Students with Learning D...
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April 2022 College Expert Newsletter

Getting to know a college often requires a visit (or two) and the focus of your tour depends on where you are in the process. Read more in our April issue. Other articles include: Focus on Supply Chain Management – A business major with many opportunities. Financial Matters – Should you appeal your financial aid award? Making that Final College Choice – Helpful tips for sorting out your o...
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