All posts by Suzanne Shaffer

college planning, college prep, GPA, high school

The Crucial Semester of Junior Year

junior year

As high school students journey through their academic careers, the junior year stands out as a pivotal time, especially as they approach the final semester. This critical period holds immense significance for those aspiring to pursue higher education.

With college applications looming on the horizon, the final semester of junior year serves as a crucial window of opportunity for students to showcase their academic prowess, extracurricular involvement, and personal growth.

Let’s delve into why this phase is so pivotal in shaping students’ future academic endeavors.

Continue reading The Crucial Semester of Junior Year →
college guidance, college prep, college visits

Questions to Ask on a College Tour

college tour

When your student is touring a college for the first time, they will have many opportunities to ask questions. They must not squander the opportunity and take advantage of the chance to get more acquainted with the college and campus life during the college tour.

Before you visit, your student should brainstorm and prepare. Don’t ask questions like “what’s the student/faculty ratio” or “how many people apply every year.”  The answers to basic questions like these are usually readily available in the school’s online and offline publications.

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in the news, parenting

For All the Moms Raising College-Bound Teens

moms

Mommyhood can be awesome, but it’s also super tough. Between keeping humans alive, managing the house, and being everyone’s emotional cheerleader, it’s no wonder a new study from Cricut found that 85% of moms say they just want more time for self-care practices.

Although taking care of yourself is essential, Cricut’s study found a stark reality that an alarming 60% of women feel overwhelmed with their various roles and daily responsibilities and 65% of women admitted they don’t prioritize self-care as much as they’d like.  

Self-care for moms isn’t just about individual well-being; it’s about healthy families and thriving communities. When mothers are empowered, they can create nurturing environments for their children, fostering positive cycles that benefit everyone.  

Continue reading For All the Moms Raising College-Bound Teens →
FAFSA, financial aid, financial planning

When Your Financial Aid Award Isn’t What You Expected

financial aid award

As parents, we often have high hopes and expectations for our children’s education, and financial aid plays a crucial role in making those aspirations a reality. However, what should you do when your student’s financial aid award isn’t what you anticipated?

In this guide, we’ll explore steps you can take to address the situation and ensure your child receives the support they need for their academic journey.

Continue reading When Your Financial Aid Award Isn’t What You Expected →
admissions, college planning, college prep

2024 College Admissions Trends for Parents

college admissions trends

Parents have so many questions about college admissions. It’s a maze and can be frustrating.

Understanding how college admissions works can help you navigate the college application journey. Knowledge is power and knowing the new trends in college admissions gives you power during the college prep process.

Here are five college admissions trends from College Data that give insight into the admissions landscape this year.

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financial planning, parenting, scholarships

A Scholarship Strategy

scholarship

Are you looking for ways to support your child’s academic journey without breaking the bank? Creating a scholarship strategy could be the answer! Encouraging your students to apply for scholarships can not only alleviate financial burdens but also open doors to incredible opportunities.

Here are some tips to help guide your child through the scholarship application process:

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parenting, tech gadgets, technology

A Parent’s Guide to Gaming

gaming

In today’s digital age, gaming has become an integral part of many teenagers’ lives. From immersive virtual worlds to adrenaline-pumping multiplayer battles, gaming offers a vast array of experiences. However, with this digital immersion comes potential risks that parents need to be aware of. As a parent, it’s crucial to ensure that your teenager stays safe while gaming. Here are some tips to help you navigate this virtual landscape and foster a secure gaming environment for your child.

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college planning, college prep, college visits

Exploring Colleges Near and Far

exploring colleges

Choosing the right college is a pivotal decision in a student’s life, and college visits play a crucial role in this process. A recent study found that 82% of students visit a college before attending.

Whether you’re exploring colleges close to home or considering options that are farther away, each experience contributes to shaping your academic journey.

Let’s explore the significance of college visits, sharing insights on both local and distant exploration.

Continue reading Exploring Colleges Near and Far →
college planning, parenting

Parenting Teens Headed to College

parenting teens

The journey of parenting takes on new dimensions as your teenager prepares to embark on the exciting adventure of college life. As college approaches, the emotions and challenges can be overwhelming for both parents and teens alike. This transitional period requires a delicate balance of support, communication, and empowerment.

Here are some effective strategies for parenting teens who are about to enter college.

  1. Foster Open Communication

Establishing and maintaining open lines of communication is crucial during this transitional period. Encourage your teenager to share their thoughts, concerns, and expectations about college life. Create a safe space for them to express themselves without judgment. Engage in active listening and be genuinely interested in their experiences, anxieties, and aspirations. By fostering open communication, you’ll strengthen your relationship and provide the emotional support they need.

Continue reading Parenting Teens Headed to College →
college prep, entreprenuership, teen jobs

Tips for Becoming a Teenage Entrepreneur

One of the things your student can do to set themselves apart in the admissions process is to start and maintain their own business. This guest post from a successful teenage entrepreneur should give you and your student some tips that can help in the process.

teenage entrepreneur

Venturing into entrepreneurship as a teenager opens up a world of opportunities to shape your future, hone critical skills, and potentially make a significant impact. For those young visionaries eager to step into the business arena, grasping the essential steps to success is crucial. This journey promises not only personal growth but the chance to bring innovative ideas to life. In this article, I will explore foundational strategies to assist budding entrepreneurs in establishing a robust base for their ventures and effectively steering through the intricacies of the entrepreneurial world.

Continue reading Tips for Becoming a Teenage Entrepreneur →