High Performance Academics Blog

One of the most challenging conversations for families during the college admissions process is discussing the cost of higher education. While it’s tempting to avoid the subject, having an honest and open conversation about college costs early on can help set realistic expectations and empower your teen to make informed decisions. Why It’s Important to Talk About Costs Early Transparency Leads to Better Decisions : Understanding the financial realities of college can help your teen prioritize affordability alongside academic fit and campus culture. It Reduces Stress : When families are on the same page about what’s affordable, it eliminates surprises when financial aid packages arrive. It Teaches Life Skills : Discussing budgets, loans, and scholarships introduces your teen to financial literacy, a critical skill for adulthood. How to Start the Conversation Be Honest About What You Can Afford Share a clear picture of your family’s financial situation. Discuss how much you can contribut...

One of the biggest concerns for families during the college admissions process is figuring out how to afford tuition without overwhelming debt. The good news? With a little planning and knowledge, financial aid and scholarships can make college much more affordable. Step 1: Understand the Types of Financial Aid Need-Based Aid : Determined by your family’s financial situation as reported on the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and, for some schools, the CSS Profile. This includes grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Merit-Based Aid : Awarded for academic, athletic, artistic, or leadership achievements. Merit aid is often offered by the college itself or through external scholarship organizations. Step 2: FAFSA Is Your First Step What It Is : FAFSA is the key to unlocking federal, state, and institutional financial aid. When to Submit : The FAFSA opens on October 1 each year. Submit early to maximize your eligibility for aid. Why It Matters : Many schools use FAFS...

Visiting college campuses is one of the best ways for students to determine if a school feels like the right fit. But to make the most of these trips, planning is essential. Here’s a guide to help families prepare for productive and insightful college visits. Before the Visit Schedule Your Visits in Advance : Most colleges offer official campus tours and information sessions. Check the school’s website to book your spot. Do Your Homework : Research the college ahead of time. Know its strengths, programs, and opportunities so you can tailor your questions. Plan Questions to Ask : Think of questions about academics, campus life, housing, and career services. Tailor your questions to your student’s interests (e.g., “What research opportunities are available for first-year students?”). During the Visit Observe Campus Life : Notice the vibe of the campus. Are students engaged and friendly? Do the facilities feel modern and well-maintained? Talk to Current Students : Ask students about their...

Receiving news that you’ve been deferred or waitlisted can feel like a setback, but it’s far from the end of the road. Many colleges allow students to submit a  Letter of Continuing Interest (LOCI)  to reaffirm their enthusiasm for the school and provide updates on any new accomplishments. A thoughtful, well-crafted LOCI can make a meaningful impact by demonstrating your commitment and showing why you’re a great fit for the institution. Here’s how to write an effective Letter of Continuing Interest that helps your application stand out. 1. What Is a Letter of Continuing Interest? A LOCI is a formal letter sent to a college to communicate that: You are still highly interested in attending the school. You have meaningful updates since your original application. You are a strong fit for the institution’s programs, values, and community. Purpose : A LOCI reassures the admissions committee that if offered a spot, you’re likely to accept. It also provides an opportunity to highlight...

As the year winds down and we start looking ahead to 2025, parents of high school juniors are entering a pivotal time in their child’s journey toward college. The second semester of junior year isn’t just about finishing strong academically—it’s also the perfect time to  start the college admissions process. By starting now, you’ll set your child up for success, relieve senior year stress, and ensure you’re not caught in the whirlwind of applications later on. Plus, by signing up for professional college advising before the new year, you can lock in 2024 rates before prices increase in 2025. Here’s why this proactive approach is the key to a smooth and successful college admissions journey—and why waiting can cost more than just time. Why the Second Semester of Junior Year is Critical The second semester of junior year is a turning point in the college admissions timeline. It’s when students should begin to: Research Colleges : Now is the time to start exploring schools, both virtu...

For families with high school juniors, the road to college might feel like it’s still a year away. Applications are submitted during senior year, right? So, there’s plenty of time… isn’t there? Not exactly.  Junior year is the critical foundation  for a smooth, successful college admissions process. Starting now ensures your child is ready to tackle the complexities of college applications with confidence—and without the last-minute stress that can derail the process. Here’s why junior year is the perfect time to begin, and how getting started now can change everything for your family. 1. The Junior Year Advantage: A Head Start on Success Junior year is the perfect time to begin preparing for college because your child is still in the “building phase” of their high school experience. With time to reflect, grow, and plan, they can work toward creating an application that truly represents their strengths and potential. Starting now gives them the opportunity to: Strengthen their...