The Ivory Tower is not immune to a recession. Across America, small colleges, brand name schools, and public universities are being affected by lost jobs, the stock market downward spiral, budget cuts, and drops in their endowments. In order to keep financial aid available for families that need it, schools are going through hiring freezes, slashing costs across departments, and getting creative about how to generate new revenue. Even Harvard and MIT are responding to our down economy.
Families of high school juniors and seniors should not panic, nor should they take an institution off their list just because of its sticker price. For example, many competitive private schools from Boston to California will probably accept more students this admission cycle, just because they know there may be fewer students who actually enroll. For the California State Universities, there could be a record amount of applications. Unfortunately, the 23-campus system wants to cut its enrollment statewide by 10,000 students.
For parents and students, my advice is to stay the course and see what happens between now and May 1st, the standard deposit deadline for higher education enrollment intentions. There is a school out there for you that will fit your academic, social, and financial criteria. Consider the vast possibilities of schools instead of being in a mindset of doom and gloom.
Your education is a lifelong investment. Don’t let an economic downturn make you lose sight of your dreams and educational goals.
Liam Dunfey, COO
University Advisors
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Monday, November 17, 2008
Which College is 'Right' for Me?
With over 3500 colleges and universities across the United States, not to mention the numbers around the globe, the possibilities for higher education are almost infinite. But how do you determine which is really the "right one" for you?
Seniors - and in some case juniors and sophomores - already have been receiving publications from a large number of colleges. And again the question, "How do you determine which one is 'right' for you?"
The college and university ratings and rankings often are of minimal assistance even if they do purport to be distinctive and individual. So how do you sort through all of these guide books, web sites, and rankings?
One way to approach finding the "right college" is to identify the institution where you will be most engaged: that is, where you will find an educational experience that will keep you connected and involved - inside and outside of the classroom - and where you find "like minded" students.
The report titled "Promoting Engagement for All Students: The Imperative to Look Within" was released this last week by Indiana University's Center for Postsecondary Research. It was sponsored by Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. Remarkably the study found that a student's experience does not differ much among institutions.
It was not so much the specific college or university attended that made the educational experience special and worthwhile; rather it was differences amongst students' attitudes and behaviors where "educational quality" occurred.
Specifically the report focused on academic challenge, collaborative learning, student-faculty interaction, enriching educational experiences and the supportive campus environment. While the report honed in on these five areas, the key for students is to be "totally engaged" -- both inside and outside the classroom.
A senior from Wichita State University, quoted in the study, said, "The time spent out of the classroom (i.e. extra curricular activities) has been just as valuable, if not more valuable, as time spent in the classroom. The administration and faculty have taken the time to continue the learning experience outside the classroom." (Blog writer's note: Blogger is a graduate of Wichita Sate University).
When trying to answer the question of which college or university is "right" for you, look at the entire experience and the ability to immerse yourself in the learning culture of the college rather than just considering reputation, professors, and location. Key to the quality of your post-secondary education is to choose a college that facilitates your choice to connect, engage, participate, collaborate, and enjoy the total college experience.
Brian E. Davis, M.T.S.
CIO, University Advisors Admission Specialists, LLC
Seniors - and in some case juniors and sophomores - already have been receiving publications from a large number of colleges. And again the question, "How do you determine which one is 'right' for you?"
The college and university ratings and rankings often are of minimal assistance even if they do purport to be distinctive and individual. So how do you sort through all of these guide books, web sites, and rankings?
One way to approach finding the "right college" is to identify the institution where you will be most engaged: that is, where you will find an educational experience that will keep you connected and involved - inside and outside of the classroom - and where you find "like minded" students.
The report titled "Promoting Engagement for All Students: The Imperative to Look Within" was released this last week by Indiana University's Center for Postsecondary Research. It was sponsored by Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. Remarkably the study found that a student's experience does not differ much among institutions.
It was not so much the specific college or university attended that made the educational experience special and worthwhile; rather it was differences amongst students' attitudes and behaviors where "educational quality" occurred.
Specifically the report focused on academic challenge, collaborative learning, student-faculty interaction, enriching educational experiences and the supportive campus environment. While the report honed in on these five areas, the key for students is to be "totally engaged" -- both inside and outside the classroom.
A senior from Wichita State University, quoted in the study, said, "The time spent out of the classroom (i.e. extra curricular activities) has been just as valuable, if not more valuable, as time spent in the classroom. The administration and faculty have taken the time to continue the learning experience outside the classroom." (Blog writer's note: Blogger is a graduate of Wichita Sate University).
When trying to answer the question of which college or university is "right" for you, look at the entire experience and the ability to immerse yourself in the learning culture of the college rather than just considering reputation, professors, and location. Key to the quality of your post-secondary education is to choose a college that facilitates your choice to connect, engage, participate, collaborate, and enjoy the total college experience.
Brian E. Davis, M.T.S.
CIO, University Advisors Admission Specialists, LLC
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Consider Going Back to School in a Down Economy
This afternoon, I volunteered at the San Diego jobing.com fair in the resume workshop area. As a college/graduate admission consultant and former grant writer, I've had years of experience reviewing resumes and other application to worthy organizations and institutions.
The theme today from job seekers was transferring skills and experience to new industries. While that is a smart strategy, many professionals lacked the educational credentials to compete with a crowded marketplace of job hunters. There is a solution, though: Consider going back to school!
In a down economy and without solid job prospects, returning to school is a compelling option. I read an article today in the LA times that indicated GRE tests are up 11% for the year. It didn't surprise me. Historically, people return to learning during tough economic times because they need the training and education to advance their careers or switch them entirely! For a working professional who has been out of school for more than ten years, it sounds daunting to return to school. Once that fear is overcome, the possibilites are limitless with so many great local and national educational programs to consider. Let me offer a lending hand during this search.
University Advisors (www.universityadvisors.net) help traditional and non-traditional students navigate the complex admission world for college and graduate bound students. We have counselors all over the country, including me, right here in San Diego.
No one knows what tomorrow holds for the economy and job market. What you can control is your education. Let us help you get to the next level. Your future depends on it.
Liam Dunfey, M.A.
University Advisor
Liam@AdmissionSpecialists.com
The theme today from job seekers was transferring skills and experience to new industries. While that is a smart strategy, many professionals lacked the educational credentials to compete with a crowded marketplace of job hunters. There is a solution, though: Consider going back to school!
In a down economy and without solid job prospects, returning to school is a compelling option. I read an article today in the LA times that indicated GRE tests are up 11% for the year. It didn't surprise me. Historically, people return to learning during tough economic times because they need the training and education to advance their careers or switch them entirely! For a working professional who has been out of school for more than ten years, it sounds daunting to return to school. Once that fear is overcome, the possibilites are limitless with so many great local and national educational programs to consider. Let me offer a lending hand during this search.
University Advisors (www.universityadvisors.net) help traditional and non-traditional students navigate the complex admission world for college and graduate bound students. We have counselors all over the country, including me, right here in San Diego.
No one knows what tomorrow holds for the economy and job market. What you can control is your education. Let us help you get to the next level. Your future depends on it.
Liam Dunfey, M.A.
University Advisor
Liam@AdmissionSpecialists.com
Friday, October 24, 2008
The SAT/ACT Option in College Admissions
The SAT is back in the news. In David Hawkins' CNN commentary on "Don't use SATs to rank college quality " (http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/10/17/hawkins.tests/index.html), he illustrates why the SAT is becoming less significant in college admissions.
A few nights ago, I spoke about private colleges at a local college fair in a break out session for parents and students. I talked at length about the SAT option in college admissions and the importance of grades, rigor of curriculum, and reputation of high school. I encouraged them to visit www.fairtest.org and see the growing list of schools around the United States that are now SAT/ACT optional. The SAT option will continue to grow at the private school level, and I hope one day that it'll be an option for the more competitive and elite public schools.
It's college admissions season and the SAT is being offered several times this fall. My advice is to keep up your grades, stay focused, and don't be dismayed if you don't score well. There are over 750 schools that are SAT/ACT optional, and they'll gladly consider your candidacy.
College admissions help is available from University Advisors by visiting www.universityadvisors.net.
Liam Dunfey, M.A.
University Advisor
A few nights ago, I spoke about private colleges at a local college fair in a break out session for parents and students. I talked at length about the SAT option in college admissions and the importance of grades, rigor of curriculum, and reputation of high school. I encouraged them to visit www.fairtest.org and see the growing list of schools around the United States that are now SAT/ACT optional. The SAT option will continue to grow at the private school level, and I hope one day that it'll be an option for the more competitive and elite public schools.
It's college admissions season and the SAT is being offered several times this fall. My advice is to keep up your grades, stay focused, and don't be dismayed if you don't score well. There are over 750 schools that are SAT/ACT optional, and they'll gladly consider your candidacy.
College admissions help is available from University Advisors by visiting www.universityadvisors.net.
Liam Dunfey, M.A.
University Advisor
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Support Services vs. Support Programs: For College Bound Students with Learning Disabilities
For high school students with Learning Disabilities that are starting their college search, one very important piece of information is on the levels of support given. Every college across the country has to have some type of support for all their students. The type of support is what can be the tricky part to understand if you are not aware of the lingo or what to look for. Some colleges have Support Services (available for ALL students) that can range from, one person or student staff members that help students with tutoring in classes that they may be struggling in. Other colleges have Support Services that have multiple professional and student staff members to help with tutoring in any class and students can choice a professional or student tutor that best fits their needs (sometimes having to pay for the professional, so make sure to ask if there is an additional coast).
The other type of support is in the form of a Support Programs. Students typically have to submit documentation from their cognitive and achievement testing (the Wechsler Intelligence Scales, the WAIS, or The Woodcock Johnson), and their IEP or 504 (educational assistance plans) in proof of their Learning Disability. This will help the college to evaluate the student and see if they are a good fit for the program or not. Programs give more one-on-one support with an educated and trained counselor/advisor in areas of Learning Disabilities. This counselor helps the student to learn skills, strategies, time management, and goal setting to help build on the students strengths and weaknesses. This helps them to understand what type of learning style works the best for them and what type of learner they are (visual, auditory, hands on or combinations of each or all). Also, being in a program will offer students multiple types of accommodations such as un-timed testing, testing put on the computer or read allowed, note takers, readers, Books - text book - and articles on CD, and computer assistive technologies.
All the extras of accommodations and one-on-one support that come with a program also come with an additional fee. All programs fees very college to college and is another great question to ask when visiting a college campus. I recommend when touring a campus to make sure and ask to see the facilities of the Support Services and Support Programs. This will allow you to know where they are located, but also to see the size of the facilities (rooms, technology, staffing, that can be a strong indicator of how much time, money and effort is put into the services or program).
Aaron Smith
Independent Counselor
The other type of support is in the form of a Support Programs. Students typically have to submit documentation from their cognitive and achievement testing (the Wechsler Intelligence Scales, the WAIS, or The Woodcock Johnson), and their IEP or 504 (educational assistance plans) in proof of their Learning Disability. This will help the college to evaluate the student and see if they are a good fit for the program or not. Programs give more one-on-one support with an educated and trained counselor/advisor in areas of Learning Disabilities. This counselor helps the student to learn skills, strategies, time management, and goal setting to help build on the students strengths and weaknesses. This helps them to understand what type of learning style works the best for them and what type of learner they are (visual, auditory, hands on or combinations of each or all). Also, being in a program will offer students multiple types of accommodations such as un-timed testing, testing put on the computer or read allowed, note takers, readers, Books - text book - and articles on CD, and computer assistive technologies.
All the extras of accommodations and one-on-one support that come with a program also come with an additional fee. All programs fees very college to college and is another great question to ask when visiting a college campus. I recommend when touring a campus to make sure and ask to see the facilities of the Support Services and Support Programs. This will allow you to know where they are located, but also to see the size of the facilities (rooms, technology, staffing, that can be a strong indicator of how much time, money and effort is put into the services or program).
Aaron Smith
Independent Counselor
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Financial Aid for Freshman Students
Financial planning for college is important. In 2008, many famillies using private lenders are scrambling to find new lenders after some private loan companies shut down. That may not be a bad thing. Private loans have higher interest rates and higher fees than government loans. Unfortunately, some students were resorting to private lenders like credit cards.
There are options for families. Always onsider federal and state programs first. The federal government just made it easier for students to avoid more expensive private loans by increasing the limit students can borrow through federally subsidized loans. That's good news for families who are trying to keep their children in higher education.
There are many resources for family to consider when sorting through the financial aid maze and how to maximize their opportunities. University Advisors Admissions Specialists partners with College Solutions, a financial aid company that works one-on-one with families. Families have specific answers about financial aid and college fit, and both these firms have answers.
Financial aid should not deter families from considering higher education, especially a private higher education. Take the time and explore the options.
Liam Dunfey, M.A.
There are options for families. Always onsider federal and state programs first. The federal government just made it easier for students to avoid more expensive private loans by increasing the limit students can borrow through federally subsidized loans. That's good news for families who are trying to keep their children in higher education.
There are many resources for family to consider when sorting through the financial aid maze and how to maximize their opportunities. University Advisors Admissions Specialists partners with College Solutions, a financial aid company that works one-on-one with families. Families have specific answers about financial aid and college fit, and both these firms have answers.
Financial aid should not deter families from considering higher education, especially a private higher education. Take the time and explore the options.
Liam Dunfey, M.A.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Private colleges, loans, and the economy
The college class of 2013 is in full admission swing. I spent my first week on the road travelling to high schools and colleges for my part-time job with Drew University (NJ) as its southern California admissions office. The theme I heard from students and parents was the sticker shock of a private higher education. The economic news only exacerbated students/parents anxiety as they began the college search.
Students and parents forget that many private schools will waive their application fees. If students do not apply to private schools because of their sticker price, they forego the opportunity of finding out what type of merit aid they could receive.
The economy is going through a rough patch. However, an education is a life-long investment. Proper planning, work, and reasonable pay back is a part of the process. Consider the possibilities without closing an opportunity because of its sticker price. College admission help is there with University Advisors Admission Specialists (www.universityadvisors.net).
Liam Dunfey, M.A.
University Advisor
Students and parents forget that many private schools will waive their application fees. If students do not apply to private schools because of their sticker price, they forego the opportunity of finding out what type of merit aid they could receive.
The economy is going through a rough patch. However, an education is a life-long investment. Proper planning, work, and reasonable pay back is a part of the process. Consider the possibilities without closing an opportunity because of its sticker price. College admission help is there with University Advisors Admission Specialists (www.universityadvisors.net).
Liam Dunfey, M.A.
University Advisor
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