College MatchPoint

The Wall Street Journal  had a great little article  about writing college essays.  The writer reminded students to consider writing about the mundane things in your life.  The key is to make sure that your personality comes through.  You want to stand out as someone they would like to meet.

Here’s the article:http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123250818350501045.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

Good news out of Rice University- they are raising the income threshold for families to receive financial aid.  This is change will help middle income families.  It is wonderful to see colleges and universities responding proactively to the financial crisis.  Now more than ever, it is critical for families to research the financial aid policies of the schools their children are applying to.  If you haven’t done so, go to www.finaid.com, and find out your Expected Family Contribution (how much you are expected to pay).

http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/stories/2008/12/15/daily24.html

I really enjoyed this article.  It makes some critical points about paying for college in a recession or anytime.  One point that is critical for families to consider is applying to a few generous colleges.  Each college varies on how it awards aid- both merit and need based.  It is critical to find out which colleges are going to be “generous” for your situation.

http://www.usnews.com/blogs/college-cash-101/2008/12/15/the-4-rules-of-paying-for-college-in-a-recession.html

Kids with LD and/or AD/HD continue to struggle when they reach college. Fortunately, information and help is available! Here’ a list of resources for college students seeking information on college planning and selection, test accommodations, financial aid, legal rights and responsibilities, and study skills.

http://www.greatschools.net/cgi-bin/showarticle/2524

For many high-school seniors, fall is a time fraught with college applications, interviews and campus tours.

For students, it’s also a time of unknowns: how will they afford school, can they get into their top choice, will they be happy once they get there?

Manage College-Application Anxiety

I am thrilled that you have stopped by the MatchPoint Blog.  I hope you will stop by often.  I plan to post articles and reflections on this site.  I’ll also link to other blogs.  It is my hope that this blog will provide you with up to date information on the college selection process.