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Lara Urso, M.Ed., CAGS, LEPEducational PsychologistSpecializing in Academic and Cognitive/Psychological Testing Sometimes parents know something just isn’t adding up. A student may be bright and capable, yet homework takes hours. They may understand material but struggle on tests, have difficulty with reading, writing, attention, organization, or time management, or become increasingly frustrated or anxious about school. Other students may be earning strong grades—but working

Courtney Ianiro College Transition and Student Success Specialist Throughout high school, so much attention is focused on getting into college. But once a student decides where they are going, another question becomes important: Are they ready to manage college on their own? College brings much more independence. Students are expected to manage schedules and deadlines, communicate with professors, make appointments, find resources, and recognize when they need help. For stude

Heather McCarthy, M.Ed., M.A.T. | Founder, Holistic College Counseling When families start thinking about college, junior year often feels like the time to get serious. But much of what will eventually shape a student's application has already happened by then. The courses they have chosen. The interests they have explored. The relationships they have built. The activities they have tried. Even the way they have learned to study, manage their time, and ask for help. I don't t

With some colleges requiring standardized testing and others remaining test optional, families are understandably unsure about how much time and money to invest in SAT or ACT preparation. The question I encourage families to ask is not simply, “Does my student need to take the SAT or ACT?” Instead, ask: “Could a strong SAT or ACT score help my student?” The answer will be different for every student. Start With a Baseline Before committing to months of test preparation, I rec

Kimberly Southall Student-Athlete Recruiting Specialist When a student says, “I think I want to play my sport in college,” families often aren't sure what to do next. When should we start? Should we contact coaches? What level is realistic? Which camps or showcases are worth attending? And how do we know which colleges to consider? As a former Division I field hockey player at Boston University, coach, educator, athletic director, and parent, I have experienced recruiting fro

Holly Steiger, M.S., CCC-SLP, Executive Functioning/ADHD Coach Your teenager knows the assignment is due tomorrow. They know they should have started studying earlier. They know there are missing assignments sitting in the online portal. And yet, nothing happens. For parents, this can be incredibly frustrating. It can look like procrastination, carelessness, or a lack of motivation. Often, though, the student knows exactly what needs to be done. The challenge is figuring out

Jennifer Seney, Accommodations and Learning Support Specialist Having an IEP in place can bring a sense of relief. There is a plan, accommodations are documented, and goals have been established. But having an IEP and having an IEP that is truly helping your child are not always the same thing. After more than 25 years working in special education, I have written, reviewed, and revised many IEPs. I have also experienced the process as the parent of a son with dyslexia and a n

There’s a lot that goes into admissions decisions. Colleges look to fill an incoming class with students who align with the mission of...

Have a hook, be interesting, be authentic, use your own voice. be reflective, show growth, show impact, let the reader know who you are...

Many students aspire to participate in collegiate sports. While some are determined to reach Division I, others prioritize academic fit...

Freshman Year Ask yourself what you value and what are your best qualities? Chose extracurriculars that are aligned with your values...