Insider tips for applying to college, including a grade-by-grade timeline for high schoolers (and their parents).
Whether you’re a high school sophomore, a parent of a student who hasn’t decided on a major, or a middle-age professional looking for more education, the process of choosing the college that matches your needs can be a challenge.
The most important — and difficult — part of the decision is knowing where to look for information.
On Course provides guidance from school counselors, education consultants, students and colleges to help lead you through one of life’s biggest decisions.
Keep scrolling to view the wealth of stories included in the Fall 2018 edition of On Course.
Tips for writing your college application essay
The strength of your personal essay can often mean the difference between getting accepted — or rejected — by the school of your choice.
Finding a part-time job in college: Four questions to ask
Long-term goals are a consideration, as are day-to-day concerns, like transportation.
A year-by-year college-prep guide for high schoolers (and their parents)
A Cliff’sNotes version of the process, so parents and teens can both survive the experience with minimal emotional scarring.
Hands-on research experience sets students apart
Participating in faculty-mentored research is an experience that can benefit any motivated student.
7 things NOT to do when your kid goes to college
Dropping off your precious freshmen at colleges is an emotional time. However ...
How college is different from high school
To make a smooth transition, know what to expect and what is expected.
College degrees can be a bargain abroad
For 18-year-old Liza Miezejeski, choosing the right college meant balancing her desire for adventure and her fear of debt.
Education co-op programs boast high ROI
Co-op education programs alternate semesters or trimesters and full-time paid employment.
Applying to college: Why there’s no shame in safety schools
Don’t dismiss safer-bet colleges as lower in quality or places where a student won’t be challenged.
Prairie project puts academic lessons into practice
Palouse Restoration’s ‘living, learning laboratory’ is a natural fit with STEM program.
Why should college visits be forced marches with clipboards?
Let’s rethink some well-meaning expert advice on touring colleges.
Learning how to learn is a skill at the core of education
Getting a taste of the complexities of a variety of disciplines encourages new skills.
Pets in dorms? Heck, yes
Animal house: At some colleges, there is no need to be separated from a beloved pet.
The working artist: Making a living from your creativity
Flexibility, resilience, adaptability are critical for the working artist, along with the ability to craft a press package, résumé and website.
The 411 on 529 college-savings plans
Contributions to the plan grow free from federal income tax, and withdrawals are tax-free when used for qualified expenses. It costs very little to get started and often can be done online.
You don’t have to leave the couch to visit colleges
In Washington state, colleges offering virtual tours include Whitman College, Seattle University and Washington State University.
Turning medical hardship into an opportunity to help others
A kidney transplant, and the surgeon who performed it, inspired a career choice.
Considering college? Maybe you should invest in a coach
Some families invest in outside help to guide students through the application process.
Liberal arts degrees are a major asset in the workplace
Key skills like critical thinking, creative expression and the ability to collaborate with a variety of viewpoints create strong employees and leaders.