Year: 2025

An email I received last night came from a mom of a student I’ve had the privilege of guiding since 2023 indicating that she was just accepted to USC. It’s a joyful time for both me and parents to get news like but this is also where I share my “tough love” with my families.…

A number of families have sent me this notice after receiving an email from Federal Student Aid. Most are in panic mode and others are frustrated after waiting on hold to speak with their loan servicer and never getting to speak with a real person. If a federal student loan borrower is receiving a notice…

It’s March, and if you’re a senior or a parent of one, your inbox feels like a ticking time bomb. Will it be UC Davis? A waitlist from USC? Silence from Stanford? The wait is brutal—but you’ve got this. The college admissions process is a marathon, and you’ve already crossed so many hurdles: essays, grades,…

Meet Hannah, a high school student who turned her passion for biology into an impressive academic resume—earning her admission to UCLA’s General Biology program! In this video, we break down Hannah’s journey step by step, from the classes she took to the extracurriculars that made her stand out. Meet Hannah, a high school student who…

To the detriment of parents, college rankings have concealed what actually sets up their child to achieve success after graduation. Higher education has long been considered a pathway to economic advancement, particularly for students from lower-income backgrounds. While the debate on the value of a college degree continues, certain institutions stand out for their commitment…

Today’s post will offer an updated view of the employment landscape within the tech sector. Being a college advisor in Westlake Village, CA I often have conversation with professions in these careers as many are employed all around me. If you are considering a career in technology or looking to refine your existing skills, understanding…

Imagine setting your child up for success not just in college, but in life. While academic achievement often seems tied to intelligence, there’s a deeper layer that involves habits formed from a young age. Here’s how fostering the right habits can lead to academic excellence and beyond. The Building Blocks of Success Time Management: From…

In today’s post we’ll focus on small colleges known for their pre-med programs and successful outcomes, alongside data from the AAMC on institutions with the highest number of medical school applicants. Learn about the advising, research opportunities, and unique programs these colleges offer to help you land in medical school. If interested, you can request…

Starting my career as a college consultant in 2008, I’ve witnessed the evolving landscape of higher education and the job market. Recent trends indicate that even graduates from top-tier business schools are facing significant challenges in securing employment. Here’s how we can interpret these trends to guide your child towards a sustainable and bright future…

Hopefully you still have your loved ones. Any type of loss is difficult and my goal with this post is to help you navigate this so you can have the best shot at more financial assistance. The wildfires raging across California have left many families grappling with financial recovery, particularly those with students in college.…