Computer engineering is a discipline that integrates several fields of electrical engineering and computer science required to develop computer hardware and software. Computer engineers usually have training in electronic engineering (or electrical engineering), software design, and hardware-software integration instead of only software engineering or electronic engineering. This field of engineering not only focuses on how computer systems … [Read more...]
Major Changes to SAT Announced
The College Board, creators of the SAT, just announced major changes to the SAT! These changes won't go into effect until Spring 2016, so will only affect the class of 2017 and younger students. Here are the major changes: The essay will become optional, and will require students to analyze a passage. (Keep in mind that colleges may still require the essay for admissions. The overall scoring will revert back to the 1600 scale, with just … [Read more...]
How Brand College Consulting can help you save time and money
Why Do You Need an Independent College Consultant? 1. “A house may be the most expensive thing most families buy, but college--which is second most expensive--is far more important in the long run. College decisions are actually more crucial because they affect the teenager’s future” College consultants are specialists in helping you make this important investment and decisions. 2. The college application and admissions process is very … [Read more...]
How to Save for College and Start a 529 Plan
Parents of college-bound students know that the costs of college has risen dramatically. The College Board, the creator of the SAT, conducts a survey of average college pricing from universities across the country. For the 2013-14 academic year, the average cost for an in-state public college is $22,826, while the average private college is $44,750. These costs include tuition, room and board, fees, books, and an allowance for personal … [Read more...]
For High School Counselors and Teachers
Is your teenager’s high school counselor an expert on college? Probably not. In fact, the odds are high that your high school counselor’s knowledge about college admission strategies, standardized testing and scholarships, and financial aid is limited. Ironically, during this period of increasing college costs, financial aid is often the subject that high school counselors know the least about. Many high school counselors are unfortunately … [Read more...]
What 11 Factors Do College Admissions Officers Want to See?
Students typically want to know which part of the college application carries the most weight. The reality is, applications have many parts, and no one part will get a student into a college (although the first 3 on this are more heavily weighted). The application needs to work as a whole, showing off a student's particular mix of qualities in the best way possible. Colleges want a range of students to create a diverse campus community. … [Read more...]
AP Scores Available Online
For the first time, AP scores will be available to students online for free. In the past, students have had to wait through most of July to receive their scores which were only available by paper. CollegeBoard will no longer be sending paper score reports to homes by mail. As of July 2013, students will be able to access their scores online through the CollegeBoard. Students must have a CollegeBoard account, as well as their AP number to … [Read more...]
Another Happy College Consulting Client!
"Mrs. Brand is a great counselor. We found her through the internet. She has helped in giving me a detailed schedule for my college applications, and create deadlines for all my applications. She is very flexible, and definitely knows her stuff!" -Balark Chethan, class of 2014 student client "My daughter enjoyed prepping for her SAT test with Jolyn. I really appreciated the personal attention she was given. I have known Jolyn on a personal … [Read more...]
College Campus Visits and Tours
Any tips on getting the most out of college tour or info session? Attending campus tours and information sessions is a wonderful opportunity to learn about a college and get your questions answered. More importantly, these are chances for you to interact with students, professors, admission officers, and others. It is paramount that you are prepared! First, you should conduct basic research about the college, which includes reviewing the … [Read more...]
What It Means To Be a Private College Counselor or Consultant
As an independent college consultant, I love meeting potential new clients and students. One of the things that I’m learning very quickly while networking and introducing myself is that most people don’t really understand what I DO. Most of the other networkers fit into well-known descriptions: lawyers, realtors, financial planners, and sales reps. I find myself explaining not only what I do, but why it’s important and necessary. Many people … [Read more...]
