“Hanging back and allowing children to make mistakes is one of the greatest challenges of parenting.” This is perhaps one of the best points made in a recent New York Times article, Raising Successful Children, and couldn’t be more poignant than during your child’s senior year. In today’s college admissions, everything is competitive and overwhelming. This makes it easier for parents to want to step in, help, and guide their child through the … [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...]
The New SAT Math Section
Explaining the New SAT Mathematics Sections The College Board, creators of the SAT, have decided to completely revamp the test for the Spring of 2016. This will affect current freshmen (class of 2017) who otherwise might have to go into a brand new test that few of us have seen and will be difficult to completely prepare for. Another option is for current freshmen to plan on taking the ACT during the spring of their junior year instead. For … [Read more...]
Testimonials from Clients
"Thanks so much, you could not have been more helpful and supportive throughout this process. We all appreciate the special attention and promptness you have given us." -Parent of Clear Lake High School student, class of 2014 "Thank you so much for your help! K’s SAT scores increased over 200 points after taking your prep class in September. She is now much more confident about college choices and I’m sure she’s in a better position for … [Read more...]
Spring 2013 College Information Seminar in Clear Lake
FREE parent session at Clear Lake Library- Freeman Library Sat, February 23- 2pm to 4pm Topics to be discussed: The College Application Process and Timeline- when students should be preparing for college and what to do to get ahead of the game Financial Aid Process and Scholarships- how to maximize scholarship potential and apply for the most financial aid SAT, ACT and SAT Subject Tests- When students should take these tests and … [Read more...]
Houston NAWBO honors Jolyn Brand as a Finalist for Women Business Owner of the Year Award
The Houston Chapter of NAWBO, National Association of Women Business Owners, holds an annual gala and honors women in business with an award. The 19th annual gala was held on October 25, 2012 at The Houston Club. The WBOY is the only award given to women business owners by women business owners. To be nominated for this prestigious award, participants must demonstrate: excellence as a business owner, initiative and creativity in overcoming … [Read more...]
What are the SAT IIs and Does Your Child Need to Take Them?
The College Board, the creator of the original SAT, has also created SAT IIs, better known as SAT Subject Tests to help students showcase their knowledge in certain subject areas. These Subject Tests are the only national college admissions tests where the students get to choose which subject they want to be tested on. SAT Subject Tests allow students to set themselves apart from other applicants and send a “send a strong message regarding … [Read more...]
More Texas Students Take the SAT But Scores Decline
Students take either the SAT or the ACT during junior and senior year of high school in order to get into college. In Texas, more and more students are choosing to participate in this testing, but, unfortunately, their scores are falling. The College Board, who administers the test, released a report last Monday that show the national and state average for all test takers. Texas, just like many of the states, showed an increase in … [Read more...]
Jolyn quoted in U.S. News Education Edition
Jolyn was quoted as a College Admissions Expert for U.S. News and World Report Education section. The Education section publishes common questions from high school students and their parents and selects answers from college counselors across the country. This post answered the question: What Are Some Mistakes to Avoid in the College Admissions Process? Jolyn's answer about online identities was one of four selected to be … [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...]
