One commonality shared by my one-on-one clients is the importance of carefully weighing college options, especially in light of the financial costs. These kids have done their best in high school – keeping grades up, excelling on standardized tests, and investing time in valuable extracurricular activities. Getting into a “good college” – one that’s a fit for their academic and career goals – and where they feel comfortable is key. These are good kids with a sense of ambition – they see themselves as future physical therapists, medical doctors, or award-winning animation specialists.

AND they’re Floridians.

OK. This shouldn’t be a shocker. We all reside in Florida, after all. But there’s another reason why this is an important commonality. It’s because of the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship. Most of these students have the prospect of full or partially-paid tuition at their fingertips, but they also have aspirations or curiosities or dream colleges located out of state. These college may be within reach – with a bit of strategic advice.

Comparing In-State and Out-of-State Colleges

What I do most often is assisting students and parents with comparing in- and out-of-state college options. Sometimes families are surprised that it’s not *always* the case that in-state is cheaper. Or that, in some cases, private colleges may be more affordable than flagship state universities.

Should the student stay here in Florida to utilize the Bright Futures? Are there out-of-state college choices that are just as good (or even better)? What about in the range of affordability that are located out of state? We explore the options. Run the numbers. Create standout applications and compare side-by-side acceptances and financial aid award letters.

Here are some common questions that families bring to the table:

• Which out-of-state colleges constitute their best options?
• What can students do to maximize their chances of earning an acceptance letter?
• What is the likelihood of nabbing a scholarship to bring a dream college within reach?
• How can their application standout in a very selective college admissions process?

As a college admissions consultant, I’ve got access to data, strategy, insights, and tools to help keep everything on track. When it comes to these questions, yes, I can definitely help with that.

A Few Client Case Studies

Adrienne begins working with me as a high school senior. She’s realized that she would get zero help with college application from her school. She’d met all of the  Bright Futures requirements. The 100% tuition award was practically in the bag. However, for her, staying in-state was more of a “backup plan.” Her real dream is to study out of state. She really likes the New England area, and her parents approve, because of family nearby. If there are any scholarship options on the table, her family may be able to the additional costs. But first, they need help sorting through college options. Adrienne’s narrowed down her interests to two different majors. Which college has everything she’s looking for? There’s a time crunch too. Early college application deadlines are coming up in a matter of weeks.

Noah had a rough sophomore year. That’s when his parents divorced. His grades slipped in the months before his father moved out. When we met, junior year was shaping up to be a *lot* better, with his grades back on an upswing. University of Florida is one of his top choices for its pre-med program preparation. Makes sense since there’s a state-of-the-art hospital right on campus. And a medical school. Bright Futures will save a ton of tuition money, but he’s also considering a few other schools with well-known pre-med programs. Carnegie Mellon caught his eye and a few others. What will he need to do between now and senior year to be competitive for each of his college choices?

Shanique is settled on an HBCU (historically Black college) education. Her mom has been pushing her to attend her alma mater, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. Shanique’s in the top 10% of her graduating class and was elected vice president of student government. She’s taken the SAT twice and is finishing up the community service hours to qualify for Bright Futures. She’s interested in engineering. The FAMU-FSU joint program is a good choice, but she also discovered that another HBCU, North Carolina A&T State University, is not only top ranked, but produces more Black engineers than any other university in the country. There’s one thing her mom is adamant about: NO STUDENT LOANS. Is there a way to make this possible?

Doing The Research & Running the Numbers

“Running the numbers” is one of my favorite catchphrases. I’m a true blue data nerd and I loooove sorting and analyzing data and presenting recommendations and solutions to families. Seriously.

I help college-bound students critically examine a “wish list” of college options. Perhaps I’ll suggest a few schools that are not yet on the student’s or family’s radar. We’ll analyze college admissions data and make informed decisions. I’ll research and advance program-specific requirements, so that every date, deadline, and requirement is laid out in front of them. We discuss specific benchmarks to achieve merit scholarships (where within academic reach and requirements are made transparent by the college). Most importantly, I’ll sketch out a detailed college application plan – tailored to each student’s needs to help achieve their admissions goals.

Our approach works. It saves time. It can save money. It saves lots of headaches and frustration. We work in specifics, tailored strategy and planning, and accountability.

My ultimate goals for each client:

• Make the college application process simpler and straightforward
• Offering one-on-one guidance through the application process
• Strategic recommendations to help achieve college admissions goals

Let’s explore how I can help your student reach their college admissions goals! Your free 30-minute consultation call awaits!