It's a stressful time when you are applying to your dream school. Here are a few ideas for getting through it in the least stressful way...

For many prospective college students, choosing a school is about more than academics, majors, and campus size. It is also about finding a community where you can picture yourself spending your weekends, making friends, creating traditions, and becoming part of something bigger than yourself. At schools with strong football traditions, Saturday can feel like the centerpiece of campus life. Tailgating becomes a social event, a chance to see friends, meet alumni, eat great food

I recently traveled through New Jersey and had the chance to tour Rutgers University. If you're looking for a college with serious history, big-school energy, research opportunities, Division I athletics, and an enormous alumni network, Rutgers might deserve a spot on your college list. I found a bustling campus, engaged students, and endless opportunities available. History: Rutgers was founded in 1766, ten years before the Declaration of Independence was signed. Originally

I recently visited the town of Amherst for some college tours and I’ve got to say, if you are looking for a college that combines the energy of a large university with a strong sense of school spirit, a huge range of academic opportunities, and plenty to do outside the classroom, the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst) is worth a closer look. Located in the Pioneer Valley of western Massachusetts, UMass Amherst is the flagship public university of the Commonwe

While colleges have wonderful events on campus all throughout the year, it’s exciting to know what else is available beyond campus. If you are interested in schools in the Baltimore area such as Johns Hopkins University, UMBC (University of Maryland, Baltimore County), Morgan State University, Loyola University Maryland, MICA (Maryland Institute College of Art), Notre Dame of Maryland University, Coppin State University, or any of the other schools nearby, there is a LOT goin

I recently had the chance to tour Mount Holyoke College, nestled in the scenic Pioneer Valley of western Massachusetts. This school has been inspiring and serving students for nearly two centuries. As the oldest member of the prestigious Seven Sisters colleges, Mount Holyoke combines academic excellence, rich traditions, beautiful surroundings, and a vibrant global community. I learned that students develop close relationships with faculty and have numerous opportunities at t

Choosing the right college is about finding a place where you can succeed academically, build lifelong friendships, and discover your strengths. For students with learning differences such as dyslexia, ADHD, autism, and executive function challenges, that choice can be hard. I recently had the chance to tour Landmark College in Putney, Vermont, and learn how this school offers a truly unique educational experience. As the first college in the United States created specificall

I recently had a chance to visit Amherst College and was impressed by the gorgeous campus and resources for students. I was there on a more quiet June day, but that didn’t take away from learning what makes this school special. If you're searching for a college where curiosity is celebrated, classes are discussion-based, and students have the freedom to create their own academic journey, then Amherst is top-notch. One of the nation's premier liberal arts colleges, Amherst com

I recently had the chance to visit Gettysburg College and enjoy a tour with other college counselors. It was a gray, rainy day, and yet that did not diminish the charm of this gem of a school. Gettysburg is one of the nation's most historic liberal arts colleges, combining rigorous academics with a campus deeply connected to American history. Located adjacent to the Gettysburg Battlefield in Pennsylvania, the College offers students a distinctive blend of classroom learning,

On a recent rainy day, I had the chance to take a counselor tour of Dickinson College. I fell in love with this gem of a school that offers terrific programs for its students. For more than 240 years, Dickinson College has prepared students to become engaged global citizens. Located in the historic and adorable town of Carlisle, Dickinson combines the close-knit feel of a liberal arts college with a strong commitment to global education, sustainability, and experiential learn

I recently had a chance to take a proper tour of Johns Hopkins, despite visiting numerous times before for various events, and was extremely impressed by my experience. Founded in 1876, Johns Hopkins University is widely recognized as America’s first research university. Known for groundbreaking discoveries, world-class academics, and a collaborative culture of innovation, Hopkins blends rigorous scholarship with a vibrant student experience in the heart of Baltimore. While m

The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) is one of the most well-known art and design universities in the world, especially for students who want to turn creativity into a career. With campuses in Savannah, Atlanta, and even Lacoste, France, SCAD blends historic charm with cutting-edge innovation. I had the pleasure of spending time at SCAD recently on a gorgeous spring day and really taking in how the school merges with the city as part of the overall culture. I discove

I recently had the chance to visit the University of Connecticut (UConn) at the flagship campus in Storrs and was impressed by the flurry of activity and vibrancy on campus. I happened to be there during an Admitted Students Day, and excitement was palpable. This is a terrific school if you are interested in one of the top public universities in the U.S.; a place where academic rigor, school spirit, and tradition all come together. History: UConn’s story begins in 1881, when

I recently had a wonderful visit to Catholic University (on a fabulous Washington DC spring day) to tour the school and visit with a student of mine who had recently gained admission to Catholic’s law school. This was my first time on the campus and I now consider that delay a huge oversight. If you’re looking for a university that blends academic rigor, vibrant campus life, and a strong sense of purpose, The Catholic University of America (often called CUA) offers a unique

I recently had a chance to visit Connecticut College on a lovely, snowy day, and I was very impressed by the students, faculty, and administration. I often tell my students that choosing a college is about more than academics; it’s about finding a place where you’ll grow, explore, and belong. Located in scenic New London, Connecticut College (often called “Conn”) is a small liberal arts school with big opportunities, rich traditions, and a close-knit community. This is a plac

I recently had the chance to visit the beautiful Newport, RI and take a tour of Salve Regina University. The school offers students a unique combination of oceanfront scenery, historic architecture, and a strong liberal arts education rooted in the mission of the Sisters of Mercy. Outside of being extraordinarily picturesque, I found a bustling campus with students actively engaged in so many interesting pursuits (including an upcoming curling event!). The enthusiasm from sta

Yale needs no introduction, but I did have the opportunity to tour it on a recent winter day and I learned even more of the details that make the school special. Aside from the reputation, traditions, and academic excellence, the best parts of Yale truly come from the students. Each time I have visited, I gain insight into what makes this university shine. History: Founded in 1701, Yale is one of the oldest universities in the United States. Originally called the Collegiate S

Located in Oxford, Ohio, Miami University (often called Miami of Ohio ) is one of the nation’s oldest and most respected public universities. With a beautiful red-brick campus, rich history, and vibrant student life, Miami offers a classic college experience with opportunities for real growth and success. I have visited this school a couple of times and have found the students to be active, enthusiastic, and truly engaged with campus life. History: Miami University was offici

I love Vermont and it is a truly wonderful place to go for college or graduate school (I actually attended law school there!). While I have visited Burlington many times, I had never had the chance to tour Champlain College until recently. I was very impressed by this small school in a fabulous town. Champlain combines career-focused learning, innovative programs, and a vibrant college experience, all with a stunning Lake Champlain backdrop and tons of things to do in town.

I have spent a lot of time in New York City and over the years have fallen in love with NYU. Students here are drawn to top academics, diverse culture, and an engaging life in one of the most exciting cities in the world. The campus seamlessly merges with the city around it to provide a unique experience and endless opportunities for students. It is truly a global community. History: New York University was chartered in 1831 and began classes in 1832 as the University of the