OnCampus Blog

Choosing a college has become a six-figure decision. Unfortunately, many families assume they’ll pay much less because the primary cost of instruction — tuition and fees — can be far less than the “Cost of Attendance“, an official estimate created by each college that also includes room & board, books, travel and miscellaneous expenses for an average full-time freshman. That’s why I prefer to talk about Cost of Attendance (COA) with families, because no matter where junior goes to college,…

Counting All the Costs of College

February 10, 2016

In the coming weeks I’ll be sharing videos, blogs and resources to help families better understand and prepare for all the costs of college. Precisely because a college education has become an incredibly expensive investment, much of my time will be devoted to financial considerations, including an in-depth look at the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA as it is known by millions of parents and students. Other topics will include creative ways for parent(s) and students to…

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Holiday Survival Strategies–Your College Conversation Playbook

December 1, 2015

From a football perspective, we’re in the Playoff Push. From a holiday perspective, as a college-bound senior (or junior, or sophomore), you may be anticipating trick plays coming your way in the form of college-themed questions from well-meaning relatives. Remember one of my fundamental rules. DELAY THE DECISION. “National Decision Day” isn’t until May 1st. With very few exceptions, that’s your deadline for choosing a college if you’ll be a freshman in the fall of 2016. But that won’t stop…

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Grateful in the Middle

November 25, 2015