Weekly Update: June 29

Can you believe it's almost July? Where did June even go? The summer heat is definitely making itself felt. I especially feel for everyone in Europe, where the heat seems to be hitting particularly hard. (And if you've ever been to Paris, you probably understand why the Seine isn't exactly where most people dream of cooling off.)

I've also been smiling at all the social media clips of Europeans attending the World Cup here in the U.S. and celebrating some of America's greatest inventions: air conditioning and ranch dressing! I think we're going to be just as grateful for the AC next week, when that same heat wave heads our way and temperatures are expected to soar past 100°F.

Take a few minutes to prepare – it's the perfect excuse to stock your freezer with some frozen treats. Pro tip: Whole Foods has all of its ice cream 50% off this week. My daughter and I definitely took advantage this morning.

Now, on to some major news in higher ed!

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

MAJOR FEDERAL STUDENT LOAN CHANGES STARTING JULY 1

This is probably the biggest higher education story of the year so far. Beginning July 1, major changes to the federal student loan system take effect that will impact both current borrowers and families planning to borrow in the future. I’ll highlight some of the biggest changes here, but please take some time to review any loans you already have and look over this helpful breakdown to see how you might be impacted if you plan to borrow soon.

One of the primary goals of the new law is to simplify the federal loan system. Existing Income-Based Repayment (IBR) borrowers can breathe a sigh of relief, as that option will remain available. However, the SAVE Plan is ending, and the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) and Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR) plans will be phased out by June 30, 2028. New borrowers will generally have just two repayment options: a new income-based Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) or a Tiered Standard Repayment Plan.

For future borrowers, some of the most significant changes involve loan limits. One of the biggest changes for many families is that Parent PLUS loans – which previously could cover up to the full cost of attendance – will now be capped at $20,000 per student per year, with a lifetime limit of $65,000 per student. For some of the highest price-tag schools, this will not cover tuition. Graduate borrowing is also changing substantially: Grad PLUS loans are ending for new borrowers, and new caps are being introduced for graduate and professional students that will, in many cases, not cover the full cost of tuition.

Bottom line: if you expect to borrow for college or graduate school, now is a good time to review your financing strategy and understand exactly how these new rules could affect your family.

FLORIDA MOVES TOWARD RESTRICTING ENROLLMENT FOR SOME UNDOCUMENTED STUDENTS

Florida may soon become one of a small number of states to restrict access to public universities for undocumented students. This week, Florida’s Board of Governors advanced a proposal that would prevent undocumented students from enrolling at public universities that do not admit all academically qualified applicants, although the policy is not yet final and would not take effect immediately. Supporters argue the proposal reflects broader state priorities around immigration and public resources, while critics worry about what this could mean for students who have spent most of their lives in Florida and expect college to remain an option. This also comes shortly after the state ended in-state tuition access for undocumented students, making affordability a growing concern for some families. It’s a good reminder that state policies can have a huge impact on higher education and that those changes can happen quickly. So when building a college list, it’s a good idea to pay attention not only to admissions requirements but also to state policies that could impact your dream schools.

EARLY DECISION AT UM … AND NOT EVERYONE IS HAPPY ABOUT IT

The University of Michigan is moving forward with its new early decision (ED) admissions option despite some significant pushback from faculty. Earlier this spring, the University Senate asked the administration to pause the rollout and discuss whether binding admissions align with the university's values. But U-M decided to move ahead with the plan anyway; for the second cycle in a row, students can apply early decision. While some are grateful that students who already know U-M is their top choice can demonstrate that commitment earlier, especially as many top schools enroll more ED applicants, others worry that these kinds of binding programs make it harder for families to compare financial aid before making a final decision. As U-M Chemistry Professor Neil Marsh points out: "Applying early decision is off-putting for those who depend on financial aid…If you can’t attend because of financial hardship, you wouldn’t apply." What I find most interesting is that the university moved forward despite significant faculty opposition – a reminder that admissions policies often involve balancing institutional priorities, faculty perspectives, student access, and financial realities all at once.

NAVAL ACADEMY BRINGS BACK SHORT HAIR STANDARD FOR WOMEN

Young women hoping to attend the U.S. Naval Academy should plan to say goodbye to long hair; for the incoming class of 2030, female students will need to chop their hair to the chin line (or shorter) to ensure that “male and female plebes share the same visible symbol of their commitment to naval service and to the team.” It’s a return to an older regulation that hasn’t been enforced since 2018, but it does make sense – and serves as a good reminder that military colleges often have very different standards than traditional campuses.

FEWER SUPPLEMENTAL ESSAYS? NOT SO FAST!

There has definitely been some media attention about a few universities dropping their supplemental essay requirements for the 2026-2027 cycle. Schools like University of Georgia and Tulane will not be requiring these additional essays, often arguing that the Common App and other application materials are sufficient. Before students celebrate, it's worth putting this into perspective: this isn't really a broad trend. Plus, supplemental essays are one of the best opportunities for students to prove their fit and showcase not only interest but also personality. And most of the schools to which our students are applying still require them – which is why we use our own Four Story Approach to supplemental essays. We have been busy preparing our database of the official prompts so students can get started ASAP!

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

A recent piece in Forbes looks at something we’ve all seen creeping into admissions over the last few years: the idea that students feel like they need a “hook” to stand out, that they must be exceptional to earn a seat at their top-choice school. Worse, students feel as though every activity, interest, or achievement only matters if it serves a specific strategic purpose, and so they choose activities not out of any real pleasure or desire but simply because they assume that those activities will help them stand out or will look good to admissions. The article points out that this mentality produces a kind of treadmill effect, where students feel like they’re constantly trying to optimize every part of their profile without ever feeling like it’s enough – and it’s terrible for their mental health. 

From a counseling perspective, this comes up a lot. Ironically, however, the best antidote to this “hook” mentality is almost the opposite of what many families assume. We encourage students to start with interests they already have and to build on them naturally, rather than trying to invent an impressive-looking persona. Sometimes this involves thinking entrepreneurially by turning something they already enjoy into a small business. Students who take this approach often end up with applications that are both more authentic and more compelling, and they spend high school actually enjoying what they’re doing instead of checking boxes. Camp Sarraka is a great example. What started as two brothers organizing neighborhood sports games grew into a thriving Arlington business serving hundreds of campers each summer, and now they are featured in the Washington Business Journal this week!

On another note, I've been spending the past several weeks meeting with rising seniors to finalize their college lists, and one pattern I've noticed is that many of our students have highly selective public universities like UVA, Virginia Tech, or the University of Maryland on their lists and instinctively look to less selective out-of-state flagship universities for their "safety schools." While there can certainly be value in adding an out-of-state flagship to the list, I also encourage families to keep in mind the excellent regional public universities right in their own backyard. As Washington Monthly points out, these colleges are doing much of the heavy lifting in higher education, yet they’re too often overlooked. Are schools like James Madison University and Christopher Newport University likely to replace UVA as a straight-A student's first choice? Probably not. But they do offer exceptional undergraduate experiences, and their honors programs can provide smaller classes, priority registration, close faculty relationships, and other benefits that make them every bit as attractive as an out-of-state safety school, particularly when you factor in the substantial savings that come with paying in-state tuition. 

Speaking of college costs, an opinion piece in The New York Times makes a surprisingly optimistic argument about taxes on elite college endowments. The author argues that although recent changes to endowment taxation may have been intended to affect certain elite institutions, they could also encourage colleges to expand financial aid for lower-income students, making those schools more affordable and diverse. Princeton, for example, is expanding financial aid and waiving tuition for many families earning up to $250,000, which may also reduce some of its endowment tax burden. The University of Chicago, Yale, and Swarthmore have also recently announced similar financial aid initiatives. It’s still unclear how these changes will benefit middle class families in practice, but they could end up making some of the highest-priced schools worth a second look. So don’t rule out elite schools out of principle – look closely to see what kinds of income-based tuition support they actually offer. 

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

As many colleges begin releasing their supplemental essay prompts, our coaches are getting students ready to adapt their generics into more school-specific responses. And honestly, for many students, these essays are some of the most fun to write because they provide an opportunity to highlight parts of their personality and interests that don't always come through elsewhere in the application. They also give students a chance to explain why they genuinely want to attend a particular college – and the details really matter. Now is a great time to schedule a campus visit (even a virtual one) and start gathering the kinds of firsthand observations that can make these essays feel more personal, specific, and compelling.

The heat wave is coming, so try and stay cool and enjoy these last days of June!

READ MORE ABOUT SUPPLEMENTAL ESSAYS BELOW:

Weekly Update: June 15

Holy heatwave! For many of our students, this week marks the last day of school, which means summer break has officially arrived.

On a personal note, this also marks the end of my daughter's middle school years and the beginning of high school. As any FCPS middle school parent knows, surviving those early start times feels like an accomplishment in itself! It's hard to believe that I now have a high school student of my own. I started DC College Counseling well before she was born, so it's a little surreal to suddenly find myself thinking about high school course selection, extracurriculars, and college planning not just as a counselor, but as a parent. Time really does fly.

Ironically, I work pretty hard to avoid talking about college admissions with my own children. Kids today have enough pressure without having a mom who owns a college counseling company, so I tend to go in the opposite direction and rarely bring it up at all. Honestly, I don't even think they know (or care) where their dad or I went to college.

With that context in mind, I had to laugh when my son's third-grade journal came home from school this week. I can promise you I had absolutely nothing to do with this. If you can't read his handwriting (join the club), he proudly informs his teacher that he is saving money so he can "go to Harvard in Massachusetts."

Ambitious? Absolutely. Realistic? Let's just say he's got some time…

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

THE PUSH TO BRING BACK STANDARDIZED TESTING REQUIREMENTS

Last week, we shared some pretty big news as hundreds of faculty at UC schools signed an open letter requesting that SAT scores become a requirement for admission. The main reason is that faculty in STEM fields are seeing some really poor performance in math in recent years, making it hard to teach more advanced concepts. It looks like officials at UC have listened, as it was just announced by the UC Academic Senate that a committee will be reviewing the issue. Not all faculty are on board with the idea, and a change to standardized testing requirements would still have to be approved by UC’s Board of Regents. But it’s definitely something to keep an eye on if you’ve been considering applying to a UC school. 

And this might be the start of a trend, as Yale just announced that it will once again require SAT or ACT scores starting with the next admissions cycle. Like many colleges around the country, Yale relaxed its requirements for standardized testing during the pandemic, making submission of scores optional. However, after reviewing its admissions policies, the university decided it was time to bring those test scores back. In some ways, it's an attempt to ensure fairness while also making admissions decisions more predictive of academic success. I think Dean Pericles Lewis sums up their perspective well: “SAT and ACT scores are strong predictors of a student’s future Yale academic performance, and, when considered thoughtfully as part of a whole person review, they can help identify well-prepared candidates, especially those from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds.” And Yale isn’t alone: Columbia University also just announced that it will once again require SAT or ACT scores for students seeking to enroll for Fall 2028! I suspect a similar thought process at work here. While test-optional policies aren’t going to disappear overnight, it’s pretty clear that there’s a push to bring back standardized testing as an admissions requirement. So if you’re taking your SAT or ACT for the first time, or hoping to improve your score, it’s probably worth putting some extra time into test prep.

AS TOP-SCHOOL PRICES SOAR, SO DOES AID

It’s hardly surprising that costs at some of the most prestigious colleges in the country are now rising above six figures – although it’s still pretty staggering to think that there are now over 16 schools that top a $100,000 price tag! And while most Ivy League schools can get away with those costs, some smaller liberal arts colleges are feeling the competition from state schools as students think more carefully about cost versus return. Is the debt really worth it when job security feels so uncertain? But the same schools with such exorbitant sticker prices are also offering some of the strongest student aid packages. For families earning below the $200k annual threshold, schools like Harvard and Penn offer tuition-free options, and other top colleges on the list offer merit aid for many first-time, full-time students as high as 57%. So don’t write off your ideal school just because of its price tag; sometimes the most expensive colleges end up being the most affordable thanks to generous scholarships and financial aid.

DOJ TARGETING MEDICAL SCHOOL ADMISSIONS … AGAIN

The Justice Department once again has medical school admissions practices under scrutiny, announcing that it’s opening an investigation at 15 more schools over concerns that the institutions could be violating race-based admissions regulations. This comes only a month after the DOJ announced investigations involving Yale and UCLA, although it has yet to name any of the colleges in this recent claim of racial discrimination. Meanwhile, defenders of the admissions practices at med schools worry that the DOJ doesn’t fully understand the criteria for choosing the best potential future physicians.  Alison Whelon, the chief medical officer of the Association of American Medical Colleges, pointed out that “It takes more than test scores to become a good doctor,” arguing that diverse perspectives in the classroom better prepare future doctors to serve diverse populations. Her opinion reflects recent pushback in higher education against the administration's attempts to intervene in the admissions process, as many feel those attempts could be coming from a misunderstanding of the SCOTUS ruling. One thing definitely seems certain: this debate about diversity in admissions practices is not going away anytime soon.

SPELMAN COLLEGE’S NEWEST PRESIDENT

The country’s top-ranked HBCU, Spelman College, just announced the appointment of its next president: Dr. Ayanna Howard. This comes as exciting news as Howard is an incredibly celebrated scholar in the world of robotics and AI. Howard has published extensively and earned more STEM leadership appointments and accolades than we could possibly list (although you can read about them here). What we think is particularly great is her commitment to a very human-focused approach to technology, and one that starts in the university classroom. Spelman is already a national leader in preparing Black women to pursue PhDs in STEM fields, and Howard’s appointment is a perfect fit!

ACCOMMODATIONS REQUESTS DUE AUGUST 3

For our Fairfax County clients, if your student is entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade and might need disability or multilingual accommodations for taking the PSAT or SAT, you will need to submit a direct request by the August 3 deadline. Make sure to review the request process carefully and complete all required forms. The tests are administered by the College Board itself, so even if your student already has accommodations in the classroom, you’ll still need to go through this process. 

Deadlines will be similar everywhere, so our clients outside FCPS should also make sure to check with their school testing coordinators to find out what needs to be done and when!

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

One of the greatest joys of visiting a college campus is really just the beauty of the space; many campuses – even some urban ones – are surrounded by gorgeous gardens, plentiful trees, and the incredible architecture of the many study halls and research centers. But what happens to that space when a college closes? As college enrollments have been declining in recent years, some colleges have been forced to shut down, leaving those beautiful campuses empty. Occasionally they get swallowed up by other schools nearby, but the rural Green Mountain College in Vermont, which closed in 2019, is part of another story: private developers. Raj Bhakta, whiskey-maker and former contestant on “The Apprentice,” purchased the 115-acre campus with plans to create a space for faith-based education that would strengthen his idea of American values. And his primary vision? Alcohol (no, I’m not kidding). Skeptical of higher education, Bhakta claims he would like to see young people connecting, instead, over beer. Like area legislators, I have some questions about Bhakta’s plans, and so far, not much has been done with this space. But the issue does speak to concerns about the role college campuses play in local communities as well as questions about what will happen to these spaces if enrollments continue to decline. If your family has been shopping for a sprawling plot of rural land dotted with abandoned classroom buildings and residence halls, maybe this is your market! 

Of course, we know your real dream is to be on a vibrant college campus at a school that is not only open but thriving. But admissions is tough, and while we here at DCCC do everything we can to help your kids get into their top-choice schools, some students are finding other ways to attend the universities of their dreams, even if they aren’t admitted through the traditional route. Many flagship state schools have alternative-enrollment options, such as offering dual-credit through a nearby community college, or allowing students to take online courses rather than sitting in the physical classroom. While these students are missing out on many of the perks of the first-year experience – which can be really important for building a sense of community and having an early support network – they are finding other ways to stay involved in campus culture, like attending tailgating events and joining Greek life. These options can be more affordable, too. Programs like the University of Florida’s Pathway to Campus Enrollment, which requires online schooling before transitioning students to in-person courses, has seen major growth in recent years, even if there are drawbacks like limitations on the courses offered. I can’t say this is a route we would recommend, but I do admire the tenacity of these students who are finding creative ways to make their college dreams happen! 

The shape of those dreams is changing, however, as higher education is going through some major upheavals that point towards a very different future. Schools like Green Mountain, mentioned above, have certainly felt one of those shifts: declines in enrollment leading to complete closures. The effects of the enrollment cliff – a drop in births following the 2008 financial crisis and leading to fewer potential students – are already being felt at smaller regional colleges that simply don’t have enough students to stay afloat. And fewer high school students are convinced of the value of a college degree given an uncertain job market and exorbitant enrollment costs. Plus, A.I. has created a no-win situation for colleges that are simultaneously partnering with A.I. to stay ahead of the tech curve while still struggling to navigate student reliance on LLMs to complete assignments.

Meanwhile, incoming student performance continues to decline, and once-challenging college courses may be replaced by classes that cover what students should have already learned in high school – one of the reasons we’re seeing that increased push to bring back standardized testing as an admissions requirement. Not every change will be negative, at least. Community colleges are likely to benefit as students looking for affordable alternatives pursue associate’s degrees before transitioning to a four-year program. We might also see universities reconsider spending priorities, potentially reducing administrative costs while preserving academic programs and faculty resources. While no one knows exactly how these trends will play out, it's clear that higher education is entering a period of significant change, and colleges and universities need to clarify what they’re offering if they plan to maintain their present price tags. 

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

As high school has finally ended for most of our clients – congrats Class of 26!! – we’re starting to see more kids signing up for meetings. That’s great!! I know you all are looking forward to some well-earned rest (students and families alike), and you certainly deserve it. But it’s important to stay focused on preparing those college application materials. We’re hard at work getting Common App essays polished and also preparing our generic supplemental essays so that we can hit the ground running once colleges start releasing their prompts, with a few having dropped already!

Enjoy the summer sun – and stay hydrated!

check out some of our other sat-related posts:

Weekly Update : July 25

As we near the end of July, it’s the perfect time to remind everyone that more and more official supplemental essay prompts are being released. If you’re still wrapping up your Common App personal statement or other generics, now’s a smart time to schedule a few more meetings with us – things are picking up fast!

And while the heat and humidity don’t seem to be letting up anytime soon, there’s no shame in retreating to an air-conditioned movie theater to catch summer blockbusters like Superman or Jurassic World. Personally, I’d rather be poolside – but when the air feels just as wet as the water, indoor fun wins. I’ve been cooling off with a crisp watermelon salad (feta and mint required!) and diving into all the latest in higher ed.

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

AI Joins the Admissions Team at Virginia Tech

Yesterday, Virginia Tech announced two major changes in advance of this year’s application cycle. First, the Early Action deadline has been moved up from November 15 to November 1. Second, the university will begin using an AI-supported model to assist in reviewing student essays. Each essay will now be evaluated by a human reader and an AI tool developed by Virginia Tech researchers. If their scores differ significantly, a second human reader steps in to ensure fairness. This new system is designed to help the university manage a record-breaking volume of applications while maintaining review quality and speeding up decision timelines. However, it’s important to note that all final admissions decisions will continue to be made by human admissions officers. That said, there are some important implications to this shift in essay review that families should be aware of. Stay tuned – we’ll break it all down in a separate blog post early next week!

Harvard Swings Back with Public Service Scholarship

The Harvard vs. Trump narrative thickened this week with a bold move from Harvard’s Kennedy School: a new $100,000 scholarship for veterans of the military and public service who are pursuing a master’s degree. With many sectors of the federal government still reeling from funding cuts, the initiative aims to prepare the next generation of civic leaders – and support professionals whose careers have been disrupted. Funded by anonymous donors, the one-year scholarship is the largest ever offered by the Kennedy School, covering full tuition, fees, and providing a modest living stipend. The school plans to enroll at least 50 students in the first cohort, with eligibility requiring at least seven years of experience in public or military service.

University of Delaware Receives Massive $71.5 Million Gift for Business School

Big news out of the University of Delaware: alum and CEO Robert Siegfried just gifted his alma mater a staggering $71.5 million to launch the Siegfried Institute for Leadership and Free Enterprise. The new business institute will spotlight conservative political values and free-market thinking – positioned as a counterweight to UD’s more left-leaning Biden Institute. While the political framing has sparked some debate, the bottom line is huge for business students. The donation will expand business classroom space by 40%, and Siegfried is also adding another $6 million for student scholarships. Politics aside, this is a game changer for any future business leader – and definitely something to factor in if you’re applying with an eye toward business programs.

US Students Heading to the UK in Record Numbers

With U.S. higher education facing ongoing turbulence – from budget cuts and political pressures to increased scrutiny of DEI-related programs – it’s no wonder more students are exploring options abroad. This week, UCAS (the UK’s college admissions service) reported nearly 8,000 applications from U.S. students for Fall 2025, the highest number since tracking began in 2006. While the long-term impact of the domestic shifts remains unclear, one thing is certain: interest in international study is rising. We’re not suggesting you pass on strong U.S. programs, but if you’ve ever considered studying abroad, now might be a good time to take that interest seriously. Reputable global universities can offer solid academics, strong career outcomes, and sometimes even cost savings!

Is Trump Saving College Sports?

After months of speculation, a draft executive order focused on college athletics surfaced this week – bringing renewed attention to the complex issues surrounding athlete compensation. The proposal centers on name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights, aiming to create a unified federal framework in place of the current patchwork of state laws. The goal: protect student-athletes from exploitative financial deals, standardize rules around Olympic eligibility, and help colleges navigate antitrust concerns related to long-term scholarships. While the order is still in draft form and subject to change, it signals a potential shift that could benefit college athletes nationwide – especially those seeking fair compensation and clarity around scholarship support.

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

As the implications of the “Big, Beautiful Bill” continue to unfold, anxiety around student loans is running high – especially for students considering graduate degrees. This article in Slate highlights the concern among future lawyers, doctors, and other professionals who now wonder if they’ll be able to afford to finish their degrees, let alone start them.

The OBBBA will eliminate the Graduate PLUS Program, which previously allowed students to borrow up to the full cost of their graduate or professional education. Under the new legislation, federal borrowing is capped at $100,000 – a figure that falls far short of most grad school price tags. While current borrowers can still use the PLUS program for three more years, rising seniors and future grad students are rethinking their plans. For many, that means choosing less expensive or more local schools, prioritizing scholarship opportunities, or even changing career paths altogether to avoid private loans and unfavorable repayment terms.

But for students rethinking grad school entirely, this might be the moment to consider unconventional – yet increasingly viable – paths to success. Take the rise of Minecraft entrepreneurs, for example. As this Business Insider article explains, young people are transforming their gaming passion into full-fledged careers, with some building entire businesses around modpacks, content creation, and YouTube channels. Jessica Lindl, author of The Career Game Loop: Learn to Earn in the New Economy, puts it well: “The surge of Minecraft entrepreneurs tells us something profound: the new economy doesn't reward rigid credentials. We're moving from a degree-based economy to a skills-based, portfolio-driven one.”

This shift underscores an important lesson we often try to teach our clients during the college application process: how you talk about your experiences matters. Whether it’s building elaborate LEGO worlds or crafting mods in Minecraft, those hobbies might reflect critical thinking, creativity, or entrepreneurial savvy – all of which make for standout college essays and, increasingly, real-world career value.

That same generation is now diving deep into another emerging tool: generative AI. While teachers and essay coaches might groan, there’s no denying AI’s role in the modern workforce. Professionals across industries use tools like ChatGPT for routine writing tasks – which is why we found this Inside Higher Education story so fascinating. The University of Michigan Law School is now requiring (!) applicants to use generative AI in one of their optional essay prompts. The school is hoping to better understand how future law students interact with AI tools – and how that might reflect their adaptability and foresight. Here’s the prompt:

“TO BE ANSWERED USING GENERATIVE AI: How much do you use generative AI tools such as ChatGPT right now? What’s your prediction for how much you will use them by the time you graduate from law school? Why?”

The school will compare this AI-generated response to the applicant’s other writing, which must be completed without AI assistance. UM’s innovative approach recognizes AI’s growing influence – and also tests students’ ability to use it responsibly and reflectively. We’re curious to see if other colleges begin incorporating similar prompts into their applications.

Need a dose of optimism? New Jersey’s Centenary University is offering something we never knew we needed: a PhD in Happiness Studies. Starting this fall, the four-year, fully virtual program will focus on “human flourishing,” drawing from fields like psychology, literature, neuroscience, and religion. Graduates may go on to careers in education, consulting, public policy, or mental health advocacy. In a world grappling with stress and uncertainty, higher education’s embrace of well-being feels like a much-needed step forward. And hey – a few government officials with a doctorate in happiness couldn’t hurt!

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

Let’s wrap up with a few key updates for our local readers:

NOVA’s Early Online College program is back – and it’s a golden opportunity for rising juniors and seniors (students entering 11th or 12th grade) to take up to two tuition-free college courses per semester. It’s a fantastic way to experience college-level academics, strengthen your transcript, and potentially earn transferable credits. Even if the credits don’t carry over to your dream school, admissions officers love to see this kind of initiative. But don’t wait – the application deadline is today (Friday, July 25, at 5 PM)!

In other local news, Fairfax County Public Schools has made an important change to its grading policies. Students who retake a major test or project can now earn a maximum score of 90% on that redo – even if they ace it. While this policy is meant to encourage preparation and accountability, it also means that making the most of the first attempt is more important than ever. If it’s a choice between completing a minor assignment or studying for a big test, our advice is to hit the books and focus on what counts most toward your grade!

FCPS also made the decision to tighten its cell phone policy starting this August. Students will no longer be allowed to use personal devices – including phones, AirPods, smartwatches, and the like – during class or during passing periods. Devices must be off and put away throughout the academic day, except during lunch and before or after school hours.

This marks a shift from the previous policy, which permitted device use between classes. It’s a good idea to talk with your student about how this change might affect their routines – especially if they’ve been relying on their phone for time checks, music between classes, or quick messages.

And finally, mark your calendars: Wednesday, October 8 is a testing day for FCPS high schoolers (in addition to many independent schools).10th and 11th graders will take the PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT), while 12th graders will participate in SAT School Day on campus. Loudoun County students in grades 9-11 and Montgomery County students in grade 10 will also take the PSAT in October on dates that vary from school to school.

Remember: because these exams are administered by the College Board, accommodations are not automatic – even if your student has existing supports in place at school. If your rising 10th, 11th, or 12th grader may need testing accommodations or multilingual support, you’ll need to submit the appropriate forms to your high school SSD coordinator by Monday, August 4.

Stay happy, everyone!

Don’t Miss What’s Happening In Higher Ed — Check Out Our Other Summer 2025 Posts below:

Weekly Update : July 11

Can you believe it’s already the second week of July? Summer always feels like it takes forever to arrive – and then it flies by in a flash. Of course, that’s probably because it’s just so much fun. We hope you had a fantastic 4th of July weekend, whether you were grilling with family, catching fireworks in your neighborhood, or making progress on college essays poolside! 🙋🏼‍♀️

Now that we’ve all had a chance to relax and recharge, it’s time to dive back into the latest from the world of college admissions!

Editing essays from one of my all-time happy places – the Winnetu on Martha’s Vineyard 🦞🚲🍦🌸

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

Big News from Michigan: Early Decision Arrives + Essay Shake-Up

For the 🚨🚨🚨first time in university history🚨🚨🚨, the University of Michigan will offer an Early Decision (binding) option, joining its existing Early Action and Regular Decision plans. This is major news for students with Michigan as their clear first choice – ED offers a new way to signal serious commitment to one of the nation’s most competitive public universities.

Michigan also updated one of its required essays. The long-standing “community” essay has been replaced by a new prompt focused on leadership and impact. The second essay – asking students to describe their interest in a specific undergraduate school or program – remains unchanged.

With the addition of Early Decision and a new leadership-focused essay, Michigan is encouraging applicants to show not just interest – but alignment. Students should be thoughtful, early, and purposeful in their approach.

Bonus for this year’s applicants: Michigan is also launching two new academic options, including a four-year Integrated Business and Engineering dual degree (Ross + Engineering) and a first-year entry path to its newly expanded Educator Preparation Program through the Marsal School of Education.

Columbia University Will Pay $9 Million in Class Action Lawsuit

Columbia University has agreed to a $9 million settlement in a class action lawsuit brought by former students, stemming from allegations that it submitted misleading data – including inflated class size averages – to U.S. News & World Report. The questionable figures helped Columbia land the coveted #2 spot in the 2022 rankings. But after a Columbia math professor publicly questioned the data, the university’s ranking plummeted to #18.

Plaintiffs argued they paid a premium based on prestige that may not have been fully earned. While Columbia hasn’t admitted to any wrongdoing, it did acknowledge submitting inaccurate data. Students who attended between 2016 and 2022 are eligible for about $273 – the cost of two textbooks (or maybe one, depending on the bookstore). More importantly, the case is a potent reminder: rankings are not everything. Many colleges offer small classes, dedicated faculty, and outstanding outcomes – without the drama or the price tag.

The Big Bill’s Impact on Higher Ed

A sweeping new federal budget and tax bill passed last week is expected to bring lasting changes to higher education funding. Among the most immediate impacts: higher taxes on large university endowments, which could limit institutional aid at wealthy colleges. Coupled with new caps on federal loans, this could make college less accessible for low-income students.

But it’s not all downside. Pell Grants can now be used for certain certification programs – a win for students pursuing career-focused paths at community colleges or trade schools. And 529 college savings plans just got more flexible: families can now use those funds for college prep and tutoring expenses (including DC College Counseling services, SAT/ACT prep, and so forth!). 💰💰💰

Bryan Kohberger Pleads Guilty: Justice Served, But Questions Remain

In a case that shocked the college town of Moscow, Idaho, and the nation, Bryan Kohberger – a criminology PhD student – pleaded guilty last week to the 2022 murders of four University of Idaho students. The plea deal spares the victims’ families a lengthy trial and ensures Kohberger will serve four consecutive life sentences without parole.

Still, for many, the resolution leaves unanswered questions – especially why the crime happened in the first place. The case serves as a sobering reminder of how tightly knit and vulnerable college communities can be, and why campus safety remains a top concern for students and parents alike.

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

This week’s articles explore how success – and the path to it – is evolving, often in surprising and sometimes contradictory ways.

Let’s start with the millennials, who’ve charted a very different course from their Boomer parents. While medicine and law once dominated the top-earning brackets, today’s highest earners are more likely found in tech, finance, and emerging sectors like cybersecurity. According to The Wall Street Journal, the so-called dot-com generation has reshaped what “success” looks like – and the numbers back it up.

Full disclosure: this piece isn’t technically new – but it showed up as “new” on Apple News this week, and that’s good enough for us! It’s an insightful reminder that the careers of tomorrow often look different than the ones we grew up idolizing.

That shift isn’t just about what kind of work people do, but where they’re willing to go to get there. Earlier generations often stuck to the best in-state public university. Millennials – and now Gen Z – have shown a greater willingness to move across the country and invest in elite private schools if it means a better shot at long-term opportunity. The article shared a 2023 study by Opportunity Insights, which found that attending an elite private college rather than a public flagship increases a student’s chances of landing in the top 1% of earners by roughly 60%.

That said, before you reroute your teen’s major to computer science or finance, let’s pause. The takeaway here isn’t about locking into a single track – it’s about staying nimble. If I were applying to college now, I’d be thinking hard about how AI might play into any field I’m considering. Flexibility is key.

That same adaptive spirit is showing up in less conventional ways, too – like in the Texas housing market. High-earning families are finding a workaround to qualify for in-state tuition by families are purchasing condos for their kids. Buying property meets one of the residency criteria in Texas, and for those who can afford it, the math makes sense: buying in cash, living there during college, and selling after graduation can net a savings of around $90,000 on tuition. It’s not exactly equitable – or glamorous (some of these listings seem to be part of a “Febreze and vomit” real estate trend) – but it’s happening.

Meanwhile, in the Hamptons, an idea so brilliant I’m a little jealous: the “Nanny Network.” Launched by a Chi Omega from Ole Miss, the service pairs Southern sorority women with families seeking summer childcare. Is this brilliant or is this brilliant? With international au pairs harder to come by in the wake of visa freezes, this business is filling a real gap – and doing it well. These students bring years of experience (babysitting, camp counseling, you name it) along with soft skills that parents love: poise, adaptability, and great communication.

Beyond summer gigs, there’s long-term strategy here for the nannies, too. They often use their free time to explore internships, build connections, and test out careers. It’s a perfect reminder that no experience is too small to open a big door!

As a mom of two kids who spent most of a recent vacation interviewing au pairs on FaceTime – and exactly none of those interviews amounted to anything, which was awesome – this struck a particular chord with me. I am absolutely convinced there’s a viable, slightly-altered DC version of this model waiting to be launched. In all seriousness, if anyone wants to explore this idea with me, reach out. I truly believe there is a gap to be filled!

On a more sobering note, Scientific American published a tough but important piece on how sweeping federal cuts to science and medical research are impacting early-career researchers. Grad students and recent PhDs – especially in fields like public health and virology – are facing hiring freezes, grant shortages, and low morale. Many are even considering leaving the U.S. for more supportive research environments.

We’d never discourage students from following their passions – but this is exactly why we recommend going into college with an open mind. The landscape shifts quickly, and flexibility will always be a strength.

Finally, to end with a little levity: this WSJ lifestyle piece about teenagers is a hilarious (and painfully accurate) reminder that the traits in our kids that drive us crazy might also be their superpowers. I, for one, could stand to be a little more spontaneous. So before ripping our hair out over their choices, maybe we take a page from their book – and try being just a little more … chill.

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

On a more somber note, we want to acknowledge the tragedy that took place at Camp Mystic in Texas. We know a staff member there, and like many of you, we’ve been feeling the weight of this heartbreaking news all week. I’ve honestly been sick about it. The whole situation hits close to home: from the personal connection, to having a child the same age as the young campers, to the fact that so many of our students spend their summers working at sleepaway camps.

Every time I see the photos of the counselors who died – recently graduated seniors, preparing to start college this fall – I can’t help but think of the many teens we’ve worked with over the years. Our hearts are with the families and the entire camp community as they navigate the unimaginable.

One safety tip I came across – and want to pass along in case it helps another family – is to double-check whether any sleepaway camp your child is involved with, whether they’re attending as a camper or working as a counselor, is ACA-accredited. Camp Mystic was not, and ACA-accredited camps are required to meet specific safety and operational standards. Would that have changed anything? I truly don’t know. But if there’s ever a situation where “better safe than sorry” applies, this feels like one.

Wishing everyone a safe and steady weekend – take care out there, and we’ll see you next week!

For More Important Happenings In Higher Ed, See Our Other Weekly Updates:

Weekly Update: June 20

Hope everyone is finding a way to stay cool this week; it’s a hot one!

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

COLLEGE BOARD PRESIDENT TO OVERSEE THE FAFSA

In some rather shocking news to the educational community, the Department of Education has tapped Jeremy Singer, president of the College Board, to oversee the continued development of the new and “improved” FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona called Singer’s appointment part of the “transformational changes” they are bringing to the FAFSA. Singer will not be stepping down from the College Board, merely taking a leave of absence. Students, families, and colleges alike will wait with bated breath to see if the FAFSA will be ready for use by October 1, as promised.

FOUR U.S. COLLEGE INSTRUCTORS STABBED IN CHINA

Four instructors visiting from Cornell College were stabbed by a man as they strolled through a public park in Jilin, China. All four are doing fine and the suspect was arrested, though there is no known motive shared by the police or the Chinese government, and the footage on social media has been mostly censored. Cornell College, a private liberal arts college in Iowa, is known for their innovative “One Course at a Time” block-schedule, similar to Colorado College. It is also one of the Colleges That Change Lives.

USC OFFERS TUITION-FREE MASTERS OF FINE ARTS DEGREE

The University of Southern California School of Dramatic Arts will now be offering tuition-free Masters of Fine Arts programs. Beginning this fall, those pursuing MFAs in acting and dramatic writing will have their tuition waived. This move reflects USC’s “investment in the future of storytelling and the performing arts,” as well as the school’s commitment to making “top-tier training” affordable to future professionals who often face financial barriers, according to Dean Emily Roxworthy.

GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY ACCUSED OF RACKETEERING SCHEME

Doctoral students at Grand Canyon University have filed a class action lawsuit claiming that the school “intentionally defrauded [them] out of thousands of dollars through what attorneys claim was a racketeering scheme.” The suit alleges that they were charged more than they were originally told tuition would be and for classes added on at the end that they suddenly needed in order to graduate. This is not the first time the university has faced scrutiny. Last year, the Department of Education fined Grand Canyon University $37.7 million dollars for “deceptively marketing its doctoral degrees.”

ANOTHER UNIVERSITY FORCED TO MAKE CUTS DUE TO FINANCIAL CONCERNS

The University of North Carolina at Asheville will be cutting four academic programs and reducing a fifth in cost-cutting measures. This is a move seen more and more around the country as financial woes continue to cause concerns across the higher education landscape. The four programs slated to be cut are Ancient Mediterranean Studies, Drama, Philosophy, and Religious Studies. Languages and Literature will be “curtailed” under the current plan, to reduce a $6 million dollar deficit. Tenured and tenure-track faculty in those departments will get six to 12 months notice of their loss of employment, but others will only receive 30-90 days notice.

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

Roger Federer, retired Swiss tennis legend, gave an inspiring commencement speech at Dartmouth University’s graduation ceremony this year. With many words of wisdom and thoughts shared, one that is important for all folks to keep in mind is that it’s okay not to know answers about their future. That might relate to what happens after students graduate from college, what they might want to study in college, and especially the dreaded, “what do you want to be?” question! The future doesn’t need us to know everything right now, despite the fact that so many people spend significant time dealing with worry and fear about just that. Federer sagely pointed out that “negative energy is wasted energy.” How might students be more ready for the future by focusing on the here and now? Nobel winning chemist Louis Pasteur observed that “chance favors the prepared mind.” I take this to mean learn all you can, follow your curiosity, and engage with the world around you physically, mentally and spiritually (as you define it). Then when an opportunity pops up, you are ready to grab it!

“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose, by any other word, would smell as sweet.” The Bard did have a way with words, but the reality, when it comes to college scholarships, is a different matter! This article in the Wall Street Journal tells of several last-name specific scholarships that are out there, some searching desperately for a recipient. Are they calling your name?

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

In 2017, the American Psychology Association conducted the Stress in America Survey and found that teens are very stressed. 83% of teens, it noted, felt stressed about getting into a good college or what to do after high school. In 2020, they conducted another survey, this time at the end of the first year of the COVID detection. Needless to say, the stresses in teenagers’ lives did not go down! It is probably not a surprise that issues about academics, life after high school, leaving home for college (hoping you get into one, of course), and fears about the future were still the number one stressor. And, from what we have been sensing as we work with students this year, the trend has not shifted. 

One of the pillars of DC College Counseling is working with families and students to manage the stress of the college search and application process. We can’t take it away, nor should it all be removed, as learning how to successfully manage stress in a healthy way is an important part of growing up. What we do provide is the structure, scaffolding, and safety net to help our students get through this process without being derailed by stress. We do this through our meetings, our strategically-paced timelines, and gentle reminders of what needs to happen when. But we are only focusing on one of many common stress points a teen faces today, and more support is out there, if needed. The information below comes directly from an email from Fairfax County Public Schools, and we encourage any FCPS student or family in need of support or assistance to reach out:

This summer, the FCPS Office of Intervention and Prevention Services will offer virtual Mental Wellness Consultations from June 24, 2024 through August 2, 2024. Any Fairfax County parent or secondary student will have an opportunity to schedule a 45-minute consultation with a school psychologist or school social worker by phone or videoconference. Consultations will be offered in two ways:

1. Directly to parents of students in any grade level. This consultation provides an opportunity for parents to receive guidance on how to support their child’s social, emotional, and academic success. Information about community resources will also be provided.

2. Directly to students in middle or high school. This consultation provides an opportunity for middle and high school students to receive guidance and support for concerns related to anxiety, mood, behavior, peer or family interactions, or school transitions and changes. Strategies and tools can also be provided to address academic challenges such as organization and time-management.

What a great opportunity! Click here to request a consultation. Families may also leave a message at 703-503-2520.

For more about mental health, check out these posts.

Weekly Update: April 9

For those of you in the DC area, I hope you had a chance to see the solar eclipse yesterday! (Or maybe felt the earthquake on Friday!?) 

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

MARCH MADNESS COMES TO AN END

On Sunday, it seemed like the entire country (with the possible exception of the state of South Carolina 🙂) was cheering on Caitlin Clark and University of Iowa. Unfortunately, it was not to be, and South Carolina finished their undefeated season by winning the NCAA women’s championship game 87-75. And last night, UConn won the men’s championship game (for the second year in a row!) by beating Purdue 75-60.

NAIA BANS TRANSGENDER WOMEN FROM WOMEN’S SPORTS

On Monday, the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics voted unanimously to ban transgender women from women’s sports. “Only students whose biological sex is female” will be allowed to participate. If you haven’t heard of the NAIA, you aren’t alone: the organization is significantly smaller than the NCAA and includes schools that aren’t really on most of our students’ radar. However, this ruling may still be significant for the greater population, as some believe that it could serve as a precedent of sorts for the NCAA.

AT $95,000 PER YEAR, IS COLLEGE A GOOD INVESTMENT?

The annual cost of tuition, board, meals and other expenses at a number of private colleges has exceeded $90,000 this year, which calculates to over $1 million to send three children to college! But don’t let these numbers discourage you: many colleges with large endowments offer generous financial assistance to make attendance affordable, with some students paying just 10% of the advertised rate. Financial aid experts advise making decisions based on the actual cost that you have to pay (after financial aid is factored in), and not the perceived cost.  

Other colleges with price tags now exceeding $90,000 include USC at $95,000; Harvey Mudd at $93,000; UPenn at $92,000; Brown at $92,000; Dartmouth at $91,000; and BU at $90,000. Is college worth the investment? In general, we believe the answer is yes, with the caveat that it is important to borrow in moderation (can’t emphasize this enough!), pay close attention to the ROI of individual majors, and complete degree programs in their entirety.

NEW SURVEYS SHOWS JEWISH COLLEGE CHOICES AFFECTED BY OCT. 7

A recent survey this March by Hillel International, involving over 400 Jewish parents of high school juniors and seniors, showed that 96% are “concerned about the increase in antisemitic incidents on college campuses since October 7.” 19% even said they are questioning whether or not to send their children to college at all. 87% said that October 7 had an “impact” on how they chose a college for their child, and 64% said they are avoiding certain schools altogether because of a perceived rise in antisemitism on that campus.  

Hillel International president and CEO Adam Lehman stated that rather than avoiding certain colleges and “self-ghettoizing,” the Jewish community should focus on fixing the campus climate at schools. Julia Jassey, the CEO of Jewish on Campus, stated: “The last thing that I would ever tell a parent or student is not to go to a certain school because it is antisemitic. All that will do is self-select ourselves out of spaces where we want to be … It’s really more important that when students go to school, they’re educated about what antisemitism is, how to combat it, and what to do when they experience it.”

VANDERBILT IN EARLY DISCUSSIONS TO OPEN CAMPUS IN WEST PALM BEACH

Vanderbilt University is considering opening a second campus in downtown West Palm Beach, Florida, that would enroll around 1,000 students and feature a business school and a college of computer science. Vanderbilt Chancellor Daniel Diermeier has high hopes for this dream campus, and sees an opportunity to capitalize on Palm Beach County’s growing reputation as “Wall Street South” to provide students with jobs in finance. He said that a West Palm Beach campus could “turbocharge” the creation of new businesses established by graduates, creating an innovation industry and transforming the city into a major destination. 

Diermeier envisions that Vanderbilt’s impact on West Palm Beach could be similar to Stanford’s impact on Silicon Valley, resulting in an explosion of business and innovative technology companies. The school is in the preliminary stages of meeting with county commissioners and asking local businesses to co-invest. A recent event attended by Gov. Ron DeSantis raised $100 million for the venture.

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

Is college football over as we know it?  An article in The Athletic last week said that a group dubbed the “Super League” may be shaking things up in the near future. The group, officially called “College Sports Tomorrow” (CST), is trying to implement a new system that would replace the NCAA and the College Football Playoff, as well as provide a solution for lawsuits involving NIL and transfer portal issues.  The CST structure would eliminate the conference structure and create one entity. 

This centralized college league would negotiate not only for TV broadcasting deals, but also negotiate with any prospective union that would represent players in lawsuits. Colleges are particularly concerned with the House v. NCAA class action lawsuit, which could have the NCAA and power conferences on the hook for billions.  

Some criticize the notion, saying that CST is trying to “buy college football.” Leagues have been hesitant, and some have cancelled meetings with CST so as not to upset their current multi-million-dollar broadcast deals with ESPN and Fox. CST leaders, however, assert that time is of the essence; their goal is to get ahead of foreseeable legal challenges and “lead from the front, not behind.” 

Speaking of college sports, how about North Carolina State!?  Although they lost to Purdue over the weekend, they made it to the Final Four, leaving fans “thunderstruck,” as the New York Times put it. Often referred to by neighboring basketball powerhouses Duke and UNC as the “little brother,” NC State emerged as the country’s Cinderella team, winning nine straight games, including a 26-14 victory over Duke. It was the first time the Wolfpack made it to the national semifinals since they won the national title in 1983. 

In the 1950’s, the team was considered the best in the ACC. Their men’s basketball team was the team that started the tradition of cutting down the net as a victory souvenir. However, a big setback occurred in 1989, when the NCAA placed the team on probation for two years and barred it from the 1990 tournament for violations that included misuse of complimentary tickets and sneakers provided to players. Despite their loss on Saturday, it was thrilling to see an underdog back in the limelight.  

I came across an intriguing article in Forbes that cautioned against college education becoming like a luxury brand – an expensive badge of status reserved for the privileged few. The author wrote that an undergraduate degree (especially one at a top university) provides professional opportunities and upward social mobility, and people are willing to spend a small fortune for it. Luxury products are expensive because they are assumed to be high quality, with intrinsic value, and also carry prestigious, identifiable imagery. These qualities are perceived to be transferred from the products to the person wearing it. In this sense, the author believes, a college education has become very much like a Gucci bag.  

Yet the demand for luxury is slowing, as evidenced by softening sales from brands like Gucci. The brand reported a 20% decline in the first quarter of 2024, due to its out-of-reach pricing and alternative options, which are becoming more culturally valuable. This is a warning bell for higher education: as college tuition rises, more alternatives to college are presenting themselves. 

Social media influencers provide a potentially lucrative career path without school debt, and the massive shortage of trade jobs has led to a premium in salaries for skilled labor (again, without the debt). Some experts think that innovations in technologies like blockchain authentications could gain status akin to a college degree when it comes to hiring. If luxury is any indication, higher ed needs to evolve!

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

Our juniors are continuing to finalize their lists during their second round of college counseling check-in meetings, which just started this week. In case you were wondering, we haven’t seen any particular increase in student interest in UConn or Iowa this year after March Madness (South Carolina and Purdue were already popular options!).

One of the challenges that a lot of our students face involves the difficulty of visiting colleges in person without missing school. It’s particularly tough at this time of year, now that spring break is over and the clock is ticking - college students typically finish up their classes in late April or the first week of May, and the whole vibe changes on campus after that point. Don’t forget that Saturdays are still an option, though! A prospective student will get a much better sense of a campus community on a Saturday during the spring than on a weekday during exam week or the summer.

Have a great rest of the week - we have some amazing weather ahead!

Weekly Update: May 30

We hope you enjoyed the long weekend! We want to honor the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country - as well as the incredible sacrifices made by their families and friends left behind.

BIGGEST COLLEGE-RELATED NEWS OF THE WEEK

VIRGINIA PUBLIC COLLEGES RAISE TUITION

Most Virginia colleges have voted to approve tuition increases of 3% or more for the 2023-2024 school year. The tuition hikes come on the heels of several years of little to no change in tuition during the COVID-19 pandemic. Virginia Tech, George Mason, and Christopher Newport have all said that their increases depend on the state budget, and they may cancel the tuition increase with enough state funding. The state budget will not be released until June at the earliest, in part because of the ongoing national debt ceiling negotiations. 

GEORGE WASHINGTON REVOLUTIONARIES

Following student objections, GW changed its nickname from the “Colonials” to the “Revolutionaries” this past week. The committee working on the name sifted through 8,000 suggestions to find the new name, which will go into effect during the 2023-2024 academic year. 

U.S. NEWS CHANGES RANKINGS METHODOLOGY

The U.S. News rankings have been under a lot of scrutiny recently, as schools critique the rating standards and even decline to participate in the popular ranking. In response, U.S. News has announced that it will alter its criteria. Metrics that track alumni giving, class size, faculty with the highest degree in their fields, and the high school standing of the entering class will be removed from the ranking (though still reflected on the U.S. News college profiles). Instead, the rankings will emphasize diversity and “success in graduating students from different backgrounds.” The first round of rankings with these revised criteria will be released this fall. 

529 CONTRIBUTIONS INCREASE

With rising inflation last fall and early this year, contributions to 529 accounts have been on the decline - about $3 billion total late last year and early this year, compared to around $7 billion in the same time period last cycle. However, as inflation eased in recent months, contributions appear to be rebounding close to last year’s levels. Check out this article for more information - not only about recent changes, but also about 529s in general and how they work.

COURT UPHOLDS TJ ADMISSIONS PRACTICES

The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that TJ’s new admissions policies do not discriminate against Asian-Americans, and that the changes help create equal opportunity for all applicants. This means that TJ’s new admissions process, which includes increasing the minimum GPA and coursework requirements, increasing the class size, and eliminating the standardized testing requirement, will stay in place. Many expect the decision to reach the U.S. Supreme Court on appeal - only time will tell!

BEST ARTICLES OF THE WEEK

Wondering which college majors make the most money after graduation? Top of the list is one you’ve probably never considered: operations research. Computer science, computer engineering, and veterinary medicine also crack the top ten. These stand in contrast to the most popular majors: business, nursing, and psychology. Where you go to school also has an impact, with computer science majors from schools like Harvard, Carnegie Mellon, Princeton, and Penn making over $200,000 four years after graduating. P.S. curious about the lowest-paid majors? The bottom of the list includes fields like music, dance, drama, and religious studies. 

After #bamarush went viral on TikTok last year, HBO (I am struggling to get on board with the Max terminology!) followed with the Bama Rush documentary, which follows four students through sorority recruitment. The documentary highlights some of the highs and lows of the process - and while some students are happy with how it explores the complexities of sorority life, others feel that its representation of Greek life at Alabama is too negative. Check it out - but keep in mind that Greek life at Alabama is unique, and the recruitment process will look very different at different schools!

It may be hard to imagine any college student taking a voluntary technology fast and month-long vow of silence, but that is exactly what students do in Penn’s Living Deliberately class. Students learn about different monastic practices in class before putting them into action - yes, including waking up at five am and making arrangements to do their homework for other classes silently and without a computer. Believe it or not, the class has a wait list. The article argues that this should be more common, with colleges introducing a low-tech first year program that allows students to take a break from phones and computers and do a lot more reading and contemplation.

OFFICE HAPPENINGS

I finally graduated from the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program after spending last week at their headquarters in New York. Pursuing this program on top of running DC College Counseling definitely kept me busy this past year (understatement!) but it was worth every minute.

It’s been a while since I have walked across a stage, that’s for sure!

I bet most people have no idea how much Goldman invests into the small business landscape nationally - it’s absolutely incredible and I just feel so grateful to be the beneficiary of their generosity. In addition to learning a ton of content knowledge - I can make financial projections now! - I also really enjoyed getting to know the other entrepreneurs in my program.

The BEST group!

We came from so many different demographics and I just have so much respect for each of them. I actually started tearing up at our graduation just thinking about how lucky we are to live in a country where people with nothing can build a legacy for their families and truly change the course of so many lives in the process. Entrepreneurship is an amazing thing.

Lastly, I can’t write about the week without mentioning what was perhaps my favorite moment of the program! We were at a reception and one of the Goldman employees saw my name tag and got really excited, saying she had been trying to find me. Wait for it - she was one of my former students, an Oakton HS graduate!

How crazy is that - talk about things coming full circle!! She graduated from Notre Dame, which she loved, and of course now has an incredible job. It made me so happy to see how she has built a fantastic life for herself over the last decade, and that just put everything else all into perspective :)