IECA Annual Conference-Mainly (but not only) About Money

I learned a lot at IECA Annual Conference last week—and much that I already knew was emphasized. After hearing from college admissions reps, administrators, vendors of educational programs/supports, and many of my colleagues, there was one constant, for better or worse—the topic of money. 

I attended a session about incorporating career readiness into college planning as early as 8th grade. While I already educate students about careers and majors, I don’t want to limit their options too severely and too soon. I agreed with the presenter when she stressed that the human communication skills we used to call “soft” are the ones that will not be replaced by AI. Along with STEM skills, students should definitely develop those!

Jeff Selingo, a keynote speaker and author of “Who Gets In and Why,” promoted his new book “Dream School-Finding the College That’s Right For You.” It makes a compelling case for the value of getting an elite education at public institutions. I’ve been writing that many of my families are choosing these colleges over pricey privates. The notion that prestigious education requires a six-figure price tag is becoming questioned and outdated. Many public universities offer experiences that rival or surpass their private counterparts. After all, we know it’s the students who drive their success. 

I listen to Selingo’s “Next” podcast and follow his newsletter. However, the pervasive notion of a “dream school” manufactures stress for students and parents alike, so the title is a trigger for me and many of my colleagues. In his talk, Selingo used the phrase, “redefining the dream school.” Those words more accurately embody his message.

Once the conference ended, I was off to visit Midwest campuses, mostly relatively well-priced publics: Michigan State, the University of Michigan, Notre Dame University, Purdue University, the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, and Indiana University–six colleges, three states, two time zones. I have a lot to say about them all and will share my thoughts and photos!

This week: National Conference and College Tours

I’m excited for a busy week ahead! Starting Monday, I'll be joining colleagues at the Annual IECA Conference, entitled “Breaking Barriers, Empowering Change” this year. There will be a huge college fair, many networking events, talks from Jeff Selingo, author of “Who Gets in and Why,” Amy Blankson, “The Future of Happiness," author, and Zach Rausch, Associate Research Scientist at NYU Stern School of Business, lead researcher to social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, and a researcher for the Center for Humane Technology.

The conference brings together a blend of professional networking and institutional exploration. The panels and workshops will provide valuable insights into current trends and future directions in higher education that I can pass on to my families. The nightime receptions are not just fun, but give me a chance to bond with admissions reps in a relaxed environment. I'm looking forward to engaging with fellow professionals who share my passion for helping families while connecting with representatives not only from the midwest, but all over the US and international institutions. 

Following the Detroit events, my journey continues with an ambitious tour. After working in this field for 10+ years and touring roughly 150 colleges, I am thrilled to finally visit Michigan State University and the University of Michigan before heading to Indiana for Notre Dame. My tour continues with stops at Purdue University, the University of Illinois, Indiana University, and finally, Purdue's new Indianapolis campus. Taking this trip will allow me to advise students and families about the communities around these popular colleges as well as the schools themselves. If you are curious about what particular schools are seeking, let me know!

While I will not have availability for appointments next week, please contact me to schedule meetings for the week of May 12th and afterwards. I can’t wait to share what I learn with you!

Save Money, Reduce Stress

Though many of my families choose not to apply for financial aid, I talk to everyone about “financial fit.” This often has little to do with net worth. Paying nearly $100,000 per year for an undergraduate education requires a conversation. Perhaps the money saved will be used for graduate school or a younger child’s education–or something else. Every year, I see families opting for value without compromising on the quality of an institution. 

A top student who had been admitted to several highly-competitive colleges chose an Honors College at a popular state university that offered her significant merit aid. Earlier, I had an Ivy admit choose a full ride at a small liberal arts college that felt like home to her. She knew she would have a great experience and be successful, and the money she saved went towards dental school.

Today’s volatile financial climate is driving several of my families to consider generous colleges rather than the highest-priced institutions. Think NJIT Honors instead of NYU, Indiana University rather than Syracuse, Rutgers over Lehigh. Choosing between Rensselaer PoIytechnic and Villanova? Saving $35,000 per year can simplify that decision, especially for a Computer Science major.

The most selective colleges do not give much, or any, merit awards to students who do not qualify for need-based financial aid. However, many competitive colleges, the ones Jeff Selingo  calls “buyers,” do reach out with merit aid offers. They use these awards strategically in order to yield high-performing students who have been admitted to even more selective schools. Many savvy families realize that their motivated, academically-curious, creative students will maximize the college experience wherever they go. It’s a win for the colleges and the families.

That’s one reason there are bright students at every college.

I am still waiting for four students to decide on a college by May 1st! When all the decisions and merit awards are in, I will share the results!