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 The notion that prestigious education requires a six-figure price tag is becoming questioned and outdated.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!