RESOURCES
We've gathered some of our favorite resources to help families learn more about colleges, the application process, what goes on behind the scenes in admission offices, and information about paying for college. Enjoy!
Why we like it:
The Fiske Guide to Colleges has been the leading college guidebook for more than 40 years. It includes in-depth profiles of 320 of the most well-known 4-year colleges in the country. It delivers an insider's look at what it's really like to be a student at the "best and most interesting" schools in the United States, plus Canada, Great Britain, and Ireland―so you can find the best college matches for you.
Be sure to check out the "Overlap" schools, the list of strong programs at each college, and the 20 Best Buy private and public institutions.
Why we like it:
Award-winning journalist Frank Bruni of the New York Times shares countless examples of the most successful people across industries and the stories behind their success. You'll be surprised to learn where the CEOs, entrepreneurs, head coaches, make-up moguls, and others at the top of their field attended college (hint: not the Ivy League).
It's an inspiring glimpse into what's wrong with today's frenzied college admissions process. It also suggests how students can make the most of their college years and set themselves up for success.
Why we like it:
New York Times best-selling author, Jeffrey Selingo, spent a year inside the admissions office at three different colleges—a selective private university, a leading liberal arts college, and a public flagship—and shares his discoveries. He also follows students and their parents as they embark on the college admissions journey.
One of the most insightful books ever written about “getting in,” the book not only provides an intimate look at how admissions decisions are made, but guides students to honestly assess their strengths and find schools that will best serve their interests.
Why we like it:
Named one the best books of 2021 by NPR, Ron Leiber dives deep into paying for college, one of the biggest financial decisions that a family will ever make. Leiber explains how the financial aid system works, who pays what and why, how college got to be so expensive, where to look for merit aid, and more. He also discusses value and what amenities are worth paying for and which are not (lazy river?)
Finally, Lieber walks families through the process of setting financial goals, explaining the system to their children and figuring out the right ways to save, borrow, and bargain for a better deal.
Your College Bound Kid Podcast
Why we like it:
Your College Bound Kid is a fantastic all-around resource for families who want to know more about college admissions. Episode host, Mark Stucker, often interviews special guests (such as admissions officers) and covers different topics: highly selective colleges, essay writing, paying for college, trends in admissions, questions from listeners, application tips, and more. Check out the College Spotlights, where hosts share their impressions of campus visits.