High School Students take note:  Colleges want dedicated students, not those who are just doing community service to get into college.  Explore a range of groups, causes and hobbies.  Select the ones you like and stick with them.  The longer you are with a group, the better.  If there is a group or club you enoy, get more involved.  If you are shy and want to start small, be a project leader; if you are adventurous, run for office!  Either way, you will be displaying your ability to lead and take on more responsibility. 
Don't join every club, don't join any infact.  The easiest thing to do if you are involved in sports, band, ASB, yearbook, etc. is to apply for a leadership role.  many students are too scared to apply for a leadership role as a freshman or sohpomore so go for it!  Write articles for the school paper, take pictures for the yearbook, get out there and be happy!
For more helpful tips and information, visit www.collegeplanningexperts.com today and sign up for a free College Planning Workshop in  your area.  Seats are limited so do it today!

Here in California, most high school kids are getting ready to register for classes.  If your child is hoping to attend a UC school in the future, there are specific classes required for UC admission, these are called, "A-G" courses.  Keep in mind that when a college says a course is recommened, you should take that to mean, "required".  Admissions are competitive, so take all recommended courses!  Keep the door open even if you think you might want to start out at a Community College.  If you change your mind later, you will still be eligible!
Required "A-G" Courses:
a.  History/Social Science – 2 years required
b.  English – 4 years required
c.  Math – 3 years required, 4 years recommended
d.  Lab Science – 2 years required, 3 years recommended
e.  Foreign Language – 2 years required, 3 years recommended
f.  Visual and Performing Arts – 1 year required
g.  College Prep Electives – 1 year required
To see a complete list of UC approved courses at your high school campus, click on the following link.
https://doorways.ucop.edu/list/servlet.jsf;jsessionid=68EBD9BBD733C2EFDED0848B4F346D5B?_flowExecutionKey=_c462A066E-95D2-A6D5-21AE-B754B8ABEB5C_kD383D2E2-9BF1-95BE-32A1-A0696DA6E746
Having trouble decifering all the college stuff?  Don;t know what classes to take or what major to pick when you apply for college?  How will you pay for college?  Get answers to these questions and more ar our FREE College Planning Workshop.  Visit www.collegeplanningexperts.com today to reserve a seat!

It is almost time to pack up and head off to college for the Fall 09 quarter/semester!  There are many things to consider, plan for and buy.  Here is a handy checklist to keep you on track.
Is your housing taken care of?Have you checked your student portal for new information?Will you take your car?  Where will you park?Are there special computer requirements?What phone options are available?Have you discussed allowance with your parents?Set up banking arrangements.  Is your account linked to your parents account so they can transfer money to you quickly?Do you need to obtain a work-study job or follow up on any of your aid?What will you do for medical insurance?  Is there a pharmacy on campus?Do you need a school health insurance plan? (SHIP)Will you need or want a bike on campus/  Do you need a campus permit?  Do you have a lock?What items are restricted?  Check your paperwork!Do you need a fridge or microwave?  Can you rent one for the year?Do you need any extra furniture for your room or apartment?Is there air conditioning?  Do you need a fan?When do you register for classes?  Will you need to take any placement tests?Do you need to take a picture for your student id card?  if you already  have, do you need to pick up the id card?Do you have a lock for your laptop?Find the computer support office for your dorm!Keep a list of all equipment serial id numbers, tech support, other PINS and passwords.Discuss how often you will come home.Don't miss out on any of the move in week activities!
This a a small sampling of helpful tips and useful information that we sahre at our workshops and with our clients.  Come to a FREE college planning workshop in your area!  Visit www.collegeplanningexperts.com

Colleges are now pushing iPhone apps for their students. Most colleges now offer podcasts of lectures and guest speakers but now there are some very specific as well as a few general apps that will increase your productivity. Apps for all students to check out; Dictionary.com, Periodic table, Chem calculator, Easy task manager, Sparky (for Spark notes), G flash (flash cards) and Scientific calculator. More specialized apps include; Medical Abbreviations, Diagnosis Codes, Gestational Calendar and Cholesterol management algorithm. Check to see if your college has a campus specific app as some have to show you campus maps, course catalogs and on campus events.

The summer is a great time to take your student on college campus visits.  When you are on a tour, be sure to make it your priority to get a sense of the school’s academic environment. Here are some great questions to ask (or have your student ask) on a campus visit:

**Do students interact with their professors outside of the classroom?
**Do many guest lecturers come to the campus?
**Do professors within your student’s department of interest offer open lectures on their research and newest discoveries?
**How active are academic societies on campus?
**Do students ask questions at the end of lectures or in smaller breakaway sessions?

Get more great tips for your student and tons of financial aid help when you come to a FREE College Planning Workshop!  Visit www.collegeplanningexperts.com for more information!

According to a New York Times story, “many colleges are looking more favorably on wealthier applicants as they make their admissions decisions this year.” Colleges across the US have begun downsizing their administrations and school budgets in line with the economic climate, but financial aid has long been considered a safe haven. The past decade has witnessed an increase in “need-blind” aid by colleges in the effort to attract the most diverse student body. However, the current economic decline is driving more families than ever to request financial aid. Something has to give.
Get more information on how to apply to the right schools, how to pay for college without dipping into your retirement or sacrificing your current lifestyle, maximize your financial awards and more by attedning a FREE workshop in your area this month.  Visit www.collegeplanningexperts.com today and register!