Ask Joe College: Recent Comments

Comment on 5 Ways to Prepare for Financial Aid Season

2011-12-15T16:29:42Z

As a private college counselor, I know the financial aid process can seem overwhelming to parents. Sometimes they don't even bother to apply. I think the more organized they are in getting ready to begin the process, the better. You have provided some very good tips to get things rolling.

Comment on Colleges Cutting Costs?

2011-11-16T16:45:42Z

As a private college counselor, I have always encouraged talks between parents and their children about the cost of college and how they will pay for it. Your suggestion to have this talk before acceptances come in really makes sense. After that, emotions do run high and these talks may not be as successful.

Comment on College Admission Myths Put to Rest

2011-11-09T14:46:39Z

The best way to ensure that the information is provided to the colleges is to call and ask to speak with the Admissions Counselor. You can share your concerns and any information that you have. High schools do send over their profile with the student's transcript, so admission's reps will see how the GPA was calculated, the grading system, the class levels, etc. Some high schools do not provide class rank at all, and colleges are aware of that. Having that conversation with the Admissions Counselors will give you a much better picture of their application process and whether or not they will need additional information from you or the high school.

Comment on College Admission Myths Put to Rest

2011-11-07T21:42:59Z

Our high school has had a difficult time with a new grading program all of last school year and continuing into this year. Some of the problems that have arisen include, but are definitely not limited to; incorrect grades issued, the inability to provide honor roll lists, class rank and GPA's. How do we insure that the information sent to colleges includes this information regarding the inefficiencies of this grading program?

Comment on Roommates

2011-10-12T13:01:46Z

This is a great blog. Keep the great work and information.

Comment on Spending Pitfalls to Avoid While in College

2011-10-03T12:47:17Z

Set a budget and learn how to say NO to impulse spending! When I was in college it was hard to budget the money that I saved from summer earnings. Between eating out, ATM fees, and impulse buys, I breezed through my savings almost every year. I wish I had a blog post like this one; it would have helped keep me organized with my spending, great blog for students!

Comment on The Faculty View on Internships

2011-09-12T12:50:44Z

I love this Cathie! It’s so important for students in both high school and college to take advantage of opportunities outside the classroom. If you’re in high school, it’s never too early to start doing free work. If you’re in college, visit your career office and go beyond your graduation requirements for internships. To many students look at only applying to their dream internship, make sure to cast a giant net, more will hopefully come available and give you choices in building your future.

Comment on Renting Textbooks as a Good Alternative to Buying Pricey Books of Your Own

2011-08-23T22:15:35Z

I definitely agree that by electing to rent textbooks instead of buying them students can save a ton of money!

Comment on Renting Textbooks as a Good Alternative to Buying Pricey Books of Your Own

2011-08-22T12:36:56Z

If students are looking to save renting textbooks is the way to go! This cheap alternative is a great way for those students that have majors with very expensive books, and maybe pricy lab supplements, here is where students can put a little bit of those hardworking summer earnings back in their pockets! Another great way that I have been seeing is a lot of my athletes are buying books from their teammates that have already taken those classes. Once on campus try buying books from other students, this will also help cut costs, as long as professors are still using those same books and editions

Comment on Financial Aid…How Can I Get Some of That???

2011-08-16T17:28:13Z

While application for financial aid is important for families of all income levels, it is most critical for low-income families. Starting early in high school to educate parents of all income levels about the dynamics of financial aid is essential if we are to make college education a possibility for all qualified students.