Takeaways:The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is a crucial application for receiving financial aid for college.Parental involvement is essential in the FAFSA process, and special circumstances can impact the aid received.The financial aid department at colleges can provide valuable assistance in navigating the FAFSA and special circumstances.Timely and accurate completion of the FAFSA is crucial for securing financial aid for college.Understanding the significance of grants, loans, and scholarships in the FAFSA process is important for college planning.✅FASFA Form - https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa 📰FASFA Link to Special Circumstance - https://fsapartners.ed.gov/knowledge-center/fsa-handbook/2023-2024/application-and-verification-guide/ch5-special-cases😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

In this episode, Hector and Kayla discuss scholarships and how they work. They explain that scholarships are money that you apply for and don't have to pay back. They clarify that scholarships are not handed out as physical checks, but are directly sent to the school to cover tuition and other expenses. They also discuss the wide range of scholarship topics and organizations available, and provide tips for finding and applying for scholarships. They emphasize the importance of starting early, avoiding scams, and highlighting unique qualities in scholarship applications.😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

Navigating the payment process for college shouldn't require a degree in finance, and this episode is your cheat sheet to owning it. We dissect the myriad of options to foot those bills—think work-study, scholarships, grants, and yes, even the road less traveled like Americorps or military service. Get the inside scoop on what funding methods are overhyped cash traps and which underdogs could be your ticket to a debt-free diploma. Our personal tales from the trenches of work-study and scholarship hunting will show you just how practical our advice can be.Lastly, we're lifting the lid on the treasure trove of obscure scholarships just waiting to be unearthed—and how you can grab them before they slip away. We get real about loans too, mapping out strategies to keep you from being shackled by debt post-graduation. Whether it's your first foray into financial planning or you're well on your way, Hector and Kayla have the insights to boost your scholarship savvy and loan literacy. Plug in your headphones, and let's turn the page on your college funding fears!😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

Ever find yourself scratching your head, wondering how to navigate the college maze without drowning in debt or regret? That's where we come in—Hector Lopez and Kayla Record—your unconventional guides through the thickets of higher education. Imagine having over-experienced, no-cost guidance counselors at your disposal—well, that's us, minus the office in a high school. We're expanding our mission to bring Cutthroat College Planning into the heart of schools nationwide, offering wisdom that traditional counselors simply don't have the time to impart. We're not just talking at you; we're inviting you to join the conversation, to share your stories and questions, to be a part of a community that's reshaping the future of college planning. Whether you're the first in your family to ponder post-secondary education or you're a seasoned college prep pro looking for that edge, your experiences enrich our dialogue. So crank up the volume, and let's turn the daunting task of college prep into a journey we tackle together—with no holds barred and eyes wide open.😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

Ever wondered how to outsmart the college application clock and not just meet deadlines but strategically beat them? That's exactly what Hector Lopez and I, Kayla Record, unpack in this revealing episode of Cut Throat College Planning. We share the inside scoop on why early application submissions can be a game-changer, diving into the benefits of both early action and early decision applications. It's not just about expressing interest; it's about demonstrating commitment and readiness to your dream college. And remember, this isn't about following your friends—it's about forging your own path to the institution that aligns with your ambitions and goals.Join us as we dissect the application elements that truly tip the scales in your favor. Grades and test scores? Sure, they matter, but they're just part of the equation. We shine a light on the heft of achievements, the insight of recommendations, and the personal flair of essays and interviews that together paint a picture of who you are and what you'll bring to a college community. For those facing early decision setbacks, we've got a plan, including a look into the world of rolling admissions. Get ready to equip yourself with knowledge and strategies that can transform your college application experience from daunting to dominating.😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

This journey of college planning isn't just about ticking boxes; it's a collaborative adventure involving Post-it notes and a dash of creativity. We guide you through an interactive activity designed to map out your ideal recommenders, illuminating a spectrum of achievements that will make your application glow. Kayla and I share insights on how to effectively articulate your strengths, no matter how modest you may feel, and we reveal the joys that these letters bring—not only to you as an applicant but to the families that have supported you every step of the way.😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

Ever wondered what it takes to nail a college application interview? Tune in as Kayla Record and I, Hector Lopez, share crucial strategies for making a lasting impression on admissions committees. We delve into the nuances of interviews across various academic scenarios, highlighting their pivotal role in both specialist programs and competitive schools. Whether you're an artist, athlete, or aspiring Ivy Leaguer, we've got insider tips on how to showcase your best self beyond the application form.The journey through high school to college is rarely a straight path, and we understand that. This episode is packed with advice for those navigating untraditional routes, from gap years to major switches, ensuring your unique experiences bolster rather than hinder your application. We demystify the interview process, providing actionable steps for reaching out to admissions and preparing for potential twists and turns. Our conversation is a lifeline for any student facing the uncertainty of what lies beyond the 'submit' button on their college application.Wrapping up, we zone in on mastering the Harvard interview, but the wisdom shared transcends any single institution. Learn how to articulate your narrative and align with your dream school's culture. Our discussion is designed to transform interview anxiety into confidence, equipping you with the finesse to stand out as not just a candidate, but as a future asset to the campus community.😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

Ever felt like your college essay might just be another drop in the application ocean? Kayla and I will change that perception forever as we tie up our enlightening series with a toolkit of strategies designed to make your essay the beacon that guides admissions officers to your shores. We're tossing the five-paragraph essay overboard and navigating toward creating a narrative that's as unique as you are. With a professor's perspective in tow, we talk about enriching your writing with literary allusions and experiences that resonate on a deeper, more scholarly level. This episode is the compass you need to chart a course toward an application essay that's not just good, but unforgettable.Time is an ally if you know how to enlist it—so we're arming you with temporal tactics to master essay writing without the eleventh-hour panic. Imagine feeling the satisfaction of having drafts polished and perfected well before the deadline, thanks to College Application Tracker you can feel just that. Let us show you how multiple revisions and unbiased feedback can sculpt your personal statement into a true reflection of your identity. We're closing the book on our essay series, but the journey to your dream college is just picking up speed. Join us on Cut Throat College Planning, where we'll be waiting with more savvy advice for the rest of your application voyage.😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

Ever found yourself staring at a blank document, the cursor blinking mockingly as you attempt to start your college application essay? Fear not, as Hector Lopez and I, Kayla Record, swoop in with our latest episode to save you from the common blunders that could send your essay to the reject pile. We'll teach you how to ditch the essay title and instead hook the committee with an opening line worthy of a standing ovation. Our candid chat steers you clear of the snooze-worthy five-paragraph structure and chats about how to let your personality and growth take center stage in your narrative.Strap in for a rollercoaster ride through the do's and don'ts of essay writing that will leave you ready to pen an application so captivating, it practically leaps off the page. We delve into the secrets of referencing authors with finesse, ensuring your essay radiates authenticity and intellectual curiosity. And before you go, we'll shine a spotlight on Kayla's College Prep Bootcamp—a treasure trove of resources for students embarking on their higher education quest. Grab your headphones and let us guide you to an essay that doesn't just talk the talk but walks the walk straight into the admissions office.😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

Ever found yourself staring at a bullfight and realizing it's the perfect metaphor for your college application essay? That's the kind of unexpected twist we explore as I, Hector Lopez, team up with Kayla Record to break down the do's and don'ts of standout introductions. We're flipping mundane into magnificent, urging you to ditch the clichés and sprinkle a bit of your own peculiar magic onto the page. Think your quirky experiences won't cut it? Kayla shares how a simple toilet flush harmonizing in B-flat can become a symphony of self-expression that admissions officers can't resist.Now, let's get real about the bane of every college hopeful's existence: essay pitfalls. It's not just about the grades; it's the story, the struggle, and the silliness that can make you shine. We delve into how to make adversity your ally and your idiosyncrasies your strength. Through examples and Kayla's sharp insights, you'll learn to craft essays that ring with authenticity and buzz with personality. Whether you've faced the trials of remote learning or found passion in the most ordinary places, we've got the roadmap to ensure your essay not only lands you a spot in college but also perfectly captures the essence of you.😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

Join Hector Lopez and me, Kayla Record, as we shed light on the common blunders that could torpedo your college aspirations before they even set sail. We're here to arm you with the know-how to avoid redundancies, repeat performances of the same leadership spiel, and initiative statements that lack punch. Our conversation is a treasure trove of strategies to make your profile section sing with tales of personal triumphs and standout achievements.The secret sauce in any application, whether for college or your first job, might just be your transferable skills—and we've got the recipe. Imagine acing the profile game by showcasing your VISTA: Verbal Communication, Initiative, Strong Work Ethic, Teamwork, and Analytical skills .Our finale is a masterclass in turning application answers from mundane to magnificent, with Hector bravely serving as our guinea pig. Witness his transformation as we polish his anecdotes on leadership and volunteerism to reveal the gleaming skills beneath. And for those hungry for more, we unveil free resources that are pure gold, aiding in the quest to sidestep the application faux pas of wasted words, duplicated efforts, and nondescript initiatives. Tune in to 'Cut Throat College Planning' for an episode that promises to equip you with a competitive edge in the fierce arena of college applications.😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

Unlock the secrets to mastering the college application maze with our esteemed guides, Hector Lopez and Kayla Record. Through their expert lens, we illuminate the path for those venturing into the competitive arenas of theater, music, and state school applications, where every detail counts. This episode is a treasure trove of insider tips, from pinpointing the critical early deadlines to submitting standout audition tapes.Venture further into the collegiate crossroads with us as we debate the merits of declaring a major straight out of high school gates versus embracing the journey of academic discovery. Hear how the strategic move to community college can be a financial game-changer, and why sometimes, locking in your path early can speed up your track to success. Whether you're a determined future engineer or a seeker of academic passion, this episode is your compass to making informed choices that shape your educational adventure.😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

Ever felt like you're swimming upstream in the river of college applications? We've been through it and we're here to guide you. This episode has everything you need, starting right from the Common App, program-specific applications, and even the unique process for athletes rooting for D1 and D2 athletic scholarships. We're also handing out a free tool that will be your trusty sidekick, keeping you on top of deadlines and requirements.We'll discuss why it's crucial to apply to both the university and the specific program. We'll also clue you in on the application terms and deadlines, and even share a secret about how some states offer waived fees. With us, you’re never alone in the intimidating world of college applications, we help you navigate it like a seasoned explorer!😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

What if one simple question could make all the difference in your college decision? This episode of Cutthroat College Planning is an essential listen for any parent or student navigating the treacherous waters of college selection. We conclude our insightful Campus Tour series with a wealth of advice on how to prepare for, experience, and evaluate a campus tour. We also dive into the critical questions that parents and students should ask themselves and each other to pinpoint the ideal college match with clarity.In addition, we revisit the powerful "What? So What? Now What?" concept, and provide you with tools to stimulate meaningful conversations with your students about their comfort and potential pain points on campus. We also introduce an additional tool, the Campus Criteria Questionnaire, primed to help you and your student make the most informed college choice. This episode is jam-packed with insights and resources you won't want to miss! Tune in and empower yourself with the knowledge you need for successful college planning.😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

Ever wondered how to squeeze the most out of your college campus tour? Are you curious about what hidden truths a tour guide's answer may reveal? Fear not, we've got you covered. In this episode of Cutthroat College Planning, we, Hector Lopez and Kayla Record, take you on a deep dive into the crucial questions to ask on a college tour. Questions that will uncover far more than a standard Google search ever can. We reveal the importance of asking the tour guide if they would select their college all over again, and discuss why their response can be a crucial deciding factor.Drawing from Kayla's extensive experience of having toured over three hundred campuses, we offer unique insights into deciphering the difference between honest answers and scripted responses. We emphasize the necessity of fostering a solid relationship with your academic advisor and reveal the markers that indicate genuine responses. We offer strategic planning to help you make the most of your college life and shape your future school experience. We also provide an abundance of additional resources to ensure you have all the college planning info you need right at your fingertips!😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

Have you ever wondered about the true significance of SAT and ACT scores in your college application? Are these tests really the gatekeepers of your future or are they an outdated tradition? We're your hosts, Hector Lopez and Kayla Record, and in this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on the relevance of these dreaded exams and the shifting landscape of college admissions. We challenge the new myth that SATs and ACTs are no longer significant for college applications and shed light on the tricky semantics of 'required' versus 'requested'. We also unpack the stress these tests impose on high school students and question their ability to predict future success.Now, let's take a step further and delve into those mysterious terms - 'test optional' and 'test blind'. What do they mean and how do they impact your application? We're here to make sure you don't get caught off-guard. We explore the intricacies and pitfalls of these policies and emphasize the importance of doing your research to understand the specific requirements of different programs. Tune in to get a comprehensive insight into these complicated processes and make informed decisions for your future. No sugarcoating, no fluff - just plain and simple facts to help you navigate your path to college.😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

Get ready to master the vital actions to take after completing a campus tour, from thank you notes to comparing schools. Join hosts Hector Lopez and Kayla Record as they walk you through a meticulously curated post-tour checklist, providing crystal clear guidance on what to do after your campus tour.In this insightful episode, we shed light on the importance of detailed research and comparison post-tour, and share our favorite resource for comparing schools effectively. Let us help you navigate the complexity of organizing what could be an overwhelming amount of information, keeping track of every detail and reflection. By the end, we promise you'll be well-equipped to handle the 'What? So What? Now What?' moments of your college planning journey. So sit back, parents and students alike, because this episode is teeming with valuable gems that will help you conquer the college planning process like a pro!😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

Be prepared to change the way you approach college tours forever! This isn't just about the college wooing your student with their best features, it's about your student interviewing the college to gauge if it's the perfect fit. Treat it as an exciting exploration where your student is the explorer. Step up at the forefront, ask insightful questions, go beyond the basic tour, and most importantly, let your student's unique personality shine. Preparation is the name of the game! Just as any expedition requires research, equip yourselves with Google strategy, business cards, and a list of questions that will leave a lasting impression on admissions representatives. This isn't just about asking the right questions, it is also about understanding what the right and wrong answers look like, and identifying an avoided answer. Go deeper into your exploration, peek into classrooms, look for bulletin boards, and maybe even chat up a professor or two. The journey doesn't end when the tour does. Just as an explorer would capture their experiences in a journal, it's essential to follow-up with the college. A handwritten thank-you note to everyone you meet during the tour can go a long way. Stand out from the crowd by demonstrating initiative and ensuring your application is read thoroughly. As we always say, the college admissions process is a two-way interview. So buckle up and enjoy this thrilling ride, because we're here to guide you every step of the way.😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

Are you ready to break from the herd and make a conscious, informed decision about your college selection? Buckle up, as your hosts, Hector Lopez and Kayla Record, walk you through the labyrinth of college planning in this episode of Cutthroat College Planning. Shattering the mold of conforming to friends' choices, we invite you to broaden your horizons and consider colleges far and wide. To help you navigate, we introduce our free tool, the campus criteria questionnaire, an unsung hero that aids in trimming down options based on factors often swept under the rug.The journey doesn't end here, as we move on to discuss the nitty-gritty of being strategic while choosing a college. Listen in as we guide you through casting a wide net, framing criteria, formulating questions, and organizing college tours. We emphasize the vitality of exploring the school's surroundings and recommend capping tours at two per day to prevent an information avalanche. Whether you're a student at the crossroads of making a decision about your future, or a parent seeking to guide your child through this critical phase, this episode is your beacon!😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning

Ever wondered how to navigate the college admissions process without losing your sanity? This episode promises to be your lifeline, with insider tips and secrets from none other than Kayla Record, a seasoned veteran in the college admissions industry. We dissect college as a business, helping you prevent costly mistakes and even uncover underestimated potentials like trade schools. Brace yourself for an enlightening conversation that demystifies college applications and scholarships and sets you up for the journey after high school.Kayla not only shares her expertise but also gives us a rare peek behind the curtain of college admissions. Get ready to equip yourself with valuable knowledge about choosing the right college, spotting scholarship opportunities, and making headway on financial planning for life after high school. Are you a parent, student, or just interested in the topic? This conversation is for you. So sit back, grab a notepad, and let us guide you through the 'cutthroat' world of college planning that’s sure to empower you and your student.😊Reach out to Kayla: krecord@sohteam.org💬Chat with Hector: hlopez@nqrmedia.com🥾 Check out the College Prep Bootcamp - https://www.sohteam.org/college-prep-bootcamp📝 Apply for a chance to receive a scholarship to cover the full cost of the College Prep Bootcamp:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hN8Q4sg4zEC0TQUMVQYOUHKd0FCOxShKkHuCUvwfjMVUMDRLVVNVUjNFMzU0SFNGSFFPQU5YSTlUTC4u🎥 Watch us in person! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vS2DPP4Kjp8&list=PLiF-qpkld3Ar-OealNYqVgyqlXT1J2cyY&index=18🖥️ Check out our page for resources and more! - https://www.nqrmedia.com/ctcp/cut-throat-college-planning