As we reflect on the year, we think of what a former colleague said that we carry with us every day–and more than ever applies to our students. She was going through a particularly difficult time in her life because of a recent cancer diagnosis (she beat it and is healthy now), but as she began to share her journey and vulnerability with all of us, she reminded the room that, “Everyone has a story. Lead with kindness. You never know what someone is going through.”  We always discuss how our clients continue to amaze us with their tenacity empathy, and positivity in a particular moment in time that has been filled with pivoting and adversity. We are proud to know all of you and watch you grow, flourish, and share your own “stories” during your college application journey. Our own students lead with kindness as they are rocks for their friends and family, helping them navigate through challenging times. They initiate service endeavors that permanently impact their local and larger communities in need. They create podcasts so others feel less alone and do research on topics that will help ensure a better tomorrow for all. They mentor. They teach. They learn. They ask. They listen. And although at times it can feel like a nearly impossible undertaking, they learn to be kind to themselves. So as we make our way through 2023 ask yourself... What are ways to be kind to yourself? You can take a break from an intense study session and do something you love such as dance, watch a short YouTube video on Formula 1, make a Fantasy trade, read a chapter in a book, or do some aimless sketching. What are ways to be kind to a friend or family member? You can bake for them on their birthday or just to let them know you are thinking of them (or buy them a treat if baking isn't your thing). You can reach out with a recommendation for a book, song, or Netflix binge that you think they would appreciate. You can listen. What are ways to be kind to the world? You can volunteer at a food bank, shelter, or nursing home; lead a clean-up at a local park or beach; or spread awareness by writing a blog or creating a social media post about a cause that's important to you. We look forward to hearing how you "lead with kindness" in the upcoming year. Sincerely, Lisa, Stefanie, and the CBM Team

Planning College Visits

For those of you planning in-person visits at colleges offering admission events and tours (both group and self-guided), here are some tips: Review the Academic Calendar  Identify Your Options  Determine Your Needs  Make a Reservation  Plan the Trip  We just discovered this awesome resource, College Bot Tour, that makes it super easy to sign up for college tours! Click for the full article: Tips for Planning College Visits. As you begin planning your college visits for Spring Break, you'll want to make sure that students are on campus. This website lists many college's spring breaks: SPRING BREAK 2023 DATES FOR COLLEGES And here is a guide and video to help you navigate virtual visits.

What's on our Minds: Summer Planning

Now is the time to start thinking about how to spend your summers. Many summer programs have an application deadline of March 1 or earlier, and others offer early registration discounts. It’s good to start early to figure out how to make the most of your summer because it is a great time to fill in gaps in your profile or dive deeper into areas of interest for high school sophomores and juniors. Read More Here

Making the Most of Your Summers Don't forget to join Lisa and Stefanie this Thursday at 7:00 PM for a virtual event as they help you make the most of your summers! REGISTER HERE!

Teen Life is a great resource to find summer programs. Seconding Teen Life for searching for programs, our wonderful colleagues at CollegeMatchpoint have compiled another great list.

LD College Visits

For a student with learning differences, finding a college with the necessary accommodations and academic support services is important to his/her academic success. Services at the post-secondary level vary widely and can be grouped into three categories: minimal, moderate, and comprehensive program.  Minimal Services Moderate Services Comprehensive Program Click here to read more about these services and planning your college visit for LD students.

Housing at State Schools

At some state schools (e.g., Colorado), the earlier you submit your deposit to the school, the higher priority you will receive in the housing lottery. So, if your child has been admitted to a state school and it is one of their top choices, please contact the school’s housing office to find out if you will benefit from depositing early. Please note that if you pay a deposit and ultimately choose another school, then you will forfeit that money, so you may not want to take the risk. In any event, it’s good to understand how housing assignments work at your top choice schools.

Study Tips for Major Exams

Here are some tips to help you do your best during exams:  Organize and Plan Ahead. Determine your needs. Create a "Distraction Free" Zone. Take an Exercise Break.  Click here to read more about Study Tips for Major Exams

Sending Midyear Reports

Now is the time to put in a request for guidance to send your midyear report. Schools may also request additional information.  Click to read: Sending Midyear Reports

What We're Reading

Coincidentally, many of us read and loved Mad Honey in the past few weeks. We think it's an important book for many reasons, and without giving anything away, we hope you feel the same.

What's Happening Now

Seniors:   Please continue to update us on the status of your applications. Be aware of financial aid deadlines and as always, contact us with any questions.   Juniors:  Please send us feedback on any college visits or test scores, so we can continue to refine your list. And if we have not met already, Click here to schedule a "College List PNA" under the "College" dropdown. Sophomores and Freshmen:   If you haven't already, please schedule a meeting to discuss classes for next year and summer plans. Also if you want to start testing the waters and visiting some colleges to get a sense of what you like and dislike, let us know and we'll map out a plan.

Now available in hardcover, paperback & Kindle versions! Follow the journeys of eleven students as they navigate the college application process and search for the right fit schools. Getting into their heads as they make decisions about which extracurricular activities to pursue, which schools to apply to, and which topics to choose for their essays will help you think about your own process in a more strategic way. Order Here.

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