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 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 2024 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

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 love 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 2024 DATES FOR COLLEGES

And here is a guide and video to help you navigate virtual visits.

For a student with learning differences, finding a college with the necessary accommodations and academic support services is important to his/her/their 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.

And here is an amazing list of college services for neurodivergent students that our colleague Eric Endlich compiled.

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.

We are ringing in the new year by starting an everything college-related podcast, and we want to hear from you! If there are any topics you would like to discuss or questions you have, please send them our way!

And here are some podcasts that are on our current rotation list: