Instagram Planning
Overall Notes & Ideas:
Instagram (RAFFERTY SOLUTIONS but Donna will provide the copy)
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
1x a week other idea from below
Maybe we get into reels but at least 3x a week is consistent
Ideas: Testing, Tips/Affordability, visits, newsletter, free things, about me
Facebook (DONNA DOES THIS)
Sharing Articles
News/Things to be aware of with Donna’s commentary
Hashtags for Social Media:
Standard: (add to every post)
#insightfulcollegeplanning
#collegeadmissions
#collegeapplications
#collegeaffordability
#applicationessays
As Needed based on Topic:
#commonapp
#ucapplication
#fafsa
#mckinneymoms
#friscomoms
#prospermoms
#nclsunflowerchapter
#mckinneyymsl
#friscoymsl
#wwhspta
#pisdprosperhs
#mbhspto
#rockhillpto
#mckinneynorthhighschool
#lakehighlandshighschool
4
October 2026
Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
| | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 |
20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 |
27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | | |
| | | | | | |
Holiday
IG Post
Facebook Post
Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
| | | | 1 | 2 | 3 |
4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 |
18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 |
25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 |
| | | | | | |
Monday Motivation
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
Tuesday Testimonial
Extra Post
Wednesday Wisdom
Extra Post
Monday Motivation
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
Wednesday Wisdom
October 5, 2026
Slide: Please use the slide from Set. 7th but change wording to October in 2 places on the slide
Copy:
Just published! The October edition of the Insightful College Planning newsletter. Don’t miss out!
Featured this month:
✅ College Visit Tips
✅Signs of College Readiness
✅ Profile of the University of Connecticut-Go Huskies!
✅ Parent Corner: Important Webinar-How To Tell If a College Will Prepare Students for Career Success
Read the October 2026 newsletter by clicking the link in my bio.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
October 7, 2026
Slide 1: Please use the slide from Nov. 17, 2025 but change the spelling of “Jefferey” to “Jeffrey”
Copy:
My college planning practice is focused on creating balanced college lists, with schools that can offer my students the potential for good fits, academically, socially, and financially.
To assume a low admit rate equates with quality of education is misguided.
It saddens me when a student’s final list is comprised of primarily very low admit rate schools, but with only the obligatory two high probability options I require for each student. I know there will be more “no’s” than “yeses” in the admissions process for that student.
More than that, the lofty reach schools most often are not good fits for the student anyway.
A balanced list usually provides more options for the student to choose from.
As Selingo’s quote so aptly states, parental pressure often drives the bus in terms of the college list. This isn’t about bragging rights or chasing trophies. It’s about honoring who your child is and finding places that will allow your child to grow and thrive.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
October 9, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from Aug. 25, 2025
Copy:�Juniors! This is a big year for you!
Many demands on your time: the most rigorous classes so far in high school, preparing for and taking the SAT or ACT, extracurricular activities including leadership roles, etc. 📚📝
Most colleges will evaluate your GPA for admissions based on your cumulative GPA through the end of junior year. This is the year to step it up! 🔥
There is nothing better in determining fit than seeing colleges in person when classes are in session and students are on campus. Speak with your parents about planning some visits.
Most importantly, be sure you have a supportive community surrounding you: family, friends, and other adults who love and care for you. Be that for others, too.
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
October 9, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from Aug. 25, 2025
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
October 9, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from Aug. 25, 2025
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
October 9, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from Aug. 25, 2025
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
October 9, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from Aug. 25, 2025
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
October 9, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from Aug. 25, 2025
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
October 12 2026
Slide 1: Tips for College Visits
Slide 2: Schedule Your Official Visit
Use the college’s website to select your preferred visit date and register. At some colleges, tour options fill quickly.
Slide 3: See a Variety of Schools
Aim for a mix of low, medium, and high probability schools.
Slide 4: Plan Wisely!
No more than 2 campus visits per day.
Give yourself enough time to:
• Take notes
• Take pictures
• Explore beyond the tour
• Reflect on what you experienced
Slide 5: Experience Campus Life�Stop by the coffee shop.�Grab lunch on campus.�Spend some time sitting outside.
People-watch. Observe the students. Notice the atmosphere.
Copy:�Planning college visits? 🎓
A campus visit can tell you things a website or brochure simply can’t.
As you plan your college tour schedule, remember:
✔️ Register for official visits�✔️ Explore opportunities beyond the standard tour�✔️ Visit a balanced range of colleges�✔️ See different sizes, locations, and campus environments�✔️ Limit yourself to two visits per day�✔️ Leave time to explore campus on your own�✔️ Take notes and pictures while the experience is fresh
And most importantly, give yourself time to experience the college, not just tour it.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
October 12 2026
Slide 1: Tips for College Visits
Slide 2: Schedule Your Official Visit
Use the college’s website to select your preferred visit date and register. At some colleges, tour options fill quickly.
Slide 3: See a Variety of Schools
Aim for a mix of low, medium, and high probability schools.
Slide 4: Plan Wisely!
No more than 2 campus visits per day.
Give yourself enough time to:
• Take notes
• Take pictures
• Explore beyond the tour
• Reflect on what you experienced
Slide 5: Experience Campus Life�Stop by the coffee shop.�Grab lunch on campus.�Spend some time sitting outside.
People-watch. Observe the students. Notice the atmosphere.
Copy:�Planning college visits? 🎓
A campus visit can tell you things a website or brochure simply can’t.
As you plan your college tour schedule, remember:
✔️ Register for official visits�✔️ Explore opportunities beyond the standard tour�✔️ Visit a balanced range of colleges�✔️ See different sizes, locations, and campus environments�✔️ Limit yourself to two visits per day�✔️ Leave time to explore campus on your own�✔️ Take notes and pictures while the experience is fresh
And most importantly, give yourself time to experience the college, not just tour it.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
October 12 2026
Slide 1: Tips for College Visits
Slide 2: Schedule Your Official Visit
Use the college’s website to select your preferred visit date and register. At some colleges, tour options fill quickly.
Slide 3: See a Variety of Schools
Aim for a mix of low, medium, and high probability schools.
Slide 4: Plan Wisely!
No more than 2 campus visits per day.
Give yourself enough time to:
• Take notes
• Take pictures
• Explore beyond the tour
• Reflect on what you experienced
Slide 5: Experience Campus Life�Stop by the coffee shop.�Grab lunch on campus.�Spend some time sitting outside.
People-watch. Observe the students. Notice the atmosphere.
Copy:�Planning college visits? 🎓
A campus visit can tell you things a website or brochure simply can’t.
As you plan your college tour schedule, remember:
✔️ Register for official visits�✔️ Explore opportunities beyond the standard tour�✔️ Visit a balanced range of colleges�✔️ See different sizes, locations, and campus environments�✔️ Limit yourself to two visits per day�✔️ Leave time to explore campus on your own�✔️ Take notes and pictures while the experience is fresh
And most importantly, give yourself time to experience the college, not just tour it.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
October 12 2026
Slide 1: Tips for College Visits
Slide 2: Schedule Your Official Visit
Use the college’s website to select your preferred visit date and register. At some colleges, tour options fill quickly.
Slide 3: See a Variety of Schools
Aim for a mix of low, medium, and high probability schools.
Slide 4: Plan Wisely!
No more than 2 campus visits per day.
Give yourself enough time to:
• Take notes
• Take pictures
• Explore beyond the tour
• Reflect on what you experienced
Slide 5: Experience Campus Life�Stop by the coffee shop.�Grab lunch on campus.�Spend some time sitting outside.
People-watch. Observe the students. Notice the atmosphere.
Copy:�Planning college visits? 🎓
A campus visit can tell you things a website or brochure simply can’t.
As you plan your college tour schedule, remember:
✔️ Register for official visits�✔️ Explore opportunities beyond the standard tour�✔️ Visit a balanced range of colleges�✔️ See different sizes, locations, and campus environments�✔️ Limit yourself to two visits per day�✔️ Leave time to explore campus on your own�✔️ Take notes and pictures while the experience is fresh
And most importantly, give yourself time to experience the college, not just tour it.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
October 12 2026
Slide 1: Tips for College Visits
Slide 2: Schedule Your Official Visit
Use the college’s website to select your preferred visit date and register. At some colleges, tour options fill quickly.
Slide 3: See a Variety of Schools
Aim for a mix of low, medium, and high probability schools.
Slide 4: Plan Wisely!
No more than 2 campus visits per day.
Give yourself enough time to:
• Take notes
• Take pictures
• Explore beyond the tour
• Reflect on what you experienced
Slide 5: Experience Campus Life�Stop by the coffee shop.�Grab lunch on campus.�Spend some time sitting outside.
People-watch. Observe the students. Notice the atmosphere.
Copy:�Planning college visits? 🎓
A campus visit can tell you things a website or brochure simply can’t.
As you plan your college tour schedule, remember:
✔️ Register for official visits�✔️ Explore opportunities beyond the standard tour�✔️ Visit a balanced range of colleges�✔️ See different sizes, locations, and campus environments�✔️ Limit yourself to two visits per day�✔️ Leave time to explore campus on your own�✔️ Take notes and pictures while the experience is fresh
And most importantly, give yourself time to experience the college, not just tour it.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
October 14, 2026
Slides 1 and 2: Blog Post: The Importance of Supplemental Essays (please use the slides from
Copy:
While some colleges dropped supplemental essays this year, they haven't completely disappeared. Many colleges have at least one; some have several. Sometimes these are optional. Of course, I recommend that students submit these, whether optional or not.
Supplemental essay topics are focused and give the college admissions committee a chance to learn how well applicants will mesh with their campus cultures.
Prompts can vary from the straightforward to the quirky. Examples are “Why This College?”, “Describe your Favorite Activity”, “Why This Major?”, etc.
Read my blog post to learn more about supplemental essays, why they are important, and what they can do for you. Link in bio. above.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
October 14, 2026
Slides 1 and 2: Blog Post: The Importance of Supplemental Essays (please use the slides from
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
October 19 2026
Slide: use the slide from Sept. 11th
Copy:�Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about your next step in the college planning process?
Sometimes, you simply need an hour with an experienced college planning professional to get answers, perspective, and a clear path forward.
Introducing my Ask Me Anything College Planning Session: a personalized, 60-minute virtual consultation focused entirely on your questions and your family’s priorities.
We can talk about:
✨ Building or refining a college list�✨ Choosing high school courses�✨ SAT/ACT testing strategy�✨ Extracurricular activities�✨ College applications�✨ Essays�✨ Campus visits�✨ College affordability and financial aid�✨ Admissions concerns or challenges�✨ Or any other college planning question on your mind
There’s no one-size-fits-all agenda.
This is a paid, private consultation designed to give you focused guidance without committing to a full college planning package.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
October 20, 2026
Slide: “Thank you so much for everything that you helped me with during the college process. I truly do not know where I would be right now without your guidance. You are an amazing and patient teacher. Again, thank you so much for helping me get into UGA.”
Copy:�I am so grateful to be part of the college planning process, guiding in my students’ in their next steps on their life journeys.
I’m not their parent, teacher, employer, or coach. My expectations are different. For each student it’s a journey of self discovery and I’m fortunate to have front row seat in this process.
It’s so rewarding to build trust with students so they know I have their backs as we move forward in planning for college.
In higher education, good fit means the schools that fit academically, socially, and financially. My goal is for my students to find good fit college options where they have the opportunity to thrive, experiencing personal growth and achieving their goals.
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial
SCHEDULED
October 21, 2026
Slides 1 and 2: Blog Post: Signs of Readiness for College
(use the slides from Feb. 11th, 2026)
Copy:
College readiness is about far more than grades and test scores.
Students who thrive in college also demonstrate independence, emotional maturity, practical life skills, and academic preparedness.
How ready are you for college?
Check out my blog post for tips on what to do now ensure you have a purposeful summer later this year! See the link in my bio. above.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
October 21, 2026
Slides 1 and 2: Blog Post: Signs of Readiness for College
(use the slides from Feb. 11th, 2026)
Copy:
College readiness is about far more than grades and test scores.
Students who thrive in college also demonstrate independence, emotional maturity, practical life skills, and academic preparedness.
How ready are you for college?
Check out my blog post for tips on what to do now ensure you have a purposeful summer later this year! See the link in my bio. above.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
October 26 2026
Slide 1: use the SAT slide from Aug. 5th but remove
the entries for the August 22nd and October 3rd tests
Slide 2: use the ACT slide from Aug. 5th but remove the entries for the Sept. 19th and Oct. 17th tests
Copy:�All 2026-27 Test Dates, Registration Deadlines, and Late Registration dates are posted. ⏰
More colleges are requiring testing again.
Juniors, do you have a testing plan in place? Now is the time to strategize your testing plan, including test prep and test dates.
Test sites fill. You’ll want to choose a familiar setting, closer to home, early on a Saturday morning.
Don’t delay in getting registered, even several months in advance is fine.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
October 26 2026
Slide 1: use the SAT slide from Aug. 5th but remove
the entries for the August 22nd and October 3rd tests
Slide 2: use the ACT slide from Aug. 5th but remove the entries for the Sept. 19th and Oct. 17th tests
Copy:�All 2026-27 Test Dates, Registration Deadlines, and Late Registration dates are posted. ⏰
More colleges are requiring testing again.
Juniors, do you have a testing plan in place? Now is the time to strategize your testing plan, including test prep and test dates.
Test sites fill. You’ll want to choose a familiar setting, closer to home, early on a Saturday morning.
Don’t delay in getting registered, even several months in advance is fine.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
October 28, 2026
Slide 1: Seniors: Applications Submitted? What’s Next?
Slide 2: After You Apply
Slide 3: Read ALL emails from the colleges you’ve applied to
Slide 4: Create Your Applicant Portal. Instructions are often in the first or second email after you apply.
Slide 5: Complete any missing requirements.
Slide 6: Make it a habit to check portal accounts weekly.
Copy:
If you’re like my seniors, you have already submitted most of your college applications.
Congratulations!
But now what?
Check out the next steps in my post for what to do after you apply.
Super important for you to open and read emails from colleges and to check your applicant portal accounts weekly.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
October 28, 2026
Slide 1: Seniors: Applications Submitted? What’s Next?
Slide 2: After You Apply
Slide 3: Read ALL emails from the colleges you’ve applied to
Slide 4: Create Your Applicant Portal. Instructions are often in the first or second email after you apply.
Slide 5: Complete any missing requirements.
Slide 6: Make it a habit to check portal accounts weekly.
Copy:
If you’re like my seniors, you have already submitted most of your college applications.
Congratulations!
But now what?
Check out the next steps in my post for what to do after you apply.
Super important for you to open and read emails from colleges and to check your applicant portal accounts weekly.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
October 28, 2026
Slide 1: Seniors: Applications Submitted? What’s Next?
Slide 2: After You Apply
Slide 3: Read ALL emails from the colleges you’ve applied to
Slide 4: Create Your Applicant Portal. Instructions are often in the first or second email after you apply.
Slide 5: Complete any missing requirements.
Slide 6: Make it a habit to check portal accounts weekly.
Copy:
If you’re like my seniors, you have already submitted most of your college applications.
Congratulations!
But now what?
Check out the next steps in my post for what to do after you apply.
Super important for you to open and read emails from colleges and to check your applicant portal accounts weekly.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
October 28, 2026
Slide 1: Seniors: Applications Submitted? What’s Next?
Slide 2: After You Apply
Slide 3: Read ALL emails from the colleges you’ve applied to
Slide 4: Create Your Applicant Portal. Instructions are often in the first or second email after you apply.
Slide 5: Complete any missing requirements.
Slide 6: Make it a habit to check portal accounts weekly.
Copy:
If you’re like my seniors, you have already submitted most of your college applications.
Congratulations!
But now what?
Check out the next steps in my post for what to do after you apply.
Super important for you to open and read emails from colleges and to check your applicant portal accounts weekly.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
October 28, 2026
Slide 1: Seniors: Applications Submitted? What’s Next?
Slide 2: After You Apply
Slide 3: Read ALL emails from the colleges you’ve applied to
Slide 4: Create Your Applicant Portal. Instructions are often in the first or second email after you apply.
Slide 5: Complete any missing requirements.
Slide 6: Make it a habit to check portal accounts weekly.
Copy:
If you’re like my seniors, you have already submitted most of your college applications.
Congratulations!
But now what?
Check out the next steps in my post for what to do after you apply.
Super important for you to open and read emails from colleges and to check your applicant portal accounts weekly.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
October 30, 2026
Slide:
It’s Friday! (use selfie in the social media folder for October)
Copy:
Last Friday of October already. Buckle up…the holiday season is around the corner.
November 1st is a big deadline in the college admissions world.
I’m happy to say that all my students with Nov. 1 deadlines finalized their applications by Oct. 22nd. Some long before that!
Tomorrow is Halloween, on a Saturday, which means that the trick or treaters will be out in full force. Not a school night. No prying kids out of bed for school the next morning.
My husband and I are stocked up and will sit in our driveway handing out candy, something we enjoy doing.
What are your weekend plans?
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
32
September 2026
Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
| | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 |
20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 |
27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | | |
| | | | | | |
Holiday
IG Post
Facebook Post
Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
| | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 |
20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 |
27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | | | |
| | | | | | |
Monday Motivation
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
Tuesday Testimonial
Extra Post
Wednesday Wisdom
Extra Post
Monday Motivation
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
Wednesday Wisdom
Wednesday Wisdom
September 2, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Senior Year Must Do’s
Copy:
Senior year is a juggling act. Emotions run high. It’s an exciting year of many memorable moments with the next step in your life’s journey just ahead.
Stay motivated and enjoy all the benefits of being a senior in high school.
Read my latest blog post for senior year success!
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
September 2, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Senior Year Must Do’s
Copy:
Senior year is a juggling act. Emotions run high. It’s an exciting year of many memorable moments with the next step in your life’s journey just ahead.
Stay motivated and enjoy all the benefits of being a senior in high school.
Read my latest blog post for senior year success!
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
September 7, 2026
Slide:
Please use the slide from Aug. 3rd but change wording to September in 2 places on the slide
Copy:
Check out the just published September edition of the Insightful College Planning newsletter.
Featured this month:
✅ Tip for College Fairs
✅Successful School Year Suggestions (by grade)
✅ Profile of Endicott College-Go Gulls!
✅ Parent Corner: Guide to Paying for College & Grad School
Read the September 2026 newsletter by clicking the link in my bio., or by clicking on the link in my story.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
September 9, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Junior Year Checklist
Copy:
Junior year is important and intense. You’re likely taking more rigorous courses than ever before. Testing for the SAT or ACT should be on your radar.
You may be a leader in school clubs or taking a lead role in performing arts or in varsity sports.
Stay focused.
Read more about what to prioritize this year at the link in my bio.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
September 9, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Junior Year Checklist
Copy:
Junior year is important and intense. You’re likely taking more rigorous courses than ever before. Testing for the SAT or ACT should be on your radar.
You may be a leader in school clubs or taking a lead role in performing arts or in varsity sports.
Stay focused.
Read more about what to prioritize this year at the link in my bio.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
September 11, 2026
Slide: New!
Ask Me Anything College Planning Session
(incorporate selfie that was used for the newsletter promo in August)
Copy:�Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about your next step in the college planning process?
Sometimes you simply need an hour with an experienced college planning professional to get answers, perspective, and a clear path forward.
Introducing my Ask Me Anything College Planning Session: a personalized, 60-minute virtual session focused entirely on your questions.
We can talk about:
✨ Building or adding to a college list�✨ Choosing high school courses�✨ SAT/ACT testing strategy�✨ Extracurricular activities �✨ College applications �✨ Essays�✨ Campus visits�✨ College affordability and financial aid�✨ Admissions concerns or challenges�✨ Or any other college planning question on your mind
There’s no one-size-fits-all agenda.This hour is designed around what matters most to your family.
Ready to get your questions answered? Message me or fill out the contact form at the link in my bio.
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
September 14, 2026
Slide: Picture in Sept. Shared Social Media Folder-HECA Fall College Tour
Copy:
Final group tour of 2026 this week! Excited to be in New England for HECA’s “Nutmeg to Narragansett College Tour”! Nine colleges in Connecticut and Rhode Island.
.
There will be many miles on the tour bus visiting the following colleges:
Looking forward to sharing what I learn with my students and their parents, networking with colleagues, and seeing several colleges in person that I’ve never seen before.
Do you think I’ll see any fall foliage?
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
September 15, 2026
Slide: �From a class of 2026 student:
“Thank you so much for all of your support in my college journey.”
Copy:
I’m grateful every day for the opportunity to provide support and encouragement to high school students preparing for their journeys to college.
I’ve guided hundreds of students with their college planning journeys in my 14 years as an Independent Educational Consultant.
I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation for students and parents to discuss the support you’re seeking and how I can help.
All meetings are held virtually via Zoom. I work with students from many states, especially Texas and California.
To contact me to schedule a consultation, go to the Linktree link above.
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial
SCHEDULED
September 16, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: College Fair Tips
Copy:
Fall is college fair season!
Many public high school districts and private high schools offer college fairs where you can speak with dozens of admissions representatives. Such an easy way to learn more about college options for you! It's also a way to demonstrate interest in colleges that track it.
A college fair can feel overwhelming at first; a little preparation can turn it into a productive opportunity to ask questions, compare options, and identify colleges worth exploring more deeply.
For tips on successfully navigating a college fair, read the latest blog post at the link in my bio.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
September 16, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: College Fair Tips
Copy:
Fall is college fair season!
Many public high school districts and private high schools offer college fairs where you can speak with dozens of admissions representatives. Such an easy way to learn more about college options for you! It's also a way to demonstrate interest in colleges that track it.
A college fair can feel overwhelming at first; a little preparation can turn it into a productive opportunity to ask questions, compare options, and identify colleges worth exploring more deeply.
For tips on successfully navigating a college fair, read the latest blog post at the link in my bio.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
September 21, 2026
Slide: Please use all the slides from Sept. 5th, 2025
For the second slide, please change the wording to “Extracurriculars highlight your interests beyond academics.”
Copy:�Extracurricular activities are important in college admissions because they give admissions representatives a fuller picture of who you are beyond grades and test scores.
Sometimes experiences in these activities form the basis of a personal statement or supplemental essay. What personal growth experiences have you had with your involvement in activities?
Often, your fit for a major is shown through extracurricular activities. Which activities indicate that for you?
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
September 21, 2026
Slide: Please use all the slides from Sept. 5th, 2025
For the second slide, please change the wording to “Extracurriculars highlight your interests beyond academics.”
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
September 21, 2026
Slide: Please use all the slides from Sept. 5th, 2025
For the second slide, please change the wording to “Extracurriculars highlight your interests beyond academics.”
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
September 21, 2026
Slide: Please use all the slides from Sept. 5th, 2025
For the second slide, please change the wording to “Extracurriculars highlight your interests beyond academics.”
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
September 21, 2026
Slide: Please use all the slides from Sept. 5th, 2025
For the second slide, please change the wording to “Extracurriculars highlight your interests beyond academics.”
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
September 21, 2026
Slide: Please use all the slides from Sept. 5th, 2025
For the second slide, please change the wording to “Extracurriculars highlight your interests beyond academics.”
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
September 21, 2026
Slide: Please use all the slides from Sept. 5th, 2025
For the second slide, please change the wording to “Extracurriculars highlight your interests beyond academics.”
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
September 21, 2026
Slide: Please use all the slides from Sept. 5th, 2025
For the second slide, please change the wording to “Extracurriculars highlight your interests beyond academics.”
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
September 23, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Sophomore Year Suggestions
Copy:
Welcome to sophomore year! No more new high school freshman for you!
Learn about several helpful tips for you to set yourself up for a successful sophomore year in high school, academically and in other ways.
Link in bio. above and in my stories.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
September 23, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Sophomore Year Suggestions
Copy:
Welcome to sophomore year! No more new high school freshman for you!
Learn about several helpful tips for you to set yourself up for a successful sophomore year in high school, academically and in other ways.
Link in bio. above and in my stories.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
September 25, 2026
Slide: Please use the selfie in the September shared social media file
Copy:
Let’s hear it for Friday! The last one of September.
While I’m not a Starbuck’s Pumpkin Latte fan, this time of year, I do stock up on all things pumpkin and squash at Trader Joe’s. It’s always fun to walk into my local store in early fall to assess if my tried and true favorites are in stock and what new items they’ve concocted for this year’s haul.
As we turn the corner to October, application work intensifies. Some of my seniors have already submitted applications, and others will soon. A few of my students are finished with ALL of their applications!
My approach is infused with calm, order, and structure, helping to minimize stress.
So for this weekend, I’m looking forward a family celebration for my recent MILESTONE birthday. We’ll head to a local restaurant in the charming downtown area where I live, and then head home for cake & ice cream, and time hanging out. Carrot cake is my favorite. What’s yours? Comment below.
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
September 28, 2026
Slide: “An elite college now is almost exclusively defined by how hard it is to get into. It's like the rope line at a hot nightclub—it's about having the ticket to get in. Students are blinded by the labels. But why does it matter whether you get into the club if you hate the music playing inside?”
― Jeffrey J. Selingo, Who Gets In and Why: A Year Inside College Admissions
Copy:
My colleagues and I often discuss the importance of fit-academic, social, and financial-when students are beginning the college search process.
Sometimes it’s the parents who equate prestige with quality.
Stories emerge of students for whom the prestigious college they matriculated to turns out to be a poor fit, in one or more ways. I’ve helped students transfer from poor fit colleges to better fit ones.
When a college is the right fit, the student thrives. It’s so encouraging to hear from families that their student loves where they landed.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
September 30, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Tips for New Freshmen
Copy:
Are you a new high school freshman? Starting high school is a big step! New environment, more responsibilities, and the beginning of your high school journey.
Good habits now build a solid foundation for success in high school.
You got this! 👊
My latest blog post will give you tips for a great start to high school.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
September 30, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Tips for New Freshmen
Copy:
Are you a new high school freshman? Starting high school is a big step! New environment, more responsibilities, and the beginning of your high school journey.
Good habits now build a solid foundation for success in high school.
You got this! 👊
My latest blog post will give you tips for a great start to high school.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
57
August 2026
Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
| | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 |
20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 |
27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | | |
| | | | | | |
Holiday
IG Post
Facebook Post
Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
| | | | | | 1 |
2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 |
23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 |
30 | 31 | | | | | |
Monday Motivation
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
Tuesday Testimonial
Extra Post
Wednesday Wisdom
Extra Post
Monday Motivation
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
Wednesday Wisdom
Monday Motivation
August 3, 2026
Slide: Newsletter-can a new one be created? I’d like to use the selfie from June 26 in the slide, but smaller. I’ve included an example from a colleague promoting her free consultation, but can this be changed to a newsletter promotion w/my brand colors (not necessarily the template she used, but the look)?
Copy:
Check out the just posted August edition of the Insightful College Planning newsletter.
Featured this month:
✅ Current Trends in College Admissions
✅What Is a Holistic Admissions Process?
✅ Profile of Purdue University-Go Boilermakers!
✅ Parent Corner featuring a new book on my reading list, Crazy for College, written by a professional colleague, Beth Heller Gelles., covering what actually matters and what can be ignored, ratcheting down the stress level, and delivered with some good humor.
Read the August 2026 newsletter by clicking the link in my bio., or by clicking on the link in my story.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
August 5, 2026
Slide 1: use the SAT slide but change the dates (I have linked the dates in the shared Social Media file for August)
Slide 2: use the ACT slide but change the dates (I have linked the dates in the shared Social Media file for August)
Copy:�All 2026-27 Test Dates, Registration Deadlines, and Late Registration dates are posted. ⏰
More colleges are requiring testing again.Juniors, do you have a testing plan in place? Now is the time to strategize your testing plan, including test prep and test dates.
Test sites fill. You’ll want to choose a familiar setting, closer to home, early on a Saturday morning.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
August 5, 2026
Slide 1: use the SAT slide but change the dates (I have linked the dates in the shared Social Media file for August)
Slide 2: use the ACT slide but change the dates (I have linked the dates in the shared Social Media file for August)
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
August 10, 2026
Slide: Please use the slide from Sept. 3, 2025
Copy:
Congratulations on becoming a high school senior! It’s an exciting time! 🎓
This is the time, if you haven’t started already, to work on your college applications. ✏️
You may have begun working on your Common Application earlier, but the lure of summer activities soon took over. That’s ok. But it’s time to get crackin’ now.
The application deadlines come up quickly.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Not sure what to do first? Need help with brainstorming essay topics?
I can help! ✨
This time of year, I offer Terrific Ten, a package of 10 hours of support to meet you where you are now in the college admissions process. This will help you complete and submit applications on time, minimizing stress and procrastination.
Contact me at the link in my bio. ⬆️
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
August 10, 2026
Slide: Please use the slide from Sept. 3, 2025
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
August 12, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: What are the Current Trends in College Admissions?
Copy:�Understanding today's admissions trends can help students make thoughtful decisions throughout high school and approach the application process with greater confidence.
I’ve seen the shift over the last couple of years, and, based on what I’ve learned recently at professional conferences and on webinars, I’m sharing these trends with you.
My latest blog posts discusses these trends in detail. Check it out at the link in my profile or the link in my story.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
August 12, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: What are the Current Trends in College Admissions?
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
August 14, 2026
Slide: Please use two slides, from July 16, 2025 and July 23, 2025
Copy:
Are you worried about the cost of college?
Many families are. It’s so important to develop a plan for how you will pay for college for your students.
Where do you begin? Answering the questions shown in the slide can provide clarity on what monetary resources you have to pay for college.
Many families hope for a “full ride scholarship” or are unaware just how much it costs to pay for the total cost of attendance for 1 year. Most colleges are raising tuition each year.
Some families hold off addressing college costs until spring of senior year, often too late to make a viable plan.
Start now to create a plan for college affordability for your family.
Need more guidance, affordability is my jam. Contact me at the link in my profile or in my story to learn more about affordable options.
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
August 14, 2026
Slide: Please use two slides, from July 16, 2025 and July 23, 2025
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
August 17, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from June 18, 2025
Copy:
A personal statement provides the opportunity to show the admissions reader who you are beyond your academic profile and activity descriptions.
The theme and why it matters should be clear.
Narrative style. Provide details and examples; keep the reader engaged. What have you learned? How did you overcome challenges? How have you changed through this experience?
Is the personal statement in your voice, not that of your parents or another adult, and not AI generated?
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
August 17, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from June 18, 2025
Copy:
A personal statement provides the opportunity to show the admissions reader who you are beyond your academic profile and activity descriptions.
The theme and why it matters should be clear.
Narrative style. Provide details and examples; keep the reader engaged. What have you learned? How did you overcome challenges? How have you changed through this experience?
Is the personal statement in your voice, not that of your parents or another adult, and not AI generated?
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
August 17, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from June 18, 2025
Copy:
A personal statement provides the opportunity to show the admissions reader who you are beyond your academic profile and activity descriptions.
The theme and why it matters should be clear.
Narrative style. Provide details and examples; keep the reader engaged. What have you learned? How did you overcome challenges? How have you changed through this experience?
Is the personal statement in your voice, not that of your parents or another adult, and not AI generated?
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
August 17, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from June 18, 2025
Copy:
A personal statement provides the opportunity to show the admissions reader who you are beyond your academic profile and activity descriptions.
The theme and why it matters should be clear.
Narrative style. Provide details and examples; keep the reader engaged. What have you learned? How did you overcome challenges? How have you changed through this experience?
Is the personal statement in your voice, not that of your parents or another adult, and not AI generated?
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
August 17, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from June 18, 2025
Copy:
A personal statement provides the opportunity to show the admissions reader who you are beyond your academic profile and activity descriptions.
The theme and why it matters should be clear.
Narrative style. Provide details and examples; keep the reader engaged. What have you learned? How did you overcome challenges? How have you changed through this experience?
Is the personal statement in your voice, not that of your parents or another adult, and not AI generated?
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
August 17, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from June 18, 2025
Copy:
A personal statement provides the opportunity to show the admissions reader who you are beyond your academic profile and activity descriptions.
The theme and why it matters should be clear.
Narrative style. Provide details and examples; keep the reader engaged. What have you learned? How did you overcome challenges? How have you changed through this experience?
Is the personal statement in your voice, not that of your parents or another adult, and not AI generated?
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
August 17, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from June 18, 2025
Copy:
A personal statement provides the opportunity to show the admissions reader who you are beyond your academic profile and activity descriptions.
The theme and why it matters should be clear.
Narrative style. Provide details and examples; keep the reader engaged. What have you learned? How did you overcome challenges? How have you changed through this experience?
Is the personal statement in your voice, not that of your parents or another adult, and not AI generated?
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
August 18, 2026
Slide: “We are so thankful for Donna. Her knowledge and expertise is priceless. She understands what each school is looking for in the application process. Donna did an amazing job keeping my daughter on track to accomplish each task in the application process. She is supportive, kind, and made the college application process seamless. I am proud to say my daughter was accepted to Cal Poly, SLO and I know I would not have been able to manage the process, essays, dates, etc., without Donna. “
Copy:
I spend several hours each week attending professional development events to stay up-to-date with changes in testing and essay policies, deepen my knowledge of specific colleges, learn about updates to financial aid, and to network with professional colleagues, among other things.
I do this to provide the most updated, helpful information for my students and their parents, including recent admissions trends.
There are numerous myths and misconceptions surrounding the college admissions journey. Fear and anxiety shouldn’t drive the process.
My goal is to make what can be an overwhelming and stressful process enjoyable for students, where they can find good-fit options that allow them to thrive.
I focus on fit: academic, social, and financial.
I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation for students and parents to discuss the support you’re seeking and how I can help.
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial
SCHEDULED
August 19, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Allied Health Careers: A Guide for High School Families
Copy:�Allied health careers are all the patient-care and support roles in healthcare that are not doctors or registered nurses. These professionals help diagnose illnesses, treat and rehabilitate patients, manage health information, support mental health, and promote wellness. They work in settings like hospitals, clinics, schools, labs, rehab centers, and community programs.
Whether you are just beginning to explore career interests or already know you want to work in healthcare, understanding these options can help guide you with high school course selection, extracurricular activities, and college planning.
My latest blog post covers in detail many allied health careers and what you can do as a high school student to prepare.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
August 19, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Allied Health Careers: A Guide for High School Families
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
August 24, 2026
Slide: Use the slide from May 7, 2025
Copy:
When a family is interested in merit scholarships, that motivates me to find schools that I know award these scholarships, AND that the student’s profile will likely qualify for them.
The most significant source of scholarships comes from the colleges themselves, for those that award them-not all do-and often they are renewable for all four years of college, provided the student meets specific criteria, such as GPA and the number of units.
Some colleges do not award merit scholarships at all. Only need-based aid.
As a trusted colleague of mine likes to say, “You can chase prestige, or you can chase merit, but you can’t have both.”
The cost of college continues to rise. For some colleges, the total cost of attendance is over $100,000 per year. Considering colleges that offer generous merit money can be a wise financial decision, especially for minimizing debt in financing a college education, and particularly if the student has graduate school in mind.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
August 26, 2026
Slide: Please use Aug. 13, 2025 slide
Copy:
To me, a great college match is all about “fit”: academic, social, and financial.
There are several aspects to identifying good fit options. I engage my students with identifying what matters most to them in a college home. I also ask parents for their input.
There are no “perfect” college matches, after all, we’re not hunting for unicorns. But there will be many that fit well where your student can thrive!
If you could go back to college, would you choose the same place or a better fit option? Drop a comment below!
�
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
August 28, 2026
Slide: Please use the selfie in the August shared social media file
Copy:
Hurray, it’s Friday!
As we turn the corner to a new month next week and soon the start of the fall season, application work intensifies. Some of my seniors will submit applications next week, and as the weeks tick by, more applications will be reviewed and submitted.
All application details, including essays, will be completed well ahead of the deadlines. No last-minute frantic essay writing. No burning the midnight oil, right before the deadline, review of applications.
My approach is infused with calm and structure, helping to minimize stress.
What’s on your agenda for this weekend? I’d love to know! Comment below. ⬇️
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
August 31, 2026
Slide: Use the slide from Aug. 18, 2025 please, but change to Class of 2027
Copy:
Congratulations on becoming a high school senior! It’s an exciting time! 🥳
This is the time, if you haven’t started already, to work on your college applications.
The application deadlines come up quickly. ⏰
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Not sure what to do first? Need help with brainstorming essay topics?
I can help! 🤝
This time of year, I offer Terrific Ten, a package of 10 hours of support to meet you where you are now in the college admissions process.
Contact me for a free, 30 minute consultation at the link in my profile or in my story.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
81
July 2026
Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
| | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 |
20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 |
27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | | |
| | | | | | |
Holiday
IG Post
Facebook Post
Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
| | | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 |
19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 |
26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | |
| | | | | | |
Monday Motivation
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
Tuesday Testimonial
Wednesday Wisdom
Extra Post
Wednesday Wisdom
Extra Post
Monday Motivation
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
Wednesday Wisdom
July 1, 2026
Slide 1: Changes are Here for Federal Student Loans
Slide 2: New Student Loan Limit
Maximum Lifetime Loan Limit of $257,500 for Undergrad./Grad. federal student loans
Slide 3: Direct Plus Loans for Graduate & Professional Students are gone
Slide 4:
If you’re enrolled in a graduate program, the unsubsidized loan limit is $20.5k annually/$100k total
If you’re enrolled in a professional program, the limits are $50k each year/$200k total. Qualifying degrees noted at StudentAid.gov/bigupdates
Slide 5: Direct Plus Loan Limit for Parents is now $20k annually and $65k total per child.
Slide 6: Two new student loan repayment plans: Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) and Tiered Standard Plan.
Slide 7: For more details and to see how these changes may impact your family, go to StudentAid.gov/bigupdates
Copy:�College-bound families: Federal student loans have changed.
Beginning today, July 1, 2026, new rules will affect how students and parents borrow and repay federal loans. Here's a quick overview:
➡️ Graduate PLUS Loans are ending for new borrowers.� Graduate and professional students will face new annual and lifetime borrowing limits.
➡️ Parent PLUS Loans will have new caps.� New Parent PLUS borrowers will be limited to $20,000 per year per student and $65,000 total.
➡️ Repayment options are being simplified.� New borrowers will generally choose between a Standard Repayment Plan and a new income-driven Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP).
➡️ Current borrowers may be grandfathered in.� Many students and parents who borrowed before July 1, 2026, may retain access to existing programs for a limited time if they remain in the same academic program.
What this means for families:�The days of relying on unlimited federal borrowing are over. Building a balanced college list with affordability in mind, and understanding your financing options before committing, is more important than ever.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
July 1, 2026
Slide 1: Changes are Here for Federal Student Loans
Slide 2: New Student Loan Limit
Maximum Lifetime Loan Limit of $257,500 for Undergrad./Grad. federal student loans
Slide 3: Direct Plus Loans for Graduate & Professional Students are gone
Slide 4:
If you’re enrolled in a graduate program, the unsubsidized loan limit is $20.5k annually/$100k total
If you’re enrolled in a professional program, the limits are $50k each year/$200k total. Qualifying degrees noted at StudentAid.gov/bigupdates
Slide 5: Direct Plus Loan Limit for Parents is now $20k annually and $65k total per child.
Slide 6: Two new student loan repayment plans: Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) and Tiered Standard Plan.
Slide 7: For more details and to see how these changes may impact your family, go to StudentAid.gov/bigupdates
Copy:�College-bound families: Federal student loans have changed.
Beginning today, July 1, 2026, new rules will affect how students and parents borrow and repay federal loans. Here's a quick overview:
➡️ Graduate PLUS Loans are ending for new borrowers.� Graduate and professional students will face new annual and lifetime borrowing limits.
➡️ Parent PLUS Loans will have new caps.� New Parent PLUS borrowers will be limited to $20,000 per year per student and $65,000 total.
➡️ Repayment options are being simplified.� New borrowers will generally choose between a Standard Repayment Plan and a new income-driven Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP).
➡️ Current borrowers may be grandfathered in.� Many students and parents who borrowed before July 1, 2026, may retain access to existing programs for a limited time if they remain in the same academic program.
What this means for families:�The days of relying on unlimited federal borrowing are over. Building a balanced college list with affordability in mind, and understanding your financing options before committing, is more important than ever.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
July 1, 2026
Slide 1: Changes are Here for Federal Student Loans
Slide 2: New Student Loan Limit
Maximum Lifetime Loan Limit of $257,500 for Undergrad./Grad. federal student loans
Slide 3: Direct Plus Loans for Graduate & Professional Students are gone
Slide 4:
If you’re enrolled in a graduate program, the unsubsidized loan limit is $20.5k annually/$100k total
If you’re enrolled in a professional program, the limits are $50k each year/$200k total. Qualifying degrees noted at StudentAid.gov/bigupdates
Slide 5: Direct Plus Loan Limit for Parents is now $20k annually and $65k total per child.
Slide 6: Two new student loan repayment plans: Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) and Tiered Standard Plan.
Slide 7: For more details and to see how these changes may impact your family, go to StudentAid.gov/bigupdates
Copy:�College-bound families: Federal student loans have changed.
Beginning today, July 1, 2026, new rules will affect how students and parents borrow and repay federal loans. Here's a quick overview:
➡️ Graduate PLUS Loans are ending for new borrowers.� Graduate and professional students will face new annual and lifetime borrowing limits.
➡️ Parent PLUS Loans will have new caps.� New Parent PLUS borrowers will be limited to $20,000 per year per student and $65,000 total.
➡️ Repayment options are being simplified.� New borrowers will generally choose between a Standard Repayment Plan and a new income-driven Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP).
➡️ Current borrowers may be grandfathered in.� Many students and parents who borrowed before July 1, 2026, may retain access to existing programs for a limited time if they remain in the same academic program.
What this means for families:�The days of relying on unlimited federal borrowing are over. Building a balanced college list with affordability in mind, and understanding your financing options before committing, is more important than ever.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
July 1, 2026
Slide 1: Changes are Here for Federal Student Loans
Slide 2: New Student Loan Limit
Maximum Lifetime Loan Limit of $257,500 for Undergrad./Grad. federal student loans
Slide 3: Direct Plus Loans for Graduate & Professional Students are gone
Slide 4:
If you’re enrolled in a graduate program, the unsubsidized loan limit is $20.5k annually/$100k total
If you’re enrolled in a professional program, the limits are $50k each year/$200k total. Qualifying degrees noted at StudentAid.gov/bigupdates
Slide 5: Direct Plus Loan Limit for Parents is now $20k annually and $65k total per child.
Slide 6: Two new student loan repayment plans: Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) and Tiered Standard Plan.
Slide 7: For more details and to see how these changes may impact your family, go to StudentAid.gov/bigupdates
Copy:�College-bound families: Federal student loans have changed.
Beginning today, July 1, 2026, new rules will affect how students and parents borrow and repay federal loans. Here's a quick overview:
➡️ Graduate PLUS Loans are ending for new borrowers.� Graduate and professional students will face new annual and lifetime borrowing limits.
➡️ Parent PLUS Loans will have new caps.� New Parent PLUS borrowers will be limited to $20,000 per year per student and $65,000 total.
➡️ Repayment options are being simplified.� New borrowers will generally choose between a Standard Repayment Plan and a new income-driven Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP).
➡️ Current borrowers may be grandfathered in.� Many students and parents who borrowed before July 1, 2026, may retain access to existing programs for a limited time if they remain in the same academic program.
What this means for families:�The days of relying on unlimited federal borrowing are over. Building a balanced college list with affordability in mind, and understanding your financing options before committing, is more important than ever.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
July 1, 2026
Slide 1: Changes are Here for Federal Student Loans
Slide 2: New Student Loan Limit
Maximum Lifetime Loan Limit of $257,500 for Undergrad./Grad. federal student loans
Slide 3: Direct Plus Loans for Graduate & Professional Students are gone
Slide 4:
If you’re enrolled in a graduate program, the unsubsidized loan limit is $20.5k annually/$100k total
If you’re enrolled in a professional program, the limits are $50k each year/$200k total. Qualifying degrees noted at StudentAid.gov/bigupdates
Slide 5: Direct Plus Loan Limit for Parents is now $20k annually and $65k total per child.
Slide 6: Two new student loan repayment plans: Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) and Tiered Standard Plan.
Slide 7: For more details and to see how these changes may impact your family, go to StudentAid.gov/bigupdates
Copy:�College-bound families: Federal student loans have changed.
Beginning today, July 1, 2026, new rules will affect how students and parents borrow and repay federal loans. Here's a quick overview:
➡️ Graduate PLUS Loans are ending for new borrowers.� Graduate and professional students will face new annual and lifetime borrowing limits.
➡️ Parent PLUS Loans will have new caps.� New Parent PLUS borrowers will be limited to $20,000 per year per student and $65,000 total.
➡️ Repayment options are being simplified.� New borrowers will generally choose between a Standard Repayment Plan and a new income-driven Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP).
➡️ Current borrowers may be grandfathered in.� Many students and parents who borrowed before July 1, 2026, may retain access to existing programs for a limited time if they remain in the same academic program.
What this means for families:�The days of relying on unlimited federal borrowing are over. Building a balanced college list with affordability in mind, and understanding your financing options before committing, is more important than ever.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
July 1, 2026
Slide 1: Changes are Here for Federal Student Loans
Slide 2: New Student Loan Limit
Maximum Lifetime Loan Limit of $257,500 for Undergrad./Grad. federal student loans
Slide 3: Direct Plus Loans for Graduate & Professional Students are gone
Slide 4:
If you’re enrolled in a graduate program, the unsubsidized loan limit is $20.5k annually/$100k total
If you’re enrolled in a professional program, the limits are $50k each year/$200k total. Qualifying degrees noted at StudentAid.gov/bigupdates
Slide 5: Direct Plus Loan Limit for Parents is now $20k annually and $65k total per child.
Slide 6: Two new student loan repayment plans: Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) and Tiered Standard Plan.
Slide 7: For more details and to see how these changes may impact your family, go to StudentAid.gov/bigupdates
Copy:�College-bound families: Federal student loans have changed.
Beginning today, July 1, 2026, new rules will affect how students and parents borrow and repay federal loans. Here's a quick overview:
➡️ Graduate PLUS Loans are ending for new borrowers.� Graduate and professional students will face new annual and lifetime borrowing limits.
➡️ Parent PLUS Loans will have new caps.� New Parent PLUS borrowers will be limited to $20,000 per year per student and $65,000 total.
➡️ Repayment options are being simplified.� New borrowers will generally choose between a Standard Repayment Plan and a new income-driven Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP).
➡️ Current borrowers may be grandfathered in.� Many students and parents who borrowed before July 1, 2026, may retain access to existing programs for a limited time if they remain in the same academic program.
What this means for families:�The days of relying on unlimited federal borrowing are over. Building a balanced college list with affordability in mind, and understanding your financing options before committing, is more important than ever.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
July 1, 2026
Slide 1: Changes are Here for Federal Student Loans
Slide 2: New Student Loan Limit
Maximum Lifetime Loan Limit of $257,500 for Undergrad./Grad. federal student loans
Slide 3: Direct Plus Loans for Graduate & Professional Students are gone
Slide 4:
If you’re enrolled in a graduate program, the unsubsidized loan limit is $20.5k annually/$100k total
If you’re enrolled in a professional program, the limits are $50k each year/$200k total. Qualifying degrees noted at StudentAid.gov/bigupdates
Slide 5: Direct Plus Loan Limit for Parents is now $20k annually and $65k total per child.
Slide 6: Two new student loan repayment plans: Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) and Tiered Standard Plan.
Slide 7: For more details and to see how these changes may impact your family, go to StudentAid.gov/bigupdates
Copy:�College-bound families: Federal student loans have changed.
Beginning today, July 1, 2026, new rules will affect how students and parents borrow and repay federal loans. Here's a quick overview:
➡️ Graduate PLUS Loans are ending for new borrowers.� Graduate and professional students will face new annual and lifetime borrowing limits.
➡️ Parent PLUS Loans will have new caps.� New Parent PLUS borrowers will be limited to $20,000 per year per student and $65,000 total.
➡️ Repayment options are being simplified.� New borrowers will generally choose between a Standard Repayment Plan and a new income-driven Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP).
➡️ Current borrowers may be grandfathered in.� Many students and parents who borrowed before July 1, 2026, may retain access to existing programs for a limited time if they remain in the same academic program.
What this means for families:�The days of relying on unlimited federal borrowing are over. Building a balanced college list with affordability in mind, and understanding your financing options before committing, is more important than ever.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
July 6, 2026
Slide:
The usual monthly newsletter one
Content:
Don’t miss out!
Check out the July edition of the Insightful College Planning newsletter just posted.
Featured this month:
✅ Looking Beyond Tuition: The Hidden Costs of College
✅What Is a Holistic Admissions Process?
✅ Profile of Rhodes College-Go Lynxes!
✅ Parent Corner highlighting a podcast with guests Dr. Steven Antonoff and Jay McCann, authors of The College Finder, who provide insight into the key factors to focus on in the college search and admissions process
Read the July 2026 newsletter by clicking the link in my bio. above.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
July 8, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Looking Beyond Tuition: The Hidden Costs of College
Copy:�When families begin planning for college, the first expense they usually consider is the tuition. While tuition is certainly a significant expense, it tells only part of the story.
The true cost of attending college often includes a variety of additional expenses that can add thousands of dollars to the annual bill. Depending on the college, the additional expenses, including room and board, can be equal to or higher than the college’s tuition.
The total of the tuition and these other expenses is called the “Cost of Attendance”. Understanding the total cost of attendance, including less obvious expenses, can help families build a realistic budget, compare colleges more accurately, and avoid financial surprises down the road.
Find out more about the many “hidden” costs of college in my latest blog post.
Check it out at the link in my bio above ⬆️
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
July 8, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Looking Beyond Tuition: The Hidden Costs of College
Copy:�When families begin planning for college, the first expense they usually consider is the tuition. While tuition is certainly a significant expense, it tells only part of the story.
The true cost of attending college often includes a variety of additional expenses that can add thousands of dollars to the annual bill. Depending on the college, the additional expenses, including room and board, can be equal to or higher than the college’s tuition.
The total of the tuition and these other expenses is called the “Cost of Attendance”. Understanding the total cost of attendance, including less obvious expenses, can help families build a realistic budget, compare colleges more accurately, and avoid financial surprises down the road.
Find out more about the many “hidden” costs of college in my latest blog post.
Check it out at the link in my bio above ⬆️
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
July 9, 2026
Slide: Please use slide from July 2, 2025
Copy:
Did you know that the summer before senior year is a great time to start working on your college applications? 🎓
There is so much more time without the pressures of the daily school year grind. ✏️🧐
I love guiding students in reflecting on their experiences and value to consider what they want colleges to know about them. 🤔
There is an art and a science to creating effective activities descriptions. How do you describe what you’ve done and why it’s important but in such limited space? Which activities do you highlight? I can help.
I have a few spots left for rising seniors in the class of 2027. Contact me at the link in my profile to schedule a 30-minute complimentary consultation. ⬆️
Post Topic: Extra Post (Thursday)
SCHEDULED
July 13, 2026
Slide: Please use the Colleges that Change Lives College Fair photo found in the July Social Media folder
Copy:
Colleges that Change Lives, or CTCL, is a group of 45 colleges dedicated to a student-centered college experience.
Each year, they host a traveling roadshow in various cities across the U.S., providing an opportunity to speak with many college admissions representatives.
Each event includes an opening presentation and a 90-minute college fair.
FREE!
I’ve visited nearly two dozen of these marvelous colleges in person. My colleagues and I love these places, what we call “hidden gems.” Many are generous with merit scholarships, too.
To register for a CTCL event near you, go to ctcl.org/info-sessions/, or register at the 🔗 in my bio.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
July 14, 2026
Slide: Please use the slide from July 15, 2025
Copy:
In my 14 years as an independent educational consultant, I’ve guided hundreds of students through their college planning journeys.
I often hear from parents: “Admissions keeps changing,” “We don’t know where to begin,” and “The process is more complicated than when I was applying to college.”
If you are overwhelmed about college admissions and don’t know where to start, I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation for students and parents to discuss the support you’re seeking and how I can help.
I work with students from many states, especially Texas and California. All meetings are held virtually via Zoom.
To contact me to schedule a consultation, go to the Linktree link in my bio. above.
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial
SCHEDULED
July 15, 2026
Slide 1: Please use the 3 slides from July 10, 2025
Copy:
In guiding my class of 2027 students, we already know which deadlines they’re working toward and have done backward planning to create a timeline for completing all the application details, minimizing stress and last-minute, frantic essay and application work.
Early Action deadlines can be in September, October, or November. Early Decision deadlines are typically
November 1.
I love guiding students with this process, breaking down the work into manageable chunks while helping them set themselves up for success in submitting their well-prepared applications on time.
Does your student need help with this process? I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation to discuss what support you’re seeking and how I can help.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
July 15, 2026
Slide 1: Please use the 3 slides from July 10, 2025
Copy:
In guiding my class of 2027 students, we already know which deadlines they’re working toward and have done backward planning to create a timeline for completing all the application details, minimizing stress and last-minute, frantic essay and application work.
Early Action deadlines can be in September, October, or November. Early Decision deadlines are typically
November 1.
I love guiding students with this process, breaking down the work into manageable chunks while helping them set themselves up for success in submitting their well-prepared applications on time.
Does your student need help with this process? I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation to discuss what support you’re seeking and how I can help.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
July 15, 2026
Slide 1: Please use the 3 slides from July 10, 2025
Copy:
In guiding my class of 2027 students, we already know which deadlines they’re working toward and have done backward planning to create a timeline for completing all the application details, minimizing stress and last-minute, frantic essay and application work.
Early Action deadlines can be in September, October, or November. Early Decision deadlines are typically
November 1.
I love guiding students with this process, breaking down the work into manageable chunks while helping them set themselves up for success in submitting their well-prepared applications on time.
Does your student need help with this process? I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation to discuss what support you’re seeking and how I can help.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
July 20, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from July 21, 2025 but change the year to class of 2028
Copy:
It’s important to have a strategy in junior year to plan for SAT or ACT testing.
So how do you do that?
Some steps to follow to develop your Testing Plan:
1. Take practice ACT and SAT tests (for the SAT, the PSAT can serve as a practice test).
2. Did you prefer one type of test vs. the other? You can use a concordance to compare your scores. Once you know which type of test you prefer, then focus on preparing for that, not both the SAT and the ACT.
3. How do you prepare? By doing test prep. Think about how you learn best and what motivates you. Also consider your budget 💰Test prep fees range from free to a few thousand dollars. Find the type that works well for your learning style AND your budget! 👍
4. Look at the math expectations for the test you’re prepping for to be sure you will have adequate math coursework by your preferred test date(s). 🧐
5. Pick a test date and get registered! Don’t delay in signing up. Test sites fill. You want to minimize how far you have to drive early on a Saturday morning!
6. Commit to a schedule for getting the test prep done. Cramming is not your friend. Put prep time in your schedule. Work the plan.
7. Once you’ve taken your first test, select a next test date to register for. Then, make a plan to improve areas that are weaker for you.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
July 20, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from July 21, 2025 but change the year to class of 2028
Copy:
It’s important to have a strategy in junior year to plan for SAT or ACT testing.
So how do you do that?
Some steps to follow to develop your Testing Plan:
1. Take practice ACT and SAT tests (for the SAT, the PSAT can serve as a practice test).
2. Did you prefer one type of test vs. the other? You can use a concordance to compare your scores. Once you know which type of test you prefer, then focus on preparing for that, not both the SAT and the ACT.
3. How do you prepare? By doing test prep. Think about how you learn best and what motivates you. Also consider your budget 💰Test prep fees range from free to a few thousand dollars. Find the type that works well for your learning style AND your budget! 👍
4. Look at the math expectations for the test you’re prepping for to be sure you will have adequate math coursework by your preferred test date(s). 🧐
5. Pick a test date and get registered! Don’t delay in signing up. Test sites fill. You want to minimize how far you have to drive early on a Saturday morning!
6. Commit to a schedule for getting the test prep done. Cramming is not your friend. Put prep time in your schedule. Work the plan.
7. Once you’ve taken your first test, select a next test date to register for. Then, make a plan to improve areas that are weaker for you.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
July 20, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from July 21, 2025 but change the year to class of 2028
Copy:
It’s important to have a strategy in junior year to plan for SAT or ACT testing.
So how do you do that?
Some steps to follow to develop your Testing Plan:
1. Take practice ACT and SAT tests (for the SAT, the PSAT can serve as a practice test).
2. Did you prefer one type of test vs. the other? You can use a concordance to compare your scores. Once you know which type of test you prefer, then focus on preparing for that, not both the SAT and the ACT.
3. How do you prepare? By doing test prep. Think about how you learn best and what motivates you. Also consider your budget 💰Test prep fees range from free to a few thousand dollars. Find the type that works well for your learning style AND your budget! 👍
4. Look at the math expectations for the test you’re prepping for to be sure you will have adequate math coursework by your preferred test date(s). 🧐
5. Pick a test date and get registered! Don’t delay in signing up. Test sites fill. You want to minimize how far you have to drive early on a Saturday morning!
6. Commit to a schedule for getting the test prep done. Cramming is not your friend. Put prep time in your schedule. Work the plan.
7. Once you’ve taken your first test, select a next test date to register for. Then, make a plan to improve areas that are weaker for you.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
July 22, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post!
Slide 2: What Is a Holistic Admissions Process?
Copy:�While researching colleges, you may have heard the phrase "holistic admissions process." Many students wonder what that means. Does it mean grades do not matter? Are extracurricular activities more important than academics? How do colleges actually make decisions using holistic review?
The reality is that holistic admissions are designed to evaluate students as complete individuals, not simply as numbers on a transcript.
See my latest blog post to learn more about what colleges are looking for in holistic admissions review.
Check it out at the link in my bio above ⬆️
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
July 22, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post!
Slide 2: What Is a Holistic Admissions Process?
Copy:�While researching colleges, you may have heard the phrase "holistic admissions process." Many students wonder what that means. Does it mean grades do not matter? Are extracurricular activities more important than academics? How do colleges actually make decisions using holistic review?
The reality is that holistic admissions are designed to evaluate students as complete individuals, not simply as numbers on a transcript.
See my latest blog post to learn more about what colleges are looking for in holistic admissions review.
Check it out at the link in my bio above ⬆️
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
July 24, 2026
Slide: Please use the selfie in the July Social Media Folder
Copy:
Happy Friday! Let the weekend begin!
No travel this month of July, and I’m not sad about it!
Was a busy spring and early summer touring 15 colleges in Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, Maryland, Indiana, and Illinois, and attending two multi-day professional conferences in Baltimore and Chicago!
So much great professional development, networking with trusted colleagues and meeting new ones, plus seeing fantastic higher ed options in person.
I’ll be back on the road, and in the air, the next two months, with two trips touring many colleges in the northeast.
In the meantime, I’m so pleased that my Seniors have made such great progress on their personal statements and other application details.
What have you been up to this summer?
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
July 27, 2026
Slide: Please use the July 28, 2025 slide
Copy:
Supplemental essays are short essays, ranging from 50 to 500 words, required by many colleges in addition to the personal statement.
These essays enable admissions officers to learn more about you and your fit for their schools.
Some colleges only ask for one supplemental essay, while others may ask for several.
Types of prompts:
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
July 29, 2026
Slide 1:
Please use the slide from from July 9, 2025 but refresh for this year
Copy:
College admissions testing policies vary now more than ever! And they keep changing.
For high school seniors, applying to colleges with a wide range of admissions probabilities (what I like to call a “balanced list”), which scores are sent where can make a difference in admissions decisions and in merit scholarships (if the colleges award those; not all do).
MORE COLLEGES ARE REQUIRING TEST SCORES AGAIN!
I advise students on developing a testing strategy. Once the results are in, and college lists are finalized, I analyze their results in the context of colleges they’re applying to and in light of the college specific policies.
Do you need help with figuring this out? I love to strategize with students to help them with the test planning and prep process.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
106
June 2026
Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
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6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 |
20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 |
27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | | |
| | | | | | |
Holiday
IG Post
Facebook Post
Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 |
14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 |
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28 | 29 | 30 | | | | 30 |
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Monday Motivation
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
Tuesday Testimonial
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
Extra Post
Wednesday Wisdom
Extra Post
Monday Motivation
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
June 1, 2026
Slide:
The usual monthly newsletter one
Content:
Just published!!
Be sure to read the June edition of the Insightful College Planning newsletter.
Featured this month:
✅ A High School Student’s Guide to Exploring Business Careers
✅Classes of 2027, 2028, and 2029: Year-by-Year Guides for Purposeful Summer Activities
✅ Profile of Mississippi State University-Go Bulldogs!
✅ Parent Corner featuring the book, Build for Tomorrow by Jason Feifer, Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur magazine.
Read the June 2026 newsletter by clicking the Linktree link in my bio.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
June 3, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: A High School Student’s Guide to Exploring Business Careers
Copy:
Business is an increasingly popular major among high school students as they plan for college. I always encourage my students to explore the many interesting ways to pursue business careers.
This post will provide you with practical guidance on how best to determine if business is the major for you and then how to prepare for it and to be a strong applicant to college.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 3, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: A High School Student’s Guide to Exploring Business Careers
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 8, 2026
Slide: Rebekah please use the College Search pdf located in the June 2026 File of the Social Media Content Folder
Content:
DFW area high school families, check out these great opportunities in June and July to learn more about dozens of colleges, offered by DARN (Dallas-Fort Worth Admissions Regional Network).
College Search Series events consist of a 1-hour general College 101 session followed by a college fair with member schools.
A great way to learn about colleges!
Free. To pre-register, find their link in the Linktree in my bio.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
June 10, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: College Planning: Making the Most of the Summer Before Senior Year
Copy:
The summer before senior year is one of the most important seasons in the college admissions process. While free time, travel, jobs, camps, and time with friends should absolutely be part of your summer plans, this is also an ideal opportunity to begin preparing for college applications.
Why? During the school year, you are juggling classes, homework, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and social commitments. Summer offers something the fall semester does not: breathing room.
The good news is that you do not need to spend every day working on applications to make meaningful progress. Completing a few key steps now can significantly reduce stress later and can make the fall of senior year feel far more manageable.
Learn about several productive ways rising seniors can use the summer months wisely.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 10, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: College Planning: Making the Most of the Summer Before Senior Year
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 12, 2026
Slide:
Rebekah, I’ve added the HECA conference picture to the June File within the shared social media folder
Copy:
Gearing up to fly to Chicago Sunday for a week in Illinois and Indiana!
Much to do before I go, the easiest part is the packing!
I’m excited for an intensive week of professional development, starting with a trip to South Bend to see the University of Notre Dame, attending the HECA (Higher Ed. Consultants Assoc.) annual conference in Chicago, and then post conference tours of Purdue, Indiana U., DePauw, and University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign.
These college visits will round out my midwestern list for Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana!!
My best investment for travel was a set of washable packing cubes I bought in March, 2017. They’re still going strong!
What’s your best, tried and true, travel tip? Comment below.
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
June 15, 2026
Slide: need a picture of the University of Notre Dame please (I don’t have any yet; will on June 15)
Content:
Flew into Chicago yesterday, met up with some colleagues to road trip down to South Bend before the start of the HECA conference late this afternoon.
So excited to be here on campus this morning! A school that’s been on my must visit list for a long time.
We’re taking the official tour but also enjoyed driving around the community last night after our local dinner.
Such a beautiful campus!
And yes, I’ve had a student graduate from here who hailed from California. Have students this year who are planning to apply.
Go Fighting Irish!
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
June 16, 2026
Slide: use the slide from May 13, 2025
Copy:
I’ve guided hundreds of students with their college planning journeys in my 14 years as an Independent Educational Consultant.
Referrals are the lifeline of my work. I’m so grateful when parents refer other family members, friends, and professional colleagues to me for college planning support.
If you are feeling overwhelmed about college admissions and don’t know where to start, I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation for students and parents to discuss the support you’re seeking and how I can help.
All meetings are held virtually via Zoom. I work with students from many states, especially Texas and California.
Contact me to schedule a consultation, using the Linktree link above.
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial
SCHEDULED
June 17, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: College Planning: Summer Before Junior Year�
Copy:
For most high school students, junior year is the most academically demanding year. Advanced coursework, extracurricular commitments, leadership roles, college visits, and standardized testing all begin to intensify.
That’s why the summer before junior year matters more than many students realize.
While free time, travel, and time with friends should absolutely be part of summer break, this season also offers valuable opportunities to begin preparing for college admissions in a thoughtful and low-stress way.
Learn more by reading my latest blog post. Click on the link in my bio. above.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 17, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: College Planning: Summer Before Junior Year�
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 22, 2026
Slide: use the slide from June 9, 2025 please but change it to Class of 2027
Content:
Are you a rising Senior? Class of 2027?
Summer break is the perfect time to work on college applications!
The more you can get done now, the less stressful it will be in the fall when senior year begins.
Start with figuring out where you plan to apply. Continue to complete one task at a time. Putting in the effort now will pay off later.
Have any questions? Comment below.
Need help? Schedule a free consultation in the link in my bio. above (use up arrow emoji please)
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
June 24, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Why the Summer Before Sophomore Year Matters More Than You Think
Copy:�When students think about college planning, their sophomore year often gets overlooked. Freshman year is finally over, junior year still feels far away, and college applications seem like a distant concern. Because of that, many students assume this summer does not really “count.”
In reality, the summer before sophomore year can be one of the most valuable times for personal growth, exploration, and building confidence for the years ahead.
The good news? You do not need to spend your summer stressing about college admissions. Students benefit most from summers that include a healthy balance of rest, fun, learning, and meaningful experiences.
A few intentional choices now can make high school feel more manageable later while also helping students better understand themselves and their future goals.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 24, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Why the Summer Before Sophomore Year Matters More Than You Think
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 26, 2026 (the calendar shows Thurs., June 25 for this)
Slide:
Please use the picture I added to the June 2026 file in the Social Media folder
Copy:
Summer is rolling along whether we want it to or not! July is almost here.
I’m so pleased with the progress my Class of 2027 rising seniors are making with their application and essay details!
I start them early, right after school is done for the year, to jump start the momentum to chip away at the many details that culminate in strong applications completed 10 days before the posted deadlines. Less stress, less procrastination = happier senior year!
This time of year to beat the heat, getting my walks in means heading out the door before the sun fully rises. I’m too chicken to go out in the pitch dark (lots of “nature” where I live), but once that sun is up, the temp quickly rises. So my early summer mornings are on autopilot, or that walk just won’t happen.
What about you? What’s your best beat the heat hack? Comment below.
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
June 29, 2026
Slide: Please use the photo from June 25, 2025
Content:
I love Gary Provost’s timeless advice for essay writing.
In guiding my students with writing their college application essays-personal statements, supplemental essays, UC Personal Insight questions-we begin with pre-writing exercises.
Those exercises generate interesting conversations, which helps me to encourage the students to consider what they want to convey about themselves for the different types of essays.
Colleges want to know who the student is beyond grades, test scores, and the limited character count activities list. What makes the student tick? Colleges consider the value the student will bring to the campus culture.
Then we brainstorm for every essay. Certain essays can be reused, sometimes with modifications, for different colleges.
Grateful for students who trust me in helping them to present their authentic selves in their college applications.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
123
May 2026
Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
| | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 |
20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 |
27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | | |
| | | | | | |
Holiday
IG Post
Facebook Post
Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
| | | | | 1 | 2 |
3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |
10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 |
24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 |
31 | | | | | | |
Monday Motivation
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
Tuesday Testimonial
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
Extra Post
Wednesday Wisdom
Extra Post
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
Extra Post
May 4, 2026
Slide:
The usual monthly newsletter one
Content:
Just published!!
Be sure to read the May edition of the Insightful College Planning newsletter.
Featured this month:
✅ How to Plan a Purposeful Summer: Meaningful Ideas for High School Students
✅From Graduating High School Senior to Successful College Freshman: What’s Essential
✅ Profile of Furman University-Go Paladins!
✅ Parent Corner featuring a recent episode with author Jeff Selingo, of Dream School, from the Truth About College Admissions podcast, hosted by Brennan Barnard & Rick Clark, both well-respected, longtime college admissions leaders.
Read the May 2026 newsletter by clicking the Linktree link in my bio.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
May 6, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: How to Plan a Purposeful Summer: Meaningful Ideas for High School Students
Copy:
Summer break isn’t just a pause from school; it’s an opportunity for high school students to develop skills, explore interests, and strengthen future college applications in ways that simply aren’t possible during the busy academic year.
If you’re wondering how to make the most of your summer, learn about meaningful ways to spend your time in this latest blog post.
I love helping high school students develop strategic summer plans!
Contact me in the link in my bio. above to schedule a 30-minute complimentary consultation for you and your student.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
May 6, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: How to Plan a Purposeful Summer: Meaningful Ideas for High School Students
Copy:
Summer break isn’t just a pause from school; it’s an opportunity for high school students to develop skills, explore interests, and strengthen future college applications in ways that simply aren’t possible during the busy academic year.
If you’re wondering how to make the most of your summer, learn about meaningful ways to spend your time in this latest blog post.
I love helping high school students develop strategic summer plans!
Contact me in the link in my bio. above to schedule a 30-minute complimentary consultation for you and your student.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
May 8, 2026
Slide:
Rebekah-please use the slides from the Dec. 5th post
Copy:
Final exams are coming up quickly!. It’s time to buckle down and prepare to do well!
Grades, while not the only factor, are the most important one in college admissions.
Here’s what you can do to be well prepared to succeed:
1. Organize Your Materials
2. Make a Study Schedule
3. Active Study Methods
4. Focus on Weak Spots
5. Review Regularly
6. Take Care of Yourself
7. Day Before & Exam Day
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
May 8, 2026
Slide:
Rebekah-please use the slides from the Dec. 5th post
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
May 8, 2026
Slide:
Rebekah-please use the slides from the Dec. 5th post
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
May 8, 2026
Slide:
Rebekah-please use the slides from the Dec. 5th post
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
May 8, 2026
Slide:
Rebekah-please use the slides from the Dec. 5th post
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
May 8, 2026
Slide:
Rebekah-please use the slides from the Dec. 5th post
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
May 8, 2026
Slide:
Rebekah-please use the slides from the Dec. 5th post
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
May 8, 2026
Slide:
Rebekah-please use the slides from the Dec. 5th post
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
May 8, 2026
Slide:
Rebekah-please use the slides from the Dec. 5th post
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
May 11, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from May 19th, 2025 but refresh
Copy:
Are you feeling overwhelmed about the college admissions planning process? Not sure where to begin?
Independent Educational Consultants (IECs) have up-to-date information and depth of expertise to provide your student with personalized support throughout the process.
We help break down the process into manageable steps, keeping families organized and less anxious throughout the journey.
Interested in learning more? I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation for students and parents. See above for the Linktree link in my bio.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
May 11, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from May 19th, 2025 but refresh
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
May 11, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from May 19th, 2025 but refresh
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
May 11, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from May 19th, 2025 but refresh
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
May 11, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from May 19th, 2025 but refresh
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
May 11, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from May 19th, 2025 but refresh
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
May 11, 2026
Slide: Please use the slides from May 19th, 2025 but refresh
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
May 12, 2026
Slide:�Please use the slide from Dec. 16th
Copy:
Referrals are the lifeline of my work. I’m so grateful when parents refer other family members, friends, and professional colleagues to me for college planning support.
I’ve guided hundreds of students with their college planning journeys in my 14 years as an Independent Educational Consultant.
If you are feeling overwhelmed about college admissions and don’t know where to start, I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation for students and parents to discuss the support you’re seeking and how I can help.
All meetings are held virtually via Zoom. I work with students from many states, especially Texas and California.
To contact me to schedule a consultation, go to the Linktree link above.
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial
SCHEDULED
May 13, 2026
Slide:
Rebekah-please use the slides from May 14th, 2025
Copy:
Hot take: That summer job? Colleges LOVE it.
Think it doesn’t “count”? Think again.
Whether you’re working in a restaurant, retail shop, or helping families with childcare: it all matters.
Even babysitting = leadership.�Managing kids, solving conflicts, prepping meals… that’s serious life experience.
And colleges notice when they see employment on your application..
Students who work:� ✔️ Show up� ✔️ Step up� ✔️ Transition more smoothly to college life
Bottom line:�A summer job isn’t just a paycheck, it’s preparation for what’s next.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
May 13, 2026
Slide:
Rebekah-please use the slides from May 14th, 2025
Copy:
Hot take: That summer job? Colleges LOVE it.
Think it doesn’t “count”? Think again.
Whether you’re working in a restaurant, retail shop, or helping families with childcare: it all matters.
Even babysitting = leadership.�Managing kids, solving conflicts, prepping meals… that’s serious life experience.
And colleges notice when they see employment on your application..
Students who work:� ✔️ Show up� ✔️ Step up� ✔️ Transition more smoothly to college life
Bottom line:�A summer job isn’t just a paycheck, it’s preparation for what’s next.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
May 13, 2026
Slide:
Rebekah-please use the slides from May 14th, 2025
Copy:
Hot take: That summer job? Colleges LOVE it.
Think it doesn’t “count”? Think again.
Whether you’re working in a restaurant, retail shop, or helping families with childcare: it all matters.
Even babysitting = leadership.�Managing kids, solving conflicts, prepping meals… that’s serious life experience.
And colleges notice when they see employment on your application..
Students who work:� ✔️ Show up� ✔️ Step up� ✔️ Transition more smoothly to college life
Bottom line:�A summer job isn’t just a paycheck, it’s preparation for what’s next.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
May 18, 2026
Slide:
I’ve added a jpg file to the shared Social Media file labeled “May 18 IG Post”
Copy:
Every week, I prioritize professional development. Networking meetings, counselor luncheons, college webinars, podcasts, and campus tours are regular fare for me.
But this week…I’m in Baltimore for IECA’s Annual Conference! It will be an action packed 3 days starting offthis morning serving as a Tour Ambassador for a campus tour of the University of Maryland with over 50 colleagues. Keynote speakers, breakout sessions, roundtable conversations, and networking over meals are also on the agenda.
It’s wonderful to reconnect with long time colleagues in person and to meet new ones! I’ll return to the office inspired and eager to share what I learn with my students.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
May 20, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: From Graduating High School Senior to Successful College Freshman: What’s Essential
Copy:�Congratulations on Your Upcoming High School Graduation!
This is an important milestone, and now you’re ready to begin the next phase of your life’s journey.
The transition from high school to college is one of the most meaningful shifts in your academic journey, bringing greater independence, new expectations, and exciting opportunities for growth. At the same time, it can feel unfamiliar or even overwhelming.
Read the essential tips for success in freshman year of college in my latest blog post.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
May 20, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: From Graduating High School Senior to Successful College Freshman: What’s Essential
Copy:�Congratulations on Your Upcoming High School Graduation!
This is an important milestone, and now you’re ready to begin the next phase of your life’s journey.
The transition from high school to college is one of the most meaningful shifts in your academic journey, bringing greater independence, new expectations, and exciting opportunities for growth. At the same time, it can feel unfamiliar or even overwhelming.
Read the essential tips for success in freshman year of college in my latest blog post.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
May 21, 2026 (I changed this from Friday to Thursday)
Slide:
Lead Magnet Picture
Copy:
Do you know what the Top 10 most Common College Application Mistakes Are?
1) Missing Deadlines
2) Procrastination
3) Submitting a Generic Essay
4) Forgetting to Proofread & Edit
5) Neglecting Recommendation Timelines
6) Overlooking Financial Aid Opportunities
7) Focusing Only on Top Schools
8) Not Showing Interest
9) Not Following Instructions
10) Not Understanding the Testing Requirements
Learn how can you avoid them. Get your free “Guide to Avoiding College Application Mistakes”. Click on the Linktree link beneath my bio. above. ⬆️
Post Topic: Extra Post (Thursday)
SCHEDULED
May 25, 2026
Slide: Memorial Day
Copy:
On this day, we pause to remember those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. We honor their courage, reflect on their service, and hold their memory with deep gratitude.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
May 27, 2026
Slide:
Some type of photo of students working on laptops with my logo added to the slide
Copy:
Excited to kick off application and essays work today with some of my rising seniors in the class of 2027!
I’m hosting two Zoom workshops this week and next. Rising seniors must attend one.
We dive right into all the things:
What is a Personal Statement?
How to draft compelling activity descriptions in 150 characters (not words),
Students create their Common App accounts and I show them how to complete the main section.
I review what the timeline will be for June and July, and my expectations.
Starting now with this kind of structure and process means LESS STRESS in the fall of senior year.
Do you know any rising seniors who could benefit? Contact me at the link in my profile.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
May 29, 2026
Copy:
Last Friday of May! Summer is here!
Had a great kickoff on Wednesday with my rising seniors at the first of two College Application & Essays Overview workshops. The next one is June 2nd, with more rising seniors. No time to waste!
We adopted a Lab/Golden puppy back in March from Golden Retriever Rescue of North Texas. She’s growing like a weed! We’re always trying to keep one step ahead of her with her training. It’s been fun watching her grow and develop, now almost 5 months old. She loves going on walks, which helps keep that puppy energy in check.
The weekend is here. What are your plans? Comment below ⬇️
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
154
April 2026
Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
| | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 |
20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 |
27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | | |
| | | | | | |
Holiday
IG Post
Facebook Post
Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday |
| | | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 |
19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 |
26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | Extra Post | |
| | | | | | |
Monday Motivation
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
Wednesday Wisdom
Tuesday Testimonial
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
Extra Post
Wednesday Wisdom
Extra Post
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
April 1, 2026
Slide:
This is no April Fool’s Joke:
The Common App essay prompts are posted!
Curious to know what they are? (down arrow)
Copy:
Which one will you choose?
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
April 6, 2026
Slide:
The usual monthly newsletter one
Content:
Just published!!
Don’t miss the April 2026 edition of the Insightful College Planning newsletter.
Featured this month:
✅ College Affordability Guide: Smart Steps to Lower Costs
✅Preparing for a STEM Major: A Strategic Guide for High School Students
✅ Profile of Colorado State University-Go Rams!
✅ Parent Corner featuring a recent episode from the Admissions Beat podcast, hosted by Lee Coffin, VP and Dean of Admissions & Financial Aid, Dartmouth College
Read the April 2026 newsletter by clicking the Linktree link in my bio.
Don’t miss out! To subscribe, use the link in the upper-right corner of the newsletter.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
April 8, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: College Affordability Guide: Smart Steps to Lower Costs
Copy:�For many families, thinking about the cost of college can feel overwhelming. Headlines about rising tuition and student debt often create the impression that a college education is financially out of reach.
Families who approach the college search with a thoughtful plan often discover that many excellent colleges become far more affordable than expected through scholarships, financial aid, and careful college list building.
Understanding the key steps to college affordability can help families make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary financial stress.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
April 8, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: College Affordability Guide: Smart Steps to Lower Costs
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
April 10, 2026
Rebekah: please use the slides from Feb. 19th for the SAT and ACT. For the SAT slide, delete the first row and start with the May 2nd row. For the ACT slide, delete the first row test date/reg. deadline/late reg., start with the June 13th row please.
Copy:
Juniors, have you taken your first SAT or ACT? If not, it’s time to make a plan!
If so, when are you retaking it?
Strong test scores can add value to your college application. Preparation is important and valuable.
For SAT or ACT retakes, are you reviewing the parts that were challenging for you?
Now is the time to strategize your testing plan, including test prep and test dates.
You’ll want to choose a familiar setting early on a Saturday morning. Don’t delay in getting registered! Test sites fill.
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
April 10, 2026
Rebekah: please use the slides from Feb. 19th for the SAT and ACT. For the SAT slide, delete the first row and start with the May 2nd row. For the ACT slide, delete the first row test date/reg. deadline/late reg., start with the June 13th row please.
Copy:
Juniors, have you taken your first SAT or ACT? If not, it’s time to make a plan!
If so, when are you retaking it?
Strong test scores can add value to your college application. Preparation is important and valuable.
For SAT or ACT retakes, are you reviewing the parts that were challenging for you?
Now is the time to strategize your testing plan, including test prep and test dates.
You’ll want to choose a familiar setting early on a Saturday morning. Don’t delay in getting registered! Test sites fill.
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
April 13, 2026
Slide:
Lead Magnet Picture
Copy:
Common College Application Mistakes:
1) Missing Deadlines
2) Procrastination
3) Submitting a Generic Essay
4) Forgetting to Proofread & Edit
5) Neglecting Recommendation Timelines
6) Overlooking Financial Aid Opportunities
7) Focusing Only on Top Schools
8) Not Showing Interest
9) Not Following Instructions
10) Not Understanding the Testing Requirements
So how can you avoid them? Get your free “Guide to Avoiding College Application Mistakes”. Click on the Linktree link beneath my bio. above. (Rebekah please add a green up arrow here)
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
April 14, 2026
Slide:�Rebekah: please use slide from Oct. 14th
Copy:
Guiding students with the next step in their life journeys is a tremendous privilege for me. Developing rapport and building trust with each student is my goal. I’m so grateful for parents who trust me to guide their students through this process.
There are numerous myths and misconceptions surrounding the college admissions journey. Fear and anxiety shouldn’t drive the process.
I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation for students and parents to discuss the support you’re seeking and how I can help.
Meeting virtually via Zoom enables me to reach students from my home state of Texas, my former state of California, and many other places in a convenient format for all.
To schedule a consultation, click the link in my bio. above.
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial
SCHEDULED
April 15, 2026
Slide:
Mississippi State University picture w/logo
Content:
Excited today to journey to Starkville, MS, for a 48-hour Counselor Fly-In sponsored by Mississippi State. I’m heading there with local colleagues, and we’ll meet up with other educational consultants and high school counselors. These in-depth campus visits are so helpful in learning about academic strengths and unique opportunities, touring many parts of campus, and experiencing the local community.
I love sharing what I learn with my students!
Go Bulldogs!
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
April 20, 2026
Slide:
Rebekah: please use the 3 slides from May 12, 2025 but change the class from 2026 to 2027
Copy:
This is the time of year for juniors-class of 2027-to ask teachers if they are willing to write letters of recommendation (LOR) for your college applications. The school year ends in a few weeks, so get this done now.
Ask two core academic subject teachers. Think English, Math, Science, Foreign Language, or Social Studies subject teachers. At least one from junior year, if not both.
Some teachers have a limit on the number of LORs they can write each year. They may have information they expect from you. Do you have a resume? That can be helpful as they write your LOR.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
April 20, 2026
Slide:
Rebekah: please use the 3 slides from May 12, 2025 but change the class from 2026 to 2027
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
April 20, 2026
Slide:
Rebekah: please use the 3 slides from May 12, 2025 but change the class from 2026 to 2027
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
April 22, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Preparing for a STEM Major: A Strategic Guide for High School Students
Copy:
STEM careers are growing rapidly, but admission to competitive STEM programs requires more than just strong grades. If you are interested in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics, intentional planning should start as early as freshman year.
This guide shows students how to prepare for STEM majors in college, what admissions offices look for, and how families can support their journey.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
April 22, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Preparing for a STEM Major: A Strategic Guide for High School Students
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
April 24, 2026
Slide
Please use the selfie I’ve linked in the April 2026 file in the Social Media Content shared folder-the one that says “Use This One-Selfie Redo”
Copy: �Last Friday of April! Another month is wrapping up.
I’m Donna Sakabu-Founder and Certified Educational Planner of Insightful College Planning. If we haven’t met yet, welcome!
I’m an Independent Educational Consultant based in McKinney, TX, but I work with families from all over the country.
Some fun facts about me:
1. I’m left handed, as are all of my siblings. But our parents weren’t. To this day, people still comment on my left handedness. I wrote a research paper about it for a psychology class in college.�
2. I’ve lived in 4 states: MA, CA, AZ, TX. For the first 14 years of my life, I had a Boston accent. Home is truly where the heart is!�
3. I visited London for the first time in Sept. 2024…a dream of mine since I was 20. I cried happy tears when we landed at Heathrow. Can’t wait to go back!
This week, I’ve finished the last of the Senior Wrap Up meetings for my class of 2026 students. I’m encouraged by the great options they’ve had to choose from. Most have made their final selections (deadline is in a few days…). Grateful to be part of their journeys.
Thank you for following along. So glad you’re here!
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
April 27, 2026
Slide:
Please use the slide from January 9th
Copy:�The college planning process can feel overwhelming, especially when there is so much advice, noise, and pressure coming from every direction. My role is to make that process clearer, more manageable, and more personal.
I bring deep knowledge of colleges, admissions, and all the moving parts of the application process, but just as importantly, I take the time to really get to know each student. Every student’s path is different, and my goal is to make the experience organized, personalized, and even enjoyable along the way.
I meet with students after school, in the evenings, on select Saturdays, and during school holidays, so families have flexibility and students can get support in a way that fits their busy schedules.
If this sounds like the kind of guidance your family is looking for, the next step is a complimentary 30-minute consultation. You can fill out the contact form on my website or use the link in my bio.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
April 29, 2026
Slide 1: Top 5 College Admissions Myths� Debunked for High School Families
What actually matters— so you can plan with clarity and confidence.�Slide 2: �Myth #1: A highly ranked college guarantees success� Truth: Success comes from fit, engagement, and opportunity—not prestige alone.
Myth #2: Perfect grades & scores ensure admission� Truth: Admissions are holistic.
Colleges also consider:� • Course rigor & trends� • School context� • Character & curiosity� • Activities & impact�Slide 3: �Myth #3: Students must be “well-rounded”� Truth: Colleges value depth over breadth.
Sustained involvement + genuine interest > dabbling in everything.
Myth #4: Test-optional means scores don’t matter� Truth: It’s a strategic decision.
Strong scores can help!�Slide 4:�Myth #5: Applying to more colleges improves chances� Truth: More isn’t better—balanced is better.
Best practice:� • 8–10 thoughtfully selected colleges� • Mix of reach, match, and likely schools� • Intentional research & realistic expectations�Slide 5:�College admissions is not a formula.
Focus on what matters:� • Academic preparation� • Meaningful engagement� • Finding the right-fit colleges
Students don’t need to chase myths—� they need a well planned strategy.
Copy:�The college admissions process is full of myths and many families unknowingly build their strategy around them.
The reality? Admissions decisions are holistic, contextual, and highly individual. There is no single formula or guaranteed path.
When students focus on:� ✔️ Strong academic preparation� ✔️ Genuine interests and engagement� ✔️ A well-balanced, thoughtfully built college list
—they position themselves not just for admission, but for a successful and fulfilling college experience.
If you’re feeling unsure about what really matters, you’re not alone. Contact me for a 30-minute complimentary consultation to discuss how I can support your college planning process.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
April 29, 2026
Slide 1: Top 5 College Admissions Myths� Debunked for High School Families
What actually matters—� so you can plan with clarity and confidence.�Slide 2: �Myth #1: A highly ranked college guarantees success� Truth: Success comes from fit, engagement, and opportunity—not prestige alone.
Myth #2: Perfect grades & scores ensure admission� Truth: Admissions are holistic.
Colleges also consider:� • Course rigor & trends� • School context� • Character & curiosity� • Activities & impact�Slide 3: �Myth #3: Students must be “well-rounded”� Truth: Colleges value depth over breadth.
Sustained involvement + genuine interest > dabbling in everything.
Myth #4: Test-optional means scores don’t matter� Truth: It’s a strategic decision.
Strong scores can help!�Slide 4:�Myth #5: Applying to more colleges improves chances� Truth: More isn’t better—balanced is better.
Best practice:� • 8–10 thoughtfully selected colleges� • Mix of reach, match, and likely schools� • Intentional research & realistic expectations�Slide 5:�College admissions is not a formula.
Focus on what matters:� • Academic preparation� • Meaningful engagement� • Finding the right-fit colleges
Students don’t need to chase myths—� they need a well planned strategy.
Copy:�The college admissions process is full of myths and many families unknowingly build their strategy around them.
The reality? Admissions decisions are holistic, contextual, and highly individual. There is no single formula or guaranteed path.
When students focus on:� ✔️ Strong academic preparation� ✔️ Genuine interests and engagement� ✔️ A well-balanced, thoughtfully built college list
—they position themselves not just for admission, but for a successful and fulfilling college experience.
If you’re feeling unsure about what really matters, you’re not alone. Contact me for a 30-minute complimentary consultation to discuss how I can support your college planning process.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
April 29, 2026
Slide 1: Top 5 College Admissions Myths� Debunked for High School Families
What actually matters—� so you can plan with clarity and confidence.�Slide 2: �Myth #1: A highly ranked college guarantees success� Truth: Success comes from fit, engagement, and opportunity—not prestige alone.
Myth #2: Perfect grades & scores ensure admission� Truth: Admissions are holistic.
Colleges also consider:� • Course rigor & trends� • School context� • Character & curiosity� • Activities & impact�Slide 3: �Myth #3: Students must be “well-rounded”� Truth: Colleges value depth over breadth.
Sustained involvement + genuine interest > dabbling in everything.
Myth #4: Test-optional means scores don’t matter� Truth: It’s a strategic decision.
Strong scores can help!�Slide 4:�Myth #5: Applying to more colleges improves chances� Truth: More isn’t better—balanced is better.
Best practice:� • 8–10 thoughtfully selected colleges� • Mix of reach, match, and likely schools� • Intentional research & realistic expectations�Slide 5:�College admissions is not a formula.
Focus on what matters:� • Academic preparation� • Meaningful engagement� • Finding the right-fit colleges
Students don’t need to chase myths—� they need a well planned strategy.
Copy:�The college admissions process is full of myths and many families unknowingly build their strategy around them.
The reality? Admissions decisions are holistic, contextual, and highly individual. There is no single formula or guaranteed path.
When students focus on:� ✔️ Strong academic preparation� ✔️ Genuine interests and engagement� ✔️ A well-balanced, thoughtfully built college list
—they position themselves not just for admission, but for a successful and fulfilling college experience.
If you’re feeling unsure about what really matters, you’re not alone. Contact me for a 30-minute complimentary consultation to discuss how I can support your college planning process.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
April 29, 2026
Slide 1: Top 5 College Admissions Myths� Debunked for High School Families
What actually matters—� so you can plan with clarity and confidence.�Slide 2: �Myth #1: A highly ranked college guarantees success� Truth: Success comes from fit, engagement, and opportunity—not prestige alone.
Myth #2: Perfect grades & scores ensure admission� Truth: Admissions are holistic.
Colleges also consider:� • Course rigor & trends� • School context� • Character & curiosity� • Activities & impact�Slide 3: �Myth #3: Students must be “well-rounded”� Truth: Colleges value depth over breadth.
Sustained involvement + genuine interest > dabbling in everything.
Myth #4: Test-optional means scores don’t matter� Truth: It’s a strategic decision.
Strong scores can help!�Slide 4:�Myth #5: Applying to more colleges improves chances� Truth: More isn’t better—balanced is better.
Best practice:� • 8–10 thoughtfully selected colleges� • Mix of reach, match, and likely schools� • Intentional research & realistic expectations�Slide 5:�College admissions is not a formula.
Focus on what matters:� • Academic preparation� • Meaningful engagement� • Finding the right-fit colleges
Students don’t need to chase myths—� they need a well planned strategy.
Copy:�The college admissions process is full of myths and many families unknowingly build their strategy around them.
The reality? Admissions decisions are holistic, contextual, and highly individual. There is no single formula or guaranteed path.
When students focus on:� ✔️ Strong academic preparation� ✔️ Genuine interests and engagement� ✔️ A well-balanced, thoughtfully built college list
—they position themselves not just for admission, but for a successful and fulfilling college experience.
If you’re feeling unsure about what really matters, you’re not alone. Contact me for a 30-minute complimentary consultation to discuss how I can support your college planning process.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
April 29, 2026
Slide 1: Top 5 College Admissions Myths� Debunked for High School Families
What actually matters—� so you can plan with clarity and confidence.�Slide 2: �Myth #1: A highly ranked college guarantees success� Truth: Success comes from fit, engagement, and opportunity—not prestige alone.
Myth #2: Perfect grades & scores ensure admission� Truth: Admissions are holistic.
Colleges also consider:� • Course rigor & trends� • School context� • Character & curiosity� • Activities & impact�Slide 3: �Myth #3: Students must be “well-rounded”� Truth: Colleges value depth over breadth.
Sustained involvement + genuine interest > dabbling in everything.
Myth #4: Test-optional means scores don’t matter� Truth: It’s a strategic decision.
Strong scores can help!�Slide 4:�Myth #5: Applying to more colleges improves chances� Truth: More isn’t better—balanced is better.
Best practice:� • 8–10 thoughtfully selected colleges� • Mix of reach, match, and likely schools� • Intentional research & realistic expectations�Slide 5:�College admissions is not a formula.
Focus on what matters:� • Academic preparation� • Meaningful engagement� • Finding the right-fit colleges
Students don’t need to chase myths—� they need a well planned strategy.
Copy:�The college admissions process is full of myths and many families unknowingly build their strategy around them.
The reality? Admissions decisions are holistic, contextual, and highly individual. There is no single formula or guaranteed path.
When students focus on:� ✔️ Strong academic preparation� ✔️ Genuine interests and engagement� ✔️ A well-balanced, thoughtfully built college list
—they position themselves not just for admission, but for a successful and fulfilling college experience.
If you’re feeling unsure about what really matters, you’re not alone. Contact me for a 30-minute complimentary consultation to discuss how I can support your college planning process.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
April 29, 2026
Slide 1: Top 5 College Admissions Myths� Debunked for High School Families
What actually matters—� so you can plan with clarity and confidence.�Slide 2: �Myth #1: A highly ranked college guarantees success� Truth: Success comes from fit, engagement, and opportunity—not prestige alone.
Myth #2: Perfect grades & scores ensure admission� Truth: Admissions are holistic.
Colleges also consider:� • Course rigor & trends� • School context� • Character & curiosity� • Activities & impact�Slide 3: �Myth #3: Students must be “well-rounded”� Truth: Colleges value depth over breadth.
Sustained involvement + genuine interest > dabbling in everything.
Myth #4: Test-optional means scores don’t matter� Truth: It’s a strategic decision.
Strong scores can help!�Slide 4:�Myth #5: Applying to more colleges improves chances� Truth: More isn’t better—balanced is better.
Best practice:� • 8–10 thoughtfully selected colleges� • Mix of reach, match, and likely schools� • Intentional research & realistic expectations�Slide 5:�College admissions is not a formula.
Focus on what matters:� • Academic preparation� • Meaningful engagement� • Finding the right-fit colleges
Students don’t need to chase myths—� they need a well planned strategy.
Copy:�The college admissions process is full of myths and many families unknowingly build their strategy around them.
The reality? Admissions decisions are holistic, contextual, and highly individual. There is no single formula or guaranteed path.
When students focus on:� ✔️ Strong academic preparation� ✔️ Genuine interests and engagement� ✔️ A well-balanced, thoughtfully built college list
—they position themselves not just for admission, but for a successful and fulfilling college experience.
If you’re feeling unsure about what really matters, you’re not alone. Contact me for a 30-minute complimentary consultation to discuss how I can support your college planning process.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
April 29, 2026
Slide 1: Top 5 College Admissions Myths� Debunked for High School Families
What actually matters—� so you can plan with clarity and confidence.�Slide 2: �Myth #1: A highly ranked college guarantees success� Truth: Success comes from fit, engagement, and opportunity—not prestige alone.
Myth #2: Perfect grades & scores ensure admission� Truth: Admissions are holistic.
Colleges also consider:� • Course rigor & trends� • School context� • Character & curiosity� • Activities & impact�Slide 3: �Myth #3: Students must be “well-rounded”� Truth: Colleges value depth over breadth.
Sustained involvement + genuine interest > dabbling in everything.
Myth #4: Test-optional means scores don’t matter� Truth: It’s a strategic decision.
Strong scores can help!�Slide 4:�Myth #5: Applying to more colleges improves chances� Truth: More isn’t better—balanced is better.
Best practice:� • 8–10 thoughtfully selected colleges� • Mix of reach, match, and likely schools� • Intentional research & realistic expectations�Slide 5:�College admissions is not a formula.
Focus on what matters:� • Academic preparation� • Meaningful engagement� • Finding the right-fit colleges
Students don’t need to chase myths—� they need a well planned strategy.
Copy:�The college admissions process is full of myths and many families unknowingly build their strategy around them.
The reality? Admissions decisions are holistic, contextual, and highly individual. There is no single formula or guaranteed path.
When students focus on:� ✔️ Strong academic preparation� ✔️ Genuine interests and engagement� ✔️ A well-balanced, thoughtfully built college list
—they position themselves not just for admission, but for a successful and fulfilling college experience.
If you’re feeling unsure about what really matters, you’re not alone. Contact me for a 30-minute complimentary consultation to discuss how I can support your college planning process.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
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March 2, 2026
Slide:
Newsletter
Copy:
Just published!!
Don’t miss the March 2026 edition of the Insightful College Planning newsletter.
Featured this month:
✅ Debunking College Admissions Myths
✅ Guide to Letters of Recommendation
✅ Profile of University of Puget Sound-Go Loggers!
✅ Parent Corner highlighting a recent podcast on “How to Choose A College That Delivers Career ROI”
Read the March 2026 newsletter by clicking the Linktree link in my bio.
Don’t miss out! To subscribe, use the link in the upper-right corner of the newsletter.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
March 4, 2026
Slide:
Slides from May 21, 2025-the first one of the 5 starts with “Wednesday Wisdom” and shows “Should a high school student have a resume?”
Copy:
Yes, you should create a resume in high school!
Juniors: this is an ideal time to put one together to give to teachers who will write letters of recommendation for you for your college applications.
Seniors: some scholarship applications will ask for one. Plus, it’s great to head to your freshman year in the fall with one in hand.
ALWAYS have someone review your resume before sending it out.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
March 4, 2026
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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March 4, 2026
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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March 4, 2026
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
March 6, 2026
Slide 1: What is College Affordability?
Slide 2: College Affordability Is Not:
Slide 3: College Affordability Is:
Copy: �Affordability should discussed early on in the college planning journey. It should be built into the college list from the beginning.
When a student’s college list is created with affordability in mind, senior year becomes calmer and decision season becomes empowering instead of stressful.
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
March 6, 2026
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
March 6, 2026
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
March 9, 2026
Slide:
See the .jpg photo in the March 2026 Social Media Content folder
Copy:
Last year I was asked to write an article for IECA’s Insights magazine sharing “Why I Belong”. Writing this provided the opportunity to reflect on my 13 year journey as an Independent Educational Consultant (IEC).
I’m inspired by my peers, who motivate me to support my fellow IECA members which, in turn, benefit not only our students and their families but many beyond our rosters.
If you were to look at my calendar in any given week, you will see many IECA events, sometimes one each day. College webinars, networking meetings, affinity groups with a focus on such things as College Affordability, Transfer Admissions, Technology for IEC Practices. Connections with colleagues through email, texts, and phone calls are also a regular part of my week.
Every day, I have access to professional resources and colleagues to equip me to serve my families well. Grateful every day that I get to do what I do.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
March 11, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Top College Admissions Myths Debunked for High School Families
Copy:
The college admissions process is surrounded by noise: misinformation, outdated advice, and social media opinions that can send families in the wrong direction.
Well-intentioned guidance isn’t always accurate. And when families focus on the wrong priorities, it creates unnecessary stress and confusion.
The truth?�Understanding what actually matters in college admissions helps students:
✔️ Make thoughtful, strategic decisions�✔️ Focus on what they can control�✔️ Reduce anxiety�✔️ Approach the process with clarity and confidence
Read my latest blog post to read to avoid falling into the college admissions myth trap. Check the link in my bio. above.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
March 11, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Top College Admissions Myths Debunked for High School Families
Copy:
The college admissions process is surrounded by noise: misinformation, outdated advice, and social media opinions that can send families in the wrong direction.
Well-intentioned guidance isn’t always accurate. And when families focus on the wrong priorities, it creates unnecessary stress and confusion.
The truth?� Understanding what actually matters in college admissions helps students:
✔️ Make thoughtful, strategic decisions�✔️ Focus on what they can control�✔️ Reduce anxiety�✔️ Approach the process with clarity and confidence
Read my latest blog post to read to avoid falling into the college admissions myth trap. Check the link in my bio. above.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
March 13, 2026
Slide 1: Why Private Colleges Are Sometimes More Affordable Than Public Universities�This surprises many families.
“Public” doesn’t automatically mean “less expensive.”� And “private” doesn’t automatically mean “out of reach.”
Let’s break it down. ➡️�Slide 2: What Families Often Don’t Realize�Public universities often, but not always, have lower sticker prices for in-state students, but they may offer limited need-based aid, and sometimes no merit scholarships.
Private colleges frequently use institutional funds to:
✔ Meet demonstrated financial need�✔ Offer generous merit scholarships
✔ Strategically award academic scholarships�Slide 3: The Truth About Affordability�Affordability depends on aid policy.
The most expensive-looking school on paper� may not be the most expensive in reality.
The only way to know?� Run the Net Price Calculator.� Compare real offers.� Look beyond the sticker price.
Smart college planning = informed financial strategy.�Copy: �Many families assume public universities are always the most affordable option. The truth? College affordability depends on a school’s financial aid policy, not whether it is is public or private.
Private colleges often provide generous need-based financial aid and substantial merit scholarships.
In contrast, in-state and out-of-state public universities may offer limited aid, making them more expensive than expected.
If you're comparing colleges, look beyond the sticker price. Use each school’s Net Price Calculator and evaluate real financial aid offers before making assumptions.
Smart college planning requires a thoughtful financial strategy.
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
March 13, 2026
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March 13, 2026
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March 13, 2026
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March 13, 2026
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March 13, 2026
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
March 16, 2026
Slide 1: Junior Spring Action Plan
Here’s where to focus in spring of junior year:
✔️ Refine your college list (fit > prestige)�✔️ Stay strong academically — rigor and grades matter� ✔️ Build relationships for recommendation letters
✔️ Plan a meaningful summer experience� ✔️ Begin personal statement reflection
Small steps now = less stress senior year.�Slide 2: Why This Matters�Colleges are evaluating:� • Academic performance and course rigor� • Engagement and initiative� • Depth of interests� • Authentic voice
The most confident seniors aren’t scrambling in the fall, they were preparing well in spring of junior year.�Copy:�Junior Families-This One’s For You!
The students who feel confident in the fall of senior year didn’t magically “figure it out” in August. They took small, intentional steps in the spring of junior year.
How does this happen? It’s about doing the right things:
• Clarifying college fit� • Protecting junior year grades� • Building authentic teacher relationships� • Planning a purposeful summer� • Beginning thoughtful reflection for essays
Momentum NOW reduces stress later.
If you have a junior in your home, which of these areas feels most urgent right now? ⬇️� Drop it in the comments. I’d love to hear where you’re focusing.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
March 16, 2026
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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March 16, 2026
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
March 17, 2026
Slide:�“We can’t begin to say enough positive things about our experience in working with Donna. She has the perfect mix of knowledge, experience, common sense, and understanding—not only of the college application process, but also of the concerns, questions, and needs of her clients. There’s no way we could have navigated the complexities of the college search and application process without her. Communicating and sharing information and materials with her was very easy.
She was also really good in working directly with our son. The college search/application process is confusing and has a lot of moving parts. We can’t imagine having gone through the whole process (let alone very successfully!) without her guidance.”
Copy:
In nearly 14 years as an independent educational consultant, I’ve guided hundreds of students through their college planning journeys.
I often hear from parents: ”We feel overwhelmed.” “We don’t know where to begin,” and “The process is more complicated than when I was applying to college.”
I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation for students and parents to discuss the support you’re seeking and how I can help.
I work with students from many states, especially Texas and California. All meetings are held virtually via Zoom.
To contact me to schedule a consultation, go to the Linktree link in my bio. above.
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial
SCHEDULED
March 17, 2026
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial
SCHEDULED
March 18, 2026
Slide:
Slide from May 7th (quote about college is a match to be made)
Copy:
If you could go back to college, would you choose the same place or a better fit option?
When I tour colleges, I always think about which students I’m working with who would find these schools to be good fit places.
There are several aspects to identifying good fit options. I engage my students with figuring out what matters most to them in a college home. I also ask parents for their input.
There are no “perfect” college matches, after all, we’re not hunting for unicorns. But there will be many that fit well where your student can thrive!
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
March 23, 2026
Slide:
Please use the Blues & BBQ tour jpg in the March 2026 Social Media folder
Copy:
Felt like one of my hopeful seniors when I was selected from the waitlist for this popular IECA tour!
We’re traversing many southern states on this 9 campus tour, staying in a new city each night: Birmingham, Auburn, Tuscaloosa, Oxford, and Memphis.
I’ve participated in 3 Southern Association for College Admission Counseling (SACAC) “Sweet Tea” tours in 2022, 2023, and 2024, giving me the opportunity to see many well loved college options in several southern states.
Seeing the colleges on IECA’s “Blues & BBQ” tour rounds out my list of “must see” SEC and other campuses, a list I created when I became a Texas resident after relocating from California in November 2020.
War Eagle! Roll Tide! Hotty Toddy! Hail State!
Excited to share what I learn with my students!
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
Approved?
March 25, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Letters of Recommendation: What High School Students Need to Know
Copy
Letters of recommendation help colleges see who a student is beyond grades and test scores.
Strong letters can:
Weak or generic letters, however, add very little value to a college application, so how students approach this process matters.
Learn more about Letters of Recommendation from my latest blog post. Link in bio. above.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
March 25, 2026
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
March 27, 2026
Slide:
Please use the selfie in the shared March 2026 Social Media file, dated March 27
Copy:
What a great week it’s been traveling across many southern states on the IECA “Blues & BBQ” tour!
A city a night. We’re visiting the ninth college today.
I love the opportunity to tour colleges in person with professional colleagues. So much great professional development, formally and informally.
It’s wonderful to reconnect with trusted colleagues who’ve become friends, and to build new connections. We’re a very collaborative bunch, all to support the families we serve.
Looking forward to returning home tonight and being back in the office next week!
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
March 30, 2026
Slide 1: Choosing Between College Offers?�A Decision Making Guide for Seniors 🎓
Multiple acceptances = multiple good options.��Here’s how to decide wisely.�Slide 2: Revisit Your Priorities
Before rankings and opinions…�What originally mattered most?
✔ Academic programs� ✔ Campus culture & size� ✔ Location� ✔ Support systems
The best choice aligns with your goals, not someone else’s.�Slide 3: Look Beyond the Sticker Price 💰�Compare offers line by line:
• Grants & scholarships (renewable?)� • Loans (student vs. parent)� • Net price for all 4 years� • GPA requirements to keep aid
Long-term affordability matters.�Slide 4:Consider Major + Career Pathways �If you know your intended field, compare:
• Faculty access� • Internships & research� • Career placement� • Alumni network strength
If undecided on major or future career, prioritize flexibility and strong advising�Slide 5: Combine Data + Instinct
Visit campus (if possible).�Attend admitted student events.�Notice how you feel.
Then ask:� Where will I thrive?� Where will I grow?
There’s rarely just one “right” choice for college. Choose the one that fits your values, goals, and financial reality.
Copy:�Are you deciding between colleges? Many options to choose from?
What a wonderful position to be in! But it can be hard to make a final decision.��There is rarely just one “right” choice.
The best decision is the one that aligns with:
✔ Academic fit� ✔ Financial reality (for 4 years)� ✔ Personal growth� ✔ Career direction� ✔ Where you will thrive
Say NO to: Rankings, Bumper Stickers, Someone Else’s Expectation.
Seniors: What matters most to you right now — academics, location, affordability, campus vibe, or career outcomes?
Parents: What questions are coming up in your household?
Drop them below. 👇
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
March 30, 2026
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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March 30, 2026
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
March 30, 2026
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
March 30, 2026
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
March 30, 2026
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
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Wednesday Wisdom
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February 2, 2026
Slide:
Newsletter
Copy:
Newly published today!
Don’t miss the February 2026 edition of the Insightful College Planning newsletter.
Featured this month:
✅ What are the Key Signs of College Readiness?
✅ Navigating Admissions Testing
✅ Profile of Oregon State University-Go Beavers!!
✅ Parent Corner featuring Frank Bruni’s book, Where You Go Is Not Who You’ll Be. It’s often on the Top 5 recommended books by my colleagues and me.
To read this new edition, please click on the Linktree link in my bio. above ⬆️
Don’t miss out! To subscribe, use the link in the upper-right corner of the newsletter.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
February 4, 2026
Slide:
Wednesday Wisdom
Copy:
Are you worried about the cost of college?
Most families are. It’s so important to have a plan for how you will pay for college for each of your children.
Where do you begin? Start with the first step, answering these questions so you can have some direction on what will be best for your family.
Many families hope for a “full ride scholarship” or are unaware just how much the total cost of attendance might be for their child’s first choice college. Most colleges are raising tuition and fees each year.
Some families hold off addressing college costs until spring of senior year, often too late to make a viable plan for paying for college.
Start now to make a plan for your family. The first step is posted here. Stay tuned for more college affordability tips this month!
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
February 4, 2026
Slide:
Wednesday Wisdom
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
February 6, 2026
Slide Title:
Thinking about transferring?
Copy:
Are you a current college student considering a transfer to another college?
Did you start at a community college but are now ready to move on to a 4-year school to finish your undergraduate degree?
Or, did you begin at a 4-year college and realize it’s not where you want to stay?
I offer a Time to Transfer package, 3-hour blocks of focused support driven by what you need to submit well developed transfer applications for the next step in the journey to earning your Bachelor’s degree.
Transfer requirements vary by college. The number of units needed and the types of course you should have taken vary widely. Deadlines vary, too. I can help you with figuring out the details needed to successfully apply.
Contact me in the link in my bio. above to schedule your 30-minute complimentary consultation.
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
February 9, 2026
Copy:�Common college admissions myths can add unnecessary stress and distract families from what truly matters. The reality is that admissions decisions are holistic, contextual, and highly individual. There is no single formula, no one “right” path.
When students focus on academic planning, meaningful engagement, and apply to colleges that are the right fit, this sets the stage for a positive college experience
When families have clear information and thoughtful guidance, the college admissions process can feel more manageable and less overwhelming.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
February 9, 2026
Copy:�Common college admissions myths can add unnecessary stress and distract families from what truly matters. The reality is that admissions decisions are holistic, contextual, and highly individual. There is no single formula, no one “right” path.
When students focus on academic planning, meaningful engagement, and apply to colleges that are the right fit, this sets the stage for a positive college experience
When families have clear information and thoughtful guidance, the college admissions process can feel more manageable and less overwhelming.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
February 9, 2026
Copy:�Common college admissions myths can add unnecessary stress and distract families from what truly matters. The reality is that admissions decisions are holistic, contextual, and highly individual. There is no single formula, no one “right” path.
When students focus on academic planning, meaningful engagement, and apply to colleges that are the right fit, this sets the stage for a positive college experience
When families have clear information and thoughtful guidance, the college admissions process can feel more manageable and less overwhelming.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
February 9, 2026
Copy:�Common college admissions myths can add unnecessary stress and distract families from what truly matters. The reality is that admissions decisions are holistic, contextual, and highly individual. There is no single formula, no one “right” path.
When students focus on academic planning, meaningful engagement, and apply to colleges that are the right fit, this sets the stage for a positive college experience
When families have clear information and thoughtful guidance, the college admissions process can feel more manageable and less overwhelming.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
February 9, 2026
Copy:�Common college admissions myths can add unnecessary stress and distract families from what truly matters. The reality is that admissions decisions are holistic, contextual, and highly individual. There is no single formula, no one “right” path.
When students focus on academic planning, meaningful engagement, and apply to colleges that are the right fit, this sets the stage for a positive college experience
When families have clear information and thoughtful guidance, the college admissions process can feel more manageable and less overwhelming.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
February 9, 2026
Slide 1 �College Admissions: Separating Myth from Reality�What families often assume, but what actually matters
Slide 2�Myth: A highly ranked college guarantees success�Reality: Student outcomes are driven by fit, engagement, and access to opportunity
Slide 3�Myth: Perfect grades and test scores ensure admission�Reality: Most colleges review applications holistically, considering rigor, context, and character
Slide 4�Myth: Students must be well-rounded�Reality: Admissions offices value depth, sustained interests, and meaningful growth.
Slide 5�Myth: Test-optional means test scores don’t matter�Reality: Submitting scores is a strategic decision that depends on the student and the school
Slide 6�College admissions is not a formula.
It’s a thoughtful, personalized process. Informed planning makes a difference.
Copy:�Common college admissions myths can add unnecessary stress and distract families from what truly matters. The reality is that admissions decisions are holistic, contextual, and highly individual. There is no single formula, no one “right” path.
When students focus on academic planning, meaningful engagement, and apply to colleges that are the right fit, this sets the stage for a positive college experience
When families have clear information and thoughtful guidance, the college admissions process can feel more manageable and less overwhelming.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
February 10, 2026
Slide:
“Thank you so much for everything that you helped me with during the college process. I truly do not know where I would be right now without your guidance. You are an amazing and patient teacher. Again, thank you so much for helping me get into UGA.”
Copy:
I am so grateful to be part of the college planning process, guiding in my students’ in their next steps on their life journeys.
I’m not their parents, teachers, employers, or coaches. My expectations are different. For each student it’s a journey of self discovery and I’m fortunate to have front row seat in this process.
It’s so rewarding to build trust with students so they know I have their backs as we move forward in planning for college.
In higher education, good fit means the schools that fit academically, socially, and financially. My goal is for my students to find good fit college options where they have the opportunity to thrive, experiencing personal growth and achieving their goals.
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial
SCHEDULED
February 11, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Signs of College Readiness: How to Know If a Student Is Truly Prepared
Copy:
College readiness is about far more than grades and test scores.
Students who thrive in college also demonstrate independence, emotional maturity, practical life skills, and academic preparedness.
How ready are you for college?
Check out my new blog post for tips on what to do now ensure you have a purposeful summer later this year! Check the link in my bio. above.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
February 11, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Signs of College Readiness: How to Know If a Student Is Truly Prepared
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
February 16, 2026
Slide 1: (sketch of Abraham Lincoln)
"Education is the most important subject which we as a people can be engaged in.” Abraham Lincoln
Slide 2: (sketch of George Washington)
“To encourage literature and the arts is a duty which every good citizen owes to his country.”
Copy:
This President’s Day, we remember George Washington, our first president, whose vision and courage laid the foundation of the United States, and Abraham Lincoln, whose leadership and dedication to equality preserved the Union and inspired generations.
Their legacies remind us that leadership is about integrity, resilience, and putting the greater good above all else.
Their courage, integrity, and vision continue to inspire us today.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
February 16, 2026
Slide 1: (sketch of Abraham Lincoln)
"Education is the most important subject which we as a people can be engaged in.” Abraham Lincoln
Slide 2: (sketch of George Washington)
“To encourage literature and the arts is a duty which every good citizen owes to his country.”
Copy:
This President’s Day, we remember George Washington, our first president, whose vision and courage laid the foundation of the United States, and Abraham Lincoln, whose leadership and dedication to equality preserved the Union and inspired generations.
Their legacies remind us that leadership is about integrity, resilience, and putting the greater good above all else.
Their courage, integrity, and vision continue to inspire us today.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
February 18, 2026
Slide:
Wednesday Wisdom
College Affordability Tip Of The Week
Discuss Which Resources Will Be Used To Pay For College
Copy:
Are you worried about the cost of college?
Most families are. Having a plan for how you’ll pay for college will give you peace of mind.
Where do you begin? Start with answering these questions so you can begin developing the plan.
It’s wise to begin planning earlier rather than later. Waiting until spring of your child’s senior year is often too late.
Discuss your budget with your child so they are aware as they consider which colleges to apply to. Be proactive, rather than reactive.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
February 18, 2026
Slide:
Wednesday Wisdom
College Affordability Tip Of The Week
Discuss Which Resources Will Be Used To Pay For College
Copy:
Are you worried about the cost of college?
Most families are. Having a plan for how you’ll pay for college will give you peace of mind.
Where do you begin? Start with answering these questions so you can begin developing the plan.
It’s wise to begin planning earlier rather than later. Waiting until spring of your child’s senior year is often too late.
Discuss your budget with your child so they are aware as they consider which colleges to apply to. Be proactive, rather than reactive.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
February 19, 2026
Rebekah: please use the slides from the Jan. post for the SAT and ACT. For the SAT slide, no changes are needed. For the ACT slide, delete the first row test date/reg. deadline/late reg., start with the April 11th row please.
Copy:
Juniors, have you taken your first SAT or ACT? If you have, when are you registered for a retake?
Strong test scores can add value to your college application. Preparation is important and valuable.
For SAT or ACT retakes, are you reviewing the parts that were challenging for you?
Now is the time to strategize your testing plan, including test prep and test dates.
You’ll want to choose a familiar setting early on a Saturday morning. Don’t delay in getting registered! Test sites fill.
Post Topic: Extra Post (Thursday)
SCHEDULED
February 19, 2026
Rebekah: please use the slides from the Jan. post for the SAT and ACT. For the SAT slide, no changes are needed. For the ACT slide, delete the first row test date/reg. deadline/late reg., start with the April 11th row please.
Post Topic: Extra Post (Thursday)
SCHEDULED
February 23, 2026
Slide 1: How to Build a Thoughtful College List �A thoughtful college list isn’t about chasing prestige. It’s about choosing schools that make sense for you.
Slide 2: Begin With Reflection�Before researching colleges, pause and reflect:
Clarity starts with understanding yourself.
Slide 3: Focus on Academics�Look for academic fit, not rankings:
You’re building a foundation for growth.
Slide 4: Consider Campus Life�Daily campus life matters.
Ask yourself: Could I see myself here?
Slide 5: Include Financial Reality�A strong college list is financially informed.
Affordability is part of fit.
Slide 6: Build a Balanced List�A thoughtful list includes:
Balance provides options and reduces stress.
Slide 7: Keep the List Intentional�More schools don’t mean better outcomes.
Copy:
Building a college list doesn’t need to feel overwhelming or rushed.
The most effective lists are built thoughtfully and are balanced, with attention to academic fit, campus culture, and affordability. When students understand why each school is on their list, the process feels clearer and far less stressful.
There is no single “right” list.
If your student could use guidance navigating this step, college planning support can make the process feel calmer and more manageable.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
February 23, 2026
Copy:
Building a college list doesn’t need to feel overwhelming or rushed.
The most effective lists are built thoughtfully and are balanced, with attention to academic fit, campus culture, and affordability. When students understand why each school is on their list, the process feels clearer and far less stressful.
There is no single “right” list.
If your student could use guidance navigating this step, college planning support can make the process feel calmer and more manageable.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
February 23, 2026
Copy:
Building a college list doesn’t need to feel overwhelming or rushed.
The most effective lists are built thoughtfully and are balanced, with attention to academic fit, campus culture, and affordability. When students understand why each school is on their list, the process feels clearer and far less stressful.
There is no single “right” list.
If your student could use guidance navigating this step, college planning support can make the process feel calmer and more manageable.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
February 23, 2026
Copy:
Building a college list doesn’t need to feel overwhelming or rushed.
The most effective lists are built thoughtfully and are balanced, with attention to academic fit, campus culture, and affordability. When students understand why each school is on their list, the process feels clearer and far less stressful.
There is no single “right” list.
If your student could use guidance navigating this step, college planning support can make the process feel calmer and more manageable.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
February 23, 2026
Copy:
Building a college list doesn’t need to feel overwhelming or rushed.
The most effective lists are built thoughtfully and are balanced, with attention to academic fit, campus culture, and affordability. When students understand why each school is on their list, the process feels clearer and far less stressful.
There is no single “right” list.
If your student could use guidance navigating this step, college planning support can make the process feel calmer and more manageable.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
February 23, 2026
Copy:
Building a college list doesn’t need to feel overwhelming or rushed.
The most effective lists are built thoughtfully and are balanced, with attention to academic fit, campus culture, and affordability. When students understand why each school is on their list, the process feels clearer and far less stressful.
There is no single “right” list.
If your student could use guidance navigating this step, college planning support can make the process feel calmer and more manageable.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
February 23, 2026
Copy:
Building a college list doesn’t need to feel overwhelming or rushed.
The most effective lists are built thoughtfully and are balanced, with attention to academic fit, campus culture, and affordability. When students understand why each school is on their list, the process feels clearer and far less stressful.
There is no single “right” list.
If your student could use guidance navigating this step, college planning support can make the process feel calmer and more manageable.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
February 25, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Is the SAT or ACT Still Worth Taking? A Practical Guide for Today’s College Planning Landscape
Copy:
A few years ago, the question wasn’t whether a student would take the SAT or ACT; it was how many times.
Today, with many colleges test-optional (and some test-blind), confusion is understandable. Are tests still worth it?
The honest answer: it depends.
Some colleges don’t review scores at all. Others are bringing testing requirements back. And for strong test-takers, scores can still strengthen an application.
The key isn’t skipping the ACT or ACT, or testing blindly; it’s about being strategic.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
February 25, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Is the SAT or ACT Still Worth Taking? A Practical Guide for Today’s College Planning Landscape
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
February 27, 2026
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Last Friday of February already! The first two months of 2026 have flown by.
Recently, meetings with my sophomores and juniors have focused on topics such as campus visits, college research, test prep and testing strategy, career exploration, and academic and summer planning.
I love seeing students take ownership of this process. It’s wonderful to see them begin to get a sense of what their futures may hold, in higher education and beyond.
Today marks what would have been my dear mother’s 87th birthday. She was such a proponent of education, having so much self motivation and few championing her path to become a registered nurse. At 20 years old, as she prepared to graduate from nursing school, she was awarded the Florence Nightingale award for excellence in nursing. Her nursing career spanned more than 4 decades, and even post retirement, she was a good sounding board for medical questions.
My siblings and I created a scholarship in her memory through the alumni association of our mother’s high school for a graduating senior admitted to a nursing program. Reading the thank you note from the first recipient brought tears to our eyes. Our mother would have been so pleased.
So today I reflect on her life well lived! She never met a stranger and influenced so many through her profession, her volunteerism, and her warm and caring demeanor. Grateful for her life and example.
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
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January 2026
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Wednesday Wisdom
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Tuesday Testimonial
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Wednesday Wisdom
Extra Post
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Wednesday Wisdom
Extra Post
January 5, 2026
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Newly published today!
Don’t miss the January 2026 edition of the Insightful College Planning newsletter.
Featured this month:
✅ It’s Winter: Time to Start Planning for Summer
✅ Have You Ever Heard of Honors Colleges?
✅ Profile of Marquette University-Go Golden Eagles!
✅ Parent Corner featuring an outstanding webinar, The Truth About College Admissions, with Rick Clark and Paul Kanarek
To read this new edition, please click on the Linktree link in my bio. above ⬆️
Don’t miss out! To subscribe, use the link in the upper-right corner of the newsletter.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
January 7, 2026
Rebekah: please use the slides from the Oct. 15th post for the SAT and ACT, but change to Spring 2026 under SAT Dates and ACT dates title of each slide; for the SAT slide, delete first two rows of test dates/reg. deadlines/late reg. Start w/March 14 ; for the ACT slide, delete the first row test date/reg. deadline/late reg., start with Feb. 14
Copy:
Juniors, do you have a testing plan in place? Now is the time to strategize your testing plan, including test prep and test dates.
You’ll want to choose a familiar setting early on a Saturday morning. Test sites fill. Don’t delay in getting registered!
Strong test scores can add value to your college application. Preparation is important and valuable.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
January 7, 2026
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
January 9, 2026
Slide:
Copy:
The college planning process can feel overwhelming. That’s where I can help, offering deep expertise on colleges and the various aspects that are part of applying.
Each student’s journey is different but my goal is for student’s process to be organized, personalized, and enjoyable.
I meet with students after school, in the evenings, some Saturdays, and school holidays, working around their schedules, to give them flexibility in what works best.
Sound good? Next step is a 30 minute, complimentary consultation. Fill out the Contact form on my website or see the link in my bio. above (Rebekah please use green “up” arrow here).
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
January 12, 2026
Copy:
Spring semester has begun. A clean slate.
It’s an opportunity to revisit study habits, assess involvement in activities, and develop new goals like increasing your GPA; retaking SAT or ACT testing but with review and practice; showing deeper commitment to the activities that matter to you.
Reflect on what you’d like to improve.
Here’s to a strong start, and finish, to spring semester 2026!
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
January 12, 2026
Slide 1:
Back to School Tips for Spring Semester!
Slide 2:
Freshmen
Slide 3:
Sophomores
Slide 4:
Juniors
Slide 5:
Seniors
Copy:
Spring semester has begun. A clean slate.
It’s an opportunity to revisit study habits, assess involvement in activities, and develop new goals like increasing your GPA; retaking SAT or ACT testing but with review and practice; showing deeper commitment to the activities that matter to you.
Reflect on what you’d like to improve.
Here’s to a strong start, and finish, to spring semester 2026!
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
January 12, 2026
Slide 1:
Back to School Tips for Spring Semester!
Slide 2:
Freshmen
Slide 3:
Sophomores
Slide 4:
Juniors
Slide 5:
Seniors
Copy:
Spring semester has begun. A clean slate.
It’s an opportunity to revisit study habits, assess involvement in activities, and develop new goals like increasing your GPA; retaking SAT or ACT testing but with review and practice; showing deeper commitment to the activities that matter to you.
Reflect on what you’d like to improve.
Here’s to a strong start, and finish, to spring semester 2026!
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
January 12, 2026
Slide 1:
Back to School Tips for Spring Semester!
Slide 2:
Freshmen
Slide 3:
Sophomores
Slide 4:
Juniors
Slide 5:
Seniors
Copy:
Spring semester has begun. A clean slate.
It’s an opportunity to revisit study habits, assess involvement in activities, and develop new goals like increasing your GPA; retaking SAT or ACT testing but with review and practice; showing deeper commitment to the activities that matter to you.
Reflect on what you’d like to improve.
Here’s to a strong start, and finish, to spring semester 2026!
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
January 12, 2026
Slide 1:
Back to School Tips for Spring Semester!
Slide 2:
Freshmen
Slide 3:
Sophomores
Slide 4:
Juniors
Slide 5:
Seniors
Copy:
Spring semester has begun. A clean slate.
It’s an opportunity to revisit study habits, assess involvement in activities, and develop new goals like increasing your GPA; retaking SAT or ACT testing but with review and practice; showing deeper commitment to the activities that matter to you.
Reflect on what you’d like to improve.
Here’s to a strong start, and finish, to spring semester 2026!
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
January 13, 2026
Rebekah: Please use quote from May 13th slide
Copy:
Parents: Are you feeling overwhelmed about college admissions and don’t know where to start? I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation to discuss the support you’re seeking and how I can help your student.
I’ve guided hundreds of students with their college planning journeys in my 13 years as an Independent Educational Consultant. My focus is on finding good fit options-academic, social, and financial-where your child can thrive.
All meetings are conveniently held virtually via Zoom. I work with students from many states, especially Texas and California.
To contact me to schedule a consultation, go to the Linktree link above.
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial
SCHEDULED
January 14, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Make Your Summer Count: A Planning Guide for High School Students
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I know it’s winter, but summer planning starts now!
Summer is a great time for exploration, personal experiences that foster growth and independence, and developing curiosity.
What that looks like will be different for every student.
�Career exploration, community service, paid employment, starting a business (tutoring; childcare; instrument lessons, to name a few), college programs are some of the opportunities to consider.
Check out my new blog post for tips on what to do now ensure you have a purposeful summer later this year! Check the link in my bio. above.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
January 14, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post
Slide 2: Make Your Summer Count: A Planning Guide for High School Students
Copy:
I know it’s winter, but summer planning starts now!
Summer is a great time for exploration, personal experiences that foster growth and independence, and developing curiosity.
What that looks like will be different for every student.
�Career exploration, community service, paid employment, starting a business (tutoring; childcare; instrument lessons, to name a few), college programs are some of the opportunities to consider.
Check out my new blog post for tips on what to do know to ensure you have a purposeful summer later this year! Check the link in my bio. above.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
January 19, 2026
Slide:
“We must remember that intelligence is not enough. Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education. The complete education gives one not only power of concentration, but worthy objectives upon which to concentrate.”
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Copy:
While developing intellect, skills, and the ability to think deeply are important, they’re incomplete without character.
Character means qualities like integrity, empathy, moral responsibility, and a sense of justice.
Without character, intelligence can be misused. With character, intelligence becomes a force for good.
A truly educated person doesn’t just have a well developed intellect and abilities; they also have values that guide them.
�Real education builds intelligence AND character.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
January 21, 2026
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It’s important to familiarize yourself with college costs terminology.
Sometimes I hear “tuition” used interchangeably with “cost of attendance”. These are not the same. Tuition is one factor in the total cost of attendance. It’s easy to find the estimated total cost of attendance for a particular college.
Direct costs are typically fixed costs set annually by the college. Even at that, room and board often has leeway depending on number of students in the room and the number of meals per week the student opts for.
Indirect costs can vary. Books can be incredibly inexpensive. If possible, rent the books. Transportation costs are a wide range. For airfare, with advanced planning, it’s easier to keep that number in check. Campus parking passes range from free to several hundred dollars per semester.
Net price is what will be paid out of pocket, net of applied financial aid. Keep in mind, some financial aid is loans, either federal or private, and will need to be repaid after college.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
January 21, 2026
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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January 21, 2026
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
January 21, 2026
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
January 21, 2026
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
January 21, 2026
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
January 22, 2026
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Are you a current college student planning to transfer next fall?
Did you start at a community college but are now ready to move on to a 4-year school to finish your undergraduate degree?
Or, did you begin at a 4-year college and realize it’s not where you want to stay?
I’ve guided many students with successfully transferring.
I offer a Time to Transfer package, 3-hour blocks of focused support driven by what you need to submit well developed transfer applications for the next step in the journey to earning your Bachelor’s degree.
Transfer requirements vary by college. The number of units needed and the types of course you should have taken vary widely. Deadlines vary, too. I can help you with figuring out the details needed to successfully apply.
Contact me in the link in my bio. above to schedule your 30-minute complimentary consultation.
Post Topic: Extra Post (Thursday)
SCHEDULED
January 26, 2026
Slide:
Have you made your campus visit plans?
Copy:
Campus visits are so important for determining if a college could be a good fit or not.
Some colleges, but not all, keep track of a student’s visit as part of demonstrated interest, which can boost admissions chances.
It’s important to develop a campus visit plan. Registering for official tours is key, but these do fill, especially at popular colleges. Advanced planning is essential.
Are you interested in colleges out of state? Can you group campus visits for colleges within a few hours drive of each other? Take advantage of airfare promotions, and get your flights booked sooner rather than later.
Nearly all colleges update their campus visit calendars once school resumes for the spring term. Best way to find these is by doing a Google search for the “name of the college & visit”.
No time like the present to develop your campus visit plans!
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
January 28, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post!
Slide 2: So…What Is an Honors College, Anyway?
Copy:
Many students have never heard of honors colleges. I am a big fan of these opportunities, especially if a student is considering attending a large public university.
Are honors colleges only for "genius" students? What are the benefits? Is being an honors college student worth the extra work?
Learn how honors colleges work, their benefits, admission requirements, and whether they could be an option to consider for your college education.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
January 28, 2026
Slide 1: New Blog Post!
Slide 2: So…What Is an Honors College, Anyway?
Copy:
Many students have never heard of honors colleges. I am a big fan of these opportunities, especially if a student is considering attending a large public university.
Are honors colleges only for "genius" students? What are the benefits? Is being an honors college student worth the extra work?
Learn how honors colleges work, their benefits, admission requirements, and whether they could be an option to consider for your college education.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
January 30, 2026
Copy:
Last Friday of January! One month down and eleven to go for 2026.
This month, I’ve been formulating professional travel plans. Each year, I set a goal to visit at least 25 colleges in person. Group tours with professional colleagues are a great way to do this.
I’ve also been revisiting my systems and processes for engaging with students and their families. Typically this is a quieter month, so I have time to dive in to review and fine tune what will work best.
Professional development is a must do in my profession. College tours are one way, but I also partake of other ways, too. I’m registered for IECA’s Winter Forum and will attend their annual conference in Baltimore in May.
Certainly there will be webinars to attend each month about colleges, admissions trends, changes in testing, college affordability, etc. Networking with colleagues is also key, and so each month networking meetings are part of what I do to connect with trusted colleagues. We support each other and, in turn, this benefits the families we work with.
Here’s to a fruitful 2026!
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
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Monday Motivation
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Wednesday Wisdom
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Tuesday Testimonial
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
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Wednesday Wisdom
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Monday Motivation
December 1, 2025
Copy:
This month’s edition features:
✅ From Admit to Waitlist: Decoding College Admissions Decisions
✅ Your Guide to Making the Most of College Visits
✅ Profile of the University of Nevada, Reno-Go Wolf Pack!
✅ Parent Corner featuring the book, Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic-and What We Can Do About It, by Jennifer Breheny Wallace
To read this new edition, please click on the Linktree link in my bio. above ⬆️
Don’t miss out! To subscribe, use the link in the upper-right corner of the newsletter.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
December 3, 2025
Copy:
At some point after you’ve submitted your applications, admissions decisions will be made, and each college will notify you about yours.
The notification timeline varies depending on the type of application, ranging from within a week of applying to late March/early April.
Read my latest blog post to learn more about what each decision means and the steps you may need to take. See the link in my bio. ⬆️
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
December 3, 2025
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Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
December 5, 2025
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Final exams are on the horizon. It’s time to buckle down and prepare to do well!
Grades, while not the only factor, are the most important one in college admissions.
Here’s what you can do to be well prepared to succeed:
1. Organize Your Materials
2. Make a Study Schedule
3. Active Study Methods
4. Focus on Weak Spots
5. Review Regularly
6. Take Care of Yourself
7. Day Before & Exam Day
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
December 5, 2025
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Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
December 5, 2025
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Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
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December 5, 2025
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Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
December 5, 2025
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Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
December 5, 2025
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Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
December 5, 2025
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Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
December 5, 2025
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Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
December 5, 2025
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Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
SCHEDULED
December 8, 2025
Copy:
It’s important to have a strategy in junior year to plan for SAT or ACT testing.
So how do you do that?
Here are some steps to follow to develop your Testing Plan:
1. Take practice ACT and SAT tests (for the SAT, the PSAT can serve as a practice test).
2. Did you prefer one type of test vs. the other? You can use a concordance to compare your scores.
Once you know which type of test you prefer, then focus on preparing for that, not both the SAT and the ACT.
3. How do you prepare? By doing test prep.
There are numerous resources to help you prepare depending on how you learn best. Test prep books, online or in-person classes.. Think about how you learn best and what motivates you. Also consider your budget 💰Test prep fees range from free to a few thousand dollars. Find the type that works well for your learning style AND your budget! 👍
4. Look at the math expectations for the test you’re prepping for to be sure you will have adequate math coursework by your preferred test date(s). 🧐
5. Pick a test date and get registered! Consider your commitments (activities and family plans) before committing to a test date. Don’t delay in signing up. Test sites fill. You want to minimize how far you have to drive early on a Saturday morning!
6. Commit to a schedule for getting the test prep done. Cramming is not your friend. Put prep time in your schedule. Work the plan.
7. Once you’ve taken your first test, select a next test date to register for. Then, make a plan to improve areas that are weaker for you.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
December 8, 2025
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Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
December 8, 2025
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Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
December 10, 2025
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If you could go back to college, would you choose the same place or a better fit option?
My own college journey was a trial-and-error experience that worked out very well. The first college I attended was not a good fit for me. The college I graduated from certainly was!
There are several factors to consider when identifying good-fit options. I engage my students by identifying what matters most to them in a college home. I also ask parents for their input. Looking at college rankings is not part of my process.
There are no “perfect” college matches, after all, we’re not hunting for unicorns. But there will be many that fit well where your student can thrive!
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
December 11, 2025
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Are you thinking about transferring colleges?
You may have started at a community college but are now ready to make the leap to a 4-year school to finish your undergraduate degree.
Or, maybe you’ve started at a 4-year college and realize it’s not where you want to stay.
Transfer requirements differ by college. The number of units needed and the types of courses you should have taken vary widely. Deadlines vary, too.
I’ve guided many students with successfully transferring.
I offer a 5-hour Time to Transfer package. Focused support driven by what you need to submit well-crafted transfer applications for the next step in the journey to earning your Bachelor’s degree.
Post Topic: Extra Post (Thursday)
SCHEDULED
December 15, 2025
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I’ve read many, many books on college admissions. These four are the best!
Sound advice by authors I trust, all of whom I’ve heard speak at professional conferences, and a few I’ve had the opportunity to meet.That’s why I feel confident recommending these to families.
Two questions for you:
1. Have you read any of these?
2. What are your favorite books on this topic?
For more books I have read and highly recommend, see the “Free College Planning Resources” tab in the Linktree link in my profile.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
December 16, 2025
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Referrals are the lifeline of my work. I’m so grateful when parents refer other family members, friends, and professional colleagues to me for college planning support.
I’ve guided hundreds of students with their college planning journeys in my 13 years as an Independent Educational Consultant.
If you are feeling overwhelmed about college admissions and don’t know where to start, I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation for students and parents to discuss the support you’re seeking and how I can help.
All meetings are held virtually via Zoom. I work with students from many states, especially Texas and California.
To contact me to schedule a consultation, go to the Linktree link above.
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial
SCHEDULED
December 17, 2025
Copy:
Visiting colleges in person is one of the most valuable ways to get a feel for a school.
While researching colleges is definitely important, seeing a college campus in person and talking to students is essential in helping you discover good fits for you.
Keep an open mind. That college that you believe is the perfect place may turn out to be a non-contender for you. Conversely, a college that you’re not super excited about may be a hidden gem you fall in love with after visiting.
My latest blog post offers tips to make the most of your campus visit. See the link in my bio.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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December 17, 2025
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Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
December 22, 2025
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Success is not final: Even when you achieve something great, such as an A on a test you studied hard for, making the team, getting selected for a solo, you can’t stop growing. Success isn’t the end; it’s just one step along the way.�
Failure is not fatal: Messing up doesn’t destroy your future. A bad grade, a tough day, or a mistake doesn’t mean you’ve failed forever. We all mess up. But those experiences are sometimes the best teachers, motivating us to improve, to do better the next time.
Courage to continue: What really matters is staying determined and trying again. Progress comes from persistence, not perfection. It’s so rewarding to look back and see how far you’ve come.
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December 24, 2025
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Wishing you peace and joy on this eve before Christmas.
I hope you are enjoying the winter break and time with family and friends.
Cheers!
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December 26, 2025
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I hope it has been a joyful holiday season for you! (please use 2 emojis: tree, present)
We’re now in the zone between Christmas and New Year’s Day, where it’s easy to lose track of which day it is. One of my favorite times of year!
On my agenda during this break: Reading! What a treat to sit and enjoy a good book or a few. Also have some regional excursions planned for a change of scenery.
For sure, by January 2nd, we’ll take down the tree and put the decorations away. I love starting the year with a clean slate.
How are you spending this holiday break? Comment below. ⬇️
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December 29, 2025
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My Insightful College Planning Newsletter is published monthly, on the first Monday of each month.
Each month features articles on relevant college planning topics, a college spotlight from my college visits, and a parent corner featuring a book, podcast, or website that I’ve utilized and believe offers value to parents as they guide their children through adolescence, including the college planning journey.
Next issue publishes Monday, January 5th!
Make it your New Year’s resolution to get on the subscriber list! Don’t miss another issue!
How do you do that? Click on the link in the LinkTree link above.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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December 31, 2025
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I don’t know about you, but for me, 2025 flew by!
From a professional standpoint, it’s been action-packed.
This year, I visited 36 colleges in person in eight states plus the District of Columbia. I attended dozens of webinars on specific colleges, admissions testing, college affordability, trends in college admissions, and so on. Several books on college admissions and adolescence were on my reading list, and I kept up with higher ed news through a few periodicals I subscribe to.
I networked and collaborated with many colleagues, including serving in leadership in IECA, which helped each of us become better informed and equipped to guide our students and their parents. New for me this year was the development and launch of the Insightful College Planning monthly newsletter and blog with two posts per month.
Each year brings changes in college admissions. My job is to keep up with the changes, wade through the headlines to discern what will impact my students, and offer clear, accurate information to the families I work with.
I love what I do! Grateful to have the opportunity to guide many families each year.
Here’s to a healthy, prosperous, and inspiring 2026!
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Wednesday Wisdom
November 3, 2025
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Just published is the November edition of the Insightful College Planning Newsletter!
This month’s edition features:
✅ Demonstrated Interest: What is it? Why Does it Matter?
✅ Seniors: You’ve Applied! Now What?
✅ Profile of the Belmont University-Go Bruins!
✅ Parent Corner featuring Brennan Barnard and Rick Clark’s outstanding podcast, The Truth about College Admission
To read this new edition, please click on the Linktree link in my bio. above ⬆️
Don’t miss out! To subscribe, use the link in the upper-right corner of the newsletter.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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November 5, 2025
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Seniors, are you in need of some support as you tackle your college applications?
It’s not too late, but it’s time to get crackin’ now!
I offer 5-hour blocks of college planning services for Class of 2026 seniors.
Having a hard time coming up with what to write for your personal statement, UC PIQs, or supplemental essays? What about an extra set of eyes to review your applications? Have a lot of questions but don’t know where to turn?
I can help! I have you thirteen years of expertise to provide you with clarity on what you need to do next.
Deadlines wait for no one. Contact me at the link in my bio. ⬆️
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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November 5, 2025
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November 7, 2025
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Finding your college fit goes beyond test scores and rankings.��The best college for you is one that challenges you academically, feels comfortable socially, and is financially feasible.
Academic Fit: where you’ll learn best and achieve your goals�Social Fit: where you’ll feel at home�Financial Fit: where you can afford to thrive
The right combination helps you belong, grow, and succeed, in college and beyond.
Take time to reflect on all three as you plan your college search.
The right fit makes all the difference.
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November 7, 2025
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November 7, 2025
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November 7, 2025
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November 7, 2025
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November 10, 2025
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You’re not defined by your mistakes:
They're chapters, not your whole story. Learn from them and move on.�
Comparison kills joy:
Your journey isn’t supposed to look like anyone else’s. Embrace yours and celebrate others.�
Confidence is built, not born:
Show up, even when you’re unsure. Step out of your comfort zone.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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November 11, 2025
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In my 13 years as an independent educational consultant, I’ve guided hundreds of students through their college planning journeys.
I often hear from parents: “My friends tell me we’re behind schedule,” “We don’t know where to begin,” and “The process is more complicated than when I was applying to college.”
If you are overwhelmed about college admissions and don’t know where to start, I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation for students and parents to discuss the support you’re seeking and how I can help.
I work with students from many states, especially Texas and California. All meetings are held virtually via Zoom.
To contact me to schedule a consultation, go to the Linktree link in my bio. above.
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial
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November 12, 2025
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Demonstrated Interest:
What is It? Why Does It Matter?
Demonstrated interest is an important factor for some colleges when assessing applicants.
Showing your interest in a college can be handled in several ways.
It is a factor that some colleges, but not all, measure and track in their applicant pools.
Read my latest blog post to learn more about this! See the link in my bio. (use up arrow emoji)
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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November 12, 2025
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November 17, 2025
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My college planning practice is focused on creating balanced college lists, with schools that offer my students the potential for good fits, academically, socially, and financially.
To assume a low admit rate equates with quality of education is misguided.
It saddens me when a student’s final list is comprised of primarily low admit rate schools, but the obligatory two high probability options I require for each student. I know there will be more “no’s” than “yeses” in the admissions process for that student.
But more than that, the lofty reach schools most often are not good fits for the student anyway.
As Selingo’s quote so aptly states, parental pressure often drives the bus in terms of the college list. This isn’t about bragging rights or chasing trophies. It’s about honoring who your child is and finding places that will allow your child to grow and thrive.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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November 19, 2025
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College readiness refers to a student's preparedness for college academically, emotionally, and practically, which will help the student to succeed in college-level coursework and campus life.
Scroll through each slide to evaluate how ready you are.
College readiness isn’t just about grades. It’s about skills, mindset, and independence.
How ready are you for college?
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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November 19, 2025
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November 19, 2025
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November 19, 2025
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November 19, 2025
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November 19, 2025
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November 20 2025
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Are you planning to transfer next fall?
You may have started at a community college but are now ready to make the leap to a 4-year school to finish your undergraduate degree.
Or, maybe you started at a 4-year college and realize it’s not where you want to stay.
Transfer requirements vary by college. The number of units needed and the types of course you should have taken vary widely. Deadlines vary, too. I’ve guided many students with successfully transferring.
I offer a 5-hour Time to Transfer package. Focused support driven by what you need to submit well crafted transfer applications for the next step in the journey to earning your Bachelor’s degree.
Contact me in the link in my bio. above to schedule your 30-minute complimentary consultation.
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November 24, 2025
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A senior student of mine once said enthusiastically, when I complimented her gift with writing, “That’s because I’m a reader!” I told her that every reading teacher across the land would applaud her.
Reading for pleasure isn’t just relaxing—it’s transformative.
It boosts your brain, builds empathy, reduces stress, and strengthens the skills that help you succeed in school and beyond.
Read for fun. Grow your mind. Feel inspired.
Pro tip: Great advice from one of my high school English teachers: develop the habit of looking up words we didn’t know in the dictionary.
To this day, I still do that, except now I use an electronic dictionary.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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November 24, 2025
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November 24, 2025
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November 24, 2025
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November 24, 2025
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November 26, 2025
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Seniors:
You’ve Applied! Now What?
You’ve submitted your college applications! Congratulations!
But what are the next steps? What should you be aware of and pay attention to? Plenty!
Find out more by reading my latest blog post! See the Linktree link in my bio. ⬆️
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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November 26, 2025
Slide 1: as shown; Slide 2: blog picture (similar to Oct. 8th & Oct. 22nd)
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November 28, 2025
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I hope you each had a wonderful Thanksgiving celebration yesterday! 🦃🍂
I love the Thanksgiving holiday long weekend. Time seems to stand still a bit before we gear up for the holiday season.
Our tradition is to set up our Christmas tree the day after Thanksgiving if we’re not traveling. With an artificial one, it’s pretty simple to do (pre-lit for the win!)
I’m also making a list of cyber Monday deals I want to take advantage of. Catching up on some reading, too.
Our older son prepares a terrific turkey barley soup. We hope he plans to do that with our leftovers this year. I freeze dinner sized portions for later in the winter months. Delicious!
How are you spending this long weekend? Comment below. ⬇️
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October 1, 2025
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Students: The 2026-27 FAFSA is now open! 🙌
Don’t delay in completing this important form, one you’ll likely submit each year of college.
Swipe through the slides to learn what you’ll need handy when you complete your FAFSA form.
#insightfulcollegeplanning #FAFSA #collegeaffordability #StudentAid #collegeadmissions
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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October 1, 2025
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October 1, 2025
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October 1, 2025
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October 3, 2025
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Seniors, are you in need of some support as you tackle your college applications? 🤝
It’s not too late!
I offer 5-hour blocks of college planning services for Class of 2026 seniors.
What can that include?
Does your college list need balancing? Are your activity descriptions strong? Have you procrastinated getting started on essays? Or, maybe you’ve written some but are stuck trying to revise.
I can offer you thirteen years of well-developed expertise to provide you with clarity on what you need to do next. We can work in 5-hour increments to move you forward!
It’s time to get crackin’ now.
Deadlines wait for no one.
Contact me at the link in my bio. ⬆️
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
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October 3, 2025
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October 6, 2025
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Have you read the Insightful College Planning’s Newsletter?
This month’s edition features:
✅ The Role of Extracurricular Activities in College Admissions
✅ Supplemental Essays: What Are They? Why Do They Matter?
✅ Profile of the University of Wisconsin-Go Badgers!
✅ Parent Corner featuring Jeff Selingo’s new book, Dream School (Finding the College That’s Right for You).
To read this new edition, please click on the Linktree link in my bio. above ⬆️
Don’t miss out! To subscribe, use the link in the upper-right corner of the newsletter.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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October 8, 2025
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The personal statement isn’t the only writing requirement for many colleges. Often, colleges also ask for supplemental essays.
These shorter, college-specific essays are an essential aspect of the admissions process at many colleges and universities.
Learn more about supplemental essays in my latest blog post. See the link in my bio. ⬆️
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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October 8, 2025
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October 9, 2025
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Many popular Southern flagship universities require testing. While some went test-optional during and post-pandemic years, they have reverted to test-required (SAT or ACT).
Juniors, class of 2027:
Have you developed a testing plan? What are you doing to prepare?
Post Topic: Extra Post (Thursday)
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October 13, 2025
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Take care of your mental health like you do your GPA:
Burnout isn't a badge of honor. Incorporate healthy habits each day.�
It’s okay to say “no”:
Protect your energy. You might be the “go to” person to ask for tutoring or to volunteer. People count on you. But it’s a-ok to say no. See the first point above.�
Life after high school is a whole new world:
Don’t let this chapter convince you it’s the whole book. There is so much of life ahead!
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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October 14, 2025
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Guiding students with the next step in their life journeys is a tremendous privilege for me. Developing rapport and building trust with each student is my goal. I’m so grateful for parents who trust me to guide their students through this process.
I spend several hours each week attending professional development events to stay up-to-date with changes in testing, deepen my knowledge of specific colleges, learn about updates to financial aid, and network with professional colleagues, among other things.
I do this to provide the most updated, helpful information for my students and their parents.
There are numerous myths and misconceptions surrounding the college admissions journey. Fear and anxiety shouldn’t drive the process.
I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation for students and parents to discuss the support you’re seeking and how I can help.
Meeting virtually via Zoom enables me to reach students from my home state of Texas, my former state of California, and many other places in a convenient format for all.
To schedule a consultation, please complete the Contact form on my website, www.insightfulcollegeplanning.com, or click the link in my bio. above.
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial
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October 15, 2025
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All 2025-26 Test Dates, Registration Deadlines, and Late Registration dates are posted. 🗓️
Juniors, do you have a testing plan in place? Now is the time to strategize your testing plan, including test prep and test dates.
Test sites fill. You’ll want to choose a familiar setting early on a Saturday morning. Don’t delay in getting registered!
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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October 15, 2025
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October 20, 2025
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As an Independent Educational Consultant, it means that I cultivate deep expertise about many higher education options to guide my students in discovering colleges that will be great academic, social, and financial fits for them. 📚
Excited to be invited for this week’s counselor fly-in to 3 private colleges in Illinois:
I have never seen these schools in person before, but I have had a student attend Knox, which was a perfect fit for him.
I look forward to developing a deeper understanding of each campus.
Final college visit trip of 2025!
Grand total for the year: 36 🥳
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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October 22, 2025
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High school is more than homework and test scores. It’s a journey of growth, exploration, and self-discovery.
Extracurricular activities provide students with an opportunity to try new things, make meaningful contributions, and discover their strengths.
So, what should you be involved in, and how many activities should you have to be a strong applicant?
Read my latest blog post! See the link in my bio. ⬆️
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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October 22, 2025
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October 24, 2025
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Hurray, it’s Friday! Fall is really and truly my favorite season! 🍂 🍁 🎃
November is on the horizon. 🦃
I’m now focused on reviewing application details for my students with November 15th deadlines. Some of my seniors have submitted all of their applications. 👊 A few have received admissions offers! 🥳
For juniors, most are in the process of preparing for SATs or ACTs, researching colleges after our preliminary list presentations, and making campus visit plans.
About those weekend plans:
Looking forward to celebrating our oldest child’s birthday this weekend! 🎂 31…where has the time gone? On Sunday, we’ll be teaching the sweet 3-to 5-year-olds at church. We’ve been with them since they were toddlers, moving up with them. It’s a gift seeing them grow and develop. Time flies!
What’s on your agenda for this weekend? I’d love to know! Comment below. ⬇️
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October 27, 2025
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Set small, clear goals:
Focus on one assignment or task at a time. Small wins build momentum.�
Use a paper planner or planner app:
Writing things down helps reduce stress and keeps you organized.�
Build routines:
Consistency (having the same time allotted for homework and the same bedtime) helps maintain motivation.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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October 29, 2025
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Official Visits-Use the college’s website to select your preferred visit date. Registering lets them know you were there. See if additional options are available besides the tour, like presentations for majors you’re interested in, honors college, or residence hall tours.
Balance Your Tour List-Please take time to visit High and Medium Probability schools for you, not just Low Probability or Wild Card ones. You may be pleasantly surprised at what’s offered at each place.
See a variety of colleges with differing qualities, such as the number of students, location, and selectivity.
Plan Wisely-No more than 2 campus visits per day! Take good notes and pictures at each school. Quality over quantity. Take a moment to stop by the coffee shop or grab lunch on campus. A great way to people-watch and see if this college could be a fit for you!
Plan your visits to allow sufficient time to travel between campuses. Parking can be tricky at some colleges!
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
Approved?
October 30, 2025
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If you’re like my seniors, you have already submitted some of your college applications.
Congratulations!
But now what?
Be sure to follow my handy checklist above for the next steps after you apply. Super important for you to open and read emails from colleges and to check your applicant portal accounts weekly.
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Monday Motivation
September 1, 2025
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Have you read the Insightful College Planning Newsletter?
This month’s edition features:
Tip for College Fairs ✅
Successful School Year Suggestions (by grade) ✅
Profile of the University of Denver-go Pioneers! ✅
Parent Corner featuring Grown and Flown resources. ✅
To read this new edition, please click on the Linktree link in my bio. above ⬆️
Don’t miss out! To subscribe, use the link in the upper right corner of the newsletter.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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September 3, 2025
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Congratulations on becoming a high school senior! It’s an exciting time! 🎓
This is the time, if you haven’t started already, to work on your college applications. ✏️
You may have begun working on your Common Application earlier, but the lure of summer activities soon took over. That’s ok. But it’s time to get crackin’ now.
The application deadlines come up quickly.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Not sure what to do first? Need help with brainstorming essay topics?
I can help! ✨
This time of year, I offer Terrific Ten, a package of 10 hours of support to meet you where you are now in the college admissions process. This will help you complete and submit applications on time, minimizing stress and procrastination.
Contact me at the link in my bio. ⬆️
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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September 3, 2025
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September 5, 2025
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Extracurricular activities are important in college admissions because they give admissions representatives a fuller picture of who you are beyond grades and test scores. 🏀 🩰 🏊
Sometimes experiences in these activities form the basis of a personal statement or supplemental essay. What personal growth experiences have you had with your involvement in activities?
Often, your fit for a major is shown through extracurricular activities.
Which activities indicate that for you?
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September 5, 2025
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September 8, 2025
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On the road again! Excited to be in the Midwest this week for IECA’s “Beer, Cheese, and Pizza” Tour! Nine colleges in Wisconsin and Illinois. 🚌🏫
There will be many miles on the tour bus seeing the following colleges:
Looking forward to sharing what I learn with my students and their parents, networking with colleagues, and seeing several colleges in person that I’ve never seen before.
While I’ve been to Chicago before, I’ve never been to Wisconsin, have you?
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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September 10, 2025
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September 10, 2025
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September 10, 2025
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September 10, 2025
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September 11, 2025
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Exciting news! The Insightful College Planning Blog has launched!! 🥳
Now that the new school year has launched, you’ll find suggestions for success, by grade, from freshmen through seniors.
College fairs are popular in the fall. Highly recommend! But how do you navigate these? Read my tips for a maximizing your college fair experience.
Check it out at the link in my bio above ⬆️
And stay tuned-more blog posts each month!
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September 15, 2025
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College deadlines are coming up quickly!
One month from today will be the first Early Action deadline for popular. 🗓️
Don’t procrastinate! Strategize completion dates for your essays and application details. Working until the last minute is stressful!
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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September 16, 2025
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I often hear from parents who are anxious about college admissions, feeling overwhelmed, and don’t know where to begin the college journey process for their students.
I spend several hours each week attending professional development events to stay up-to-date with changes in testing, deepen my knowledge of specific colleges, learn about updates to financial aid, and network with professional colleagues, among other things.
I do this to provide the most updated, helpful information for my students and their parents.
There are numerous myths and misconceptions surrounding the college admissions journey. Fear and anxiety shouldn’t drive the process.
My goal is to make this process enjoyable for students, where they can find good-fit options that allow them to thrive.
I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation for students and parents to discuss the support you’re seeking and how I can help.
Meeting virtually via Zoom enables me to reach students from my home state of Texas and my former state of California, as well as many other places, in a convenient format for all.
To schedule a consultation, please complete the Contact form on my website, www.insightfulcollegeplanning.com, or click the link in my bio. Above. ⬆️
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial
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September 17, 2025
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College admissions testing policies vary now more than ever! And they keep changing.
For high school seniors, applying to colleges with a wide range of admissions probabilities (what I like to call a “balanced list”), which scores are sent where can make a difference in admissions decisions and in merit scholarships (if the colleges award those; not all do).
MORE COLLEGES ARE REQUIRING TEST SCORES AGAIN!
I advise students on developing a testing strategy. Once the results are in, and college lists are finalized, I analyze their results in the context of colleges they’re applying to and in light of the college specific policies.
Do you need help with figuring this out? I love to strategize with students to help them with test planning and preparation.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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September 22, 2025
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Procrastination is “the act of unnecessarily delaying or postponing something despite knowing that there could be negative consequences for doing so.”
We’ve all done it, some people more than others. For some, it’s habitual. To be truthful, procrastinating doesn’t feel good and causes additional stress, and often hurried, not best quality, work.
As I guide my students, I set deadlines for completion of application details, including essay development and review, that are 10 days before the college application deadlines.
We backward plan many weeks in advance from my deadline, assess what needs to be done, and then develop a plan for getting the necessary tasks completed.
Breaking the work into manageable chunks helps students set themselves up for success in submitting well prepared applications on time.
I say, “No procrastination makes a hard thing easier.”
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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September 24, 2025
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Yes, indeed, today is National Punctuation Day!
Big shoutout for the comma, the period, the question mark, the exclamation point, the colon, and semicolon, etc.!
“Why does punctuation matter? Some people find inspiration in cooking their families and their dogs. Others find inspiration in cooking, their families, and their dogs”
Since I am in the thick of college application essay review season, I know the value of well utilized punctuation. Sometimes I note in my essay review, “As written, it sounds like this, when I think you mean that.” Often an adjustment to punctuation is just what’s needed
Let’s hear it for National Punctuation Day? Yes!
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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September 26, 2025
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Hurray, it’s Friday! The last one of September.
While I’m not a Starbuck’s Pumpkin Latte fan, this time of year, I do stock up on all things pumpkin and squash at Trader Joe’s. It’s always fun to walk into my local store in early fall to assess if my tried and true favorites are in stock and what new items they’ve concocted for this year’s haul.
As we turn the corner to October, application work intensifies. Some of my seniors have already submitted applications, and others will soon for big flagship universities in the South. A few of my students will be finished with ALL applications before Halloween!
All application details, including essays, will be completed well ahead of the deadlines. No last-minute frantic essay writing. No burning the midnight oil, right before the deadline, review of applications.
My approach is infused with calm and structure, helping to minimize stress.
Looking forward to a date night with my husband at a local winery, with live music. Always delightful and the evening temps are starting to dip here in Texas!
What’s on your agenda for this weekend? Comment below.
Post Topic: Extra Post (Friday)
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September 29, 2025
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It’s important to have a strategy in junior year to plan for SAT or ACT testing.
So how do you do that?
Some steps to follow to develop your Testing Plan:
1. Take practice ACT and SAT tests (for the SAT, the PSAT can serve as a practice test).
2. Did you prefer one type of test vs. the other? You can use a concordance to compare your scores. Once you know which type of test you prefer, then focus on preparing for that, not both the SAT and the ACT.
3. How do you prepare? By doing test prep. There are numerous resources to help you prepare depending on how you learn best. Test prep books, online or in person classes-one on one with a tutor or in a group setting, self paced online courses, etc. Think about how you learn best and what motivates you. Also consider your budget 💰Test prep fees range from free to a few thousand dollars. Find the type that works well for your learning style AND your budget! 👍
4. Look at the math expectations for the test you’re prepping for to be sure you will have adequate math coursework by your preferred test date(s). 🧐
5. Pick a test date and get registered! Consider your commitments (activities and family plans) before committing to a test date. Don’t delay in signing up. Test sites fill. You want to minimize how far you have to drive early on a Saturday morning!
6. Commit to a schedule for getting the test prep done. Cramming is not your friend. Put prep time in your schedule. Work the plan.
7. Once you’ve taken your first test, select a next test date to register for. Then, make a plan to improve areas that are weaker for you.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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September 29, 2025
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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September 29, 2025
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August 1, 2025
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Today’s the day! 🥳
The 2025-2026 Common Application is now open!
Are you a rising senior in the class of 2026? Have you created your Common App account yet?
Time to get started!
Post Topic: Friday
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August 4, 2025
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Have you read the August edition of Insightful College Planning’s Newsletter?
This month’s edition features:
✅ College Readiness Checklist
✅ Profile of the University of South Carolina-Go Gamecocks!
✅College Fairs
✅Parent Corner featuring the book, The Disengaged Teen
To read this new edition, please click on the Linktree link in my bio. above ⬆️
Don’t miss out! To subscribe, use the link in the upper right corner of the newsletter.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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August 6, 2025
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While the UC application is now open, the filing period to apply is from October 1 to December 1; there is no advantage to applying early during this period.
The fee per campus to apply is $80. If eligible, request fee waivers for up to 4 campuses. 💵
Start early to work on the application details. Writing the PIQs and the Activities & Awards Descriptions takes time.📝
Review your entire application. Have someone else review it after you have, before hitting the submit button.
*add one more hashtag to the usual ones, #ucadmissions
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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August 6, 2025
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Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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August 6, 2025
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Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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August 6, 2025
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August 6, 2025
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Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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August 6, 2025
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August 6, 2025
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August 6, 2025
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Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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August 7, 2025
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Colleges that Change Lives, or CTCL, is a group of over 40 colleges dedicated to a student-centered college experience.
Each year, they host a traveling roadshow in various cities across the U.S., providing an opportunity to speak with many college admissions representatives.
Each event includes an opening presentation and a 90-minute college fair.
FREE!
I’ve visited nearly two dozen of these marvelous colleges in person. My colleagues and I love these places, what we call “hidden gems.” Many are generous with merit scholarships, too.
To register for a CTCL event near you, go to ctcl.org/info-sessions/, or register at the 🔗 in my bio.
Post Topic: Extra Post
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August 11, 2025
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Some pearls of wisdom from the revered, long-time UCLA basketball coach, the late John Wooden.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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August 12, 2025
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The college admissions landscape is ever-changing. I spend several hours each week attending professional development events to stay up-to-date with changes in testing, deepen my knowledge of specific colleges, learn about updates to financial aid, and network with professional colleagues, among other things.
I do this to provide the most updated, helpful information for my students and their parents.
There are numerous myths and misconceptions surrounding the college admissions journey. Fear and anxiety shouldn’t drive the process.
My goal is to make what can be an overwhelming and stressful process enjoyable for students, where they can find good-fit options that allow them to thrive.
I focus on fit: academic, social, and financial.
If you are overwhelmed about college admissions and don’t know where to start, I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation for students and parents to discuss the support you’re seeking and how I can help.
Meeting virtually via Zoom enables me to reach students from my home state of Texas and my former state of California, and many other places, in a convenient format for all.
To schedule a consultation, please complete the Contact form on my website, www.insightfulcollegeplanning.com, or click the link in my bio. above.
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial
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August 13, 2025
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The most significant source of merit scholarships comes from the colleges themselves, and often they are renewable for all four years of college, provided the student meets specific criteria, such as GPA and the number of units.
This is free money for college.
When a family is interested in merit scholarships, that helps me find schools that I know award these scholarships, AND that the student’s profile will likely qualify for them.
Some colleges do not award merit scholarships at all. Only need-based aid.
As a trusted colleague of mine likes to say, “You can chase prestige, or you can chase merit, but you can’t have both.”
With the cost of college continuing to rise, at some colleges, the total cost of attendance is over $100,000 per year. Considering colleges that offer generous merit money can be a wise financial decision, especially for minimizing debt in financing a college education, and particularly if the student has graduate school in mind.
*add a hashtag, #collegeaffordability, to the usual list.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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August 18, 2025
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Congratulations on becoming a high school senior! It’s an exciting time! 🥳
This is the time, if you haven’t started already, to work on your college applications.
Perhaps you began working on your Common Application, but the lure of summer activities soon took over. That’s ok. But it’s time to get crackin’ now.
The application deadlines come up quickly. ⏰
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Not sure what to do first? Need help with brainstorming essay topics?
I can help! 🤝
This time of year, I offer Terrific Ten, a package of 10 hours of support to meet you where you are now in the college admissions process. This will help you complete and submit applications on time, minimizing stress and procrastination.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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August 20, 2025
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It’s exciting to be starting high school!
New environment, more responsibilities, and the beginning of your high school journey.
Good habits build a good foundation for success in high school.
You got this! 👊
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom (1)
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August 20, 2025
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August 20, 2025
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August 20, 2025
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August 20, 2025
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August 21, 2025
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Hear ye, hear ye!
It’s National Spumoni Day! 🥳
Two questions for you:
I’ll start:
Yes. And no.
Comment below ⬇️
Post Topic: Thursday (extra post)
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August 25, 2025
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Juniors! Big year ahead for you!
Many demands on your time: the most rigorous classes so far in high school, preparing for and taking SAT or ACT, extracurricular activities including leadership roles, etc. 📚📝
Most colleges will evaluate your GPA for admissions based on your cumulative GPA through the end of junior year. This is the year to ramp it up! 🔥
Visiting and researching colleges will be super helpful for you, especially when you see colleges when classes are in session and students are on campus. Speak with your parents about planning some visits.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation (1)
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August 25, 2025
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Post Topic: Monday Motivation (2)
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August 25, 2025
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August 25, 2025
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August 25, 2025
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Post Topic: Monday Motivation (5)
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August 25, 2025
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Post Topic: Monday Motivation (6)
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August 27, 2025
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All 2025-26 Test Dates, Registration Deadlines, and Late Registration dates are posted. ⏰
Juniors, do you have a testing plan in place? Now is the time to strategize your testing plan, including test prep and test dates.
Test sites fill. You’ll want to choose a familiar setting, closer to home, early on a Saturday morning.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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August 27, 2025
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All 2025-26 Test Dates, Registration Deadlines, and Late Registration dates are posted. ⏰
Juniors, do you have a testing plan in place? Now is the time to strategize your testing plan, including test prep and test dates.
Test sites fill. You’ll want to choose a familiar setting early on a Saturday morning.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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August 29, 2025
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Hurray, it’s Friday! And a 3-day weekend!
Labor Day weekend means another anniversary celebration for my husband and me (it falls on a weekday next week, so we’ll celebrate this weekend). Cheers to 37 years of marriage!
As we turn the corner to a new month and soon the start of the fall season, application work intensifies. Some of my seniors will submit applications in the upcoming week, and as the weeks tick by, more applications will be reviewed and submitted.
All application details, including essays, will be completed well ahead of the deadlines. No last-minute frantic essay writing. No burning the midnight oil, right before the deadline, review of applications.
My approach is infused with calm and structure, helping to minimize stress.
So what’s on your agenda for this 3-day holiday weekend? Comment below.
Post Topic: Friday (extra post)
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July 2, 2025
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Did you know that the summer before senior year is a great time to start working on your college applications? 🎓
There is so much more time without the pressures of the daily school year grind. ✏️🧐
I love guiding students in reflecting on their experiences and value to consider what they want colleges to know about them. 🤔
There is an art and a science to creating effective activities descriptions. How do you describe what you’ve done and why it’s important but in such limited space? Which activities do you highlight? I can help.
I have a few spots left for rising seniors in the class of 2026. Contact me at the link in my profile to schedule a 30-minute complimentary consultation. ⬆️
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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July 4, 2025
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Celebrating 249 years as a nation! Happy 4th of July! 🇺🇸 🎆 🥳
Post Topic: 4th of July
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July 7, 2025
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I focus on guiding students to find options for college that fit academically, socially, and financially.
What is meant by “academic fit”?
Academic fit means how well the college’s academic setting fits your learning style, interests, and goals.
How do you determine that?
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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July 9, 2025
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College admissions testing policies vary now more than ever! And they keep changing.
For high school seniors, applying to colleges with a wide range of admissions probabilities (what I like to call a “balanced list”), which scores are sent where can make a difference in admissions decisions and in merit scholarships (if the colleges award those; not all do).
MORE COLLEGES ARE REQUIRING TEST SCORES AGAIN!
I advise students on developing a testing strategy. Once the results are in, and college lists are finalized, I analyze their results in the context of colleges they’re applying to and in light of the college specific policies.
Do you need help with figuring this out? I love to strategize with students to help them with the test planning and prep process.
.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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July 10, 2025
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In guiding my class of 2026 students, we already know which deadlines they’re working toward and have done backward planning to create a timeline for completing all the application details, minimizing stress and last-minute, frantic essay and application work.
Early Action deadlines can be in September, October, or November. Early Decision deadlines are typically
November 1.
I love guiding students with this process, breaking down the work into manageable chunks while helping them set themselves up for success in submitting their well-prepared applications on time.
Does your student need help with this process? I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation to discuss what support you’re seeking and how I can help.
Post Topic: Thursday (1)
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July 10, 2025
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July 10, 2025
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Post Topic: Thursday (3)
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July 14, 2025
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A little Monday Motivation for you!
This quote inspired me as I embarked on the journey to becoming a Certified Educational Planner, guiding students through all aspects of the college planning process.
And it keeps inspiring me as I set new goals and develop new plans as owner of Insightful College Planning. Some are short-term, others are longer-range. But these motivate me to keep learning and growing to offer the best support I can to my students and their families.
Have you set a new goal recently? Tell me about it in the comment section.
Here’s to a great week!
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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July 15, 2025
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In my 13 years as an independent educational consultant, I’ve guided hundreds of students through their college planning journeys.
I often hear from parents: “The admissions scene keeps changing,” “We don’t know where to begin,” and “The process is more complicated than when I was applying to college.”
If you are overwhelmed about college admissions and don’t know where to start, I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation for students and parents to discuss the support you’re seeking and how I can help.
I work with students from many states, especially Texas and California. All meetings are held virtually via Zoom.
To contact me to schedule a consultation, go to the Linktree link in my bio. above.
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial
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July 16, 2025
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Are you worried about the cost of college?
Most families are. It’s so important to have a plan for how you will pay for your children’s college education.
Where do you begin? Start with the first step, answering these questions, so you can have some direction on what works well for your family.
Many families hope for a “full ride scholarship” or are unaware of just how much it costs to cover the total cost of attendance for one year. Most colleges are raising tuition each year.
Some families wait until the spring of senior year to address college costs, often too late to create a viable plan.
Start now to make a plan for your family!
Post Topic: Affordability Tip
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July 21, 2025
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Developing a strategy to plan for SAT or ACT testing in the junior year is important.
So how do you do that?
Some steps to follow to develop your Testing Strategy:
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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July 21, 2025
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July 21, 2025
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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July 23, 2025
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Are you worried about the cost of college?
Most families are. It’s so important to develop a plan for how you will pay for college for your students.
Where do you begin? Answering the questions shown in the slide can provide clarity on what monetary resources you have to pay for college.
Many families hope for a “full ride scholarship” or are unaware just how much it costs to pay for the total cost of attendance for 1 year. Most colleges are raising tuition each year.
Some families hold off addressing college costs until spring of senior year, often too late to make a viable plan.
Start now to create a plan for college affordability for your family.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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July 25, 2025
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Happy Friday! Let the weekend begin!
Greetings from McKinney, TX, my home base.
It's time to reintroduce myself! I'm grateful for new and continuing followers. I aim to provide useful college planning content for high school families on the Insightful College Planning IG page.
I’m Donna Sakabu, the Founder & Principal Educational Consultant of Insightful College Planning. I meet with students from Texas, California, and many other parts of the U.S., via Zoom, to help them with the numerous aspects of the college planning process.
I have over 13 years of experience providing my insight and expertise to guide high school families through a variety of strategic services. My goal is to make this journey as calm, organized, and as stress-free as possible.
Grateful every day I get to do what I do!
Carving out time for a date day with my dear husband this weekend. Something like a museum visit to beat the Texas heat!
What are your weekend plans? Comment below!
Post Topic: Fri Yay!
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July 28, 2025
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Supplemental essays are short essays, ranging from 50 to 500 words, required by many colleges in addition to the personal statement.
These essays enable admissions officers to learn more about you and your fit for their schools.
Some colleges only ask for one supplemental essay, while others may ask for several.
Types of prompts:
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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July 30, 2025
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The Insightful College Planning website has so many free resources for you!
Looking for Campus Visit Tips? You’ll find those!
Looking for recommendations for Books, Blogs, and Podcasts? I have read or utilized each of these resources, as a parent and as a consultant, and they are the ones I recommend the most.
Post Topic: Free Tools
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June 2, 2025
Rebekah: for the hashtags, please use the usual PLUS #nclsunflowerchapter #mckinneyymsl #friscoymsl #wwhspta
#pisdprosperhs #mbhspto #rockhillpto #mckinneynorthhighschool #lakehighlandshighschool
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DFW area high school families, check out these great opportunities in June and July to learn more about dozens of colleges, offered by DARN (Dallas-Fort Worth Admissions Regional Network).
College Search Series events consist of a 1-hour general College 101 session followed by a college fair with member schools.
A great way to learn about colleges!
Free. To pre-register, find their link in the Linktree in my bio.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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June 4, 2025
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I’ve read many, many books on college admissions. These 4 are the best!
Two questions for you:
1. Have you read any of these?
2. What are your favorite books on this topic?
For more books I have read and highly recommend, see the “Tried & True Resources” tab in the Linktree link in my profile.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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June 6, 2025
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Reporting from Colorado where I’ll be for a week to tour 7 colleges-6 in Colorado and 1 in Wyoming.
Dr. Steven Antonoff, a leader in my profession, says IECs are to be students of colleges, dedicating time to develop deep knowledge -understanding the campus cultures, learning about special opportunities and services, meeting current students and admissions staff, sometimes professors, Deans, VPs, and even College Presidents.
Why do we do what we do? To understand which colleges will be good fits-academically, socially, financially-for our students. Places where you can thrive in the next phase of your life's journey.
Until yesterday, I’d only ever been to the Denver airport. Finally here on Colorado turf!
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June 9, 2025
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Are you a rising Senior? Class of 2026?
Summer break is the perfect time to work on college applications!
The more you can get done now, the less stressful it will be in the fall when school starts again and all of your activities resume.
Start with figuring out where you plan to apply. Continue to complete one task at a time. Putting in the effort now will pay off later.
Have any questions? Comment below.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
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June 11, 2025�
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Writing compelling Common Application activity descriptions is both an art and a science. It takes some creativity to highlight your impact and how meaningful an activity is to you, all in 150 characters (not words).
When I meet with my students to review their activity descriptions, the descriptions usually fit the character count but are generic. So we work on how to make the writing more impactful, while not exceeding the character limit. Sometimes it takes finessing with abbreviations and/or using symbols to make it all fit.
Admission readers scan these quickly, so the list should read from most important to least important. Strong action verbs highlighting leadership and initiative are key to effective descriptions.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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June 11, 2025�Slide 1: Tips for Writing Common App Activity Descriptions-150 characters�Slide 2: Use Strong Action Verbs.�Slide 3: Quantify Your Impact (If Possible)�Slide 4: Clarify what you did and how you did it.�Slide 5: Focus on how you made a difference.�Slide 6: Use concise phrases instead of complete sentences, similar to a resume. Standard abbreviations and symbols are acceptable.�Slide 7: Highlight Leadership & Initiative
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Writing compelling Common Application activity descriptions is both an art and a science. It takes some creativity to highlight your impact and how meaningful an activity is to you, all in 150 characters (not words).
When I meet with my students to review their activity descriptions, the descriptions usually fit the character count but are generic. So we work on how to make the writing more impactful, while not exceeding the character limit. Sometimes it takes finessing with abbreviations and/or using symbols to make it all fit.
Admission readers scan these quickly, so the list should read from most important to least important. Strong action verbs highlighting leadership and initiative are key to effective descriptions.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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June 11, 2025�Slide 1: Tips for Writing Common App Activity Descriptions-150 characters�Slide 2: Use Strong Action Verbs.�Slide 3: Quantify Your Impact (If Possible)�Slide 4: Clarify what you did and how you did it.�Slide 5: Focus on how you made a difference.�Slide 6: Use concise phrases instead of complete sentences, similar to a resume. Standard abbreviations and symbols are acceptable.�Slide 7: Highlight Leadership & Initiative
Copy:
Writing compelling Common Application activity descriptions is both an art and a science. It takes some creativity to highlight your impact and how meaningful an activity is to you, all in 150 characters (not words).
When I meet with my students to review their activity descriptions, the descriptions usually fit the character count but are generic. So we work on how to make the writing more impactful, while not exceeding the character limit. Sometimes it takes finessing with abbreviations and/or using symbols to make it all fit.
Admission readers scan these quickly, so the list should read from most important to least important. Strong action verbs highlighting leadership and initiative are key to effective descriptions.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
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June 11, 2025�
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Writing compelling Common Application activity descriptions is both an art and a science. It takes some creativity to highlight your impact and how meaningful an activity is to you, all in 150 characters (not words).
When I meet with my students to review their activity descriptions, the descriptions usually fit the character count but are generic. So we work on how to make the writing more impactful, while not exceeding the character limit. Sometimes it takes finessing with abbreviations and/or using symbols to make it all fit.
Admission readers scan these quickly, so the list should read from most important to least important. Strong action verbs highlighting leadership and initiative are key to effective descriptions.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 11, 2025�
Copy:
Writing compelling Common Application activity descriptions is both an art and a science. It takes some creativity to highlight your impact and how meaningful an activity is to you, all in 150 characters (not words).
When I meet with my students to review their activity descriptions, the descriptions usually fit the character count but are generic. So we work on how to make the writing more impactful, while not exceeding the character limit. Sometimes it takes finessing with abbreviations and/or using symbols to make it all fit.
Admission readers scan these quickly, so the list should read from most important to least important. Strong action verbs highlighting leadership and initiative are key to effective descriptions.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 11, 2025�
Copy:
Writing compelling Common Application activity descriptions is both an art and a science. It takes some creativity to highlight your impact and how meaningful an activity is to you, all in 150 characters (not words).
When I meet with my students to review their activity descriptions, the descriptions usually fit the character count but are generic. So we work on how to make the writing more impactful, while not exceeding the character limit. Sometimes it takes finessing with abbreviations and/or using symbols to make it all fit.
Admission readers scan these quickly, so the list should read from most important to least important. Strong action verbs highlighting leadership and initiative are key to effective descriptions.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 11, 2025�
Copy:
Writing compelling Common Application activity descriptions is both an art and a science. It takes some creativity to highlight your impact and how meaningful an activity is to you, all in 150 characters (not words).
When I meet with my students to review their activity descriptions, the descriptions usually fit the character count but are generic. So we work on how to make the writing more impactful, while not exceeding the character limit. Sometimes it takes finessing with abbreviations and/or using symbols to make it all fit.
Admission readers scan these quickly, so the list should read from most important to least important. Strong action verbs highlighting leadership and initiative are key to effective descriptions.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 14, 2025
Copy:
Community Service
So many non-profit organizations need volunteer support. Volunteering for a cause that’s important to you makes the experience more fulfilling.
Employment
College staff members value freshman applicants with work experience. What an opportunity to develop life skills!
Are you gifted in math or in playing an instrument? Many parents seek support during the summer months to improve their children's math or instrument skills and will pay you.
Paid babysitting counts! Taking care of children during their parents’ absence is a high level of responsibility.
Career Exploration
So many ways to do this!
Informational interviews and job shadowing
Online courses
In-person or online summer programs
Hobbies
Develop your hobbies or pick new ones to explore. Local park and recreation departments offer classes. YouTube is a great way to learn how to do something.
Last but not least: College Visits!
College campuses welcome prospective students during the summer months. Be sure to register online for an official tour and admissions presentation.
Post Topic: Post
SCHEDULED
June 16, 2025
Quote
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”
Copy:
And so it goes with planning for college.
Where do you begin?
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
June 17, 2025
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I’m thankful every day I get to do what I do!
Referrals are the lifeline of my work. I’m so grateful when parents refer other family members, friends, and professional colleagues to me for college planning support.
I’ve guided hundreds of students with their college planning journeys in my 13 years as an Independent Educational Consultant.
If you are feeling overwhelmed about college admissions and don’t know where to start, I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation for students and parents to discuss the support you’re seeking and how I can help.
All meetings are held virtually via Zoom. I work with students from many states, especially Texas and California.
To contact me to schedule a consultation, go to the Linktree link above.
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial
SCHEDULED
June 18, 2025
Copy:
A personal statement provides the opportunity to show the admissions reader who you are beyond your academic profile and activity descriptions.
The theme and why it matters should be clear.
Narrative style. Provide details and examples; keep the reader engaged. What have you learned? How did you overcome challenges? How have you changed through this experience?
Is the personal statement in your voice, not that of your parents or another adult, and not AI generated?
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 18, 2025
Copy:
A personal statement provides the opportunity to show the admissions reader who you are beyond your academic profile and activity descriptions.
The theme and why it matters should be clear.
Narrative style. Provide details and examples; keep the reader engaged. What have you learned? How did you overcome challenges? How have you changed through this experience?
Is the personal statement in your voice, not that of your parents or another adult, and not AI generated?
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 18, 2025
Copy:
A personal statement provides the opportunity to show the admissions reader who you are beyond your academic profile and activity descriptions.
The theme and why it matters should be clear.
Narrative style. Provide details and examples; keep the reader engaged. What have you learned? How did you overcome challenges? How have you changed through this experience?
Is the personal statement in your voice, not that of your parents or another adult, and not AI generated?
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 18, 2025
Copy:
A personal statement provides the opportunity to show the admissions reader who you are beyond your academic profile and activity descriptions.
The theme and why it matters should be clear.
Narrative style. Provide details and examples; keep the reader engaged. What have you learned? How did you overcome challenges? How have you changed through this experience?
Is the personal statement in your voice, not that of your parents or another adult, and not AI generated?
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 18, 2025
Copy:
A personal statement provides the opportunity to show the admissions reader who you are beyond your academic profile and activity descriptions.
The theme and why it matters should be clear.
Narrative style. Provide details and examples; keep the reader engaged. What have you learned? How did you overcome challenges? How have you changed through this experience?
Is the personal statement in your voice, not that of your parents or another adult, and not AI generated?
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 18, 2025
Copy:
A personal statement provides the opportunity to show the admissions reader who you are beyond your academic profile and activity descriptions.
The theme and why it matters should be clear.
Narrative style. Provide details and examples; keep the reader engaged. What have you learned? How did you overcome challenges? How have you changed through this experience?
Is the personal statement in your voice, not that of your parents or another adult, and not AI generated?
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 18, 2025
Copy:
A personal statement provides the opportunity to show the admissions reader who you are beyond your academic profile and activity descriptions.
The theme and why it matters should be clear.
Narrative style. Provide details and examples; keep the reader engaged. What have you learned? How did you overcome challenges? How have you changed through this experience?
Is the personal statement in your voice, not that of your parents or another adult, and not AI generated?
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 23, 2025
Copy:
It’s important to have a strategy in junior year to plan for SAT or ACT testing.
So how do you do that?
Some steps to follow to develop your Testing Plan:
1. Take practice ACT and SAT tests (for the SAT, the PSAT can serve as a practice test).
2. Did you prefer one type of test vs. the other? You can use a concordance to compare your scores. Once you know which type of test you prefer, then focus on preparing for that, not both the SAT and the ACT.
3. How do you prepare? By doing test prep. There are numerous resources to help you prepare depending on how you learn best. Test prep books, online or in person classes-one on one with a tutor or in a group setting, self paced online courses, etc. Think about how you learn best and what motivates you. Also consider your budget 💰Test prep fees range from free to a few thousand dollars. Find the type that works well for your learning style AND your budget! 👍
4. Look at the math expectations for the test you’re prepping for to be sure you will have adequate math coursework by your preferred test date(s). 🧐
5. Pick a test date and get registered! Consider your commitments (activities and family plans) before registering for a test date. Don’t delay in signing up. Test sites fill. You want to minimize how far you have to drive early on a Saturday morning!
6. Commit to a schedule for getting the test prep done. Cramming is not your friend. Put prep time in your schedule. Work the plan.
7. Once you’ve taken your first test, select a next test date to register for. Then, make a plan to improve areas that are weaker for you.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
June 23, 2025
Copy:
It’s important to have a strategy in junior year to plan for SAT or ACT testing.
So how do you do that?
Some steps to follow to develop your Testing Plan:
1. Take practice ACT and SAT tests (for the SAT, the PSAT can serve as a practice test).
2. Did you prefer one type of test vs. the other? You can use a concordance to compare your scores. Once you know which type of test you prefer, then focus on preparing for that, not both the SAT and the ACT.
3. How do you prepare? By doing test prep. There are numerous resources to help you prepare depending on how you learn best. Test prep books, online or in person classes-one on one with a tutor or in a group setting, self paced online courses, etc. Think about how you learn best and what motivates you. Also consider your budget 💰Test prep fees range from free to a few thousand dollars. Find the type that works well for your learning style AND your budget! 👍
4. Look at the math expectations for the test you’re prepping for to be sure you will have adequate math coursework by your preferred test date(s). 🧐
5. Pick a test date and get registered! Consider your commitments (activities and family plans) before committing to a test date. Don’t delay in signing up. Test sites fill. You want to minimize how far you have to drive early on a Saturday morning!
6. Commit to a schedule for getting the test prep done. Cramming is not your friend. Put prep time in your schedule. Work the plan.
7. Once you’ve taken your first test, select a next test date to register for. Then, make a plan to improve areas that are weaker for you.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
June 23, 2025
Copy:
It’s important to have a strategy in junior year to plan for SAT or ACT testing.
So how do you do that?
Some steps to follow to develop your Testing Plan:
1. Take practice ACT and SAT tests (for the SAT, the PSAT can serve as a practice test).
2. Did you prefer one type of test vs. the other? You can use a concordance to compare your scores. Once you know which type of test you prefer, then focus on preparing for that, not both the SAT and the ACT.
3. How do you prepare? By doing test prep. There are numerous resources to help you prepare depending on how you learn best. Test prep books, online or in person classes-one on one with a tutor or in a group setting, self paced online courses, etc. Think about how you learn best and what motivates you. Also consider your budget 💰Test prep fees range from free to a few thousand dollars. Find the type that works well for your learning style AND your budget! 👍
4. Look at the math expectations for the test you’re prepping for to be sure you will have adequate math coursework by your preferred test date(s). 🧐
5. Pick a test date and get registered! Consider your commitments (activities and family plans) before committing to a test date. Don’t delay in signing up. Test sites fill. You want to minimize how far you have to drive early on a Saturday morning!
6. Commit to a schedule for getting the test prep done. Cramming is not your friend. Put prep time in your schedule. Work the plan.
7. Once you’ve taken your first test, select a next test date to register for. Then, make a plan to improve areas that are weaker for you.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
June 25, 2025
Copy:
I love Gary Provost’s timeless advice for essay writing.
In guiding my students with writing their college application essays-personal statements, supplemental essays, UC Personal Insight questions-we begin with pre-writing exercises.
Those exercises generate interesting conversations, which helps me to encourage the students to consider what they want to convey about themselves for the different types of essays.
Then we brainstorm for every essay. Certain essays can be reused, sometimes with modifications, for different colleges.
Grateful for students who trust me in helping them to present their authentic selves in their college applications.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom
SCHEDULED
June 27, 2025
Copy:
Hello! I’m Donna Sakabu-Founder and Certified Educational Planner of Insightful College Planning. If we haven’t met yet, welcome!
I’m an Independent Educational Consultant based in McKinney, TX, but I work with families from all over the country.
Some fun facts about me:
1. I’m left handed, as are all of my siblings. But our parents weren’t. To this day, people still comment on my left handedness. I wrote a research paper about it for a psychology class in college.
2. I’ve lived in 4 states: MA, CA, AZ, TX. For the first 14 years of my life, I had a Boston accent. Home is truly where the heart is!
3. I visited London for the first time in Sept. 2024…a dream of mine since I was 20. I cried happy tears when we landed at Heathrow. Can’t wait to go back!
Thank you for following along. So glad you’re here!
Post Topic: Post
SCHEDULED
June 30, 2025
Copy:
Reading in the summer is such a treat!
Do you have a library card? Pick a genre you enjoy and select some books to read. Free!
Join a local book club to meet others to talk about the books you’re reading. Libraries and bookstores are good places to find these.
Did you know: Readers are better writers!�
On my current reading list:
Treating People Well by Lea Berman & Jeremy Bernard
The Disengaged Teen by Jenny Anderson & Rebecca Winthrop
The Right Kind of Strong by Mary Kassian
What’s on yours?
Post Topic: Monday Motivation
SCHEDULED
May 2025
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Mother’s Day
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
Cinco De Mayo
Memorial Day
Monday Motivation
Monday Motivation
Wednesday Wisdom
Wednesday Wisdom
About Donna
Tuesday Testimonial
Free Tools
Affordability TIp
May 5, 2025
Copy:
Kicking off a big week of professional development today here in Detroit at IECA’s annual conference!
So many excellent breakout sessions to choose from, networking with dear colleagues and making new connections, talking with many college reps at the big college fair, and visiting vendor booths to learn about new products that can optimize how I engage with my students.
On Wednesday, we’ll head out to the western parts of Michigan for 5 college tours. The final stop will be Ann Arbor for Saturday’s tour of the University of Michigan.
While I’ve visited most states in the U.S., and lived in 4 of them, I’ve never been to Michigan before. It’s going to be a fantastic week!
Post Topic: Monday Motivation - POSTED
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May 7, 2025
Copy:
If you could go back to college, would you choose the same place or a better fit option?
There are several aspects to identifying good fit options. I engage my students with identifying what matters most to them in a college home. I also ask parents for their input.
There are no “perfect” college matches, after all, we’re not hunting for unicorns. But there will be many that fit well where your student can thrive!
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom - (SCHEDULED)
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Post Topic: About Donna (1) - SCHEDULED
May 9, 2025
Copy:
Happy Friday! The weekend is almost here!
Greetings from Michigan, where I’ve been for an incredible week of professional development.
It’s been a minute since I last introduced myself to the new faces joining me here. A round of #fridayintroductions is in order.
I’m Donna Sakabu, the Founder & Principal Educational Consultant of Insightful College Planning. I meet with students from Texas, California, and many other parts of the U.S., via Zoom to help them with various aspects of the college planning process.
Approved?
May 9, 2025
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I have over 13 years of experience providing my insight and expertise to guide high school families utilizing a variety of strategic services. My goal is to make this journey as calm and organized as possible, as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.
I love what I do!!
About the weekend, I’m visiting more colleges today and tomorrow, and then I will fly home Saturday night. Looking forward to celebrating Mother’s Day with my family on Sunday!
Happy Mother’s Day!
Post Topic: About Donna (2) - SCHEDULED
May 12, 2025
Copy:
This is the time of year for juniors-class of 2026-to ask teachers if they are willing to write letters of recommendation for your college applications. The school year ends in a few weeks, so get this done now.
Ask two core academic subject teachers. Think English, Math, Science, Foreign Language, or Social Studies subject teachers. At least one from junior year, if not both.
Some teachers have a limit on the number of LORs they can write each year. They may have information they expect from you. Do you have a resume? That can be helpful as they write your LOR.
Post Topic: Monday Motivation (1) - SCHEDULED
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May 12, 2025
Post Topic: Monday Motivation (2) - SCHEDULED
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May 12, 2025
Post Topic: Monday Motivation (3) - SCHEDULED
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May 13, 2025
Copy:
I’m grateful every day I get to do what I do!
Referrals are the lifeline of my work. I’m so grateful when parents refer other family members, friends, and professional colleagues to me for college planning support.
I’ve guided hundreds of students with their college planning journeys in my 13 years as an Independent Educational Consultant.
If you are feeling overwhelmed about college admissions and don’t know where to start, I offer a 30-minute, complimentary consultation to discuss the support you’re seeking and how I can help.
All meetings are held virtually via Zoom. I work with students from many states, especially Texas and California.
To contact me to schedule a consultation, go to the Linktree link above.
Post Topic: Tuesday Testimonial - SCHEDULED
Approved?
May 14, 2025
Copy:
Believe it or not, college admissions staff look favorably at employment for high school students.
Where? Restaurants, fast food places, hospitality, retail, sales-the company doesn't matter.
You will learn various aspects of business, including customer service, teamwork, gaining valuable experience, and demonstrating responsibility.
Paid babysitting, AKA Child Care, counts too. Resolving sibling disputes, preparing meals, and other aspects of caring for children while their parents are out builds resilience in the child care provider.
Showing up on time, working with others, and resolving conflicts are some of the life skills you’ll develop through a summer job.
Colleges know that students who’ve developed these skills are more likely to have a smoother transition as a college student and a greater likelihood of overall success in persisting to a 4-year degree.
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom (1) - SCHEDULED
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May 14, 2025
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom (2) -SCHEDULED
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May 14, 2025
Post Topic: Wednesday Wisdom (3) -SCHEDULED
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