A college gap year is a break that students take between high school and college (or sometimes during college) to explore personal, professional, or educational opportunities before continuing their studies. Some colleges allow students to defer admission for a gap year, meaning they secure a spot but start later. Many structured gap year programs exist, but students can also plan their own experiences.

Whether the U.S. Department of Education should be eliminated is a long-standing debate with strong arguments on both sides. Some argue that the department adds unnecessary red tape and administrative costs without significantly improving education outcomes. Critics claim that education is not explicitly mentioned in the U.S. Constitution and should, therefore, be left to states under the 10th Amendment. This podcast will give you an overview of what may happen.

FERPA, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, is a 1974 federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. It applies to all educational institutions that receive funding from the U.S. Department of Education. FERPA ensures students and parents have control over educational information while balancing the need for institutions to use records for legitimate purposes.

Understanding college student loans is crucial for making informed financial decisions. Federal loans typically have fixed interest rates set by the government. Private loans can have fixed or variable rates, often higher if you have little credit history. Loan fees may include origination fees, late fees, and prepayment penalties.

Analyzing college awards is important for several reasons. It offers insights into various aspects of educational institutions, student performance, and their broader impact. It can also ensure awards align with institutional values, such as innovation, equity, or sustainability. Analyzing awards can also highlight areas where students excel, such as academics, leadership, community service, or extracurricular activities.

College financial aid applications are crucial for several reasons. They play a significant role in making higher education accessible and affordable. Filing financial aid applications can open doors to a range of financial resources, reducing the cost of college and empowering students to focus on their academic and career goals.

College admission applications can be daunting, but with proper preparation and organization, they can be manageable and even rewarding. Identify colleges that align with your interests, goals, and desired location. Note application deadlines, early decision/early action timelines, and financial aid deadlines.

Visiting colleges is a crucial part of the decision-making process when selecting where to apply or attend. It allows you to experience firsthand what it would be like to live and learn there, helping you make a more informed choice. College visits can be the deciding factor in choosing a school, so invest the time to make them count!