Process Goals: The Secret to a Calmer, More Successful College Search
When families begin college planning, they usually start with one big question: “Where can my student get in?” It’s a natural impulse—college admissions can feel like a giant scoreboard, and it’s easy to measure progress in acceptances and rejections. But that mindset sets everyone up for anxiety, because outcomes depend on someone else’s decision: the admissions office. There’s a better way. By shifting from outcome goals (like getting into a certain college) to process goals (like completing steps that move the student forward), families regain control of the journey—and calm returns to the process. What Are Process Goals? Think of outcome goals [...]
College Review: Champlain College
With only 1,700 undergraduates, Champlain College in Burlington, Vermont may be small, but it thinks—and teaches—on a grand scale. During my visit, I heard directly from President Alex Hernandez, whose energy and clarity of vision set the tone for the whole campus. His message was simple but powerful: Champlain’s mission is to graduate students who are truly career-ready—not just with degrees, but with portfolios, experience, and confidence to step right into the workforce. The “Upside-Down Curriculum”: Learn What You Love Now, Not Later Most colleges make students wait until sophomore or junior year to dive into their major. Not Champlain. [...]
College Review: Sewanee, the University of the South
We visited Sewanee, the University of the South. Known for its stunning campus, high-quality academics, and unique traditions, Sewanee—officially the University of the South—offers a distinctive college experience that goes beyond conventional expectations. A Campus Nestled in Nature Located on a mountaintop with over 13,000 acres of largely undeveloped land (affectionately known as “The Domain”), Sewanee provides an escape from urban chaos. This secluded setting is perfect for students who appreciate outdoor activities, quiet study spaces, and breathtaking natural views. If the idea of a campus that feels like a mountain resort—with all the peace and [...]