First, I stopped lecturing her, which was a struggle for me at first. I no longer checked in on her to make sure she was doing homework or studying. I did not request to see her work and review it, and I stopped reminding her about her previous grades. Instead, I began to listen to her. Now, when she comes home from school, I ask how her day was and if there is anything I need to be aware of that may be coming up, such as Advanced Placement (AP) exams, group projects or after-school activities. I simply let her know that I am here if she needs anything.

Next, I let her resume her extracurricular activities. You would think that the additional responsibilities of drama club and the thespian competition would be counter-productive, but that has not been the case. Instead, I have seen her attitude improve, her energy level increase and her grades have also improved. The few hours a week she spends participating in these activities has clearly helped to reduce her stress and make her feel good about herself.

Finally, I let her hang out again with her friends. Being a teenager is not easy and she’s already stressing about college. Although I would love to think I can relate to everything she is going through, her peers are actually a better sounding board for her right now. She’s found a way to balance her homework and have fun, too. I actually overheard her telling one of her friends that she had to pass on the movies this weekend because she had a Spanish presentation Monday and she wanted to ace it. Clearly, she’s headed in the right direction.

I think my biggest mistake this past year was taking away anything and everything that made Gabby feel good about herself. I thought that isolating her and forcing her to focus on her studies would increase her GPA, but instead it had the opposite effect. I soon realized that I was actually increasing her stress levels and had made her feel as though she was nothing more than a test score. I was so focused on making sure she would get into the best colleges that I had neglected to make sure she was a happy, healthy person who loved herself as much as I loved her.

It’s refreshing to see her smile again and share her test scores with me willingly, instead of hiding them from me. She even attends after school tutoring sessions to help improve her scores and has asked her teachers for additional work, just to be sure she comprehends the material. By stepping back and relinquishing my role as a grade dictator, I have allowed my daughter to step up to her responsibilities and take ownership of her life. I am confident that this change in attitude will not only serve her well in high school, but in college, as well.

Has your child had difficulties with school or handling stress? Share your tips for helping him/her balance life and school.

The post If Your Child is Stressed, You Could be Taking the Wrong Approach appeared first on The WiseChoice Blog.

1. New Phone

Most kids live on their phones; they have become tiny little computers that manage their lives and no self-respecting student would leave home without one. Some of the more popular models include: iPhone 5, Samsung Galaxy S 4 or Note II, and the new HTC Windows phone.

2. Tablet

Forget desktop computers and laptops, students want something small and easy to carry. Tablets allow students to surf the Web, take notes, and communicate with ease. They weigh practically nothing and are cheaper than most laptops. Most experts agree that the iPad ($499) is the best on the market, but for those who may want something a little less expensive, the Kindle Fire HD ($199) is a good investment.

3. Small Electronics

Students will need to cook in their dorm rooms, so purchasing small appliances, such as coffee makers, crock pots and blenders, is always a good idea. Other suggested personal appliances include fans, Panini makers and pizza ovens. Parents should check with the college housing department before buying any items, just to be sure they are allowed.

4. Club Membership

Students can often save money by buying in bulk, especially when they pool their resources with roommates and other students. Parents can help by purchasing a membership to shopping clubs like Sam’s, BJ’s and Costco. Gym memberships are not recommended, as most students have free access to these amenities on campus.

5. Transportation

Getting around campus and a college town can get expensive, so parents may wish to consider purchasing a bike or scooter. Bikes are inexpensive, easy to maintain and store, and will help students fight the dreaded Freshman 15. Scooters are a better choice than cars, as they have cheaper insurance rates, better gas mileage and cost less to maintain. An annual bus pass is also another option.

6. Headphones

Whether it’s drowning out the noise in the dormitory or trying to study in the library, noise-cancelling headphones are a great choice for all students. Some of the favorites among graduating seniors include Beats by Dr. Dre, Sony and Bose.

7. Survival Kits

Parents can get in some early college shopping and create a unique graduation by making a fun survival kit for their child. Ideas are endless, but some of the more popular ones include: Dorm Survival, First Aid, Laundry Room, Exam Cram, Study Break, and my personal favorite – Snack Attack! Items can be placed in baskets, pillowcases, gift boxes, or just about anything!

8. Jewelry

Jewelry is always a popular item among students, especially the girls. Whether it’s a nice watch, necklace or a graduation ring, parents can make it even more special by having it personalized or adding an engraved message. For those who may need a little extra luck, a four-leaf clover pendant may be the ticket.

9. Gift Cards

Nearly every student I asked said that he/she would prefer a gift card to a traditional present like luggage or clothing. Some of the most popular cards included: Visa®, Mastercard®, Target, Walmart and almost any fast food restaurant. Others parents may want to consider are Bed Bath & Beyond, Best Buy and Amazon.

10. Cash

It may be last on my list, but it is the top gift request from most seniors. Although it may seem like a present that requires little thought, parents can jazz it up a bit by presenting it in some creative ways. One of my favorites is the money lei, which students can wear at their graduation ceremony. Just be sure they have a bodyguard nearby!

Did I miss something? Share it with me in the comment section. I’d love to see what other great gift ideas are floating around.

The post 10 Graduation Gifts for High School Seniors appeared first on The WiseChoice Blog.

In a way, choosing a college is a lot like buying a new car. You spend countless hours researching potential schools, scouring through brochures that tease you with images of smiling students and picturesque campuses. You take campus tours with guides who bubble with excitement over the new buildings and exclaim how happy everyone is at the college. Even after you have weigh the cost of each college, it’s sometimes hard to not rationalize why spending more money will make you happier or provide a better return on your investment. Then, May 1 rolls around and you have to decide on something, so you do. A week later, you’re probably wondering if it was the right decision.

The good news is that you are not alone. Buyer’s remorse is a natural reaction whenever it involves a serious investment, but if you are still second-guessing your choice, ask yourself the following:

Did you do the research?

If you took the time to research your options, and weighed all the pros and cons of each, you should feel confident that your choice was made through an exhaustive process and not the flip of a coin. There must have been certain factors that put the college at the top of your list, so review the reasons why you liked the college, as this will help reinforce your decision.

Has anything changed since your decision?

If your college is suddenly plastered all over the Internet and television because of a scandal that violates your moral code or ethical beliefs, you may have reason to second-guess your decision. If, however, nothing has changed and you have not made any life-altering changes in your future goals, you should feel confident that the decision you made was right for you.

If you are still feeling a little uneasy about your choice, or wondering if some other school might have been a better fit, relax. It’s human nature to think the grass is greener on the other side, but in my experience, it rarely is greener. The only way to move on and be happy with your decision is to just do it. Stop looking at what other colleges can offer or what other students are saying about their choices. Instead, focus on the things that you are looking forward to experiencing at your college; start making a bucket list and connecting with other students who are attending your school, as these activities will get you excited about the fall. Embracing the positive aspects of your decision will reinforce why you chose your school and you’ll soon let go of those nagging little voices that caused you to second-guess yourself in the first place. Now, go out and pick up a few college t-shirts and logo-embossed items, so you can proudly announce to the world where you are headed this fall. You’ve earned it, so be sure to enjoy it!

How did you make your final decision for college? We would love to know. Share it with us on Twitter or in the comment section!

The post Are You Second-Guessing Your College Decision? appeared first on The WiseChoice Blog.

1. Recipe Clipboard

Does your mom love to cook? Lucky you! You’re going to miss those meals when you are in college, but if you make her this pretty recipe clipboard, she might be inclined to make you a care package or two next semester. It’s fairly simple to make, you just need a clipboard (try the dollar stores), some paint or mod podge, glue and a giant clothes pin. For an extra cute touch, glue a colorful bow on the top.

2. Plant Container

Flowers are nice, but they die after a few days. Why not give your mom something she can keep for several years, like a beautiful miniature rose bush or azalea in a plant container? Purchase a metal pail (you can get these at any discount store) and decorate it with colorful fabric or paper. Then, simply pot the plant, wrap a bow around the container, and present it to her. Each time she waters it, she will be reminded of you.

3. Bath Fizzies

If you really want to make your mom feel special, make her a homemade batch of bath fizzies. Although this item takes a little more time than some of the other gifts in this post, it’s worth the effort. You may need to ask your dad, or another adult, to help gather some of the items, such as citric acid and essential oils, but the majority of the ingredients can be found in your kitchen. Use a mason or jelly jar to store the complete bath salts. You can present them as a gift on their own or create a spa basket by adding other items, such as candles, lotions and chocolates.

4. Decorated Candles

Candles are a great way to add warmth to any room and they are inexpensive. You can take an ordinary candle and add some pretty paper, ribbon, buttons, dried flowers or just about anything, and make it into something wonderful and unique. Don’t forget to add a pretty stand or container for them, too.

5. Care Package

If you really struggle with being crafty, here’s a project just for you! Take an empty 2-liter soda container, clean it out and peel off the label. Carefully cut a small opening where the label was and fill the bottle with your mom’s favorite snacks and treats. Then, use some cardstock to make a new label (I suggest Mom’s Emergency Chocolate Kit) and tape it over the opening. Add some decorative touches, like felt flowers or ribbon, and you are done.

Another great gift idea is a photo collage of you in a shadow box. Track down snapshots of you from birth to now, sprinkle in some keepsakes and add a special poem or quote. It’s a surefire way to make any mom cry. I know you are excited about leaving for college and tackling life on your own, but don’t forget your mom is probably struggling with letting you go. Use this Mother’s Day to remind her how much you will miss her and that you are grateful for everything she has done for you. And if you can’t afford to give her a gift, a simple ‘Thank You’ will go a long way.

The post 5 Great Mother’s Day Gifts for Students appeared first on The WiseChoice Blog.

1. Fun Fridays

Check with your school administration and see if you can turn your last remaining Fridays into Fun Fridays! You can host a school colors day or a superhero day. Another idea is to have a dress backwards or inside out day. Better yet, why not wear your pajamas to school day. The possibilities are endless, but the fun you have putting these themed days together will create lasting memories.

2. Host a Potluck Lunch

Ditch the cafeteria or brown bag, and gather your friends for a feast once a week for lunch. Decide who will bring tableware, drinks, main dishes, and of course, don’t forget the dessert! It’s a great way to enjoy some of your favorite dishes that you may not get to eat for some time and share a few laughs, too.

3. Cheer on the Home Team

If you’ve never been to one of your school’s sporting events, now’s the time to squeeze one in. It’s doesn’t matter if it’s a track event, a lacrosse match or a swimming meet, just grab your friends, paint up and make some supportive signs. Then, go out and cheer for the home team. You may even find that you have been missing out on some serious fun.

4. Strike a Pose

Now is the time to start capturing those precious last moments with your friends. Find your favorite places at school and start snapping away. Be silly, be serious or just be you. Don’t forget to capture some candid shots of your favorite teachers and coaches, too. Trust me; these photos will make you smile on those days at college when you need a familiar face to pick you up.

5. Grad Cap Decorating Party

If your school permits decorations on your graduation cap, be sure to arrange a decorating party with all your friends. Check to see if you can use the cafeteria or the art room for your party, as this will make cleaning up a breeze. Then, put together a supply list to divide among everyone. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time (two to three hours) and have some drinks and snacks on hand, too. If you need some ideas, head over to Pinterest or Google ‘decorated graduation caps.’

Don’t forget to stop by and say ‘Thank You’ to all the teachers, mentors and administrators who have helped you over the last four years, especially those who have provided letters of recommendation or helped you with your college admission applications; a nice card or plate of cookies are always welcome, too. Oh, and one other thing: try to spend some quality time with your parents. They are going to be starting a new journey as well, and it may actually be more difficult for them than it is for you. If they want to take you to dinner or a movie, go with them. It may be one of the last opportunities you get for your parents pay for everything, so don’t pass up a free date! Before you know it, you’ll be heading off to college and starting the next chapter of your life, so make this May one to remember!

The post May Bucket List for High School Seniors appeared first on The WiseChoice Blog.

1. Challenging Classes

Most colleges are looking for students who will push themselves to be more than average, so those who challenge themselves with Honors, Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) programs will typically fare better than those in regular classes. Students should keep in mind that they will still need to score high marks in these rigorous courses, though, as earning a ‘C’ or ‘D’ does not necessarily translate to a ‘B’ or ‘C’ in a regular class.

2. Solid Grades

As previously mentioned, the grades students receive are also an important factor in the admissions decision. Students should show steady progress throughout their high school years, increasing their grade point average (GPA) as they head into senior year. Any sudden change or decrease in grades may send up a red flag to admissions officers.

3. Test Scores

Although there has been some discussion on whether test scores should be given less weight in the decision process, the fact remains that most colleges still use them to weed out potential students. It’s important for students to find out which tests are required and to be prepared to take them more than once, if needed. Scores on the Standard Aptitude Test (SAT) and ACT are often used to award institutional scholarships, as well.

4. Outside Interests

To get the attention of admissions officers, students will need to show how they are more than just a set of transcripts. One way to do this is for students to figure out what motivates them and throw themselves into it; whether it’s extracurricular activities, student leadership positions, athletics, the arts or volunteer work. In most cases, quality is valued much more than quantity, so picking two or three activities to continue with throughout high school may help more than tackling several different new activities each year.

5. A Hook

Unfortunately, students can no longer rely on a perfect GPA and stellar test scores to gain admittance into the college of their dreams. The competition is fierce, so students must have a ‘hook’ if they want to wow the admissions committee. Anything that can be considered unique or extraordinary, such as starting an online business or creating charity, will help to impress those who hold the acceptance stamp.

Students can be proactive and hedge their chances by implementing these guidelines, but they should also be realistic in their expectations and have a backup plan ready. Even students with a 4.5 GPA, who are also captains of their high school teams, are being rejected from colleges. More students are applying to more colleges, which is decreasing the percentage of students being accepted at many schools. Yes, it can be upsetting for students to work hard throughout high school only to see their dream of attending a specific school crushed, but that doesn’t mean they can’t build a new dream someplace else.

Trying to find the right college for you? Check out WiseChoice.com. It’s totally free for students and has several useful tools to help you with the college admissions process.

The post What Do Colleges Look for in Applicants? appeared first on The WiseChoice Blog.

CLASSES

High School – You have no say in which teachers you will be assigned or when you will have class. You may have the same class for the entire year, which can really make life miserable if you hate the subject matter or dislike the teacher. You also have classes for six to eight hours a day, five days a week. Basically, it’s an unpaid, full-time job.

College – You determine which classes and professors you will select, as well as what time and day you will attend classes. Typically, you will spend anywhere from 12 to 18 hours a week in class, but only attend two to four days a week. You will most likely have large breaks (an hour or longer) between your classes, as well. Unlike high school, your classes will be between six and sixteen weeks in length.

HOMEWORK

High School – You may be able to complete your assignments in class or during a free period, depending on the type of classes. Even those in accelerated programs may only have a few hours of work per class per week. Teachers will continually remind you of upcoming projects, due dates and may accept late work. Each assignment typically counts for a small percentage of your grade.

College – You should expect two to three hours of homework for each credit hour you take per semester; for example, if you attend full-time (12+ credit hours), you may spend 25 to 30 hours per week working on assignments and studying. You are responsible for knowing when assignments are due and professors rarely accept late work. Although you may have fewer assignments, they will require more work and be worth a higher percentage of your overall grade.

EDUCATORS

High School – Your teacher will take roll each day to ensure you are in class. He/she will know you by name and will pay close attention to your academic success. If you appear to be having trouble, your teacher may provide opportunities for extra credit, after-school study help or contact your parents to discuss other options for improving your grades. Socializing with your teacher outside of school is frowned upon in most cases.

College – Although most college professors do not take roll, some may actually reduce your grade for lack of participation or too many missed classes. College professors are aware of your academic progress, but if you need assistance, they will expect you to approach them for help. Unlike high school, some professors do socialize with their students outside of the classroom. Professors will not contact your parents to update them on your grades or recent test scores.

GRADUATION

High School – In high school, your guidance counselors and teachers will continue to review your progress to ensure you are meeting the state and district requirements for graduation. Even if you do not receive a ‘C’ or better in all of your classes, you may still be allowed to graduate and earn your diploma. Your school will notify you when you are eligible to graduate and provide assistance with finding everything you need for your big day.

College – You will be responsible for knowing what requirements must be met for your degree, and you must pass each course with a ‘C” or better. When you enter your final semester of college, you will need to submit the proper paperwork to participate in your school’s graduation ceremony. If you miss any deadlines or fail to meet the necessary requirements, you will not be allowed to graduate.

The move from high school to college is both exciting and scary; you’ll no longer have your parents around to help you stay on course and you’ll be responsible for your actions. Although you’ll have more freedom in choosing what you study and when, you’ll also need to manage your time accordingly, if you want to succeed. It may seem like a million miles away right now, but college will be here before you know it. Until then, enjoy these last precious moments with your friends and use your ‘my dog ate my homework’ excuse before it expires!

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Long gone are the days of students arriving on campus without any preconceived notions about their roommate or professors; a few quick searches on Google and RateMyProfessors.com can give any student enough information to form an opinion about someone without ever meeting him/her face-to-face. Some might suggest this is a good thing, but I beg to differ. One important aspect of the college experience is that students are expected to interact with those who have varying beliefs or opinions. Diversity is the cornerstone of any good college, but how can we expect students to embrace those who are different when they use social media to seek out those who share the same core values and ideals? Students no longer have to question their beliefs or even defend their positions; they can simply turn to Facebook and find others who will gladly agree with them.

I’ll admit there were a few college professors I wish I had known about before registering for their classes, but in general, those were the classes where I learned the most. The professors may have been tough and opinionated, but they made me step outside my comfort zone, which opened my world up beyond my expectations. If I had a website that told me how hard those classes would have been, would I have avoided them? Most likely, but knowing what I know now, I am grateful that such a website didn’t exist. It’s a shame that many students will miss out on this experience and opt for the easier classes, instead.

I know I am very grateful that Facebook was not popular when I was on campus. It was bad enough being ridiculed by those closest to you about stupid mistakes you have made (locking yourself out of your room wearing only a towel) or crazy outfits you put together when you were half asleep. I can’t imagine what that is like for current students, knowing the whole world can see their flaws in a matter of seconds. Anyone can snap a photo or post a video of them at their worst moment, leaving them open to hurtful comments and shame. Not to mention the repercussions it can have on future employment opportunities or even admission into graduate school. Social media is akin to Big Brother; always watching and waiting for students to make a mistake.

It may sound as if I am advocating a ban on social media, but I’m not. In fact, I do believe there are some good aspects to it. The first day of college is very overwhelming, but thanks to Facebook, most students now can create bonds with other incoming students and their roommates before they even arrive. This can make setting up a dorm room immensely easier than when I was at college. Students can coordinate who’s bringing what and avoid any unnecessary items that would only take up precious space. I know my daughter is looking forward to creating a room design with her future roommate (two years and counting!) and posting pictures to her Pinterest account for all to envy. Students can also get the skinny on where to eat, how to score freebies and other important social events by connecting with current students on various social media platforms. No more wandering around the campus with a deer-in-the-headlights look advertising to everyone that they are college freshmen.

Finally, let’s not forget my personal favorite use of social media – staying connected to mom. Whether it’s a Google+ hangout, instant messaging on Facebook, or a quick Skype™ session, I look forward to keeping up with my kids and being there whenever they need a friendly face. Good or bad, social media has changed the college experience forever, and although there may be some things I wish my children would get to experience like I did, I am grateful to know they can reach out to friends and family anytime they need a virtual hug from someone who loves them.

Now it’s your turn to let me know what you think. Has social media ruined the college experience or made it better? I’d love to know how it has helped or hindered your experience as a student or a college parent.

The post How Social Media Has Changed the College Experience appeared first on The WiseChoice Blog.

All for Good

Although All for Good is a newcomer to the volunteer arena, it has some impressive partners, including the Points of Light Foundation, which acquired them in 2011, and United We Serve, which uses the All for Good search tool. Students can search for volunteer programs in their area or statewide, as well as find virtual or micro opportunities online. The website also provides guides for those interested in starting their own service project.

HandsOn Network

For over 15 years, HandsOn has helped people get involved in their communities. They partner with the Points of Light Foundation, helping people to ‘engage, take action and solve community problems through volunteer service.’ There are over 245 action centers across America where students can participate in organized events and other programs. Students can also search online for volunteer opportunities within their communities.

Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity was founded in 1976 to help address the issue of poverty housing. To date, they have helped build or repair more than 600,000 homes. Those interested can search for local opportunities, where volunteers help with framing, siding, landscape, interior design and other tasks necessary to build a home. Other programs include specific opportunities for youth (5-25) and women, as well as veterans. The organization also offers short-term volunteer trips to other states/countries and long-term service opportunities.

VolunteerMatch

VolunteerMatch has made more than 5.5 million volunteer matches since 1994. Their easy search tool allows users to locate current opportunities by cause (animals, arts, education, etc.), type of volunteer (teens, kids, group, elderly, etc.), location, and by organization. VolunteerMatch also hosts free webinars for those new to volunteering, covering training and screening processes used by many organizations, as well as potential obstacles volunteers may encounter.

Students may be hesitant at first to give away their time away for free, especially when they have so many other commitments, but most will find volunteer activities very rewarding; they may learn new skills, meet potential employers, or find something that ignites a spark. Students are often excited to learn that their volunteer service can also lead to potential college scholarships, earning them hundreds or thousands in free money for school. Volunteers are needed every day, so students should have little difficulty finding projects that fit within their busy schedules. It usually takes just one smile from a stranger for students to realize that helping others feels great…and that is often payment enough.

The post April is National Volunteer Month – Time to Give Back! appeared first on The WiseChoice Blog.

1. Apply to Other Colleges

Many colleges had application deadlines in the fall and early spring, but there are still plenty of colleges with rolling deadlines. Students who still wish to attend college this fall should explore their options and still approach the process as they did earlier in the year. Taking a campus tour, visiting with admissions representatives and speaking with current students are still recommended before submitting any applications, to ensure students find colleges that fit their needs. Another option is for students to consider enrolling in their local community college. Students not only save money on tuition and other fees, but also have additional time to explore options for transferring to a 4-year college in a year or two.

2. Take a Gap Year

Some students may find that the college admissions process and the demands of senior year burn them out. For these students, a gap year may just be the thing they need to reignite their passions or find some direction for their futures. A gap year can offer students the opportunity to travel and learn new skills, or they may wish to use their time off to embark on a volunteer project in another country; some students may prefer to take an internship, instead. If they plan to apply to college for the spring semester or following fall, students should be sure that their time is spent wisely, as many admissions officers will want to know what students did with their time off between high school and college.

3. Get a Job

After being rejected from their first-choice colleges, some students may not want to enroll or apply to other colleges right away. If so, students should consider getting a part-time or full-time job. It may be beneficial to try something in their intended field of study, or they may wish to use this time to explore other opportunities. Students can gain valuable work experience, expand their résumé and save money for college, while trying to figure out which college may be right for them going forward.

4. Volunteer

For those who cannot afford to travel or participate in a volunteer program abroad, there are still many opportunities closer to home. Students can often assist local charities and community organizations by volunteering their time to help with events, fundraisers and administrative tasks. Most communities have organizations that are dedicated to education, health, the arts and other areas of interest that will directly relate to potential college majors that students may be considering. The skills, experience and networking gained through their volunteer work can often help students in the college admissions process, as well.

It’s important for students to understand that they are not alone; others are facing the same dilemma and have an uncertain future ahead of them right now. Fortunately, there is still plenty of time for students to reconsider their college options or explore other opportunities for the fall. Students will naturally feel disappointed and depressed about their situation, but they should remember that it is a temporary setback; colleges rejected billionaire Warren Buffett and entrepreneur Ted Turner, too, but that didn’t stop them from finding success. Sometimes, the bumps in the road teach us the most.

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