COLLEGE PREP Academy

A definitive resource to understand how admissions has changed over the last 20 years so that you and your child are prepared for the college journey in a post-COVID, tech-enabled environment.

Wondering what you need to know about college admissions before your Junior year?  We’ll talk about what colleges value, how that relates to your high school journey, and how to manage this process while still enjoying high school.  Discover the latest updates and strategies to help your child succeed in their college application process; we'll take you through the various application types and admission deadlines. The Common Application, Coalition Application, and individual school applications will be covered as well as the pros and cons of Early Decision, Early Action, Priority, Rolling and Regular Decision deadlines.

Topics will also include:

• A college timeline by grade
• How your activities reflect your strengths
• SATs, ACTs, APs, IBs, and SAT Subject tests: what’s the difference and when should you take them?
• How to use your summers to your advantage
• How best to position yourself for the right college in terms of classes, activities, testing, summer, etc.
• Parent vs. student expectations and how to get on the same page.

Join top college advisors as they share trends what colleges are looking for in 2024. Discover the latest updates and strategies to help your child succeed in their college application process.

The "Choosing the Right College" workshop is a guided exploration of the factors that go into making one of the most crucial decisions in a student's life: selecting the best-fit college. Participants will learn how to evaluate colleges based on academic programs, campus culture, size, location, and other critical aspects. The workshop will provide practical tools and strategies to help attendees align their personal and academic goals with the offerings of potential colleges. Whether you're a high school student or a parent, this workshop aims to empower you to make an informed decision that aligns with your unique aspirations and sets the foundation for a fulfilling college experience.  

The goal is for students and parents to emerge from the workshop with clearer ideas for how to choose the “best fit” college, how to prepare for taking the often-daunting college entrance exams, how to complete applications with confidence, and how to identify strategies for paying for college.   Together we'll learn how to choose colleges that provide the best “fit” in terms of selectivity, location, academic environment, and financial factors.  Attendees will also understand the differences between the “best fit” universities and the “brand name” universities. 

 The "Financial Aid 101" workshop is an essential guide to understanding the intricacies of financial aid options for college. Participants will gain insights into the various types of financial assistance available, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. The workshop provides practical information on completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and explores strategies to maximize eligibility for financial aid. Whether you're a student or a parent, this informative session will demystify the financial aid process; you'll learn about available resources, and how to make informed decisions to support your college journey without unnecessary financial burdens. 

In 60-90 minutes, parents & students will get the tools to unlock thousands of dollars in financial aid with top advisors sharing hidden gems to help students graduate debt-free and make college pay for itself.  Information about strategies to help families pay for college and clarify the differences between merit-based financial aid, need-based financial aid, Bright Futures scholarships, federally funded financial aid programs, student loans, work-study programs, and grants. 

Financial Planning Virtual Workshop

Investing in your education is investing in your future. We understand the stress associated with paying for college and for that reason our Financial Aid Team wants to share keys to understanding Financial Aid and the process involved for those students who qualify.

Workshop Overview

During the workshop, we will cover the following topics and more.

• Financial aid Process flow from start to finish with Spartan College

• How to understand the FAFSA and other Financial Aid forms.

• How to avoid the most common mistakes on your FAFSA

• Understanding Student Loans

• Debt Management (borrow smart)

• Types of Financial Aid and how they are awarded

Discover the range of scholarship options, financial packages, and payment solutions to ensure a debt-free graduation.

Prepare for SAT or ACT with effective test-taking strategies!  The "Standardized Test Success" workshop is a dynamic session designed to equip students with effective strategies for excelling in standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT. Participants will receive expert guidance on test structure, time management, and question-solving techniques. The workshop includes practice exercises and tips for reducing test anxiety. Whether you're a freshman or sophomore preparing for your first attempt or a junior or senior seeking to improve your scores, this session will empower you with the skills needed to perform at your best. Join us to navigate the nuances of standardized testing and enhance your chances of achieving success in college admissions.  

Learn the ins and outs of crafting a compelling college application.   The "College Application Essentials" workshop is a comprehensive guide to navigating the intricate process of college applications. This session covers crucial elements, including crafting a standout personal statement, understanding application requirements, and organizing relevant documents. Participants will gain insights into creating a compelling application that reflects their unique strengths and aspirations. From understanding deadlines to optimizing resumes, this workshop equips students with the tools and knowledge needed to present their best selves to college admissions committees. Join us for a step-by-step journey through the college application process, ensuring you submit a compelling and well-prepared application.  

Get tips and strategies for writing a standout personal statement.   The "Mastering the College Essay" workshop is a focused session dedicated to honing the art of crafting a compelling and authentic personal statement for college applications. Participants will receive guidance on understanding essay prompts, developing a unique voice, and structuring impactful narratives. The workshop aims to demystify the essay-writing process, providing practical tips and strategies to help participants articulate their experiences and aspirations effectively. Whether you're a high school senior or a junior planning ahead, join us to enhance your essay-writing skills and create an essay that resonates with college admissions officers, making your application stand out in the competitive college admissions landscape. 

Hone your skills for successful college admissions interviews.   The "College Interview Skills" workshop is a specialized session focused on preparing students for college admissions interviews. Participants will learn effective communication techniques, practice common interview questions, and receive personalized feedback to enhance their interview performance. The workshop aims to build confidence, improve articulation of personal achievements and aspirations, and provide insights into making a positive impression on college admissions representatives. Whether you're a high school senior preparing for upcoming interviews or a junior planning ahead, join us for this interactive session to refine your interview skills and navigate the college admissions process with confidence.  

Discover opportunities for securing additional financial support.   The "Scholarships and Grants" workshop is a crucial session designed to help students explore and secure additional financial support for their college education. Participants will learn about different types of scholarships and grants, eligibility criteria, and strategies for successful applications. The workshop provides insights into identifying opportunities, preparing compelling scholarship applications, and maximizing chances of receiving financial aid. Whether you're a high school senior seeking funding for your college journey or a parent interested in supporting your child's education financially, join us for this informative session to unlock valuable resources and make informed decisions regarding scholarships and grants. 

Prepare for the academic and social aspects of college.   The "Transition to College Life" workshop is a vital session aimed at preparing students for the academic and social aspects of college. Participants will gain insights into navigating the challenges of the first year, time management, building a support network, and adapting to the new academic environment. The workshop addresses common concerns and provides practical strategies for a successful transition. Whether you're a high school senior gearing up for college or a parent looking to support your child, join us for this valuable session to ease the transition process, foster resilience, and ensure a positive start to the college experience. 

Workshops specifically for parents on how to support their child's journey.   The "Parental Support in College Prep" workshop is a specialized session designed to empower parents with the knowledge and tools needed to actively support their child's college preparation journey. Participants will gain insights into the college application process, financial aid options, and ways to provide emotional and practical assistance. The workshop covers effective communication strategies, understanding the role of parents in college prep, and fostering a supportive environment for their child's success. Whether you're a parent of a high school junior or senior, this session offers practical guidance to navigate the complexities of college preparation collaboratively. Join us for an interactive discussion on how parents can play a pivotal role in ensuring a smooth transition to college life for their child. 

 Especially for parents of students in 8th & 9th Grades, this workshop is a step-by-step guide on navigating the college admissions journey EARLY!   The "Navigating the Admissions Process" workshop is a comprehensive guide designed to demystify the college admissions journey. Participants will receive step-by-step guidance on understanding application requirements, deadlines, and essential documentation. The workshop covers key aspects such as creating a balanced college list, tackling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and maximizing extracurricular activities. Whether you're a high school student approaching the application process or a parent seeking clarity on how to support your child, this workshop provides the insights and tools needed to navigate the complexities of college admissions successfully. Join us for a strategic and informative session to set the foundation for a successful application journey.