Ever had your heart set on a specific college, only to find your path leading somewhere completely unexpected? This week on Don't Chuck It Up, we're diving into the fascinating reality that the college you ultimately attend might not be the one you initially envisioned – or even heard of! Are you ready for a rollercoaster ride? Join us as we explore the twists and turns of the college search journey and uncover the beauty of finding your perfect fit in the most surprising places. We'll discuss why your "Plan A" might take an unforeseen detour, and how embracing those unexpected opportunities can lead to incredible growth and experiences you never imagined. Get ready to ride the rollercoaster and open your mind to the possibilities beyond your initial college radar – you might just discover your dream school was waiting for you all along!

Hello, parents! Are you feeling a little overwhelmed by the college process? You're not alone! On the latest episode of the "Don't Chuck It Up" podcast, we're throwing you a lifeline. We break down four key areas that can feel like hurdles: managing expectations (yours and your child's), navigating the sometimes daunting world of the FAFSA and the cost of higher education, the adventure of discovering a major, and the big step of finding the right college or university. We offer practical tips and insights, along with helpful resource websites to help you support your student without losing your mind. Tune in for a dose of clarity and encouragement on this exciting journey!

Thinking about college can be exciting, but for students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP), it can also bring a unique set of questions and considerations. This episode features Kelley Challen, a Transition Specialist with NESCA. Kelley Challen, Ed.M., CAS is an expert transition specialist and national speaker who has been engaged in the evaluation, development, and direction of transition-focused programming for teenagers and young adults with a wide array of developmental and learning abilities since 2004. While Ms. Challen has special expertise in working with youth with autism, she enjoys working with students with a range of cognitive, learning, communication, social, emotional and/or behavioral needs. https://nesca-newton.com/challen/

What are the fundamental differences in legal frameworks and available support? Why is it crucial for students to learn to advocate for their own needs in college? What types of accommodations are typically available in college, and how can students access them? How can families best support their students through this transition while fostering independence? We also discussed strategies for time management, organization, and self-regulation in a less structured college environment.

Whether you're a student with an IEP, a parent, an educator, or anyone interested in understanding this critical transition, this episode of "Don't Chuck It Up" provides essential information and empowers listeners with the knowledge to confidently navigate the path to college success. Don't miss this crucial conversation!

In this episode of the Don't Chuck It Up Podcast, we take a look into one of the most crucial parts of preparing for college. How do we pay for this?

Join me as I break down the complexities of college finances into manageable steps. Whether you're a high school student, a returning adult learner, or a parent seeking guidance, this episode offers a roadmap to funding your education without unnecessary stress.

We review the loan landscape and discuss the types of loans that are recommended and which are less desirable. What is the sticker price of the college? We touch on the items that are covered in the sticker price. Where can we find the information on the college's website? We also discussed the net price calculator. This is a tool found on all college websites. Don't let financial concerns hold you back! Tune in to Don't Chuck It Up and learn how to pay for college without breaking the bank.

Tired of endless scholarship lists and vague advice? This episode of Don't Chuck It Up is all about actionable strategies. We're giving you the tools to find the best scholarships for you and ultimately secure the funding you deserve. We take a look into the places where you can find these scholarship dollars. We explore niche scholarships and local opportunities often overlooked by the masses. We highlight the type of colleges and universities that will benefit the most from receiving these awards. The education you have always wanted is within your reach with the right help and funding. Let's make your dream a reality.

Feeling overwhelmed by your financial aid award letter? You're not alone! In this episode of Don't Chuck It Up, we break down the confusing jargon and empower you to understand exactly what those numbers mean. We cover each type of financial aid, where it comes from, and how they are awarded. We'll cover everything from scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study, helping you navigate the financial aid complexities. What is the difference between estimated and official? It is crucial to know the difference between free money and money you have to repay. Beyond tuition, we discuss fees, housing, books, and other expenses that impact your overall cost.

Whether you're a student or a parent, this episode is your essential guide to understanding and maximizing your financial aid awards. This episode gives you the knowledge and tools to confidently navigate the financial aid landscape, putting your financial future firmly in your hands.

Today, we are talking with Greg King, the Interim Associate Vice President for Recruitment Strategy at Ripon College in Ripon, Wisconsin. He has spent the last 17 years in higher education, working at various colleges and universities. Greg made his way to Wisconsin in October of 2024. In this episode, we explore the unique educational environment offered by a small liberal arts college, using Ripon College as an example.

Going to a smaller college offers students a wide range of intellectual and co-curricular experiences. We talk about Ripon's academic programs, highlighting the personalized attention, close faculty-student relationships, and diverse learning opportunities that define the college experience. We also discuss how a small liberal arts college allows students to participate in athletics, the fine arts, and studying one or more academic areas. Learn how Ripon College worked with local employers to develop their new Engineering major and promote local internship opportunities. We also chat about the new academic and athletic facilities at Ripon College.

We appreciate that smaller colleges encourage students to explore diverse fields of study, fostering interdisciplinary thinking and a lifelong love of learning. We move beyond the traditional metrics of success and delve into how these institutions foster intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and a strong sense of community.

In this episode of "Don't Chuck It Up," we revel in the transformative power of a small liberal arts education. Tune in to discover how institutions, like Ripon College, are shaping the leaders, thinkers, and innovators of tomorrow.

If you enjoyed the chat about Ripon College: Check them out at linkin.bio/riponcollege

The calendar has flipped to March, and for countless high school seniors, that means one thing: Less than two months until Decision Day is here! In this episode of "Don't Chuck It Up!", we're diving deep into the anxiety, excitement, and crucial final steps surrounding the May 1st college decision deadline.

We'll walk through the practicalities of officially accepting a college offer, including how to notify other schools. Whether you're a student making your final decision, a parent offering support, or a counselor guiding the process, this episode provides essential insights and practical tips to navigate the pivotal May 1st deadline with confidence and clarity. Don't chuck it up! Tune in and make your college decision count.