
During this Winter break I have had the pleasure of catching up with “former” students (they are never former to me, always MY students!). I am always so happy to discover they are doing well, taking on challenges, and exploring the world. Sometimes you discover that their road is harder than they expected it to be, but I always hope they will rise to the occasion. I love hearing about their learning experiences and college adventures. (more…)
Touching Base
In Memory of James Lawrence Chance

I want to express my condolences to the family of James Lawrence Chance who passed away on December 31, 2009. His brother, John, is one of College Adventures’ bloggers, and a friend who has spent time with our family. For those who knew James, or who know John, the funeral arrangements are as follows:
Visitation is at Richardson Restland Memorial on Thursday, January 7th at 6:00pm followed by a memorial at 7:00pm.
Friday January 8, Funeral Services
10a.m. at St Paul the Apostle’s Catholic Church in Richardson.
The Facebook link is http://www.facebook.com/#/event.php?eid=237131162122&index=1.
Donations will be accepted in James’ name (The James Chance Memorial Fund – Bank of America, TX2-510-01-01, PO Box 630005, Dallas, TX 75263-9705).
The Wall Street Journal lists Jobs of the Future

Students who are preparing to go to college or who are already in college will be required to have a “two track” mind, according to an article in the Wall Street Journal. Technology, health care, and education are still the “hot” job sectors, but additional skills and knowledge will be necessary.
Awesome Outdoor Adventures: Warren Wilson College
Warren Wilson College is in Asheville, NC, and is dedicated to the idea that sustainability is the way to live. Because of this mission, they offer incredible outdoor adventure programs and majors.
5 Things You Shouldn’t Do Before You Graduate from College by Richard Hemby
You always hear about things that you should do in college. The “Do” list is massive, but what about the Don’ts? There are plenty out there, and as a college student, you might want to take a quick second to figure out what you shouldn’t be doing with your time. Here is a list to get you started
Travels with Tam: Bryn Mawr College
Many may think that women’s colleges are outdated, but think again: at a woman’s college the leadership roles are taken by women, the opportunities for participation in academics are for women, so it is not surprising that Bryn Mawr, like its sisters, produces leaders and individualists who choose their own paths. These students have access to strong, amazing female role models. They also have access and cross-registration with Haverford, Swarthmore and Penn.
How important is class rank?
Admission deans answer questions on WSJ-Unigo’s Inside the Admission Office. How important is class rank in making admission decisions? Have you ever seen your high school’s profile? This profile goes to every college you apply to. Ask your college counseling office for a copy of your High School’s profile.
How many schools should I apply to?
Good question. Here is my answer: studies show that students who apply to fewer colleges, once they have done a good amount of research, often have better acceptance rates and college success than students who apply to 20 colleges just because they think they can get in. I always advise students to choose between 6-8 colleges that they would be VERY happy to attend, and apply to those schools.
College for those with Asperger’s Syndrome
Many Asperger’s students have at least normal IQs, and many have exceptional talents and abilities. This year I had the pleasure of working with a young man with Asperger’s whom I found delightful; his sense of humor is acute, and his mathematical and scientific knowledge and aptitude is off the charts. Many Asperger’s students go on to college, but care must be taken, not only in the college environments from an academic standpoint, but also in housing and living skills.
New Year College Application Due Dates….
Congratulations to those who made it for the January 1 college deadlines! But guess what? More deadlines are looming. Several schools are due January 10, more on January 15, and even more on February 1st. And college deadlines aren’t the only ones you have to worry about….don’t forget Financial Aid.