November College Success Newsletter
As we enter November, the college application season is in full swing, making this a crucial time for students and families to focus on their next steps.
In this edition, we cover essential topics such as effective strategies for exploring college websites, the pros and cons of applying as undecided, tips for avoiding financial aid mistakes, Quinnipiac University, and more.
I hope you find these resources helpful!
Topic of the Month
Exploring College Websites
Researching colleges can include visiting college campuses, attending information sessions, and meeting college representatives. However, before scheduling a visit, students should begin their research on the college’s website.
Start with the college's homepage, and from there, explore sections such as "About Us," "Academics," "Admissions," "Student Life," and "Research." Reading the mission statement provides insights into the college's history and values. When it comes to academics, explore the majors and departments you are interested in. Check for research opportunities, academic facilities, available minors, and study abroad programs. Investigate resources such as subject tutoring or learning disability support, which could be vital during your college years.
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The admissions page is another crucial area. Here, you’ll find application requirements and deadlines. Make sure to note whether the school uses the Common Application or another platform. On the admissions page, you should see a way to sign up to receive email notifications about any admissions events. You can also schedule tours and info sessions, both online and in person. Connecting with admission counselors can give you a more personal understanding of the college. You won't be studying 24/7 so it's important to explore what student life at each college looks like. This will be an important part of your college experience, so take the time to review options for clubs, study abroad programs, and volunteer opportunities. Check to see if you can find the link to issues of the student newspaper or other student-run publications. Reading these will give you further insight into the school. Look into housing options and how roommate matching/selection works. If you have a special hobby or interest, see if the college offers living-learning communities."
Health and safety should not be overlooked. Investigate the Student Health Center, counseling services, and campus security. Be sure to ask about dorm security, escort services for late-night walks, and the availability of emergency services. If transportation is a priority, find out whether first-year students are allowed cars and explore campus shuttle options, especially if you’ll need transportation off-campus.
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On the financial aid page (a sub-page to the admissions page) use the online Net Price Calculator to assess affordability, and reach out to financial aid officers with specific questions. Many schools offer scholarships, so ensure you’re aware of all financial aid opportunities. Lastly, don’t forget to explore the college’s career center. Look for internship programs, job fairs, and alumni connections that support your long-term career goals. Most colleges offer resources such as resume-building workshops and meetings with industry professionals.
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In addition to the school websites, you can also find useful information using the Common Data Set (CDS) which includes class sizes, student-faculty ratios, and graduation rates along with data about acceptance rates, average GPA, test scores, and other useful statistics. This data helps assess whether the college aligns with your profile.
By thoroughly exploring these sections of the college’s website, students can make more informed decisions about which schools align with their academic, personal, and financial needs.
College Spotlight
Quinnipiac University, Hamden, CT
Quinnipiac University, located in Hamden, Connecticut, has undergone remarkable growth over the past three decades, transforming from a small liberal arts college into a prominent institution with over 7,000 undergraduate students and a diverse array of graduate programs. Founded in 1929, the university has carved out a niche in health, business, and communications, offering nearly 60 undergraduate majors and numerous combined degree options. Its picturesque 250-acre Mount Carmel campus is adjacent to Sleeping Giant State Park, providing students with both a vibrant academic environment and access to outdoor activities. With a commitment to personalized education—evidenced by small class sizes and dedicated faculty—Quinnipiac prepares its students for successful careers while fostering a strong sense of community. As it continues to expand its academic offerings and maintain selectivity, Quinnipiac University stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking a well-rounded educational experience.​
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By the Numbers
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Undergraduate enrollment: 6,000
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Women: 62%
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Men: 38%
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Admission Rate: 84%
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Student Faculty Ratio: 11:1
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Campus Type: Suburban
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Student Quotes
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“Students will find courses challenging but reasonable.”
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“Professors are interested in teaching you the material and want you to leave the class feeling confident about what you’ve learned.”
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“With so many different ways to go abroad, there is no reason not to take advantage and explore the world.”
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“A lot of students come here for a very specific program or a dual degree, which makes them very focused on maintaining high grades.”
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“The feeling of community is why I chose Quinnipiac University, and why I would recommend it to prospective students.”​​​​​​​​​​​​​
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​​​Academics
Quinnipiac University offers a diverse academic landscape with nearly 60 undergraduate majors, catering to a wide range of student interests and career aspirations. Among the most popular fields are nursing, marketing, journalism, psychology, and biology. The university has established a strong reputation in business, particularly in entrepreneurship and finance, as well as in communications, with robust programs in journalism, film, television, and media arts. Quinnipiac's commitment to a well-rounded education is evident in its General Education Curriculum, which provides students with a solid foundation in sciences, social sciences, humanities, fine arts, writing, and intercultural understanding. This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates are not only experts in their chosen fields but also possess broad knowledge and critical thinking skills.
The university distinguishes itself through unique academic offerings, including combined undergraduate/graduate degree programs in business, communications, law, and health sciences. These accelerated pathways allow ambitious students to fast-track their education and career prospects. Additionally, the University Honors Program provides gifted students with enriching experiences through special seminars and close mentorship from professors. Quinnipiac's dedication to personalized education is reflected in its class structure, with 45% of classes having fewer than 20 students. Notably, all classes are taught by professors rather than teaching assistants, ensuring that students receive direct instruction from experienced educators. This emphasis on small class sizes and professor-led instruction fosters an intimate learning environment where students can engage deeply with course material and receive individualized attention.​
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Campus & Residential Life
Quinnipiac's vibrant campus life is anchored by its three campuses: the Mount Carmel campus with its central quad and proximity to Sleeping Giant State Park; the York Hill campus featuring the Rocky Top Student Center; and the North Haven campus housing health sciences and law programs. Most freshmen and sophomores live on the Mount Carmel campus, while upperclassmen can choose suite-style accommodations or nearby houses. Students are required to live on campus for the first three years and 75% of students live on campus. Dining options are diverse, with positive reviews for the main dining hall and Bobcat Den.
The social scene at Quinnipiac is lively, with around 150 student clubs and various events like guest speakers and film screenings. Greek life plays an active role on campus, with about 20% of students participating in fraternities and sororities that focus more on philanthropy than partying. Sports are also a significant part of campus culture; Quinnipiac fields 21 Division I teams, including a fierce ice hockey rivalry with Yale University that ignites student pride.
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Random Things
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Quinnipiac Polling Institute: The university is home to the renowned Quinnipiac Polling Institute, which conducts national surveys on political races and public opinion on various issues.
Unique Collections: Quinnipiac houses one of the world’s largest collections of art and literature related to the Great Irish Famine, showcasing its commitment to cultural preservation and education.
Study Abroad Opportunities: About 34% of students participate in programs across 32 countries.
Outdoor Activities: Students often hike Sleeping Giant State Park as part of their college experience.
Athletics: The Quinnipiac Bobcats compete at the Division I level with notable rivalries, especially in ice hockey against Yale University.
Community Involvement: Approximately 80% of students engage in volunteer work within the local community.
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Major Spotlight
Undecided
Feeling unsure about what major to pick for college? You're not alone! Many students, even those interested in STEM, aren't sure which subject to focus on, or they have so many interests they can’t choose just one. According to a U.S. Department of Education report, about one-third of students change their major within three years of starting college. Some schools report that 50-75% of students change their major at least once.
For those students who are unsure what major to declare, one popular option is applying as “undecided” or “undeclared.” This allows you to take your time discovering what excites you before committing to a major.
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Pros of Applying to College Undecided
If you enjoy different subjects—such as physics and history or graphic design and entrepreneurship—applying undecided gives you the freedom to take a wide variety of classes before settling on one major. This flexibility can be ideal for students who want to explore multiple interests. Deciding on a major can feel overwhelming. Applying as undecided gives you time to experience different subjects and discover what truly interests you. Most schools do not require that students officially declare their major until the end of their sophomore year.
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Many colleges provide special advising for undecided students, helping guide them toward the right major. Universities such as Brown, University of Hartford, and Oregon State University offer support through mentorship and career advising for undecided students.
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Being undecided keeps your options open for designing your major or choosing interdisciplinary programs. Schools that are part of academic consortiums, such as The Claremont Colleges and the Five College Consortium are great for those interested in exploring subjects or taking classes not offered a their home institution. Some colleges offer exploratory tracks in specific fields, such as business or engineering, without requiring you to declare a major right away.
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Cons of Applying to College Undecided
Certain competitive majors—such as business, engineering, or nursing—may be difficult to enter later if you don’t apply directly as a freshman. These programs often have strict entry requirements and/or a limited number of spaces, so it’s important to check each school’s policy before applying undecided. For example, transferring into an engineering program from a university's College of Arts and Sciences can be difficult as there are often requirements in math and sciences that students will not have met yet. Some colleges offer specific exploratory options to help students figure out the major they want to pursue. Some examples of this include Ithaca College, Rochester Institute of Technology, and University of Colorado Boulder.
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Just because a college allows you to apply undecided doesn’t mean it’s the best fit for your academic goals. If you have a specific field in mind, it’s crucial to choose a school with strong programs in that area, even if you haven’t declared your major yet.
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If you’re thinking about applying undecided, look for schools with flexible curriculums. Be sure to check for major restrictions, especially for competitive fields such as business or engineering. Think about your interests and ensure that the school offers strong programs in areas you may want to explore. Applying undecided can provide the time and space to discover your academic path. Whether you have multiple interests or are not sure exactly what you want to study, it keeps your options open while allowing you to explore.
Money Matters
Avoiding Financial Aid and FAFSA Mistakes
As your high schooler prepares for college, navigating financial aid can feel confusing. Here’s a guide to avoid common financial aid pitfalls.
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One of the biggest mistakes parents make is missing financial aid deadlines. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens on December 1st this year, but many families wait too long to file. To avoid this, note both federal and school-specific deadlines. Pay attention to ED, EA, and ED2 financial aid deadlines.
Another common mistake is skipping the FAFSA because parents assume they won’t qualify for aid. Even if you don’t qualify for need-based aid, submitting the FAFSA is required for federal loans and work-study programs.
Some schools won’t consider late financial aid requests, so it’s always better to apply upfront if there’s any chance you’ll need assistance.
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Errors on the FAFSA can lead to delays or reduced aid. Mistakes with income figures, confusing parent and student assets, or leaving out required fields are common issues. Double-check everything. Use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool to pull data directly from your tax returns for accuracy, and make sure your most recent tax return is ready when filling out the form.
Overestimating assets is another pitfall. FAFSA doesn’t ask for the value of retirement accounts or your primary residence, but some parents mistakenly include these, inflating their Student Aid Index (SAI). Being precise prevents accidentally reducing your child’s aid.
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If your financial situation changes after submitting the FAFSA, you can appeal for more aid. Many parents mistakenly believe the initial aid package is final. However, if you experience job loss, unexpected medical bills, or other hardships, you can request that the school review your situation. Colleges often have an appeals process to adjust aid.
529 savings plans should be reported as parent assets on the FAFSA, even though your student is the beneficiary. This works in your favor, as parent assets are counted less heavily than student assets. Be aware that student-owned assets are penalized more heavily than parent assets, so talk to a financial advisor about managing these savings to maximize aid eligibility.
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Lastly, don’t shy away from federal student loans. These loans often come with low interest rates and flexible repayment options, making them safer than private loans. While borrowing should be approached with caution, federal loans can help bridge the gap between what you can afford and the total cost of college. The federal cap on how much a student can borrow over four years of college is $27,000 (with annual caps from $5,500 to $7,500 per year)
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By staying organized, meeting deadlines, and avoiding these common missteps, you can help maximize the financial aid your child receives. Take time to understand the process and reach out to financial aid offices for help—they’re there to assist you!
Now is the Time
What is Demonstrated Interest?
In college admissions, showing genuine interest can significantly impact your chances of acceptance at certain schools. While colleges track common forms of demonstrated interest—such as campus visits and opening emails—going beyond the basics can make a big difference. These strategies not only demonstrate an authentic interest but also help you engage deeply with the university, ensuring it’s the right fit for you.
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One powerful way to demonstrate interest is by exploring your intended major in depth. Instead of just browsing the website, sign up for more information and look for opportunities to connect with the specific department. For example, if you’re interested in working with children, explore the Department of Early Childhood Development and see if there are chances to meet with academic advisors or visit their daycare center.
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Subscribing to newsletters enables you to learn about upcoming presentations or guest lectures. Staying informed about departmental news shows a long-term commitment to your field. Attending webinars, lectures, and when available, Q&A sessions for prospective students allows you to introduce yourself to faculty and staff. Be sure to follow up afterward, further demonstrating commitment.
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Connecting with admissions representatives can provide valuable insights and show your strong interest in the school.
If your interests align with a professor’s research, reach out with thoughtful questions or comments. Mention how their work has influenced your decision to pursue this field.
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Some professors may be willing to share their insights with prospective students, but respect their limited time.
Colleges often offer online events that provide additional insight. Participate in webinars or virtual tours to better understand the college’s culture, campus life, and academic programs. These are great opportunities to interact with students and faculty.
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If you’re planning a campus visit, contact admissions to see if you can meet or sit in on a class. Afterward, send a follow-up email with your insights and questions, showing your enthusiasm for the academic environment.
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Interviews are also a great way to showcase your interest and personality. Some colleges offer interviews with current students, alumni, or admissions counselors as part of the application process. Use this opportunity to discuss your academic goals, ask thoughtful questions, and highlight why you’re a good fit.
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Attend college fairs and events at your high school in person or virtually. This is a great opportunity to make personal connections with admissions representatives who are often the first reviewers of your application and may advocate for you in the admissions office. Don’t forget to get their contact information and send a follow-up email. When communicating with college representatives, ask questions that reflect genuine curiosity. Avoid topics easily answered on the website. Instead, focus on specific programs or research opportunities.
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A personalized thank-you note after meetings or interviews can leave a lasting impression. Reference specific parts of your conversation and include a follow-up question or thought to show continued engagement.
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By taking these extra steps, you show admissions committees that you’re not only interested but also proactive and passionate about your future there. These actions can make a significant impression and demonstrate you’re ready to take full advantage of what the college offers.
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Remember, the goal is to build meaningful connections and authentically convey your enthusiasm. Your efforts can make a lasting impact and potentially tip the scales in your favor.