There are four Bright Futures award levels, each with its own eligibility criteria and benefits:

• Florida Academic Scholars (FAS): Covers 100% of tuition and applicable fees. 
• Florida Medallion Scholars (FMS): Covers 75% of tuition and applicable fees. 
• Gold Seal Vocational Scholars (GSV): Supports students pursuing career certificates, technical degrees, or applied technology diplomas.
• Gold Seal CAPE Scholars (GSC): Supports students who complete a CAPE associate degree and continue toward a bachelor’s degree in science or applied science. 

While Bright Futures covers a set percentage of tuition at Florida’s public colleges and universities, students attending private institutions receive a fixed dollar amount per credit hour instead.
Each award level has specific GPA, coursework, and test score requirements. The full breakdown is available in the Bright Futures Student Handbook at floridabrightfutures.gov.

Students apply for Bright Futures their senior year of high school by submitting the Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA), typically available Oct. 1. The deadline to complete the application is Aug. 31 of a student’s graduating year. For the Class of 2026, that means submitting a completed FFAA no later than Aug. 31, 2026.

All Bright Futures award levels require either volunteer service hours, paid work hours, or a combination. In Collier County Public Schools, students may choose where they would like to volunteer but must have the organization approved by the school district in advance.

After selecting and getting approval for an organization, students submit a proposal signed by a parent or guardian and the school counselor and track their hours (or upload pay stubs, if they are working) through the Service Hours app. Students may begin accumulating volunteer/work hours as early as freshman year of high school.

While most requirements must be met by graduation, students have until Aug. 31 of their graduation year to meet the ACT, CLT, SAT, or PERT score minimums.

Once awarded, Bright Futures funds are sent directly to the college or institution the student is attending. As long as the student maintains the renewal requirements (like GPA and credit hours), the scholarship automatically renews each year, up to the program limit.

While the requirements may seem overwhelming at first, the Bright Futures program rewards consistency and effort.

Start the conversation early, track progress often, and don’t be afraid to reach out to school counselors for guidance.

With some planning and persistence, this scholarship can make college or career education in Florida significantly more affordable.

Additional Resources

Local Scholarships Often Go Unclaimed in Collier and Lee Counties

$20,000 Scholarship Applications Now Open for Collier County Seniors

The post Bright Futures: Florida’s Top Student Scholarship appeared first on SWFL Family.

“That is a message that we try to convey,” said Kimberly Dickerson, Collier County Public School district’s school counseling coordinator. “Those national scholarships are flashy, and students know about them. But we have some great scholarships here.”

The Collier Community Foundation administers more than 300 scholarships. Lee County Schools lists almost 150 local awards on both the district website and the XELLO website.

CCF created the Scholarship Connector which lists all local, state, and national scholarships. They have been checked for legitimacy and have links to the applications. Students can take an information quiz that will spit out the scholarships that they are eligible for, so they don’t have to wade through hundreds of sites. A common link allows students to apply for multiple scholarships with just one application.

“The scholarships run the gamut of criteria,” said Laura Bidireanu, director of education scholarships for CCF. “Some are merit based, some are need based, some are based on interests or background.”

Bidireanu said it is important for seniors to check the deadlines. She also offers this advice for students: “Take your time, show who you are, what sets you apart from your peers, what you are passionate about, and what you want to pursue after high school.” She also noted that “letters of recommendation are more important than facts and figures like your GPA.”

CCF visits all the local high schools to advise students on applying, and encourages them to seek out as many scholarships as possible.

“Don’t take for granted the smaller local scholarships that are available. Every little bit counts,” Bidireanu stressed.

High school counselors are also a good source of information and guidance on scholarships, Dickerson said.

“Seniors have a lot to do, so it is important to be organized and to set aside time just to look for scholarships,” Dickerson advised. “Using the Scholarship Connector is a great tool. Look for those local scholarship dollars and spend some time applying. People will be surprised at how many organizations want to support them. Every little bit helps. They add up to something significant.”

The Class of 2025 in Collier County Public Schools earned $38.5 million in scholarships. Dickerson hopes the 3,500 members of the Class of 2026 this year will secure even more.

Lee County 2025 seniors secured more than $70 million in scholarships. This year there are 7,370 public school seniors in Lee County public schools.

Start early

Lee County uses a Florida service called Xello and then adds local scholarships into the program. Xello includes scholarships for students in grades 6-12 so not just seniors should be looking at it, advises Meredith Berry, coordinator for Lee County School counseling services. Xello also lets students filter the scholarships that they are eligible for, and it has some that offer one application for multiple opportunities.

Lee County high schools not only have guidance counselors, they also have a college and career specialist at every location. These specialists go into the classrooms and have individual and group meetings with students, but Berry admits that more needs to be done.

“We do have scholarships locally that students don’t apply for, whether it is that they don’t know about it or the time frame for when it is due,” Berry explained.

She wants students to learn about scholarships when they are still in middle school.
“My goal is to see that students leave middle school and have a scholarship awarded to them, so they already have that scholarship readiness,” she said.

Local nonprofits are helping students start the scholarship process early. Champions for Learning encourages students beginning in eighth grade to apply for scholarship money. Those that secure a spot in Take Stock in Children in eighth grade can secure a two-year pre-paid scholarship if they complete the program and graduate. But the application closes in October, so they need to apply soon.

“It is an opportunity for every student in Collier to apply,” said Kristin Carolan, senior director of student programs at Champions for Learning. “No essay is required. It is first-come, first-served. If you are eligible, you get it.”

Free money

Those that offer scholarships hope more students will take advantage of this free money for their education. Sharon Newman, who does publicity for Voices of Naples, says her organization gives out two or three music scholarships each year to students who plan to major in vocal (or related) studies in college.

“The number of applications has varied from one to six, averaging three,” Newman stated. “Recipients may request additional funding after their freshman year in college.”

Sarah Savary, chair of the Longshore Lakes scholarship committee, also hopes to see more students apply this year.

“One of the things that I find is not too many people apply, and I keep telling the counselors to promote it,” Savary said. “There are so many scholarships on the website. What is nice about our scholarship is it goes directly to the student once we have confirmation that they are going to a school. It does make a difference. People should be more aware.”

Karin O’Leary, president of the Bonita Shores Club, said there were seniors in the community last year, so it was surprising that no one applied.

“It requires effort, and there are service hours they have to do,” O’Leary said. “I think they don’t know about it. With Bright Futures, they don’t think they need anything else, but they can use it for books or whatever. There are some kids who are motivated, but there are other kids who are not. There are tons of scholarships out there, but the kids need to apply for them. It is free money.”

Top 5 Tips for Scholarship Applications

1. Start Early
   Don’t wait until senior year—many scholarships are open to middle schoolers.
2. Be Organized
   Set aside time each week just to research and apply. Keep a deadline calendar.
3. Show Who You Are
   Essays should highlight your passions, goals, and what makes you unique—you are more than just a GPA and test scores.
4. Secure Strong Recommendations
   Letters from teachers, mentors, or community leaders often carry more weight than numbers.
5. Apply for Local Scholarships
   Don’t overlook smaller, community-based awards. They add up and are often less competitive than national scholarships.

The post Local Scholarships Often Go Unclaimed in Collier and Lee Counties appeared first on SWFL Family.

Adaptive Services and Accommodations

For students with disabilities, seeking adaptive services and accommodations is vital. Many families overlook the importance of investigating the college’s commitment to providing equal access to education for all students. Look for institutions that offer services such as accessible classrooms, assistive technologies, note-taking assistance, and extended exam time.

Mental Health Services

The college experience comes with its share of challenges, and mental health support is critical. Families and students should prioritize colleges that offer comprehensive mental health services, including counseling centers and access to trained professionals. The availability of resources for stress management, therapy, and crisis intervention can significantly impact a student’s well-being.

On-Campus and Off-Campus Safety

While college campuses often feel like safe havens, it is essential to consider both on-campus and off-campus safety. Each college and university is required to report crime data, support victims of violence, and publicly outline the policies and procedures to improve campus safety through the Clery Act. This data is provided at ope.ed.gov/campussafety. Families should also explore the transportation options available to students, especially during late hours. Understanding the safety measures in place, such as well-lit pathways and shuttle services, can contribute to a sense of security.

Evacuation Plans

Safety should always be a top priority. Families and students should inquire about the college’s emergency preparedness plans, including evacuation procedures in case of natural disasters, fires, or other emergencies. Familiarizing oneself with evacuation routes and emergency contact information can be crucial in times of crisis.

Crisis Management and Communication

In today’s world, the importance of the ability of an institution to effectively communicate during emergencies cannot be overstated. Families should inquire about the college’s communication protocols during crises, such as how they notify students and families, and how they handle various emergency situations. Having clear information and established communication channels can help families stay informed and make well-informed decisions during challenging times.

Being armed with these crucial college insights isn’t just about playing it safe—it’s about being prepared for anything. Recently, a local university in my vicinity had to grapple with the tragic loss of a student on campus and the looming threat of an oncoming hurricane. Recently, Florida State University experienced an active shooter situation, but with student preparation during orientation and law enforcement response, many lives were saved. In the face of such challenges, crystal-clear communication became the unsung hero, ensuring that students and parents were in the loop about unfolding events and the college’s action plan.

But it doesn’t stop there. College life isn’t just about weathering storms; it’s about thriving. Students need to know the ropes when it comes to seeking both academic and personal help. These resources can be the difference between sinking and soaring in the college environment. When overlooked during the college search, these crucial elements can lead to hefty consequences down the road. So, future scholars, remember: the more you arm yourself with knowledge, the more you empower yourself for whatever college life throws your way.

The post What Southwest Florida Families Should Know About College Safety and Student Support Services appeared first on SWFL Family.

My son looked at me with dread in his eyes. He needed to find out about driver’s education classes, and the website had minimal information. I smiled and told him he needed to call them. As he held the phone in his hand, he wasn’t sure what to do, what to say, or what to ask. He didn’t want to make the call, but I knew he needed to.

Here are 10 helpful things to teach your child:

LIFE SKILLS

Cook simple meals: Yes, they will probably have a meal plan if they go away to college. But knowing how to make a few meals will help them far beyond their college years. Spend time including them in food preparation. Teach them how to follow a recipe, measure, and prep ingredients.

Transfer health care: While you have been responsible for every aspect of their health care, they need to learn how to navigate their health. Let them make appointments, handle check-in, and share insurance information. Give them a chance to answer questions at doctor’s appointments before you give any input, and be sure to provide them with one-on-one time with the doctor. Letting go of control in this area can feel challenging, but you both must learn how to do this. The more you equip your kids to handle these things, the easier it will be when they get sick and are away from home.

Run errands: Things that seem simple to us can be challenging for teens because they haven’t done them before. Give them a chance to run errands like going to the grocery store or pumping gas so they learn how to do these things independently. Even having them take the car in for an oil change or bring the dog to the groomer so they know how to interact with service providers independently helps prepare them for adulthood.

Self-care: This isn’t about relaxing or taking time for yourself, although that is helpful to model and teach. This is about teaching your child how to take care of things like hygiene, laundry, making a bed, wiping down counters, cleaning out the fridge, getting rest and exercise, and even managing time. While it is nice to do these things for them sometimes, that should be the exception. It is not typical for someone else to handle these things in life. Teach them how to do it now and they will be much better off in the future.

FINANCIAL SKILLS

Open a bank account: Help your child open a bank account. If they are younger than 18, you will need to be on the account with them, but many banks offer student accounts that can be opened as young as 15 and used until their early to mid-twenties. Get an account with a debit card and teach them how it works and how to monitor their spending.

Pay bills: Kids need to learn how to pay bills on time. Even if they don’t have official bills, you can start teaching them to contribute to their expenses, such as cell phone or car insurance, on a particular day each month.

Plan spending and saving: Have regular conversations about how to plan their spending. Budgeting can sound too intense for many teens, so asking questions can get them thinking about upcoming expenses or savings. For example, asking “I saw that the fair is coming. How much do you plan on spending when you go with your friends?” or “I know you’re hoping to get a computer before college starts. How much do you need to save each month to make that happen?” will help your child think ahead about how to use their money best.

LEARNING AND PROFESSIONAL SKILLS

Talk about plans: Regularly discuss what options are available to your child. If they are going to college, make them part of the process and help them understand the financing. Whether you are paying for school, they are paying for school, or they are utilizing aid, clear communication is essential, so they know what they are responsible for now and in the future.

Prepare documents: College requires a lot of documents. There are many things to fill out, from resumes to applications, essays to scheduling. Let your child complete the forms. Yes, you can answer questions. But help them take responsibility for their learning by handling this process. There can be a lot of questions and discussions that need to happen for them to do this. Consider setting aside a weekly time to answer any questions they may have so you both have the time and attention needed to complete the tasks.

Pay attention to deadlines: The college application process is full of deadlines. Taking tests, sending transcripts, completing admissions and financial applications, and sending deposits all have specific deadlines. Discuss these with your child and expect them to meet these deadlines. Reviewing upcoming deadlines together and asking them to plan time to complete the tasks is helpful. Visual and digital reminders will help them stay on track.

If you provide the opportunity for your kids to handle some adult responsibilities now while you are available to help, they will have the confidence and ability to take care of these things once they are on their own.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT

A three-step guide to uncover what college REALLY costs

Collier County seventh graders get college, career and life-ready experiences

High School’s Final Year: Supporting Your College-Bound Child

The post Prepare Your Kids for College and Beyond: 10 Things to Do Now So They Are Ready appeared first on SWFL Family.

Just recently, seventh graders across Collier County completed their most recent college, career, and life-ready experiences. Students performed different tasks over a four -to six-week window, including student interest assessments. As an example, one of the assessments focused on what a student may enjoy doing, while another concentrated on what they are naturally designed to do.

VISIT TO FGCU

Following their classroom work, the students headed to Florida Gulf Coast University to see what life is like on an actual college campus. Just before the visit, the seventh graders are surveyed to find out what they expect to see and what type of information they hope to gain.

“This is a great opportunity for students to see what options they have for when they finish high school in Collier County,” said CCPS Superintendent Dr. Leslie C. Ricciardelli. “It’s pretty rare that students get to come ask questions, walk around, take a little bit of time.”

The highlight of the trip is always the College of Engineering. “Over the years, they have welcomed us into their outdoor classroom, where they have a variety of activities,” explained Stephen McFadden, CCPS coordinator of school counseling (K-8). “Instead of just walking by and seeing buildings and hearing a little history about the place, they can actually get in there and do a bit of exploring and learning.”

“This is so fun,” said Carmen Cardillo, a seventh grade student from Gulfview Middle. “It really has opened my eyes to the college life.”

EMPOWERING STUDENTS

By prioritizing college, career, and life-ready experiences, CCPS empowers students to realize their full potential and become lifelong learners and contributors to society.

“No matter what our students choose to go into, if higher education is something they’d like to pursue, we want to make sure they know that’s an opportunity available to them,” added Susan Bobrow, a school counselor at Gulfview Middle.

“I want to go to college,” shared Cooper Gartz, another seventh grade student from Gulfview Middle. “I’m excited to see where my journey will take me.”

The post Collier County seventh graders get college, career and life-ready experiences appeared first on SWFL Family.

NAPLES, Florida– The Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation is once again awarding up to 15 new $20,000 college scholarships ($5,000 per year) to deserving 12^th grade students from eligible high schools in Collier County.

The application and eligibility list can be found online at www.SchulzeFamilyFoundation.org. The deadline for all submissions is March 1, 2024. 

Successful candidates will show they have distinguished themselves through school, community and/or church activities while showing strong academic achievement in high school and meet the following criteria:

• A 2024 graduate of an eligible Collier County high school
• Have a minimum of a 3.0 unweighted cumulative GPA (4.0 scale)
• Show unmet financial need through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
• Not be receiving need-based federal grant assistance (Pell Grant)
• Enroll in a four-year accredited college or university as a full-time degree-seeking student

Established in 2014, the Schulze Family Foundation College Scholarship Program is designed to help students graduate from college with minimal student debt. To date, almost 150 local students have received one of these competitive awards. 

Six years of Schulze scholars have already graduated from college and are now gainfully employed or enrolled in a post-graduate program working to pursue their dreams of becoming engineers, doctors, teachers, nurses and so much more.

The Schulze family understands the value of a good college education and is committed to helping students from middle-income families who do not qualify for federal grant assistance but still need financial support to pay for college.

“We believe life in the U.S. has become harder for middle-income families,” said Mary Beth Geier, Florida Director of the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation. “This scholarship allows us to ease the burden for local families who are working to make college a reality for their son or daughter.”

If you have questions about the Schulze Family Foundation College Scholarship Program in Florida, please contact Ana DiMercurio at amdimercurio@schulzefamilyfoundation.org or 239.451.3033

About the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation

The Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation was created in 2004 by Best Buy founder, Dick Schulze, to give back to the communities where Dick and his family grew up – in Minnesota, where he built Best Buy to become the world’s largest consumer electronics retailer, and in Florida, where he now maintains a permanent residence. The Schulze Family Foundation creates grant partnerships with organizations that generate meaningful results in human and social services, education, and health and medicine. In all its activities, the Foundation embraces its founder’s vision to strengthen and support initiatives that lead to change within our communities. For more information, please visit our website.

The post $20,000 Scholarship Applications Now Open for Collier County Seniors appeared first on SWFL Family.

For this article, I am not going to into the philosophy of the test and all the arguments for or against. The thing you should know is that they are necessary for most four-year universities. Two-year state or community colleges also will use it, but may have other tests you can take such as the Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT).

Here are some basic questions I hear frequently.

1. Should I take one of these tests? Consider the path that you’re planning after high school to determine if you should take the ACT or SAT. While it may not be a requirement, depending on the school you’re attending, consider taking the long-term view when making the decision. You may be planning to attend a school or program that doesn’t require the ACT or SAT (some schools are even test optional), but your plans may change down the road and taking the tests in high school will be much easier than later in life.

2. What’s the difference between the ACT and the SAT tests? While the ACT and SAT are both standardized tests that can help you get into college, they do differ a bit from each other. The ACT is focused on achievement, measuring the bigger picture of what you’ve learned in school, while the SAT measures aptitude, testing your reasoning skills and verbal abilities. Check out the Princeton Review for more information on the two tests and their differences. My suggestion is to take both tests early on, see how those scores compare against what you need for the colleges you are considering, and then take the “better” score test again after more preparation. Unlike decades ago, universities have no preference on which test you take; they care about your highest score.

3. How do I prepare for the ACT/SAT? There are a number of different ways to prepare. Your school may offer test prep courses, and going private can often be extremely costly. This is one of the issues people have with the test. There are several good websites out there that can give you diagnostic tests, flashcards, practice tests, and overall guidance. Be careful of private tutors; make sure they are legitimate. Just because they charge a lot does not mean they are good or can get you results. On the other hand, there are certain strategies students can learn to be able to do better on the test. Knowing what the test makers are seeking for answers and shoring up some academic weaknesses could prove beneficial for students. Private tutors or computer programs often can help in this area. One suggestion is to take the test first and see how your student does as a baseline. On the second attempt have your child study on their own using some outside resources (online, book, at school, etc). If their scores are still not where they need to be, then on the third attempt consider some private, specialized tutoring to gain a few more points.

4. When should I take the test for the first time? Typically, students will take the ACT or SAT no later than spring of their 11th grade year. This is to strengthen your math, reading, and writing. However, some students start earlier to begin practicing, and sometimes it is needed for certain high school programs like dual enrollment.

5. How many times can I take the test? It’s generally advised to take the test no more than three times, to avoid raising red flags with admissions counselors. Prepare for the test as though you’re only going to take it one time, and do your best. If you’re not satisfied with your score, you can take it again.

6. What is the cost for the ACT and SAT tests? There are several price ranges: one includes the full test with the writing portion. I highly suggest you do both. There also is a late fee registration if you miss the regular deadline. ACT: $39.50; ACT with writing: $56.50; SAT: $43; SAT with essay: $54.40; SAT subject tests: $26 (to be taken if specific programs ask for it). If you qualify for free or reduced lunch, there are waivers for both tests. You may use two waivers. You will need to see your high school guidance counselor for this waiver. You also are entitled to waived application fees at some colleges and universities, so be sure to ask.

7. Should I send my scores directly to the college/university I am considering? It will ask you in the beginning part of the two tests if you want to send your scores to a college/university of your choice. At this point, it is free. However, you do not know how you will score, especially if it is your first time. My suggestion is to not send your scores the first time; after you feel more confident, and know approximately what you might get, then I would send it using the free service. If you decide not to do so, and send it later, you will have to pay. It’s $12 for ACT for each school, and the SAT is $11.25.

8. How do I sign up? ACT: actstudent.org, SAT: collegeboard.org. You will need your six digit school code. You select which date you want to take it and at which high school.

I hope this helps provide some basic background information on these tests. As a reminder, the ACT and SAT are just one aspect of your college admission; your recalculated GPA, courses taken, extracurriculars, and overall school success play a big part.

Amanda Sterk, Ed.D., is the director of Accelerated Programs at Florida Southwestern State College, where she works with students, parents, school counselors, and school districts to understand and participate in accelerated learning programs in SWFL. She is the founder of Unmaze.me, an online resource for colleges admissions, scholarships, and financial planning, and is the author of College UnMazed: Your Guide to the Florida College and University System. This article is reprinted with permission from the book, which is available on Unmaze.me and Amazon.com. 

The post Your Top ACT/SAT Questions Answered by an Expert appeared first on SWFL Family.

1. Research first. Walk onto campus with some knowledge of the school and programs you are interested in. It is unlikely you will know exactly what you want to major in, but you probably have some ideas. These visits are a chance to sort through them. You should have your questions that were not answered online ready to go so that you can ask the admissions counselors or pro-gram directors on site.

2. Tailor your tour. Make arrangements ahead of time with the admissions office to meet the people you want to meet and see what you want to see. If you think you are interested in English, try to schedule a meeting with an advisor for that department and look at those classrooms and curricula. Interested in science? Take a good look at the labs and at what students are doing in their classes, and speak with some professors. Although many schools will not be able to or want to accommodate such individual requests, you can take the initiative to do most of these things on your own while on campus, and if it is a school in which you are truly interested, be persistent. Some schools also have open houses or visits geared specifically toward certain majors or departments. Pay attention to their schedules and attend one that best matches your interests. In addition to the academic facilities, you may be interested in athletics, arts, or another side of campus life. Explore those as well. Scheduling your tour around an athletic competition, concert, or other student event is a fun and easy way to explore beyond the tour. 

3. Get a feel for student life. General student characteristics and social life can vary significantly by campus. Visiting campus while school is in session is crucial. Take the time to eat in a cam-pus dining hall, visit the library, tour the student activity center, and pick up a campus paper and other information on student activities to get a feel for campus life. If you can not attend a tour while students are on campus before applying, try to revisit later.

4. Explore the area. Campus location can play a big part in your college decision, and it is better to find out what you think of the town/city now. Safety, transportation, and entertainment options are among the things to take into consideration off-campus.

5. Take notes. After a few tours, the campuses and information may start to blur together. During or after your visit, do not forget to write down your thoughts. You can even snap a few pictures to jog your memory later.

Big or small, urban or rural, religious or not – students may have no idea what they prefer until they experience it in person. Campus visits are invaluable for showing students what qualities they want in their future school. Even visiting a school a student knows they have no interest in can prove helpful as it shows them a different side of things and gives them a clearer picture of what they do not want. You wouldn’t buy a car without driving it or a house without going inside, so why would you pay for an education at a school that could potentially cost more than either of those without visiting beforehand? Do the campus visits, and do them right!

Ashley McNaughton is an independent college counselor at ACM College Consulting, LLC. Visit acmcollegeconsulting.com.

Ashley also is affiliated with Scholarmatch as a volunteer virtual college counselor helping high achieving, low income students on their journey to college. 

The post College Tours Done Right appeared first on SWFL Family.

Sophomores – Spend time researching college and career options

By now, many students have had a broad discussion of college plans with their parents and/or high school counselor. What they probably haven’t done is actually sit down and do some self reflecting and research. What are their potential career and course of study interests? What type of college do they envision for themselves? What are the requirements for admission to those colleges? They should make it a goal to spend time doing research now while they still have time to adjust their high school path, visit schools, prep for tests, and set up job shadowing and classes to help them with their admission and final decision. That small amount of time they spend over the next year has the potential to make a BIG difference.

Juniors – Establish college application timeline and goals NOW

Students in their next to last year of high school should establish their timeline for college applications now! Although they may not have their ‘list’ narrowed down to the final few schools, it is not too early to establish personal deadlines for getting their applications done. The key is to set those deadlines early – take the potential college deadlines and move them back by 6-8 weeks! There can be a lot of unexpected delays, added requirements and other bumps along the college application road, and it is better to be done early than to risk an incomplete application. Students who stay organized and work ahead often forget to take into consideration the fact that there are pieces to the applications which are not in their hands. Recommendation letters, high school transcripts, and test scores are just a few examples of requirements which may not be sent directly by the student. Students need to give their counselors and recommenders plenty of time to complete their pieces.

Seniors – Continue to put forth best effort in school and remember college decisions are NOT everything

By now many students at this stage in their high school careers have completed their applications, especially those for out-of-state colleges. Most of those even have their offers of admission already. The first of two resolutions for students at this time are to continue to put forth their best effort in school. There are plenty of other students willing to take their spot at their potential future college and there is little room for slacking and decline in grades. Colleges do pay attention to this and indeed have the power to revoke their admission offer if they feel the student is not meeting their academic standards.

The second resolution and unarguably the most important, is for students to remember that admissions decisions are not everything. Unfortunately colleges are unable to truly get to know each student before making an acceptance decision. Although a student may not have gotten into their dream school, their future is still very bright and they have plenty of opportunity to shape it the way they want it to be. Every college has something great to offer, students just have to take advantage of it. I do believe some colleges are better fits than others and strive to help students find the best matches, but ‘the perfect college’ does not exist. College is only the beginning of the journey. It can be a spectacular part of it, but it is not everything and it is certainly not the end.

Ashley McNaughton is an Independent College Counselor and Founder of ACM College Consulting, LLC.

The post Year-by-Year Timeline for College-Bound High School Students appeared first on SWFL Family.

But where do I sleep?

If you’re like my parents who downsized their house and lost a room or if you transformed your sweet potato’s room into a state-of-the-art workout space, there can be some tension if your child comes home and finds her old room different than she left it. It can be a rough start to the long break if you wind up like my roommate, who found her room was turned into a “storage space” (aka, where all the things without a home found a home), and subsequently lost her cool. It is important to remember that even if your child is one who flourished with his new found freedom, nothing can compare to coming home to his long sought-after bed.

You want me home … when?

You may have had a strict curfew for your child while she was in high school, but it is safe to say that went out the window the moment you dropped your baby off at her freshman dorm. While I would be home by sunset on weeknights before I went away to college, at school I would often find myself pulling all-nighters and living off of coffee … sometimes not seeing my bed for 24 to 48 hours (one word: midterms). After the first finals week of college, it is safe to say that a sleep schedule is nonexistent. In fact, time has probably become fluid rather than linear, and more often than not your child may have no concept of “normalcy” when it comes to his once-established time constraints – like a curfew before midnight.

When am I supposed to see my friends again?

While it may be tempting to fill your kids’ entire winter break with quality time as a family, it is important to keep in mind that you are not the only people that your dear daughter and son have missed while away. Although they probably saw some of their high school friends while at college, there will be plenty of others that they haven’t seen. Even though family time is inevitable with the holidays, it is important to remember that your child will not spend every moment of break with you. Give him space so he can make time for the other significant relationships in his life. He might even want to take the time just to drive around town. Remember, we live in a very special place, and it often takes going off to college for kids to realize just how much Naples has to offer.

Some things never change

While winter break can seem like a daunting time for both you and your young adult, you have to keep in mind that you are dealing with someone who has had limited rules for the past few months. For her part, your child needs remember that she is at home and not at college, while you as a parent also need to remember what it was like when you came back to the nest for the first time after being free. This is an adjustment, but do not fret: the one thing that remains pretty constant is “Mom, can you please do my laundry?”

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