Families often ask, “Is college worth the high cost?” With rising tuition and competitive admissions, it's easy to understand this concern. But maybe this isn't the best question to ask. Instead, families should ask: “What is the real purpose of college?” Answering this question first can help students build a college list that truly fits their goals.

If you're the parent of a rising senior, chances are you've already heard the buzz about early applications. Maybe a friend’s child got into their dream school through Early Decision. Maybe your teen is hearing classmates talk about submitting applications by November or registering for the August SAT. And maybe you're wondering: Are we supposed to be doing more right now? Should my teen apply early?  It’s a great—and increasingly important—question. The Class of 2025 admissions cycle revealed just how much the early application landscape has changed. Applying early is no longer just a small boost. At many selective schools, it’s become the main round .

For years, many families considered public flagship universities to be smart safety choices—academically rigorous, nationally respected, and relatively attainable. Schools like the University of Georgia, University of Michigan, and UNC-Chapel Hill offered big-school energy with strong outcomes and, for high-achieving students, a sense of security in the admissions process. That’s no longer the case.  The Class of 2025 admissions cycle confirmed what many parents of teenagers are just beginning to realize: many flagship public universities are now among the most selective options on a student’s list—especially for out-of-state applicants. In this post, we’ll unpack why this shift is happening, what the latest admissions data reveals, and how families can build smarter, more strategic college lists that balance aspiration with access.

If you’re parenting a high schooler through the college admissions process, you’ve probably noticed the shift. It’s no longer just about having a strong GPA or a few standout test scores. Today, especially at large public universities like UT Austin, the University of Michigan, and schools in the University of California system, colleges are asking a new question:  How well does this student’s story align with the major they’re choosing?

Applying to the University of Texas at Austin is competitive—nearly 90,000 students apply each year. One of the most critical, yet frequently overlooked, components of your application is the expanded resume. Unlike a traditional resume, UT Austin expects a detailed overview of your activities, ranging from two to five pages. Here’s your step-by-step guide to building an expanded resume that stands out.