FEBRUARY COLLEGE BUZZ - VOL. 4
EDITOR’S NOTE
Welcome to February — the month of Valentine’s Day, Black History Month, the Super Bowl, Mardi Gras, and lots of big college decisions.
We’ve been busy gearing up for an exciting new program, The College Corner Connect, so be sure to follow us on Instagram @thecollegecorner_ and keep reading our weekly newsletter for the latest updates.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN THIS EDITION
• News You Can Use – The Department of Education
• Tips & Tools – How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest
• Ask the Experts
• College Wishlist – University of Michigan
• The Travel Corner – Ole Miss
DATES TO LOOK OUT FOR
ED II DECISION DROPS (on or before this week)
• University of Tampa
• Boston University
• Lehigh University
• Tulane University
• Washington University in St. Louis
NEWS YOU CAN USE
WILL THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION GO BYE-BYE?
President Trump is preparing to significantly cut the U.S. Department of Education by reducing its budget and encouraging staff departures. However, shutting down the department entirely faces a major obstacle — much of its funding and existence are dictated by Congress.
Read more about it HERE.
ADVICE FOR STUDENT LOAN BORROWERS
As the Trump administration explores changes to the Department of Education, conversations around student loan policies are heating up. Borrowers, lawmakers, and educators are closely watching potential shifts that could impact repayment plans, loan forgiveness programs, and the future of federal student aid.
Read more HERE to learn strategies for paying off student loans.
THE COLLEGE AFFORDABILITY CRISIS
The graduating class of 2025 is the largest the U.S. has ever seen — approximately 3.9 million students. It’s expected to remain the largest for some time, as the number of high school seniors is projected to decline starting next year, largely due to lower birth rates following the 2008 recession.
Read more about the affordability crisis HERE.
TIPS & TOOLS FOR SENIORS
INSIGHTS TO HELP YOU STAND OUT & STAY ON TRACK
HOW TO WRITE A LETTER OF CONTINUED INTEREST
By Allison Leibman, College Bound Future
Many students receive deferrals from their dream schools — but a deferral is not a rejection. One of the most effective next steps is writing a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI).
This letter reaffirms your desire to attend the school, updates the admissions office on any new achievements or improved grades, and may include outreach from a counselor or advisor offering additional support.
Read more HERE and learn more about College Bound Future HERE.
ASK THE EXPERTS
INSIDE ACCESS TO COLLEGE EXPERTS
This week, we’re launching a new series called “Ask the Experts” — an insider Q&A where students can submit real questions to trusted college professionals.
Our first two questions come from 8th graders entering high school this fall:
Question #1:
Should I take challenging classes next year, or take it easy since it’s my first year of high school?
Question #2:
What are some ways I can stay organized while balancing sports and schoolwork?
Stay tuned for the expert answers!
Click HERE to submit a question for our experts.
COLLEGE WISHLISTS
INSPIRATION BY SCHOOL — MICHIGAN
GO BLUE!
All items in our vendors’ shops can be customized for ANY SCHOOL.
Drop us a line and tell us which school you’d like to see next.
FREE DOWNLOADS
THE ULTIMATE BED PARTY CHECKLIST
Who doesn’t love a good freebie? All subscribers have access to our free downloads — from checklists to planning guides — for every grade level.
Last week, we shared the growing trend of bed parties. If you missed grabbing the Official Bed Party Checklist, here it is!
Even better? The checklist includes a vendor directory featuring all 30 Corner Shops.
Click HERE for the perfect gifts for a student, family member, classmate, or friend.
THE TRAVEL CORNER
SCHOOL OF THE WEEK — OLE MISS
Thinking about touring Ole Miss? We’ve got you covered.
Click the photo below for recommendations and tips to make the most of your campus visit.
TRENDING NOW
VALENTINE’S COLLEGE CARE PACKAGES
February 14th is right around the corner — the perfect excuse to send some love to your favorite college student. We’ve rounded up delicious and thoughtful ideas guaranteed to brighten their day.
PHOTO OF THE WEEK
February is Black History Month, and this year’s theme is
“African Americans and Labor.”