THE COLLEGE CORNER - VOL. 3
EDITOR’S NOTE
It’s the last week of January, and we know many decisions are coming out each day. For those of you anxiously waiting, we’re sending positive vibes your way.
For our underclassmen, many of you are in the midst of choosing classes for next year — a crucial step in the college planning journey. If you have questions, please reach out. We can match you with a college counselor who can help with course selection and much more.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN THIS EDITION
• Understanding Financial Aid
• College Fun Facts
• Summer Planning for Seniors
• Shop Spotlight
• The Travel Corner – CU Boulder
• College Wishlist – University of Wisconsin
• Trending Style – Laid-Back Luxe
DATES TO LOOK OUT FOR
• 1/31 – UVA
• 1/31 – Wisconsin
• 2/1 – Maryland
NEWS YOU CAN USE
BREAKING NEWS (as of 1/29/25)
The Trump Administration has rescinded a widespread freeze on most federal grants just one day after it was issued, following significant criticism.
Read more HERE.
FEDERAL STUDENT LOANS
As many of you have heard, the White House ordered a temporary freeze on federal aid to review funding for causes that don’t align with its agenda. However, the Department of Education has confirmed that the freeze will NOT affect federal Pell Grants, student loans, or college financial aid.
CLICK HERE to learn more.
UNDERSTANDING FINANCIAL AID FOR COLLEGE
Many families are shocked by a college’s sticker price. While tuition costs can feel overwhelming, financial aid helps families cover higher education expenses.
The two basic types of financial aid are need-based and merit-based, and deadlines vary by school — making it critical to stay organized and informed.
Read more about financial aid HERE.
4 TRENDS SHAPING THE COLLEGE ADMISSIONS PROCESS FOR 2025
The college admissions landscape is evolving rapidly due to technology, policy changes, and shifting priorities. As students and families navigate the 2025–2026 admissions cycle, staying ahead of these trends is more important than ever.
From test-optional policies and AI-powered tools to holistic applications and career-focused programs, these changes are creating new opportunities for students to showcase their strengths.
Read more HERE.
COLLEGE FUN FACTS
• UCLA is the most applied-to college in the U.S., receiving over 110,000 applications each year.
• Oberlin College, founded in 1833, was the first college to admit women.
• The oldest college mascot in the U.S. is the Yale bulldog, in use since 1894.
SUMMER PLANNING
WHAT RISING SENIORS CAN DO THIS SUMMER
By PJ Goldberg, Owner of CollegeFind
You’ve done it — you’ve completed your junior year, often considered the toughest year of high school. While it’s important to relax and recharge, the summer before senior year is also a valuable opportunity to strengthen your résumé.
This may be your final chance to make yourself an even more competitive applicant before submitting college applications.
Read more HERE to learn how to make the most of your rising senior summer.
You can find CollegeFind HERE.
SHOP SPOTLIGHT
ILISA ZOLLENBERG, OWNER OF E. SQUARED BOUTIQUE
E. Squared Boutique is named after my two children — they are my inspiration. I design and sell sherpa blankets, something I’ve always loved. There’s nothing more relaxing than snuggling under a soft, cozy blanket while watching your favorite movie or reading a great book.
Why do you think people love college goodies so much?
College is such an exciting milestone. It represents hard work, achievement, and pride — and people love finding special ways to celebrate those moments.
If you could have lunch with one entrepreneur, who would it be and why?
Oprah. She is an incredible self-made entrepreneur whose success and support of other women in business has always inspired me.
You can find E. Squared Boutique HERE.
“Dream big — you can accomplish anything you put your mind to. Be your own best friend. Always believe in yourself first.”
COLLEGE WISHLISTS
INSPIRATION BY SCHOOL — WISCONSIN
We know many families are waiting on Wisconsin decisions this Friday, so we’re sharing some Badger-approved inspiration!
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.
THE TRAVEL CORNER
SCHOOL OF THE WEEK — CU BOULDER
Thinking about touring CU Boulder? We have exactly what you need.
Click below for recommendations and tips to make the most of your college visit.
TRENDING NOW
LAID-BACK LUXE
Chill days don’t mean skipping the style memo. When you want to keep things low-key but still look polished (even if you don’t feel it), these essentials deliver.
Think cozy, cute, and just luxe enough to elevate your everyday look. Who says comfy can’t be chic?
Read the full blog post with links to all featured items.
STYLE BLOG
Styled by Jordan Kohn, Chicago, IL
PHOTO OF THE WEEK
Photo Credit: Melinda Long
This week, we shared a video of a mom talking about a “bed party.” While some see it as over the top, thousands of accepted students are embracing the trend.
The reel has received 30K+ views and is still going strong.
Click the photo to watch the video!