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Beyond Choose a College Why Self-Discovery Matters First
Helping students choose the right college starts with helping them discover themselves. Learn how self-discovery, career assessments, and understanding natural strengths can lead to more confident college and career decisions.

Cheryl Coughlin
4 days ago


The Biggest Mistakes Rising Seniors Make Before College Applications Open
Rising senior year approaches faster than many families expect. Learn some of the biggest mistakes students make before college applications open — and how early preparation, organization, and thoughtful college planning can help reduce stress and build confidence throughout the admissions process.

Cheryl Coughlin
Jun 22


How to Start the Common App Without Feeling Overwhelmed
You don't need to finish everything today. You just need to know where to begin. For many rising seniors and their families, the Common Application — often called the “Common App” — is the moment when the college admissions process suddenly begins to feel very real. What once felt far away quickly turns into: applications essays deadlines recommendation letters campus visits financial aid forms and important decisions about the future Every summer, I work with families who te

Cheryl Coughlin
Jun 4


College Visits: What Students Should Do Before and After Touring Campuses
College visits are one of the most important parts of the college admissions process. This guide shares expert college visit tips to help rising seniors and families prepare for campus tours, ask meaningful questions, compare colleges thoughtfully, and find the best fit college with greater confidence and less stress.

Cheryl Coughlin
May 27


A Parent’s Guide to the Summer Before Senior Year
What Rising Seniors Should Be Doing Right Now: College Planning Guide Building a College Plan Before Senior Year Begins Rising seniors taking the next steps toward their future As the school year winds down, many parents of current high school juniors begin feeling the pressure of what comes next. Families throughout Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts often begin thinking seriously about college planning during the months leading into senior year. Senior year is approach

Cheryl Coughlin
May 19


How to Ask a College for More Financial Aid (Yes… you can ask)
All the decisions are finally in — congratulations! Now comes the harder part: deciding where to go. With multiple factors to consider, from academics and campus culture to finances and long-term goals, making the right choice can feel overwhelming. Here are some practical tips to help you confidently choose the college that’s the best fit for you.

Cheryl Coughlin
Mar 5


You’ve Heard Back From Every College. Now what? 🎓
Guidance for students and families choosing a college after acceptance decisions, with practical tips to help you confidently decide before May 1.

Cheryl Coughlin
Feb 14


What Juniors Should Be Doing Right Now (and Why Starting Early Really Pays Off)
If you’re the parent of a high school junior, now is the time to start thinking about college planning. Learn what juniors should be doing right now and how early guidance from BestFit College Advisors can reduce stress and set your student up for success.

Cheryl Coughlin
Feb 4


🎓 Early Decision, Early Action, or Regular Decision? What You Need to Know—and What I Tell My Students
The college application season is fast approaching and comes with excitement, pressure, and a lot of important deadlines and decisions. One of the biggest? Choosing how—and when—to apply to college from these three options: Early Decision (ED) Early Action (EA) Regular Decision (RD) As a college advisor of BestFit College Advisors , I walk students and families through this question every fall. And every year, I hear the same thing: “Does it really make a difference which on

Cheryl Coughlin
Oct 23, 2025


SMART WAYS TO MAKE COLLEGE AFFORDABLE WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK
Let’s be honest—college is ridiculously expensive. Between tuition, books, housing, transportation, and for us coffee lovers, that daily...

Cheryl Coughlin
Oct 2, 2025


The Power of Demonstrated Interest in Today’s Competitive College Process
College admissions aren’t just about GPA and SAT scores anymore. Demonstrated interest—a student’s active engagement with a college—can make a real difference. Find out how simple actions can boost your student’s chances of admission.

Cheryl Coughlin
Jul 25, 2025


Give Your Teen an Edge: Why a College Advisor Is Worth It
Each year, the competition in college applications intensifies, driven by increasing application volumes and more competitive applicant...

Cheryl Coughlin
Jul 15, 2025


Tips for Maximizing Financial Aid and Scholarships
A college education is a worthy investment for your student’s future, but it's also a significant financial investment. According to...

Cheryl Coughlin
Jun 18, 2025


College Fairs: The Best Questions to Ask at a College Fair
College fairs are a great way to explore a wide range of colleges in one place. They're also the perfect time to make a positive...

Cheryl Coughlin
Jan 13, 2025


Why Sophomore Year is the Time to Start Planning for College
As a parent, you want the best for your student. This is especially true when it comes to their education and future. Sophomore year in...

Cheryl Coughlin
Dec 16, 2024


How to Transfer Colleges: A Comprehensive Guide for Students
Have you been thinking about transferring? You're not alone. While transferring can open doors to new opportunities and experiences, the...

Cheryl Coughlin
Nov 11, 2024


Financing A College Education: Financial Aid and Scholarships
A college education is a worthy investment for your student’s future, but it's also a significant financial investment. According to EducationData.org , the average cost of attendance at an in-state, public institution is $104,108 over four years. Out-of-state students and those attending private universities face even steeper costs. For many families, these numbers mean that savings may not cover all of the expenses of a college education. This article covers each type of

Cheryl Coughlin
Oct 29, 2024


How to Secure Your Spot for College
Congratulations! You've made the exciting decision to choose your best-fit college. Now it's time to take a few important steps to secure your spot and prepare for college life. Here's a roadmap to guide you through this essential post-acceptance phase. The Advisor's Guide to How to Secure Your Spot for College 1. Accepting Your Offer Review the Offer Letter. When reviewing offers, consulting with an expert can be helpful. A college advisor or financial aid officer can help y

Cheryl Coughlin
Oct 14, 2024


Early Action vs. Early Decision: College Applications 101
When applying to college, you might wonder which path is right for you: Early Action (EA) or Early Decision (ED). Don't worry—you're not...

Cheryl Coughlin
Sep 26, 2024


Kittery, Maine Families Trust BestFit College Advisors
For families in Kittery, Maine, having expert guidance from BestFit College Advisors is more than a resource—it's a local tradition....

Cheryl Coughlin
Sep 18, 2024
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