From Carpool to College

In this second episode on the college essay, we move beyond theory and into strategy—breaking down what actually makes an essay stand out in today’s competitive admissions landscape. Drawing from our professional experience trusted frameworks like College Essay Guy and College Board, we walk parents through the most common pitfalls, the subtle strategies that elevate a student’s voice, and the mindset shift required to write with clarity and authenticity. If your child is staring at a blank document or second-guessing every word, this episode offers both direction and reassurance—along with a clear next step for families who want guided support through the essay process.

Not every student is meant to follow the traditional high school-to-college pipeline—and that’s not a problem, it’s a signal.Schools like College of the Atlantic remind us that education can be intentionally designed around a student’s interests, not forced into predefined majors.A well-structured gap year is not a delay—it’s a strategic investment in clarity, maturity, and direction.When a student doesn’t “fit the mold,” the goal isn’t to force alignment—it’s to find environments where they can actually thrive.The most successful paths are rarely the most conventional—they are the ones that reflect who a student is becoming, not who they’re expected to be.Finding a knowledgeable advocate matters—because traditional schools, even with strong intentions, often don’t have the bandwidth to individualize this level of guidance for every child.

NIL is not a plan—it’s a possibility.The world of college athletics has changed—fast.With the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), student-athletes now have the opportunity to earn income, build personal brands, and leverage social media in ways that didn’t exist just a few years ago.But with opportunity comes complexity.In this episode of From Carpool to College, we sit down with Chris D’Avanzo, attorney and founder of NIL in Motion, to break down what NIL actually means for high school students and their families—and what it doesn’t.We move beyond the headlines to give parents a grounded, realistic understanding of how NIL fits into the college planning process.Because this isn’t just about sports—it’s about identity, decision-making, and long-term strategy.Because this isn’t just about sports & influencing...it’s about identity, decision-making, and long-term strategy.🎯 What You’ll LearnWhat NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) actually is—and why it existsHow NCAA rule changes reshaped college athleticsThe difference between perception vs. reality when it comes to NIL moneyWhy very few athletes earn significant income—and what families often misunderstandHow social media presence can impact opportunities (and risks)The role of agents, collectives, and third-party organizationsWhat high school athletes should be doing now if they’re interested in NILHow NIL fits into a broader college and career strategy—not just athletics🧠 Our PerspectiveAt Academic Mentoring, we guide families to think beyond hype and headlines.College planning is not just about admission—it’s about helping your child develop direction, resilience, and informed decision-making in a rapidly changing landscape.NIL is one piece of that landscape—not the foundation.🔗 Resources & Next StepsLearn more about NIL opportunities and compliance through the NCAAExplore guidance and education from NIL professionals like Chris D’AvanzoVisit Academic Mentoring, LLC for personalized college and career planning support🎧 Listen & SubscribeIf this episode helped clarify the noise around college athletics and NIL:Follow From Carpool to CollegeShare this episode with another parent navigating youth sportsStay with us as we continue to break down the college process through the lens of development—not just outcomes

Takeaways:This podcast episode elucidates the multifaceted applications of artificial intelligence within educational contexts.The discourse highlights the varied acceptance levels of AI among educators and their respective apprehensions.Listeners are informed that AI's role in academia is not binary, but rather a continuum of engagement and adaptation.It is discussed that AI can enhance student learning experiences by providing supplementary resources and supporting higher-order thinking skills.A significant point raised is the necessity for educators to maintain human interaction in the learning process despite AI's prevalence.The episode emphasizes the importance of developing a balanced perspective towards AI, recognizing its utility while addressing potential pitfalls.Links referenced in this episode:academicmentoringllc.com

Special guests Prof. Tom & Prof. Dawn share stories from their college classrooms, pulling back the curtain on how they spot improper use of AI and help parents understand the power of properly harnessing the tool.Links referenced in this episode:academicmentoringllc.com

In this episode, educators and counselors Tracy Amedeo and Tara Horutz examine the research behind the big school vs. small school college debate. They break down how factors like class size, faculty access, campus culture, and student support systems influence student success and development. The conversation helps families think beyond prestige and focus on the environment where a young adult is most likely to grow, belong, and graduate.

From Legos to Robotics, is your kid considering a career in Engineering? Prof. Tom breaks down the types of engineers, describes majors, and sets us straight on the importance of foundational Math!

Prof. Tom tells it like it is about the fixable, avoidable behaviors he sees in his undergraduate students.

Professor Tom has been dying to talk to high school parents about the student behaviors he sees in his college classroom! Part 1 of 3

In this episode we discuss how universities reach prospective students. We explore the various channels colleges use to capture attention, from endless emails to glossy brochures in your mailbox and targeted social media ads following you around online. S2, E8Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

In this episode, Tracy and Tara share their perspective on the interview. They also explore an important concept that applicants often overlook: every interaction with a college is essentially a form of interview. If you're wondering whether to add one more thing to your college application to-do list, this episode will help you think differently about the process. S2, E7Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

Hosts Tara and Tracy guide parents through the waiting period between submission and decision day, covering essential strategies like when and how to appropriately email admission officers, why it's important to keep exploring other colleges, and how to manage anxiety during this uncertain time. Most importantly, don't let the college process steal the joy from senior year! S2, E6Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

In this episode, we guide parents through the process of helping their teen build a smart, balanced college list. Discover how to support your student in identifying schools that match their strengths, interests, and aspirations while keeping practical factors like cost, location, and outcomes in mind. We cover the difference between reach, target, and safety schools, red flags to watch for, and how to have productive conversations about college fit without adding pressure. Whether your student is just beginning their search or finalizing their list, you'll gain actionable strategies to be an effective partner in this important decision. S2, E5Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

In this episode, we take a big-picture look at the entire journey from kindergarten through college admissions and beyond. S2, E4Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

In this episode, we look back at the 2025-2026 college admissions cycle and unpack the trends, surprises, and lessons learned. We discuss what worked, what caught families off guard, and how the landscape continues to evolve, from acceptance rates and test-optional policies to majors and demonstrated interest. Learn what this year's results tell us about where admissions is headed and how future applicants can better prepare. We share real stories from families navigating the process, common mistakes to avoid, and silver linings that emerged even in disappointing outcomes. Whether your student is just starting their college journey or you're processing this year's results, this episode offers perspective, insight, and hope for the road ahead. S2, E3Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

In this episode, we help you and your student approach college fairs with a game plan instead of feeling overwhelmed by rows of tables and stacks of brochures. We discuss how to prepare before you go, which colleges to prioritize at the fair, and what questions will actually give you valuable information beyond what's on the website. Learn how to make a memorable impression with admissions representatives, what to look for in your conversations, and how to follow up effectively afterward. We'll also cover the difference between large regional fairs and smaller school-hosted events, and whether virtual college fairs are worth your time. By the end of this episode, you'll know how to turn college fairs from exhausting information dumps into productive steps in your student's college search. S2, E2Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

In this episode, we uncover the often-hidden factors that shape your student's college list, and help you separate helpful influences from harmful ones. We discuss how peer pressure, social media, prestige obsession, and even well-meaning relatives can steer your teen toward schools that aren't the right fit. Learn how to identify what should truly drive college selection: academic programs, campus culture, career outcomes, financial reality, and your student's individual needs and goals. We'll also explore how to have honest conversations about brand-name schools versus best-fit schools, and how to help your teen tune out the noise to focus on what actually matters for their success and happiness. This episode will empower you to build a college list based on substance, not status. S2, E1Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

Joey Longo, second semester Senior at College of Charleston walks us through how he started college early, in high school (dual enrollment), then hit community college for a year, and now is living his best life at the College of Charleston, graduating a semester early! *Proud mamma moment for cohost Tracy* S1, E13Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

The talented recording artist Santina DiBenedetto, a rising Senior at U Miami's elite Frost School of Music, shares her stories from application to absolutely thriving! Prolifically creating music, her multidisciplinary undergrad experience is exemplary! S1, E12Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

In this episode, we explore how to help your student choose a college major that aligns with their natural skills and interests while preparing them for a tech-driven future. We discuss why it's crucial to look beyond just passion and consider aptitude, market demand, and how technology is reshaping every industry. Learn how traditional majors are evolving to incorporate tech skills, why computational thinking matters across all fields, and how to encourage your student to build a foundation that's both meaningful and marketable. Whether your teen is drawn to the humanities, STEM, business, or the arts, this episode will help you guide them toward a major that leverages their strengths while keeping them competitive in an increasingly digital world. S1, E11Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

Decoding Admissions Deadlines: ED, EA, RD, and Rolling. What's the Difference? In this episode, we break down the alphabet soup of college admissions deadlines and help you understand what each one means for your student. We explain the differences between Early Decision, Early Action, Regular Decision, and Rolling Admissions, including the pros and cons of each option. Learn about binding vs. non-binding applications, how early deadlines can impact financial aid, and strategic considerations for when to apply where. We'll help you understand restrictive Early Action policies, whether applying early actually improves admissions chances, and how to create a timeline that reduces stress while maximizing opportunities. By the end of this episode, you'll be able to guide your student in choosing the right application strategy for their college list. S1, E10Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

In this episode, we confront the dangerous myth that there's a "perfect" college applicant, and the pressure it puts on both parents and students. We explore how social media, competitive school cultures, and our own anxieties can lead us to push our teens toward an impossible standard of achievement. Learn how to recognize when expectations have become unhealthy, how perfectionism impacts your student's mental health and authenticity, and why colleges are actually looking for real kids, not robots. We discuss how to celebrate your student's unique strengths, support them through setbacks, and reframe success in ways that prioritize well-being alongside achievement. This episode is a reality check and a permission slip to let your teen be human. S1, E9Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

In this episode, we demystify one of the most important academic planning decisions: your student's math pathway through high school. We discuss why math matters so much in college admissions, how to choose between different tracks (Algebra, Geometry, Precalculus, Calculus, Statistics), and what level of math colleges actually expect to see. Learn how your student's intended major impacts their math requirements, whether doubling up on math courses makes sense, and how to support a student who's struggling or, conversely, ready to accelerate. We'll also address common concerns about AP Calculus, dual enrollment options, and how to balance rigor with your teen's strengths and interests. Whether your student loves math or dreads it, this episode will help you map out a strategy that keeps doors open for college. S1, E8Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

In this episode, we tackle a tough dilemma many parents face: What do you do when your teen wants to quit an activity they've been doing for years, especially with college applications looming? We explore the tension between demonstrating commitment to admissions officers and honoring your student's evolving interests and mental health. Learn how to have honest conversations about timing, motivation, and the real impact on college applications. We discuss when it makes sense to encourage your teen to stick it out, when walking away is the right choice, and how to help them tell their story authentically, whether they stay or go. This episode will help you support your student in making decisions that are true to who they are, not just what looks good on paper. S1, E7Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

In this episode, we break down everything parents need to know about standardized testing in today's college admissions landscape. We explore the differences between the SAT and ACT, how to determine which test is right for your student, and whether test prep is worth the investment. With more colleges adopting test-optional policies, we discuss when submitting scores helps and when it might not. Learn how to support your teen through test anxiety, create a realistic testing timeline, and understand what role these scores actually play in the admissions process. Whether your student is a natural test-taker or finds standardized tests stressful, this episode will help you navigate this piece of the puzzle with confidence. S1, E6Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

In this episode, we discuss the college essay, one of the most daunting parts of the application process for students and parents alike. We discuss how to help your teen brainstorm authentic topics, find their unique voice, and craft a compelling story that stands out to admissions officers. Learn where parents can be helpful (proofreading, encouragement) and where you need to step back (writing it for them!). We'll cover common essay pitfalls, how to give constructive feedback without taking over, and tips for managing the stress that often comes with this high-stakes writing assignment. By the end, you'll know how to support your student in creating an essay that's genuinely theirs. S1, E5Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

Tara and Tracy talk about "gap years" and some different pathways to engage in self development after high school. S1, E4Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

Tara describes her experience attending a college Open House with her daughter. We explain the importance of demonstrating interest and pulls the curtain back a bit to reveal open house operations. College visits are worthwhile, and there is more than one way to make that happen. S1, E3Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

Summer programs come in all shapes and sizes--and price tags. Tracy signed her husband up for an "academically exclusive" summer program for high school students and he was accepted! The truth is, no one program is going to make or break that college acceptance. Our kids need to be authentic in experiential learning, whether it's a part time job, volunteering, summer coursework, or educational travel / leadership programs. S1, E2Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.

In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest questions parents face: How involved should you be in your teen's college planning process? We explore the delicate balance between being supportive and being overbearing, and help you identify when to step in and when to step back. Learn how to empower your student to take ownership of their college search while providing the guidance and structure they need to succeed. Whether you're a hands-on planner or prefer a more laid-back approach, this episode will help you find the sweet spot that works for your family. Welcome to From Carpool to College, the journey starts here! S1, E1Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED Network—Where we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.Want to keep the conversation going?Subscribe: Never miss an insight. Hit the subscribe or follow button on your podcast app to automatically receive our next episode.Share the Knowledge: If this episode provided value, please take a moment to rate and review us! Your five-star reviews help new teachers, parents, and leaders find our network.Explore the Network: This show is just one part of the ForwardEd Network family. Head over to our network page to explore our full roster of interconnected podcasts, including CTRL Shift Lead, Vice Principal UnOfficed, From Carpool to College, and Your Morning Boost.Connect with Us: Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Reach out to us at [email protected] or find us on social media using the tag #theForwardEDnetwork.Ready for your next boost? Browse our catalog and discover your next great listen on The ForwardED Network.