Volume 2 Issue 15
by Michael Wagner
Knowledge Pilot, Launch Global Education
In this edition of the Odyssey Newsletter, we explore the changing landscape of college education and its associated challenges and opportunities. Reporter Joanne Vogel discusses the evolving nature of college campuses, emphasizing the importance of enhancing the campus experience for incoming students. Meanwhile, an article from Seymour Indiana Tribune outlines the complexities of college enrollment trends in Indiana, highlighting both successes and challenges in the state.
Additionally, Ayesha Rascoe of NPR sheds light on the impending overhaul of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), set to simplify the financial aid application process and potentially increase accessibility to higher education, with a focus on what these recent changes mean for students and parents. Lastly, the National Association of Heads presents a compelling argument in favor of the value of a college education, emphasizing its potential for higher career earnings, personal growth, and career opportunities, creating a fulfilling, and financially rewarding future.
These articles collectively explore the ever-evolving world of higher education and its significance in shaping the future for students.
Discoveries
Improving the campus experience
In this thought-provoking article, Joanne Vogel of The 74 explores the future of college education and how campuses are evolving to better support incoming students. When college freshmen first step onto campuses it is important that they receive onboarding to feel comfortable with their new surroundings and to learn how to navigate their education in a college setting. The article discusses innovative redesigns that focus on enhancing the overall campus experience, catering to the changing needs and expectations of today's students.
In the U.S. state of Indiana, it appears there are both success stories and challenges when it comes to enrolling into college. The Seymour Indiana Tribune reports on college enrollment trends for 2023, offering both good and not-so-good news. The article explores the challenges and opportunities facing higher education institutions as they adapt to changing demographics and economic factors, while shedding light on the evolving landscape of college admissions.
There is a significant overhaul taking place of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in December. Ayesha Rascoe of NPR highlights how these changes aim to simplify the financial aid application process for students, potentially increasing accessibility to higher education. The article provides insights into the key reforms and their potential impact on students and the broader college education system.
The National Association of Heads presents a compelling argument for the value of a college education, citing the possibility for higher earning potential, personal growth, and expanded career opportunities as reasons why college remains a worthwhile investment for many individuals. The article explores how the skills, knowledge, and networking opportunities gained during college can lead to a fulfilling and financially rewarding future.
Tip of the Week
Portals, portals, portals
For high school seniors, the college application process is in full swing. It is a process that has many facets, and it may seem like an endless path of nooks and crannies on the road to finally choosing a college. One of the most important aspects of the college application process that sometimes gets overlooked is managing college application portals.
What is a portal? Plain and simple, it is the student account that is the main communication conduit for college admissions departments during the application process. Students must create usernames and passwords, unique to each school. It is an entire process in itself to manage the separate username and password log ins.
I advise students to check each portal daily, since this is where students learn about their application status, and receive requests for any additional information or documentation. And this is the reason that managing school portals is so critical to the application process—as information is communicated, it is vital that students monitor and respond to requests in a timely manner. Information missed or ignored can be catastrophic; students can be denied due to a lack of paying attention or procrastination.
Managing college portals is an essential function of the college application process. Learning how to manage them and making them a part of a daily routine is critical to earning acceptances.
Before you go...
As much as many of us enjoy the warm temperatures of summer, there are also a large number of people that enjoy having four seasons. Fall seems to be a crowd favorite. For me, it means cheering for my favorite football teams, including my college alma mater (go Panthers!), and my childhood home state’s professional NFL team (go Vikings!). But Fall is also about the trees. The beauty of the changing of the leaves from their summer greens to the vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges can be stunning. Videographer Charles Shultz of CBS Sunday Morning shares the best of the season. Enjoy!
This time of the year can be filled with college application stress, nervousness, and angst; it is also a time of joy, excitement and satisfaction—there is a college out there for everyone. As acceptances begin to trickle in, students will discover the next place they will call home. Yes, there will likely be emails that one application or another did not make the cut, but as I always say – kids tend to wind up where they belong. Here’s to the good news from the place that will be the right fit.
Please pass along the Odyssey Newsletter to your friends; we appreciate your support.
Mr. Mike
Michael Wagner, MAED is a founder and the Knowledge Pilot for Launch Education. Mr. Mike has assisted hundreds of students around the world on their college pathways.