The Ins and Outs of Study Abroad

Plus More Thoughts on the Coalition Application In the May 26^th episode of Getting In: A College Coach Conversation, guest host Sally Ganga tackled two topics: the new Coalition application, and study abroad (from both the academic and financial perspective). Thoughts on the Coalition Application Sally’s first guest, Marie Bigham, is currently the Director of College Counseling at Isidore Newman School in New Orleans, and a member of the National Association of College Admission Counseling Board of Directors. Marie clearly explained her understanding of the origin of the new Coalition for Access and Affordability, and then was unafraid to express her views about the success of the new platform. She explained her initial excitement about its potential to “shake up” the current college admission system, and her subsequent confusion and skepticism as the rollout has progressed. Tune in to hear the latest on this new application process. The Ins and Outs of Study Abroad From there, Sally moved on to explore both the academic and financial aspects of studying abroad while in college. First, she welcomed Danielle Dougan, who is the Public Relations Manager for Student Universe, a company that helps students arrange overseas travel. Danielle was able to offer some wonderful insights about the personal and professional benefits of studying abroad, as well as practical tips about how to get the most out of your study abroad program. She also provided some relevant and timely advice about how to scope out a college’s study abroad opportunities while you are still a prospective student. Finally, Sally’s last guest, College Coach finance expert Michelle Clifton, dove into the financial details of study abroad. She stressed the importance of understanding which costs are paid to whom (room and board are often separate from tuition and fees), as well as understanding how your financial aid award may (or may not) be used for your study abroad program. She also provided some websites that can be used to research study abroad scholarship opportunities.  If studying abroad is in your future, you won’t want to miss this episode! Don’t forget to tune in to this week’s episode of Getting In: A College Coach Conversation, when Sally will again be the guest host, and she and her guests will discuss fraternities and sororities, policy and research concerning the outcomes of community college education, and using a 529 Plan to pay for college. Getting In: A College Coach Conversation airs live on Thursdays at 4 PM EDT.