From Baltimore with Gratitude: Reflections on the IECA Conference
Every year, the IECA Conference reminds me why I love this work — and this year in Baltimore was no exception. I had the privilege of presenting alongside four incredible colleagues: Julie McNair, Sarah Applegate, Marta Vajda, and Theo Wolf. Our session, “No Mentor, No Model, No Problem,” explored something many of us in this […]
Thriving in Your First Year of College
The leap from high school to college is one of the biggest transitions a young person will make. We share honest, practical advice on everything from building friendships and managing academics to staying healthy and knowing when to ask for help — so students can hit the ground running and truly thrive. Starting college is […]
Financial Matters: The Overlooked Student Loan Option
Most families only consider federal aid or big-name private lenders. We shine a light on state-based nonprofit lenders — a frequently missed option that could save your family thousands of dollars over the life of a loan. When it comes to paying for college, most families think of two options: federal financial aid and big-name […]
Focus on Majors: Liberal Arts Myths
From career outcomes to earning potential, we bust the most common misconceptions about liberal arts degrees and make the case for why these programs produce some of the most versatile and sought-after graduates in the workforce. Ask twenty people what they think about the term “liberal arts education,” and you’ll likely get twenty different responses, […]
Your Summer, Your Story
Summer does not need to be packed with expensive camps or prestigious programs to be meaningful. It is a rare stretch of time when students can pause and ask a question that gets lost in the school-year rush: What do I actually care about? Before thinking about programs or internships, start there. Genuine self-knowledge shapes […]
Choosing a Gap Year
For some students, the best next step isn’t immediately stepping onto a college campus. A well-planned gap year can build confidence, maturity, and direction. We discuss what makes a gap year meaningful and how colleges typically view this choice. After years of structured schedules, deadlines, and pressure, it’s not surprising that many students arrive at […]
Financial Matters: The A to Z of College Finances
From budgeting and credit to loans, scholarships, and the hidden costs that add up, this guide breaks down what students and families need to understand to manage college finances more effectively. A is for the checking account you’ll want to open. If possible, choose a bank with locations near both home and campus, and make […]
Focus on Majors: Applied Mathematics
For students who enjoy math but aren’t sure where to apply it, this major offers flexibility and real-world relevance. We explore how applied math connects to fields like computer science, economics, and biology, and why understanding how to interpret data is becoming just as important as generating it. Applied mathematics is the study of mathematical […]
When Parents Do Too Much
It’s natural for parents to want to step in, especially when the process feels overwhelming. But there’s a line between supporting and taking over. We look at what research says about overparenting and how too much help can actually limit confidence, resilience, and long-term independence, and what productive support really looks like. As college application […]
Helping Families Navigate the Emotional and Financial Maze of College Planning
COLLEGE PLANNING Helping Families Navigate the Emotional and Financial Maze of College Planning By Rose Ellen Mocombe • March 25, 2026 GUEST Rose Ellen Mocombe LOCATION Oviedo, Florida FIRM Beyond Ivy Educational Consulting YEARS IN BUSINESS 4 Rose Ellen Mocombe helps families navigate the college selection process. A key first focus is affordability. After […]