The College Grind

Writing down the unwritten rules of higher education.

Exploring the "hidden curriculum". The invisible system that shapes your college experience

Exploring the "hidden curriculum". The invisible system that shapes your college experience

Learn how the hidden curriculum influences your success in college and what you can do to navigate it with confidence.
Where should you go to college? How to choose a “good” university

Where should you go to college? How to choose a “good” university

The right college for you is the one where you'll be engaged, supported, and able to graduate.
What should you study in college? How to choose a major

What should you study in college? How to choose a major

Learn how to choose a college major you won’t regret based on your strengths, interests, and career goals.
Should I go to college? A question-first guide for prospective students

Should I go to college? A question-first guide for prospective students

A question-first guide to help you decide if college is right for you based on readiness, finances, and personal fit, not pressure or hype.
For-profit colleges and universities explained. How the business model works and why students get hurt

For-profit colleges and universities explained. How the business model works and why students get hurt

How for-profit colleges really work, the risks of high debt and weak outcomes, and how to protect yourself and choose safer alternatives before enrolling.
Liberal arts colleges explained. How breadth, depth, and mentorship really work

Liberal arts colleges explained. How breadth, depth, and mentorship really work

Learn what liberal arts colleges are, how they differ from other schools, what “breadth” really means, and who benefits from this model.
Private universities explained. Smaller classes, bigger prices, and the real cost equation

Private universities explained. Smaller classes, bigger prices, and the real cost equation

Learn what private colleges offer, why their sticker prices are so high, and how financial aid changes the true cost.
Public universities explained. Flagships, regionals, and everything in between

Public universities explained. Flagships, regionals, and everything in between

An accessible overview of the public university landscape, explaining what sets flagships, regionals, and satellite campuses apart.
Community colleges explained. Who they’re for, what they do well, and what they don’t tell you

Community colleges explained. Who they’re for, what they do well, and what they don’t tell you

Understand the strengths of community colleges, the students they support best, and the structural issues that can affect your path.
The CLEP exams explained. What they are, how they work, and whether they are worth it

The CLEP exams explained. What they are, how they work, and whether they are worth it

Understand the basics of CLEP exams, how scoring and credit policies work, and whether these tests can help you finish college sooner.
Feeling lost in college? A practical guide to finding your way

Feeling lost in college? A practical guide to finding your way

Feeling lost in college? Learn practical strategies to regain direction, build momentum, and explore career options.