I recently came across a site called Cappex, which helps students find a college that is a good fit and helps them with financial aid. Some high schools offer similar services, such as Naviance, but if your school doesn’t, Cappex looks like a good alternative.
Here’s why I think it’s important. First, if a kid finds a college that is a good fit, he or she is more likely do graduate on time – which saves money – and do well – which helps in finding a job after college. Second, the financial aid game is complicated, but there may be more money out there than you thought, and that can help make an education possible. For example, many colleges are looking to attract a specific type of student and use merit aid to help with that.
In a perfect world, high school guidance counselors would do this. However, guidance looks like a frill when school districts need to cut money, and many counselors are plenty busy with kids who have really serious issues. (The ability to choose a college is a high-class problem! Even though the choice is important.)
Along those lines, I implore you: if you know a child who needs college guidance, help out! Point out helpful resources that can be used to make an informed decision. A lot of kids flounder because they have no one to help them.
If you have experience with Cappex, Naviance, or another college research tool, please let me know what you think.
