Why Smart Students Are Finding Their Dream Schools in Unexpected Places

The public flagships that families once counted on as reliable options—Michigan, UMD, Georgia, Florida—have become nearly as selective as Ivy and Ivy overlaps for out-of-state students. But this shift isn't limiting opportunities; it's asking us to think more broadly.

During my recent National IECA Conference, I explored this evolving landscape. What became clear is that the "name brand" obsession that drives so much anxiety is increasingly disconnected from educational reality.

As Jeff Selingo writes in his insightful new book "Dream College," elite education is readily available at public universities—and not only at the handful of flagships dominating headlines. The real opportunity lies in looking beyond the usual suspects.

Schools like University of Minnesota, University of Pittsburgh, and Indiana University offer world-class academics, vibrant campus communities, and robust alumni networks without the crushing selectivity of their flagship counterparts. Michigan State provides many of the same advantages as Michigan but admits a far higher percentage of qualified applicants (and offers a top Honors College). The University of Iowa offers outstanding writing and health programs alongside generous merit scholarships that can make an out-of-state education surprisingly affordable.

As I visited seven midwest campuses, I encountered passionate administrators and professors, cutting-edge facilities, and happy, thriving students. The common thread wasn't selectivity or rankings; it was fit.

For families navigating this complex landscape, the key is reframing what "dream school" really means. Is it a bumper sticker, or is it where your student will find the specific programs, opportunities, and community that will help them flourish?

The most successful students I've counseled have approached the process with open minds, looking for institutions where they can stand out rather than just fit in. They've discovered that attending a university where they can access honors programs, research opportunities, and close faculty relationships often leads to better outcomes than fighting for attention at more selective institutions.

The college journey isn't about chasing prestige—it's about finding the environment where your unique talents can fully bloom. And fortunately, at our public universities, those environments are more abundant than many families realize.

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

IECA Annual Conference-Mainly (but not only) About Money

I learned a lot at IECA Annual Conference last week—and much that I already knew was emphasized. After hearing from college admissions reps, administrators, vendors of educational programs/supports, and many of my colleagues, there was one constant, for better or worse—the topic of money. 

I attended a session about incorporating career readiness into college planning as early as 8th grade. While I already educate students about careers and majors, I don’t want to limit their options too severely and too soon. I agreed with the presenter when she stressed that the human communication skills we used to call “soft” are the ones that will not be replaced by AI. Along with STEM skills, students should definitely develop those!

Jeff Selingo, a keynote speaker and author of “Who Gets In and Why,” promoted his new book “Dream School-Finding the College That’s Right For You.” It makes a compelling case for the value of getting an elite education at public institutions. I’ve been writing that many of my families are choosing these colleges over pricey privates. The notion that prestigious education requires a six-figure price tag is becoming questioned and outdated. Many public universities offer experiences that rival or surpass their private counterparts. After all, we know it’s the students who drive their success. 

I listen to Selingo’s “Next” podcast and follow his newsletter. However, the pervasive notion of a “dream school” manufactures stress for students and parents alike, so the title is a trigger for me and many of my colleagues. In his talk, Selingo used the phrase, “redefining the dream school.” Those words more accurately embody his message.

Once the conference ended, I was off to visit Midwest campuses, mostly relatively well-priced publics: Michigan State, the University of Michigan, Notre Dame University, Purdue University, the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, and Indiana University–six colleges, three states, two time zones. I have a lot to say about them all and will share my thoughts and photos!

This week: National Conference and College Tours

I’m excited for a busy week ahead! Starting Monday, I'll be joining colleagues at the Annual IECA Conference, entitled “Breaking Barriers, Empowering Change” this year. There will be a huge college fair, many networking events, talks from Jeff Selingo, author of “Who Gets in and Why,” Amy Blankson, “The Future of Happiness," author, and Zach Rausch, Associate Research Scientist at NYU Stern School of Business, lead researcher to social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, and a researcher for the Center for Humane Technology.

The conference brings together a blend of professional networking and institutional exploration. The panels and workshops will provide valuable insights into current trends and future directions in higher education that I can pass on to my families. The nightime receptions are not just fun, but give me a chance to bond with admissions reps in a relaxed environment. I'm looking forward to engaging with fellow professionals who share my passion for helping families while connecting with representatives not only from the midwest, but all over the US and international institutions. 

Following the Detroit events, my journey continues with an ambitious tour. After working in this field for 10+ years and touring roughly 150 colleges, I am thrilled to finally visit Michigan State University and the University of Michigan before heading to Indiana for Notre Dame. My tour continues with stops at Purdue University, the University of Illinois, Indiana University, and finally, Purdue's new Indianapolis campus. Taking this trip will allow me to advise students and families about the communities around these popular colleges as well as the schools themselves. If you are curious about what particular schools are seeking, let me know!

While I will not have availability for appointments next week, please contact me to schedule meetings for the week of May 12th and afterwards. I can’t wait to share what I learn with you!