Helpful Resources for College-Bound Students and Families by Dana Roth

The college search and application process can feel overwhelming, especially with the sheer volume of information available. Over the years, I’ve found that a few well-chosen, thoughtful resources can make a meaningful difference for students and families navigating this journey. Below are some of my go-to recommendations, including books, podcasts, and testing resources that offer clarity, perspective, and practical insight into the college admissions process.

Stack of Colorful Books

Recommended Reading

These books provide a realistic, balanced look at college admissions and help reframe the process in a healthier, more informed way.

Who Gets In And Why: A Year Inside College Admissions Jeffrey Selingo

An in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at how college admissions decisions are actually made. This book is especially helpful for understanding what colleges value—and what matters less than many families assume.

Where You Go Is Not Who You’ll Be: An Antidote to the College Admissions Mania Frank Bruni

A reassuring read that challenges the idea that a student’s success is defined by the name of the college they attend. It’s a great perspective reset for families feeling pressure around “top schools.”

Dream School: Finding the College That’s Right for You Jeffrey Selingo

A practical and student-centered guide focused on identifying colleges that truly fit a student’s goals, interests, and learning style—rather than chasing prestige alone.

The Price You Pay for College: An Entirely New Road Map for the Biggest Financial Decision Your Family Will Ever Make Ron Lieber

An essential resource for families thinking carefully about college affordability, financial aid, and long-term financial impact. Clear, honest, and extremely helpful.

A woman recording a podcast episode

Podcasts

The Truth About College Admissions Hosted by Brennan Barnard & Rick Clark

The Harlan Cohen Podcast

Hosted by Harlen Cohen College Admissions

Decoded

Hosted by NACAC (the National Association of College Admission Counseling)

Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens and Teens

Hosted by Dr. Lisa Damour and Reena Ninan

Math study essentials; notebook, pencils, calculator and glasses

Testing Resources

These trusted platforms provide official information, preparation tools, and practice materials for standardized testing:

• CollegeBoard – SAT and AP information, registration, and resources https://www.collegeboard.org/

• ACT – ACT testing details and preparation https://www.act.org/

• Khan Academy – Free SAT prep and academic practice https://www.khanacademy.org/

A photograph of Dana Roth outdoors in the fall

See Me in Action

If you’re interested in my perspective on college affordability and family budgeting, you can read my feature in the Boston Globe: “Inside the middle-class world of college budgeting” Kara Baskin, Boston Globe December 8, 2023.

The college process doesn’t have to be stressful or all-consuming. With the right information and the right support, students can stay motivated, families can feel confident, and the journey can be both productive and meaningful.

If you’d like help navigating this process or have questions about where to start, feel free to get in touch.