"Demonstrated interest" in a particular college has been a topic of conversation over the last few years.  While most public colleges do not track how often or when a student contacts them, many private schools to take a look at "points of contact" over time.  Here is an interesting article about "demonstrated interest," from Forbes.
​www.forbes.com/sites/noodleeducation/2019/02/14/in-college-admissions-is-it-important-to-show-your-love/#3f73fbcf2058

Summer will be here before we know it!  How students spend their summers can be important to college admissions officers; they are interested in what students choose to do outside of the classroom.  Kids can spend summer working, taking summer school or college courses, or attending a program that may help them explore their interests.  Many summer programs have application deadlines between now and mid-March.  Look for programs that have a competitive application; these programs do not have to cost you a fortune!  Check out this recent article:
​​www.statesman.com/news/20190217/opinion-advice-for-parents-when-selecting-pre-college-summer-programs

Here is an excellent article from the Atlantic.  We know that the college admissions process isn't always fair and there are many qualified applicants for all colleges.  How we, as families, handle the process and expectations can set our kids up for success later.  
​www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2019/02/im-worried-my-son-wont-get-good-college/582979/

Classes at California community colleges are already free for the first year for full time students.  Now, California lawmakers are considering making the second year free of fees as well.  Here is a recent article from the Los Angeles Times. 
​www.latimes.com/politics/la-pol-sac-community-college-gavin-newsom-20190204-story.html

The Los Angeles Times published this story about helping minority students find the right colleges.  They have looked at financial support and graduation rates.  Here is the link to the article: www.latimes.com/local/education/la-me-edu-getting-through-college-20190202-story.html

Here is a link to the list from the Los Angeles Alliance Charter Schools:  www.laalliance.org/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=567768&type=d&pREC_ID=1065361

Here is a recent article from Forbes about the success of community college transfer students.  If you are attending a California community college, it is important to remember that you have first priority when transferring to a Cal State University or the University of California!
​www.forbes.com/sites/nancyleesanchez/2019/01/30/community-college-transfers-outperform-high-schoolers-at-top-colleges-so-why-do-we-ignore-them/?utm_source=FBPAGE&utm_medium=social&utm_content=2110945518&utm_campaign=sprinklrForbesMainFB#1a81d90b59d7