CMU ADMISSIONS BLOG

Choosing a college. From one parent to another.

What have I learned in the past 20 years working in the world of college admissions? A lot. And as a result, friends and family frequently ask for my advice. It always feels good to help a loved one see “behind the curtain,” but it is just as rewarding to help others understand those things.

I’ve learned that each college has its own nuances, creating a nearly impossible assignment of comparing institutions as you choose the right one for your child.

Senior Director of Admissions Bob Garcia and his family. So I asked myself, "Why not share what I can to help families make their best college decision? And why not offer them the same help I gave my own daughter as she went through her college search this past year?"

That’s what you’ll find in these pages and posts. Advice from a professional, from one parent to another. It’s the same practical information I offer the people I know best and love most, and I hope it helps you make an informed college decision. If you need any help along the way, you can find me through the contact form below!

Bob Garcia
Senior Director of Admissions and parent to a college freshman and high school sophomore

Blog Posts

Helping Your Student Be Their Best: Student Services at CMU

Central Michigan University's level of student support sets it apart from other universities. Your student will have a lot of people ready to help them when they arrive, and those helping hands are available all the way to graduation and beyond. Get to know the long list of student support services available to every student.

Blog Posted April 02, 2024

What are my next steps?

The college selection process may feel like it's dragging along, but college isn’t that far away. If your child is ready to make CMU their choice, or is considering it, we want you to know exactly what next steps are available to you and how you can take action now. From housing to orientation and more, here are the next five steps for your student.

Blog Posted February 14, 2024

What is the FAFSA and how can I prepare for it?

Upcoming changes to the FAFSA are expected to result in a simpler filing process and more students receiving aid for college. Here's what you need to know about the new FAFSA and what you can do now to prepare for its arrival in late December.

Blog Posted November 28, 2023

Three Ways to Make Sure College is Worth the Investment

There are competing viewpoints about the value of college, ranging from lucrative to worthless. No doubt, college is a serious investment. Here are three ways students’ families can get the most out of college, making sure it is worth their investment.

Blog Posted November 06, 2023

Key college dates to keep in mind

There is a lot to remember when it comes to applying for college. I can help you avoid the anxiety that might come from missing important dates by offering three key dates to know when applying to colleges…and a way you can help your student earn a scholarship.

Blog Posted September 05, 2023

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Four Easy Ways to Help in Your Child’s College Search

As parents, we all want to help our children make wise choices. How can we do that during the college search process? Some have never been through it before, and a lot has changed for those who have. Here are four easy ways you can help during your child's college search.

Blog Posted July 10, 2023