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Clark College Consulting Blog by Ryan Clark - expert college planning tips for families

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Why This Blog?”

Hi, I’m Ryan Clark. I’ve helped thousands of families reduce college costs and get their teens into schools they love. This blog is where I share what’s working now — so you can confidently navigate the process with less stress and more savings.

🎓 Explore Our Latest College Planning Tips

Rethinking Failure and Resilience

Ryan Clark

Published on: 12/06/2025

Students often see failure as a personal flaw rather than a temporary challenge, and that mindset can hold them back. This article reframes failure as a powerful teacher, exploring research from leading psychologists, stories of famous “comeback moments,” and examples from real students. It also highlights how colleges view setbacks—and why resilience often matters more than perfection.

Standardized TestStandardized TestingSATPSATAP Test

Ace Your College Interview | Clark College Consulting

Ryan Clark

Published on: 11/23/2025

Interviews can be a chance to shine—if students know how to prepare. This piece breaks down the three main types of interviews (informational, recommended, and evaluative), offers advice for asking memorable questions, and reminds students how to make a lasting impression through genuine curiosity and confidence.

College ApplicationsCollege Application PlansCollege Interview

How to Find Colleges That Offer Merit Aid | Clark College Consulting

Ryan Clark

Published on: 11/16/2025

Not all financial aid is based on need. This article explains how merit scholarships work and offers step-by-step guidance for identifying schools most likely to reward academic achievement.

Financial AidFinancesFinancial Matters

Considering a Major in Genetics | Clark College Consulting

Ryan Clark

Published on: 11/09/2025

If you are curious about science and discovery, genetics may be the perfect fit. This article explores how studying DNA and heredity connects to fields like medicine, agriculture, and technology, highlights strong college programs, and outlines career paths from research to science communication.

Majorcollege majorfocus on majorsSelecting a College Major

Last-Chance Merit Aid Moves for Southern Colleges | Clark College Consulting

Ryan Clark

Published on: 11/02/2025

Still time to save on college! Expert-backed merit-aid deadlines, FAFSA tips, and early preparation strategies for Southern schools before year-end.

Scholarship

Helping Your Teen Choose A College Major | Clark College Consulting

Ryan Clark

Published on: 11/02/2025

Choosing a major may feel like a big decision, but it’s really a process of exploration. This article uncovers how parents can guide their teens without taking over by encouraging curiosity, using free career tools, and supporting conversations that help teens make confident, informed choices.

college majorfocus on majorsSelecting a College Major