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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

Tuition Reciprocity | Clark College Consulting

Ryan Clark

Published on: 12/20/2025

Out-of-state options don’t have to be out of reach. This section breaks down the major tuition reciprocity programs that quietly make many public universities far more affordable. Because each college sets its own rules, the article explains how eligibility, major restrictions, and academic requirements really work and how families can use these programs strategically to widen the college search without stretching their budget.

Financial AidFinancial Matters

Focus on Majors: Psychology | Clark College Consulting

Ryan Clark

Published on: 12/13/2025

Psychology is one of the most versatile and compelling majors, and this piece walks readers through the many pathways the field offers. From clinical work and behavioral neuroscience to forensic assessment, organizational consulting, and child development, psychology opens doors across industries. You’ll also find examples of standout programs, hands-on experiences, and potential career paths for students who want to understand how people think, feel, and behave.

Majorcollege majorfocus on majorsSelecting a College Major

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