11th-12th Grade Coaching

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

📄 Download the Free College Planning Blueprint

Get the Free Guide

Created for busy parents who want expert college planning guidance without the high cost.

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

The Reality Behind the College Dream

Ryan Clark

Published on: 03/15/2026

College financing requires clear thinking. We break down need-based aid, merit scholarships, and borrowing risks and discuss how families can pursue opportunity without sacrificing long-term financial stability.

Financial AidFinancesFinancial Matters

Focus on Majors: Selecting a College Major in Gerontology

Ryan Clark

Published on: 03/10/2026

Focus on Majors: Selecting a College Major in Gerontology

college majorfocus on majorsSelecting a College Major

Focus on Majors: Gerontology

Ryan Clark

Published on: 03/08/2026

With one in five Americans soon over 65, careers focused on aging are growing rapidly. This article introduces gerontology and highlights how studying aging connects to healthcare, policy, psychology, and leadership, offering both purpose and opportunity.

college majorfocus on majorsSelecting a College Major

The Importance of Likely Colleges

Ryan Clark

Published on: 03/01/2026

Choosing the right college list is about more than just reaching for the most selective schools. We explore why your "likely" colleges deserve serious attention and how the right fit can pay dividends academically, financially, and well into your future career.

College Admissions Consultant

SAT vs ACT: Which Test Should You Take in 2026?

Ryan Clark

Published on: 02/23/2026

SAT vs ACT 2026: Compare test formats, difficulty, scoring, and timing. Expert guidance on which test matches your strengths. Includes Charlotte testing centers and local prep resources.

ACTStandardized TestStandardized TestingSAT

Taking the SAT or ACT in a Test Optional World

Ryan Clark

Published on: 02/22/2026

Test-optional admissions has changed the rules—but not eliminated strategy. This piece helps students understand when submitting scores can help, when it can hurt, and why this decision should be made thoughtfully rather than emotionally. The takeaway: test scores are just one part of a much bigger picture.

ACTACT In The SpringACT WritingSATPSAT