FutureU Blog

What to Put in a Brag Sheet for a Recommendation Letter brag sheet college applications college recommendations Sep 28, 2026

A brag sheet helps a teacher write a stronger college recommendation letter. It gives the teacher useful details about the student’s work, interests, responsibilities, and goals.

By Sarah Bowen, Founder of FutureU

The point is not to brag in an exaggerated way. The point is to make it easier for t...

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FERPA and Common App Recommendations: What Students Need to Know college applications college recommendations common app ferpa Sep 28, 2026

The FERPA question in Common App can make families nervous because it sounds legal and permanent. Many students worry that choosing the wrong option will hurt their application or prevent them from seeing recommendation letters later.

By Sarah Bowen, Founder of FutureU

The good news: the basic ide...

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How to Ask for a College Recommendation Letter college applications college recommendations parent guide Sep 28, 2026

Asking for a college recommendation letter can feel awkward, but it does not have to be complicated. The goal is not to pressure a teacher into saying yes. The goal is to make a thoughtful, respectful request that gives the teacher enough time and context to write well.

By Sarah Bowen, Founder of F...

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Early Action vs. Early Decision vs. Regular Decision: How to Choose college applications college planning college support Aug 22, 2026

FutureU is one of the only college planning practices in the country led by licensed mental health professionals—so we don't just look at deadlines and odds. We look at what this decision actually does to your kid and your family along the way.


 

Quick answer: Early Action is early and non-bindi...

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How to Support Your Teen During College Applications Without Micromanaging college admissions college applications college planning micromanaging parent stress parent's college stress series parenting teens teen independence Mar 11, 2026

Part 2 of 4: Mentor vs. Manager - This article is part of The Parent’s College Stress Series - a 4-part series designed to help you stay steady, supportive, and strategic during the college process.


There’s a fine line between supporting and hovering.

Teens need increasing autonomy during late a...

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