Loni Rowe, Swallowtail Counseling, and Katie Vandervalk, Through the Trees, developed College Bound Thinkers in a collaborative effort to support rising and returning college students as they enter (or reenter) the world of higher education.

 

Over the years, we've observed first-hand what happens when students get to college, only to discover that maybe they aren't quite as prepared as they thought. The great majority of high schools allow students to turn work in late, retake tests for better grades, and revise projects for more points.

 

This is not a thing at the college level! COVID created a population of students with lagging academic, self-help, and social skills. Most students do not know how to study or write a well-organized essay. Many don't feel comfortable advocating for themselves, especially face-to-face. And, a great number of rising/returning college students struggle to engage and connect with peers in-person.

 

Combine COVID with the already existing social and academic challenges brought on by phone and screen distractions. Then add in the rising number of students with anxiety and/or depression, and it's all too obvious that our students need help. ​