We feel so lucky to have a guest two-fer! On the last episode, you heard Ali and her daughter Emme bravely share their takes on the college application process. Lucky for us, Ali stuck around for more tips on managing the college transition. Whether it’s gearing up for application season, or starting to prep for freshman year, college planning can feel scattered: tutors here, advice there, dorm stuff somewhere else — and new headlines every day. Seeing all the headlines, the information overload, and the social media sensationalism around college, Ali started The College Corner so parents and students could have a trusted, one-stop-shop for all things college.

We cover what Ali is seeing across the “college ecosystem” (from social media trends to major admissions shifts), why narrowing a list helps reduce chaos, and how families can keep perspective — especially when anxiety spikes as application season approaches.

This episode ends with one of our favorite takeaways: it’s not just about where a student goes — it’s about who they’re becoming.

What We Talk About

• The origin story of The College & Dorm Corner (a “Knot.com” model for college planning)
• Curated campus travel guides made by college students: where to stay, eat, and visit
• Why college advice feels fragmented — and what helps families feel less overwhelmed
• Social media vs. real expertise: what gets sensationalized and what stays grounded
• The admissions landscape as a constantly evolving story (and why that fuels stress)
• Ali’s “7 Steps to Choosing the Right College” and how lists can calm the chaos
• Building a college list: size, location, majors, and lifestyle factors (including sports culture)
• Why visiting a school can change everything (hello, “this speaks to me” moments)
• The “Dream School” mindset shift: fit > hype
• Parenting through application season: regulation, collaboration, and perspective
• The reframe we want every parent to remember: college is four years; your relationship is for life
  
  

Takeaways

• If you’re overwhelmed, a structured list can reduce decision fatigue — but don’t let it become rigid.
• Social media can be useful, but not all “expert” content is created equal.
• Students thrive most when they have agency and the school is a true fit.
• Parents: your steadiness is part of the intervention — zooming out can lower the temperature at home.
  
  

About the Guest

Ali Dorfman is a former TV producer (CBS News, The Today Show, ABC) and founder of The College & Dorm Corner, a one-stop platform supporting families through the college planning journey — from test prep to dorm décor. Make sure to check out this amazing resource! https://www.thecollegecorner.com/about-us

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Music is Deadbeats by Rex Banner