FACTS & STATS
(Source: ACHA-NCHA Spring 2023 survey and U.S. Department of Education)
-
64.7% of college students report feeling lonely (source ActiveMinds & TimelyCare survey)
-
47.8 percent of students reported having ACADEMIC problems or challenges. Of this group, 87 percent said this issue caused them moderate or high distress.
-
50.3 percent of students reported having FINANCIAL problems or challenges over the past 12 months.
-
28.2 percent of students reported having ROOMMATE problems or challenges over the past 12 months.
-
Four-year graduation rate for students attending public colleges and universities is 33.3%. The six-year rate is 57.6%. At private colleges and universities, the four-year graduation rate is 52.8%, and 65.4% earn a degree in six years.
I've helped millions of parents & students successfully navigate change for over 25 years.
I'm a New York Times bestselling author of 7 books with over 1 million copies in print. I've spoken on over 500 high school and college campuses and reach over 1.7 million followers online. I love helping.
1.7+ Million Followers Across Social Media
Testimonials
What members have to say...
“As a parent who once grappled with the daunting task of helping my neurodiverse daughter settle into her new college environment, I can't express enough the relief I felt when I discovered "Best First Year in College." ”
Parent of Freshman
“I am a freshman at the University of Rhode Island. I have had a very tough time while adjusting to college and pretty much every bad thing was thrown my way. I was not even planning on returning next semester. Obviously since I was having such a hard time that meant my mom was too. She has found so much comfort in your videos. She sends me at least 2 a day and even sends them to my therapist! She has gotten our whole family on your videos! Your videos have also been so helpful for me too! I am happy to say that I am doing much better and am going to go back to school for the Spring semester.”
College Freshman
“Boy I wish I would have seen Best First Year pop up in my son's junior year. I would have done so many things differently. Best First Year is A MUST, save yourself and grab it. ”
- Mom of 1st Year College Student
“I like still being involved in my kids' life as a coach. And your advice and Best First Year coaching helps me stay engaged with them. The context-relative clips that you include each week are easy to share with my 2 kids in college. It's nice that I can still be involved and actually helpful without them feeling hovered over or controlled from afar. And I credit that in large part to your awesome advice!”
- Mom of 2 College Students
Harlan has been featured in:
WHEN TO JOIN:
1) JOIN BEFORE APPLYING TO COLLEGE:
Rethink college search using transition as your guide, define what you want, build/revise a list, plan visits, know the right questions to ask, reduce stress, take back the power, apply with confidence.2) JOIN AFTER APPLYING TO COLLEGE:
Use the 5 transitions (Social, Emotional, Physical, Financial, Academic) to confirm best fit, apply strategies for discounts, ask targeted questions, identify specific resources based your goals, connect with departments, investigate graduation rates, connect with career center, choose the best school with confidence. 3) JOIN AFTER MAKING COLLEGE DECISION:
Put together transition plan using the five big transitions (Social, Emotional, Physical, Financial, Academic), set expectations, try to get more money, build a support system, set yourself up for research opportunities, internships, and jobs, work through unexpected challenges in real-time. 4) JOIN DURING THE FIRST YEAR OF COLLEGE:
Harlan can help you guide your student as they navigate life in college. There are so many changes coming their way (and your way).
FAQs
-
Does Harlan REALLY host every coaching session?
Yes! Harlan is committed to guiding you throughout this entire journey.Additionally, he will be hosting six special programs that cover the most crucial topics you need to understand.
-
When is the best time to sign up for BEST FIRST YEAR?
Sign up Year-Round. Second-semester seniors and parents can use the program to better prepare, plan, and navigate all the changes ahead. Current college students and parents can use the program to address ongoing challenges.
-
Is BEST FIRST YEAR more beneficial for students or parents?
BEST FIRST YEAR is equally beneficial for both students and parents. Parents and students can join and participate on their own. Some members participate as a family, using the topics as a springboard for engaging conversations.
-
Do I need to attend all group coaching sessions?
No. In fact, Harlan doesn't expect you t attend all sessions. Use BEST FIRST YEAR to ask Harlan your questions as they come up. You can also watch previous coaching sessions when relevant issues come up. Remember, Harlan is there for you when you need him.
-
Will people see me if I participate in a group coaching session?
Harlan hosts each group coaching session as a webinar, so no cameras are turned on. Students and parents can ask questions anonymously. Participants can support one another in the chat if they choose to contribute.
-
Does membership include access for the student and the parent?
Yes. Once you sign up, a member of Harlan's team will reach out to register your second email address. If you have multiple students in college, send us a message. We'll do our best to ensure all students gain access.
-
Can I give BEST FIRST YEAR as a gift?
YES! You can give BEST FIRST YEAR as a gift. Just check the gift option at checkout and and follow the prompts.
-
What if the cost is too high for me?
Harlan offers an access-for-all guarantee. Let us know what you can afford, and we will do whatever we can to make this work for you. We NEVER want the cost to prevent you from getting the information you need.
-
How long do I get access to Best First Year?
A Best First Year membership gives you 1-year access to Best First Year. Occasionally, Harlan will share special offers that will include a longer membership period.