Ahead of the Pack: Balancing Your Way to Personal Success in College

This is by far the best overall guide for all college students, but especially graduating high school seniors. I recommend that it be introduced to a student well before applying to college.It is wonderful gift to a student and should be 'required reading' for all parents before sending their children off to college. The format is ideal and the topics discussed are most contemporary for what kids now face their very first semester. This true survival guide will be well appreciated throughout one's college experience.

As a high school guidance counselor since 1995 I have searched for and reviewed most publications that attempt to assist prospective students excel during their college years. This book is one of the most unique I have found. Since it was written by a current student, the approach, perspective and even the vocabulary is in line with today's youth. I had several students review it for me as well. Their feedback was very positive, especially the "real world" approach to some difficult subjects like dating, drinking, diet and exercise. The advice on leveraging professor's office time and tips to improve study habits were also well received. Our school, a private academy, is giving a copy to each senior as part of their "Get Sarted Packet" upon graduation. Highly recommended to any student graduating this year or in the recent past.

As a recent university graduate (2 years in the 'real world'), I can say that I wish this book had been available when I was entering collegiate life. It really helps incomming freshman, and even upper-classmen, avoid many of the seemingly invisible pitfalls of campus life. I gave this book to my cousin who is entering college this fall, and told him to take notes. He wrote me a thankyou note a few weeks later, and said that he thought it was a cheezy gift, but that he read a couple pages, and finished it in a week! Cheezy indeed. anyway, by this for yourself, or someone you know entering college, and you will not be displeased. five stars!

I got a copy of 'Ahead of the Pack' for my son headed to college as a graduation present. He's not a big reader in general, however he did not put it down until it was finished. I asked him about the contents and what he thought. His response was "awesome". The book seems to reach young people where they are in preparation for college and answer many questions for them from a peer, not a old man like me!

Finally, an author young enough to relate to young adults, yet mature enough to lead them with integrity. Mr. Richardson's moral values shine through as he tackles everything from budgeting to sexual concerns. This book can be read in it's entirety, or in segments, as it's easily divided by topics. This book is an excellent read from the time a High Schooler in in 10th grade, through (at least) their first year in college. What a great gift as High School graduation invitations are rolling in!