College Unpacked: A Practical Guide to Choosing, Preparing For, and Excelling in College
College Made Clear for Students and Parents
Navigating the college journey can feel overwhelming—whether you're a high school student stepping into the unknown or a parent trying to offer the right guidance. College Unpacked is your go-to resource, answering the questions you didn’t even know to ask.
Written by a seasoned college dean and a dad who’s sent four kids to college, this book walks you through every stage of the process: choosing the right school, understanding admissions, preparing for dorm life, and thriving academically. With practical advice, real-world insights, and checklists you’ll actually use, this is your guide to making sense of the complex world of higher education.
Students will find strategies for success and confidence as they embark on this new adventure. Parents will discover clear, no-nonsense advice to support their student while letting them take the lead.
Packed with the wisdom of an educator and the heart of a parent, College Unpacked helps you navigate the challenges and celebrate the victories—one step at a time.
Author Bio:
J Hall is an educator, author, and podcaster from Oklahoma City where he lives with his wife, two dogs, and a rotating cast of adult children who stop in for meals and occasional dog-sitting. Most importantly, he is a grandpa, and he will certainly bore you to tears telling you how awesome his grandson is. After more than 15 years in professional ministry, J has worked in higher education since 2009, currently serving as Dean of Social Sciences at Oklahoma City Community College and teaching sociology. J hosts and produces the Okie Bookcast, a podcast dedicated to connecting curious readers with their next great read through interviewing authors and storytellers connected to Oklahoma. He also co-hosts a monthly book chat show through the Bookcast with his daughter, author and screenwriter Hannah Joy Herron. College Unpacked is J's second book, following 2023's God Help Me! I'm a Young Dad