

What drives Linda Weems to a career that delivers essential advice, direction, and support through well-researched information on higher education? Since 2012, Linda has integrated her passion for helping others into her professional life. With her sharp editorial mind, making life a little less burdensome for students in any phase of their college journey comes naturally to her.
With 14 years of experience, Linda’s expertise in content development shines through every aspect of her work as a contributing editor for CVO. Her expertise in providing college guidance through relevant information runs the gamut: pursuing the right degree, choosing a college or university, overcoming the complex admissions process, signing up for financial aid, finding a thriving career, and everything in between.
They say no playbook exists for conquering the odds in college and beyond. For Linda, it starts with what you know! Her writing abilities, keen attention to detail, and strong organizational skills enable her to deliver impactful material that learners use to tread the often-tricky path that is college. If you ask Linda, it takes determination to survive college life and make the most of a hard-earned degree, armed with sufficient knowledge from CVO as a reliable information resource.
Based in Tennessee, Linda considers herself a student—of life, that is! She loves art and takes on rock painting as a hobby. A loving mother, she enjoys spending quality time with her family and her dog Rusty.
Read Linda’s Latest Articles
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Can You Get a Job With Just a Certificate?
You might wonder if you can build a career without a degree. The good news is, you absolutely can, and sometimes a well-paying one, with just a certificate. Labor data show 51 occupations typically require only a postsecondary certificate, and many pay above the national median wage of $49,500. Our guide helps you navigate your…
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Is a College Degree Still Worth It?
Whether a college degree is a tool for success or not is a subject of debate. College is expensive, career paths aren’t always clear, and advice from family, friends, and the internet can pull you in different directions. That’s real pressure. This guide presents practical information so you can sort through the noise and decide…
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How to Apply for College If Your Parents Never Went
College isn’t an easy path, and it can feel even more challenging if you’re the first in your family to walk it. It’s only normal to feel alone and lost; remember that over half of U.S. undergraduates are first-generation students. This guide walks you through applications, financial aid, and more, helping you navigate each step…
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How to Focus on Homework When You Can’t Concentrate
Having trouble focusing can be really frustrating, especially with all the digital distractions, stress, and tiredness competing for your attention. However, it may not be your fault. Focus is a skill you can improve. This guide offers practical, science-backed tips you can use right away to regain your focus and manage your study time better.
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Can You Use the GI Bill for Graduate School?
You can use your GI Bill benefits for master’s, doctorate, and professional programs. If you’re unsure if grad school qualifies, you’re not alone—many veterans don’t realize their benefits extend beyond a bachelor’s degree. In this guide, you’ll see how your benefits work, what payments you can expect, how the Yellow Ribbon Program can expand coverage,…
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Value ROI
Making a sound educational investment starts with knowing your ROI. In this section, explore tools and insights to assess program costs, future earnings, and overall value. Learn how to choose degrees and schools that maximize your return and set you up for long-term financial success.
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Can You Apply to College Without a High School Diploma?
You might feel like your college dreams ended when you left high school without a diploma, but they haven’t. The truth is, you can still apply to a college without a traditional diploma. Our guide lets you know about the nearly 98% of colleges that accept GED or HSE credentials, HiSET, adult diplomas, or Ability-to-Benefit…
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Accelerated Programs
Looking to finish your degree faster? Accelerated programs compress traditional timelines, helping you graduate sooner and enter the workforce ahead of schedule. This section covers everything you need to know about fast-track options at every level—from bachelor’s to doctoral degrees. Learn how these programs work, who they’re best suited for, and how to balance intensive…
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Do You Have to Pay Back Financial Aid If You Drop Out?
If you are thinking about leaving school, or have already left, you are probably worried about your financial aid. You want to know what happens next. The answer depends on when you withdrew and the type of aid you received. Understanding the rules now can save you tuition money and protect your future eligibility.
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What Happens If You Lose Your Scholarship?
Losing a scholarship is very stressful. Your brain goes straight to, “How am I supposed to pay for college now?” Perhaps this semester didn’t go the way you planned. Maybe something outside of school pulled your focus. It happens. This guide shows you what to do next, how to appeal the decision, and where else…