MEADVILLE, Pa., — Finding the right college is a lot easier when you know where to start.

To help students and families navigate the college search process, Allegheny College has launched CollegeSearch101.org, a first of its kind, which features a series of short YouTube videos with tips from Scott Friedhoff, Allegheny vice president for enrollment and communications.

"We want to help students find the college that's right for them, whether it's Allegheny or another school," said Friedhoff, who has worked in admissions and enrollment at six selective institutions over the past 30 years.

The minute-long videos aim to take the confusion and intimidation out of beginning the college search. Topics include "When to start your college search," "Should I rule out a college due to cost," "Saving for college" and "The role of parents." CollegeSearch101.org isn't intended to replace other important resources such as guidebooks, college counselors and campus visits.

"We are pleased to take the lead among colleges across the country in offering this information through the media that students turn to most frequently," said Allegheny president James H. Mullen Jr."These videos are about quickly pointing students and families in the right direction ­and showing them they can even have a little fun while finding the college that's the right fit."

Virginia Garrison Maddux, director of college counseling at Montgomery Bell Academy in Nashville, Tenn., among the site's first visitors, welcomes the project enthusiastically.

"In a world where the hype around college admissions makes students and parents frantic, CollegeSearch101.org provides helpful, positive advice for families as they begin their college search process," Maddux said.

"In my role as a college counselor, I have found that information is the best medicine for anxiety, so this tool is great medicine for young people and parents who want only the best for their children."

Jennifer FitzPatrick, director of college counseling at Sewickley Academy in Pittsburgh, shared a similar perspective.

"I commend Allegheny College for their new CollegeSearch101.org website," said FitzPatrick. "As students and parents learn to navigate their way through the college admissions process, it is important to hear advice about the intricacies and nuances of the college search. I would recommend the site to any family looking to begin the college process on the right foot!"

Visitors can also access the clips through the CollegeSearch101.org page on Facebook, the popular social networking site.

Nationally known in the field of college admissions and education finance, Friedhoff is a regular resource for the New York Times, Chronicle of Higher Education and USA Today, among others. He serves on a variety of advisory boards including US News, FastWeb and Cappex.