
Today is the registration deadline for the September 10th ACT exam.
Today is the registration deadline for the September 10th ACT exam.
Parents, before you know it, your child will be starting their first day of college!
Set your child up for success by sharing with them some practical knowledge.
FINANCIAL
MEDICAL
PRACTICAL
Going off to college is a major event. As you prepare to go away, here are some suggestions for what you can do to get ready:
With all the recent changes in testing requirements, you may not be sure whether you should plan to take the ACT or SAT. Talk to your parents and guidance counselor to decide what’s best for you. If you choose to take standardized tests, summer is a good time to put together a test prep plan.
Begin by choosing the test that’s best for you. There are differences between the SAT and the ACT, including the format, material being tested and scoring. Students often find one test is more or less challenging than the other.
To get your best score possible, develop a personal test taking strategy. The best way to do this is to get comfortable with the test format and learn how to pace yourself and manage your timing. Take as many practice tests as you can in a quiet place without distractions, and with a timer set, to simulate the real test conditions.
Regardless of how you plan to prepare — on your own, in a group class or with a tutor, be sure to take advantage of the many free tests available through the resources listed below.
SAT
ACT
If you haven’t already made plans for your summer break, it’s not too late. This is an opportunity to see where your interests for the future lie. Look into finding a job, an internship or volunteer. You may also consider taking a class either at a local school or online.
Regardless of what you decide to do, consider the following when making your plans:
Whether you decide to work, volunteer, study or play, take time over the summer break to focus on your college application process.
Rising seniors, get a head start on your applications. Work on your essay(s) this summer without the pressures of keeping up with schoolwork. Come fall, you’ll be able to focus on school visits, finalizing your list of schools and completing your applications.
Here’s how to get started on your essay(s):
In addition to your essays, continue to study if you’ll be taking any standardized tests and update your list of extracurriculars.
Rising juniors, summer’s a great time for you to begin your college process. Research schools, think about a test schedule and begin preparing, and start a comprehensive list of your activities and achievements to be used on the Common App.
A few thoughts if you’re scheduled to take tomorrow’s SAT.
To minimize your stress tomorrow morning, it’s a great idea to get organized ahead of time. The last thing you need on test morning is a desperate scramble. These are some of the things you can do tonight to get your big day off to a great start:
First, check with your parents to make sure they know when and where you’re scheduled to take the test, and arrange how you’ll get to the test center. Next, gather and pack all the things you’ll need to take with you. Some of the things on this check list are “must-have” items, while others are optional.
REQUIRED: Don’t forget any of the following items or it will be a long ride home!
SUGGESTED:
Finally, given how COVID-19 has disrupted the testing process, we suggest that you confirm the status of your test registration and stay current on any changes by visiting Coronavirus Updates for Students Taking the SAT.
Seniors, don’t let anything disrupt your college bound plan. Complete your high school requirements, stay focused and take care of this to-do list before you go off to college:
Summer is approaching and you’re probably thinking of all the fun things you’re going to do: meet your friends at the beach, sleep late, swim, travel, summer BBQs with family… Summer is also a good time to explore your interests and also try new things. This is an opportunity to discover what you enjoy doing and how you can get involved. You may already have plans, but if you don’t, now is the time to consider looking into finding a job, an internship or a volunteer opportunity.
Start by stopping into your guidance office. They may have a list of resources and interesting positions, and also may know of postings. Check social media for postings as well. Your public library and local community center are also good places to continue your search.
You may also consider taking a class either at a local school or online. Choose an academic subject of particular interest or opt into something just for fun.
Regardless of what you decide to do, consider the following when making your plans:
Juniors, recommendation letters are required by most colleges as part of your application. Think about which teachers know you best and ask them to write a letter on your behalf. Try to“ make this request in person, if possible.
Here’s how to request the best recommendations:
JUNIORS, beginning your college search process may seem like an overwhelming task. There are many free resources to help you get started and allow you to explore the many options available. By using these tools you will be be able to narrow down your search and focus in on the type of school that interests you.
COLLEGE FAIRS: College fairs are a great way to start your search. You’ll have the chance to get exposed to a large number of colleges and universities all in one place and meet admissions reps from a long list of schools.
COLLEGE GUIDES: College guides offer an easy way to review and compare basic facts such as GPA, SAT and ACT ranges, course requirements, tuition, study body demographics and feedback from students.
COLLEGE WEBSITES: College websites provide detailed info about a school’s student body, required curriculum, courses of study, tuition and financial aid, housing and extracurriculars. You’ll also find online photo galleries and virtual tours.
ONLINE PLATFORMS: Online search platforms such as NAVIANCE, SCOIR and MaiaLearning are accessible to students in subscribing high schools. These tools present admissions outcomes for graduates from the same high school, allowing current students the opportunity to compare their credentials (GPA and test scores) with those of previous applicants.
Although each of these resources are helpful, don’t rely exclusively on only one. Take your time and be thorough so you can learn about all the options available and what will work best for you in a college or university.