Use Your Summer Before Summer Year Wisely.
1. Develop your most current college list. Now that juniors grades are in as are your most up to date SAT, SAT II, ACT, and AP test scores--you can build a list with the following categories:
Wishing Upon A Star
Stretch
50-50
Likely
Don't put any schools on the list you would never attend or your parents would NEVER let you attend.
Research schools that will offer you..
the academics you want
the social life you want
the environment you want
and that you have a CHANCE to get in.
2. Email admissions officers or your school guidance counselors with key questions. Make sure you have a rigorous senior year. Don't QUIT anything. If you stop math or a foreign language, take another class. Consider taking a college course this fall.
3. Start developing an excel chart with the following headings.
College/Application Type User Name Password Deadlines Extra Essays
Every time you start a new application system save your log in and password. Use an email address that you check regularly.
4. Start looking for applications...
a. The Common Applications which covers MOST privates and many publics is up.
www.commonapp.org.
i. Fill it in through activities.
ii. Add colleges.
iii. Check to see if supplements are posted. Look for extra essays and add them to your chart.
iv. Put in your activities. Most current and long lasting first and then backwards in time. If you have more than seven, see if you can put a couple thematically related ones together.
v. Develop a resume.You can add one under additional information. Include more information about what you've accomplished for key areas.
vi. Start writing your short and long essays. More on that later.
vii. Color code the essays and see how to write the fewest.
b. The University of Michigan has posted itself essays for next year. They have the most essays...but the setback one is a bear. You can use their essays for other applications.
c. The University of Washington is also up. Their essays can also be used with the University of Wisconsin and Colorado.
d. The UC essays will be the same as last year. So think how you can begin working on them as well. You can use either one as your common application long.
e. If you're stuck, write three to four 100 word shorts...with an into, through, and optional beyond. The best short ones save. The ones that can't stay long and require more development-now there's a long.
5. Sign up for fall testing. Use the fall wisely. Take a test again. You'll do better if you prepare. You can take the ACT in September, October, and December. YOu can take SAT or SAT IIs in October, November, and December. Even schools to which you apply rolling or the state schools will read December scores.
6. Contact me if you have any questions. I am here to help. I will provide more about long essays later.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Interview Tips
Interviews are a wonderful way for you to get to know a college and for you to help a college understand who you are and why you are a PERFECT fit for that college.
These tips are adapted from Skidmore College's tips...Thanks Skidmore.
When you book a trip to a college, try to book an interview. However, practice before you do your first interview....Here are other key tips.
Ten Tips for a Successful College Interview or Meeting with Other College Representatives
1. Know what the interview means at each college.
Is it purely informational or intended to help evaluate you as a candidate? Some interviews are evaluative and the discussion allows you to introduce yourself in a way that can distinguish you from the many other candidates applying for admission. You and your interviewer engage in a relaxed and friendly conversation during which you will be encouraged to discuss your school, your courses, your activities, and your academic and personal goals. You will also be encouraged to ask any questions you have about the college and the application process. The interview summary written by the interviewer after your discussion describes your individual qualities and ability to contribute to the college community. It becomes part of your application file when you apply.
On the other hand, an informational interview requires you to direct the conversation. The interviewer's questions may be as general as, "What can I tell you about this school?" or "What questions do you have about the application process?" Ordinarily, no written evaluation is included in your application file after an informational interview. As the name suggests, the sole purpose of the interview is to raise and answer questions that will help you distinguish differences among colleges and which ones "fit" you best.
2. Know something about the college before you visit/interview.
Do your homework. You are not expected to be an expert on the college, but you should know basic facts before your interview. Viewbooks, catalogues, and college guides are all good sources of basic information. The interviewer's questions will help you clarify the qualities you hope to find in a college and will help you understand how different colleges satisfy those expectations. Be prepared to talk about your college search. What are you looking for in a college? What is important to you? What is your vision of the ideal college? How did you decide to visit this specific campus?
3. Think about your high school years!!!
Be introspective. What do you do with your "free" time? How would your parents describe you? What would your favorite teacher say? Your friends? Make a list of extracurricular interests and hobbies that have been important to you. How have you spent your summers? Have you ever worked, either on a volunteer basis or for pay? How have you changed during your high school years? What recent books have you read? What recent papers have you written? NO NEGATIVES ever about yourself.
4. Know your high school.
The colleges you apply to will assess your achievements within the context of your high school. Are honors courses offered? AP's? An IB program? How large is your high school? How many students are in your senior class? You should be able to describe your school, the courses you have taken and the level of competition you have faced. What course in high school has been toughest for you? Do you regret any course choices? Try not to complain about "bad" teachers! How diverse is your high school population? Your community? Don't assume your interviewer can picture your school. Try to describe it as vividly as possible.
5. Watch your verbal and body language!
Avoid slang and don't say "you know," "like," and "um." Stop and think before you speak. The interviewer wants to get to know you as an individual and to evaluate you as a potential student. Listen carefully to the questions, think before you respond.
Establish good eye contact with the interviewer. When people look at each other they communicate more effectively. Be aware of how you act when you are nervous. Do you tap your foot? Twist or flip your hair? Look at the floor? Say "you know" or "like" a lot? If you can identify your nervous habits ahead of time you can address them in the interview.
6. Bring some show and tell items, if you can.
Bring two copies of your nicely designed resume to share with the interviewer. Give one to the interviewer and keep one in front of you. It helps you remember certain activities and details should you blank out during the interview. You can bring pictures of you in a play or on the sports field or other key pieces of evidence to demonstrate your true mastery in an area. Do not leave those with interviewer. You can leave the resume. Do NOT bring letters of recommendation--those belong in the application.
7. Be prepared to ask questions.
Ask questions regarding academic requirements or special services offered by the college, but avoid basic questions that should have been answered in your preliminary research. Do not waste time asking questions that are easily answered in the viewbook or catalogue. Examples: "How many students attend your school?" or "Do you have a major in psychology?" Use your time wisely by asking about things that interest you. You might ask about internship opportunities, accessibility of professors, athletic facilities and sports traditions, artistic performance opportunities on campus, leadership positions for students, or social life on campus. Ask questions that will help you distinguish qualitative differences between similar colleges. It's a good idea to bring your list of questions to the interview.
8. Dress "comfortably."
Most admission interviewers recommend that you wear clothes that are comfortable for you and make you feel good about yourself. You don't have to "dress up" in a skirt or necktie unless that's how you're most comfortable. Be neat, but be yourself.
9. Be honest. Don't pretend.
If you really read science fiction, then don't pretend that you like Dickens. Share any serious personal difficulty that has affected your record with your interviewer. Don't try to guess "the right answer" to the questions. What you have done is not nearly so important as why you did it, why it was important to you, and how it has helped you to grow. If you have a weakness in your record (for example, a poor grade or semester of poor grades) try to put it into perspective for the interviewer. Be honest. If this is your first interview and you're nervous, share those feelings with your interviewer. If you're afraid that some aspect of the college might not be right for you, share your concern. Feel good about yourself and convey that feeling to the interviewer. You can be positive about your accomplishments without sounding conceited. Interviewers expect you to say good things about yourself.
10. Be sure to follow-up after the interview.
Interviewers, like everyone else, appreciate being thanked for their time. Write down the name of your interviewer as well as the date (many will give you a business card) and send a personal thank you note after returning home. Colleges notice the gesture and it helps to reinforce a positive impression. If you enjoyed your interview and visit, find out about opportunities for you to return and to stay overnight on campus, sit in on classes, or attend upcoming special programs.
Remember that every college or university wants you to leave your visit feeling good about the experience. If you take the time to research colleges, and then do a little thinking about how you've spent your time and what is important to you, you'll find your visits both informative and enjoyable.
These tips are adapted from Skidmore College's tips...Thanks Skidmore.
When you book a trip to a college, try to book an interview. However, practice before you do your first interview....Here are other key tips.
Ten Tips for a Successful College Interview or Meeting with Other College Representatives
1. Know what the interview means at each college.
Is it purely informational or intended to help evaluate you as a candidate? Some interviews are evaluative and the discussion allows you to introduce yourself in a way that can distinguish you from the many other candidates applying for admission. You and your interviewer engage in a relaxed and friendly conversation during which you will be encouraged to discuss your school, your courses, your activities, and your academic and personal goals. You will also be encouraged to ask any questions you have about the college and the application process. The interview summary written by the interviewer after your discussion describes your individual qualities and ability to contribute to the college community. It becomes part of your application file when you apply.
On the other hand, an informational interview requires you to direct the conversation. The interviewer's questions may be as general as, "What can I tell you about this school?" or "What questions do you have about the application process?" Ordinarily, no written evaluation is included in your application file after an informational interview. As the name suggests, the sole purpose of the interview is to raise and answer questions that will help you distinguish differences among colleges and which ones "fit" you best.
2. Know something about the college before you visit/interview.
Do your homework. You are not expected to be an expert on the college, but you should know basic facts before your interview. Viewbooks, catalogues, and college guides are all good sources of basic information. The interviewer's questions will help you clarify the qualities you hope to find in a college and will help you understand how different colleges satisfy those expectations. Be prepared to talk about your college search. What are you looking for in a college? What is important to you? What is your vision of the ideal college? How did you decide to visit this specific campus?
3. Think about your high school years!!!
Be introspective. What do you do with your "free" time? How would your parents describe you? What would your favorite teacher say? Your friends? Make a list of extracurricular interests and hobbies that have been important to you. How have you spent your summers? Have you ever worked, either on a volunteer basis or for pay? How have you changed during your high school years? What recent books have you read? What recent papers have you written? NO NEGATIVES ever about yourself.
4. Know your high school.
The colleges you apply to will assess your achievements within the context of your high school. Are honors courses offered? AP's? An IB program? How large is your high school? How many students are in your senior class? You should be able to describe your school, the courses you have taken and the level of competition you have faced. What course in high school has been toughest for you? Do you regret any course choices? Try not to complain about "bad" teachers! How diverse is your high school population? Your community? Don't assume your interviewer can picture your school. Try to describe it as vividly as possible.
5. Watch your verbal and body language!
Avoid slang and don't say "you know," "like," and "um." Stop and think before you speak. The interviewer wants to get to know you as an individual and to evaluate you as a potential student. Listen carefully to the questions, think before you respond.
Establish good eye contact with the interviewer. When people look at each other they communicate more effectively. Be aware of how you act when you are nervous. Do you tap your foot? Twist or flip your hair? Look at the floor? Say "you know" or "like" a lot? If you can identify your nervous habits ahead of time you can address them in the interview.
6. Bring some show and tell items, if you can.
Bring two copies of your nicely designed resume to share with the interviewer. Give one to the interviewer and keep one in front of you. It helps you remember certain activities and details should you blank out during the interview. You can bring pictures of you in a play or on the sports field or other key pieces of evidence to demonstrate your true mastery in an area. Do not leave those with interviewer. You can leave the resume. Do NOT bring letters of recommendation--those belong in the application.
7. Be prepared to ask questions.
Ask questions regarding academic requirements or special services offered by the college, but avoid basic questions that should have been answered in your preliminary research. Do not waste time asking questions that are easily answered in the viewbook or catalogue. Examples: "How many students attend your school?" or "Do you have a major in psychology?" Use your time wisely by asking about things that interest you. You might ask about internship opportunities, accessibility of professors, athletic facilities and sports traditions, artistic performance opportunities on campus, leadership positions for students, or social life on campus. Ask questions that will help you distinguish qualitative differences between similar colleges. It's a good idea to bring your list of questions to the interview.
8. Dress "comfortably."
Most admission interviewers recommend that you wear clothes that are comfortable for you and make you feel good about yourself. You don't have to "dress up" in a skirt or necktie unless that's how you're most comfortable. Be neat, but be yourself.
9. Be honest. Don't pretend.
If you really read science fiction, then don't pretend that you like Dickens. Share any serious personal difficulty that has affected your record with your interviewer. Don't try to guess "the right answer" to the questions. What you have done is not nearly so important as why you did it, why it was important to you, and how it has helped you to grow. If you have a weakness in your record (for example, a poor grade or semester of poor grades) try to put it into perspective for the interviewer. Be honest. If this is your first interview and you're nervous, share those feelings with your interviewer. If you're afraid that some aspect of the college might not be right for you, share your concern. Feel good about yourself and convey that feeling to the interviewer. You can be positive about your accomplishments without sounding conceited. Interviewers expect you to say good things about yourself.
10. Be sure to follow-up after the interview.
Interviewers, like everyone else, appreciate being thanked for their time. Write down the name of your interviewer as well as the date (many will give you a business card) and send a personal thank you note after returning home. Colleges notice the gesture and it helps to reinforce a positive impression. If you enjoyed your interview and visit, find out about opportunities for you to return and to stay overnight on campus, sit in on classes, or attend upcoming special programs.
Remember that every college or university wants you to leave your visit feeling good about the experience. If you take the time to research colleges, and then do a little thinking about how you've spent your time and what is important to you, you'll find your visits both informative and enjoyable.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Tips for Moving From Deferral To Possible Regular Decision Accesptance
Tips For Moving From Deferral to Possible Regular Decision Acceptance
1. These tips are all prefaced on the assumption, you are putting together outstanding other applications. You will find a college that suits you and makes your happy!!!!
2. When your first semester grades come out, write an updated letter of interest to the school.
• Highlight your fall accomplishments and stress how these grades reflect your true commitment to academics.
• You can mention a project or paper of which you are very proud.
• Also stress any other updates…such as leadership, athletic or other fall updates.
• In the letter stress your renewed interest in the college.
3. Ask a senior year teacher, who has not already written you a letter to this school, to write you a letter of recommendation. This letter should really emphasize all your talents and reasons why you belong at deferred school.
4. Put together a portfolio…of one special talent.
5. Get an updated letter of recommendation from your guidance counselor or even have counselor contact the school personally.
6. Contact your alumni interviewer--if you think you had a good interview...Thank the interviewer again and then ask for any advice about moving from deferral to admissions.
7. Do not ask people who do not have major contacts with school to contact school. Do not have anyone other than school teachers and officials write letters. The only other exception would be someone for whom you did a major project this year...volunteer leader, youth group...only someone who can attest to new work this year and who knows you really, really well.
8. If possible, visit the institution one more time and revisit the admissions office to remind them of your interest.
9. Basically, do at least one new contact with the school per month until April.
10. Remember, now also focus on the others schools on your list and devote significant time to those applications.
1. These tips are all prefaced on the assumption, you are putting together outstanding other applications. You will find a college that suits you and makes your happy!!!!
2. When your first semester grades come out, write an updated letter of interest to the school.
• Highlight your fall accomplishments and stress how these grades reflect your true commitment to academics.
• You can mention a project or paper of which you are very proud.
• Also stress any other updates…such as leadership, athletic or other fall updates.
• In the letter stress your renewed interest in the college.
3. Ask a senior year teacher, who has not already written you a letter to this school, to write you a letter of recommendation. This letter should really emphasize all your talents and reasons why you belong at deferred school.
4. Put together a portfolio…of one special talent.
5. Get an updated letter of recommendation from your guidance counselor or even have counselor contact the school personally.
6. Contact your alumni interviewer--if you think you had a good interview...Thank the interviewer again and then ask for any advice about moving from deferral to admissions.
7. Do not ask people who do not have major contacts with school to contact school. Do not have anyone other than school teachers and officials write letters. The only other exception would be someone for whom you did a major project this year...volunteer leader, youth group...only someone who can attest to new work this year and who knows you really, really well.
8. If possible, visit the institution one more time and revisit the admissions office to remind them of your interest.
9. Basically, do at least one new contact with the school per month until April.
10. Remember, now also focus on the others schools on your list and devote significant time to those applications.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Is it worth it?: Planning for college in difficult financial times.
Is it worth it?: Planning for college in difficult financial times.
I attended a private university, and my parents and I took out huge loans. Today, I do not know whether I could afford to send my own child to that same college, but I do know that I would make any sacrifice possible to give my child the choice. College is a unique experience for children; it is our gift to them and their futures.
Yet in these difficult economic times, many families are worrying more than ever about covering the cost of a college education for their children. College costs are higher than ever, student loans are harder to get, and college endowments are shrinking due to the falling stock marketing meaning less money for financial aid. What does that mean for families who are still committed to sending their children to college?
DO NOT DESPAIR!!!!!!!! There are many options, several very close to home. I advise that you look at the range of possibilities in your state from state universities to community colleges. The price is usually right, and if your child can thrive in large settings with not much structure or support but lots of sports, activities, and academic choices. There are also great deals at private universities and other state universities. You need to be persistent and find what is right for your child and seek aid if you need it. It's better to apply now to ally that you can and that interest your child. Then see what the colleges offer and push for the best aid packages you can as well as applying for scholarship.
For the rest of this article, I focus on how people living in California can make decisions. You can use this discussion as a model for your family. If you don't live here, look at the systems in your state.
Living in California is a blessing for many families as this state offers the highest quality of public higher education possible.
2008 General Cost of One Year of College Education, including tuition, room, and board, fees, and books (Estimates)
University of California: $23,500
California State University: $12,268
University of Southern California: $51,000
Santa Monica College: $ 1,230 (assumes kid lives at home)
The UCs--We have the outstanding nine campuses that comprise University of California system which offers students the highest quality education possible. These schools are doing more than ever to build communities of students but they are still large, large campuses. They have minimum standards for consideration and the top four to five campuses only accept from 15 to 25% of applications. With the worsening economy, expect more applications than ever.
CSUs-For other students who are not academically ready for the UC system and still want a four year college experience, do not look down upon the California State University's 23 campuses. They offer the best bang for the buck, provide strong educational programs, and will save families thousands and thousands of dollars. There are big campuses--San Diego State and San Francisco State and small campuses--Channel Islands, Sonoma, and San Marcos. There are urban campuses--CSULA and San Francisco--and rural--Humboldt and Chico. They offer great academic programs but some do not offer much housing and are primarily commuter campuses.
Community Colleges-Many students and families avail themselves of California's strong community college system. There are major pros and cons. The positives are that students can remake themselves. As long as they get into a transfer program, after two years, they can transfer to a UC or private college without having to send any high school information or test scores. They enable students who are not mature or still very family oriented to continue living at home, and they provide huge economic savings.
I believe that along with these positives come some strong negatives. Students do not experience a four year college experience. They do not meet as many new people as they can. They do not get the social, interpersonal experiences that four year colleges provide.
There are as many opportunities for students outside of the state as in the state.
Other public colleges-There are great public universities in Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Colorado, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin. They are great alternatives to the UCs and often do not cost much more. These large schools are full of spirit, great sports, and diverse communities. None are as competitive as UCLA or UC Berkeley, and many are no longer the party schools they once were.
Private Colleges-Private colleges require huge financial commitments but are often worth every penny for the student who wants deep interactions with professors and peers. They offer once in a lifetime opportunities for students to experience growth, experimentation, and community building. They range in location, quality, and price. Some offer huge financial aid packages, while others do not. When deciding whether to send you child to a private college, families have to consider what they want their children to experience.
Families, there are lots of financial aid resources out there. Fastweb
http://www.fastweb.com/ is a great site for easy to understand information about loans, scholarships, and making sense of financial aid systems. Schools have financial aid offices that are designed to help you navigate this process.
Dr. Rebecca Joseph provides individual, small group, and school-wide college counseling to families and students. She can be reached at rjoseph@calstatela.edu
You can also post questions for her on her blog. http://intothroughbeyondcollegeadmissions.blogspot.com/
I attended a private university, and my parents and I took out huge loans. Today, I do not know whether I could afford to send my own child to that same college, but I do know that I would make any sacrifice possible to give my child the choice. College is a unique experience for children; it is our gift to them and their futures.
Yet in these difficult economic times, many families are worrying more than ever about covering the cost of a college education for their children. College costs are higher than ever, student loans are harder to get, and college endowments are shrinking due to the falling stock marketing meaning less money for financial aid. What does that mean for families who are still committed to sending their children to college?
DO NOT DESPAIR!!!!!!!! There are many options, several very close to home. I advise that you look at the range of possibilities in your state from state universities to community colleges. The price is usually right, and if your child can thrive in large settings with not much structure or support but lots of sports, activities, and academic choices. There are also great deals at private universities and other state universities. You need to be persistent and find what is right for your child and seek aid if you need it. It's better to apply now to ally that you can and that interest your child. Then see what the colleges offer and push for the best aid packages you can as well as applying for scholarship.
For the rest of this article, I focus on how people living in California can make decisions. You can use this discussion as a model for your family. If you don't live here, look at the systems in your state.
Living in California is a blessing for many families as this state offers the highest quality of public higher education possible.
2008 General Cost of One Year of College Education, including tuition, room, and board, fees, and books (Estimates)
University of California: $23,500
California State University: $12,268
University of Southern California: $51,000
Santa Monica College: $ 1,230 (assumes kid lives at home)
The UCs--We have the outstanding nine campuses that comprise University of California system which offers students the highest quality education possible. These schools are doing more than ever to build communities of students but they are still large, large campuses. They have minimum standards for consideration and the top four to five campuses only accept from 15 to 25% of applications. With the worsening economy, expect more applications than ever.
CSUs-For other students who are not academically ready for the UC system and still want a four year college experience, do not look down upon the California State University's 23 campuses. They offer the best bang for the buck, provide strong educational programs, and will save families thousands and thousands of dollars. There are big campuses--San Diego State and San Francisco State and small campuses--Channel Islands, Sonoma, and San Marcos. There are urban campuses--CSULA and San Francisco--and rural--Humboldt and Chico. They offer great academic programs but some do not offer much housing and are primarily commuter campuses.
Community Colleges-Many students and families avail themselves of California's strong community college system. There are major pros and cons. The positives are that students can remake themselves. As long as they get into a transfer program, after two years, they can transfer to a UC or private college without having to send any high school information or test scores. They enable students who are not mature or still very family oriented to continue living at home, and they provide huge economic savings.
I believe that along with these positives come some strong negatives. Students do not experience a four year college experience. They do not meet as many new people as they can. They do not get the social, interpersonal experiences that four year colleges provide.
There are as many opportunities for students outside of the state as in the state.
Other public colleges-There are great public universities in Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Colorado, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin. They are great alternatives to the UCs and often do not cost much more. These large schools are full of spirit, great sports, and diverse communities. None are as competitive as UCLA or UC Berkeley, and many are no longer the party schools they once were.
Private Colleges-Private colleges require huge financial commitments but are often worth every penny for the student who wants deep interactions with professors and peers. They offer once in a lifetime opportunities for students to experience growth, experimentation, and community building. They range in location, quality, and price. Some offer huge financial aid packages, while others do not. When deciding whether to send you child to a private college, families have to consider what they want their children to experience.
Families, there are lots of financial aid resources out there. Fastweb
http://www.fastweb.com/ is a great site for easy to understand information about loans, scholarships, and making sense of financial aid systems. Schools have financial aid offices that are designed to help you navigate this process.
Dr. Rebecca Joseph provides individual, small group, and school-wide college counseling to families and students. She can be reached at rjoseph@calstatela.edu
You can also post questions for her on her blog. http://intothroughbeyondcollegeadmissions.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Starting Off Senior Year on the Right Foot
One former client asked me to give seniors some key advice for their falls.
1.Dedicate one afternoon per weekend to college application work. He said he spent his week doing homework and his many activities and saved one afternoon per weekend for his college application work and that made his fall schedule work. College applications take time. View them as a regular class and use Sunday afternoons, for example, to fill out applications, draft essays, and put together teacher recommendation information.
2. Develop key essay writing strategy. Go online now and checkout all the applications and supplements. By September 1, each college will have posted its application or supplement. Remember, the UC application is not available online until October 1, but it is available as a PDF online to see what you need to write. See my previous post for essay writing strategies. Coordinate your essay writing and focus on those core qualities you need to let colleges know you possess. Don't repeat. Don't complain. Tell and show.
3. Plan now for teacher recommendations. Teacher dance cards fill early so you need to determine whom you plan to ask now. Remember, most colleges prefer 11th or 12th grade teachers (or a 1oth grade teacher you have now or who knows you in multiple capacities). They want core content--English, History, Science, and Math. If you're multi-talented, choose across math/science and English/Social Studies. If you're specialized, you can go within. But don't choose two in the same content area unless you are sending in a third recommendation. Don't overkill with too many recommendations. Choose those teachers who know you the best and who can say the most about you. Don't fear Brag Sheets...Brag, brag, brag. Makes weaknesses into strengths.
4. Colleges will look at fall semester grades. Keep up the good work. This is not the time to stop major activities or to change your work ethic. Colleges count 11th and 12th grade grades the most. Those grades are most indicative of who you are now as a student. If you dropped last semester, you need to focus intensely on doing great work this fall.
5. Take another round of tests. Seniors do better on standardized tests. So don't think it's too late to improve your scores. You matured over the summer. But don't go in unprepared. Get a test prep book, find a free online program, or ask your parents for tutoring. I know you can't relax but just know that you can beat these tests. If you're worried, send colleges your scores now. Then if you like your later scores, you can send them. If you don't, you don't have to.
Good luck. Please feel free to email me with questions.
1.Dedicate one afternoon per weekend to college application work. He said he spent his week doing homework and his many activities and saved one afternoon per weekend for his college application work and that made his fall schedule work. College applications take time. View them as a regular class and use Sunday afternoons, for example, to fill out applications, draft essays, and put together teacher recommendation information.
2. Develop key essay writing strategy. Go online now and checkout all the applications and supplements. By September 1, each college will have posted its application or supplement. Remember, the UC application is not available online until October 1, but it is available as a PDF online to see what you need to write. See my previous post for essay writing strategies. Coordinate your essay writing and focus on those core qualities you need to let colleges know you possess. Don't repeat. Don't complain. Tell and show.
3. Plan now for teacher recommendations. Teacher dance cards fill early so you need to determine whom you plan to ask now. Remember, most colleges prefer 11th or 12th grade teachers (or a 1oth grade teacher you have now or who knows you in multiple capacities). They want core content--English, History, Science, and Math. If you're multi-talented, choose across math/science and English/Social Studies. If you're specialized, you can go within. But don't choose two in the same content area unless you are sending in a third recommendation. Don't overkill with too many recommendations. Choose those teachers who know you the best and who can say the most about you. Don't fear Brag Sheets...Brag, brag, brag. Makes weaknesses into strengths.
4. Colleges will look at fall semester grades. Keep up the good work. This is not the time to stop major activities or to change your work ethic. Colleges count 11th and 12th grade grades the most. Those grades are most indicative of who you are now as a student. If you dropped last semester, you need to focus intensely on doing great work this fall.
5. Take another round of tests. Seniors do better on standardized tests. So don't think it's too late to improve your scores. You matured over the summer. But don't go in unprepared. Get a test prep book, find a free online program, or ask your parents for tutoring. I know you can't relax but just know that you can beat these tests. If you're worried, send colleges your scores now. Then if you like your later scores, you can send them. If you don't, you don't have to.
Good luck. Please feel free to email me with questions.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Those late summer senior questions
I have been working with a group of 15 rising seniors and 2 rising juniors for a college essay writing class I designed and offer for UCLA Extension Summer Programs for 7th-12th Grade Students. Each student attends a different public or private school, including LACES, Pacific Palisades Charter, H-W, Windward, New Roads, Flintridge, Hoover High School, Wildwood, YULA, and more. Each student is unique. Each student has great assets, qualities, and personalities to offer colleges.
What stuns me is how few have met actively with their college counselors at schools. So I offered to answer basic questions they raised. Here are some of their questions. Maybe they will help you. Please feel free to ask questions. I can't guarantee I can answer them, but I can certainly find answers.
Question 1: How should my different essays connect?
Answer 1: What a great question. I believe they should connect in ways that show as much about your personality and key characteristics as possible. It is ideal if they complement each other. If one is about something specific you have accomplished on your own, it would be nice to have one that shows how you've accomplished something with others. If one is about how something external lyshaped you, then another should be about your iniatiative, an internal quest. If one is about a struggle, the other can be about recovery and joy. Additional essays should focus on core qualities you want to continue sharing but significantly overlapping essays are not highly recommended. Now, there are caveats. Someone who has had an extraordinary circumstance or experience can definitely have two pieces that explain the process and the outcomes or the inside and the outside. Email me and I'll tell you more.
Question 2. I need financial aid and don't know where to start?
Answser 2. http://www.fastweb.com/ is where I would start. I took a great class on financial aid and this website taught me more than anything I could imagine. It provides great information along with access to resources. I also have a great powerpoint my instructor gave us which I can email you.
Question 3. What is early decision? What is early action?
Answer 3: Early decision and early action are two ways to gain access to a college by mid-December. These applications are due the beginning of November and mean that you need to have great grades already, a strong academic and testing record, and school support.
Early Decision is legally binding. If you get in, you go. (Unless some extraordinary financial situation occurs. You can only apply to one Early Decision school. So this needs to be a match made in heaven.
Early Action is NOT binding. If you get in, you do not have to go. Some colleges have Restrictive Early Action which means you can only apply to that one school but acceptance is not binding.
Be aware that some Early Decision schools do not defer. They accept or reject.
To check whether a school you are interested in has Early Decision or Early Action, check this great website: http://www.nacac.com/college-search/search.cfm
Question 4: Is it too late to start an activity?
Answer 4: Of course, not. Just remember, however, a few things.
1. Colleges look for consistency and develoment. So if this activity is an extension of an interest such as an internship or job, great.
2. Don't do anything to sacrific your testing, academic, and application preparation process.
3. Dont' STOP anything senior year. You need to keep doing what you're doing.
4. Do what you need to show a pattern...If you're on a steady increase, then adding an activity makes perfect sense.
Question 5: What schools don't require test scores?
Answer 5: Ah, a great website exists to help you determine this: http://www.fairtest.org/univ/optional.htm
Question 6: What schools have great xxx programs?
Answer 6: I don't know off the top of my head. But there are many ways to find out.
1. Ask your friends. Ask teachers.
2. Do web searches. The College Board has a great site that helps you find schools based on majors. http://www.collegeboard.com/
Some other sites with great college finders are
Xap Student Center http://www.xap.com/
NACAC's Internet Road Map for the College Bound Student has great links and info on it as well.
http://www.nacacnet.org/MemberPortal/News/StepsNewsletter/An+Internet+Road+Map+for+the+College-Bound+Student.htm
That is all for now. I welcome more questions and desperately seek feedback and comments.
What stuns me is how few have met actively with their college counselors at schools. So I offered to answer basic questions they raised. Here are some of their questions. Maybe they will help you. Please feel free to ask questions. I can't guarantee I can answer them, but I can certainly find answers.
Question 1: How should my different essays connect?
Answer 1: What a great question. I believe they should connect in ways that show as much about your personality and key characteristics as possible. It is ideal if they complement each other. If one is about something specific you have accomplished on your own, it would be nice to have one that shows how you've accomplished something with others. If one is about how something external lyshaped you, then another should be about your iniatiative, an internal quest. If one is about a struggle, the other can be about recovery and joy. Additional essays should focus on core qualities you want to continue sharing but significantly overlapping essays are not highly recommended. Now, there are caveats. Someone who has had an extraordinary circumstance or experience can definitely have two pieces that explain the process and the outcomes or the inside and the outside. Email me and I'll tell you more.
Question 2. I need financial aid and don't know where to start?
Answser 2. http://www.fastweb.com/ is where I would start. I took a great class on financial aid and this website taught me more than anything I could imagine. It provides great information along with access to resources. I also have a great powerpoint my instructor gave us which I can email you.
Question 3. What is early decision? What is early action?
Answer 3: Early decision and early action are two ways to gain access to a college by mid-December. These applications are due the beginning of November and mean that you need to have great grades already, a strong academic and testing record, and school support.
Early Decision is legally binding. If you get in, you go. (Unless some extraordinary financial situation occurs. You can only apply to one Early Decision school. So this needs to be a match made in heaven.
Early Action is NOT binding. If you get in, you do not have to go. Some colleges have Restrictive Early Action which means you can only apply to that one school but acceptance is not binding.
Be aware that some Early Decision schools do not defer. They accept or reject.
To check whether a school you are interested in has Early Decision or Early Action, check this great website: http://www.nacac.com/college-search/search.cfm
Question 4: Is it too late to start an activity?
Answer 4: Of course, not. Just remember, however, a few things.
1. Colleges look for consistency and develoment. So if this activity is an extension of an interest such as an internship or job, great.
2. Don't do anything to sacrific your testing, academic, and application preparation process.
3. Dont' STOP anything senior year. You need to keep doing what you're doing.
4. Do what you need to show a pattern...If you're on a steady increase, then adding an activity makes perfect sense.
Question 5: What schools don't require test scores?
Answer 5: Ah, a great website exists to help you determine this: http://www.fairtest.org/univ/optional.htm
Question 6: What schools have great xxx programs?
Answer 6: I don't know off the top of my head. But there are many ways to find out.
1. Ask your friends. Ask teachers.
2. Do web searches. The College Board has a great site that helps you find schools based on majors. http://www.collegeboard.com/
Some other sites with great college finders are
Xap Student Center http://www.xap.com/
NACAC's Internet Road Map for the College Bound Student has great links and info on it as well.
http://www.nacacnet.org/MemberPortal/News/StepsNewsletter/An+Internet+Road+Map+for+the+College-Bound+Student.htm
That is all for now. I welcome more questions and desperately seek feedback and comments.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Planning the end of your pre-senior year summer
There is so much you can still do to empower yourself and improve your college admissions process.
1. Set up your final testing schedule.
a. Will you take more standardized tests? You should consider this if your scores do not match the median scores of your top colleges.
b. Which tests will you take? At this point in your life, you can still take both the ACT and SAT. Yet that requires double studying and preparing. Do not take these tests again without some kind of prepping. Those with limited time, should choose the test that all colleges on your list accept.
c. SAT Subject Tests. Some colleges require both the SATI/ACT and SAT IIs. So you should try to prepare for these tests as well. Choose ones in the fall that you can easily freshen up on. Don't take one from a course you took two years ago unless you have plenty of prep time.
d. Sign up now for tests.
2. Refine your senior year schedule. Remember...
a. If you're taking more rigorous classes, great. But make sure you have all the time and supports in place.
b. You need lots of time for your activities and work.
c. Colleges like rigour and they like improvement in grades. Don't take the hardest courses now, if you can't keep your grades up.
d. College applications take time. Build in time for really strong submissions.
3. Develop a resume.
a. It's time to collect all your 9th grade-present information. Do not go back before then except for math and foreign language and long term sports and artistic development.
b. You need to sort it into categories and create a resume with these sections.
i. education
ii. activities--you can create categories...in school, sports, community service.
iii. jobs
iv. if you want, and you like your test scores, you can include them
c. I can provide samples.
4. Start working on college applications.
a. The common application is up. www. commonapp.org
b. Start working on the basics of that great application.
c. Hints...with activities...go in order of importance...start with those activities you have done the longest and achieved the highest levels.
d. Draft your short and long essays. I will provide advice on these later.
e. Develop a master chart of key deadlines, requirements, and passwords. I can provide a master chart if you'd like.
f. Look at other colleges and their requirements. Add them to your master list.
5. Choose your teacher recommenders
a. Think of core teachers who know you best from 11th and 12th grade. English, SS, Science, Math, and Foreign Language.
b. A teacher in 10th grade is okay, especially if you have had this teacher more than once.
c. If you're well-rounded, chose one from humanities/social sciences and one from math/science
d. Do not choose two from same content area, unless one is a third recommender.
e. Contact your college counselor. Begin thinking of ways to build a stronger relationship with this core person
f. If a teacher you want to use has left your school, track him or her down now.
6. Plan late summer, early fall trips to colleges
a. It's best to visit colleges when they are in session. I know that's ideal but it's a better indication of what college life is like.
b. Plan visits to schools that highly recommend visits.
c. Plan visits to more realistic schools.
d. Plan visits to schools to which you may consider applying as early action or early decision candidates.
e. Prepare. Do research on each school. Keep notes of your core findings.
f. Arrange for tours, group information sessions, class visits, and interviews.
7. Prepare for interviews
a. Many colleges have onsite interviews. Some have local interviews. Some use admissions officers. Some use alumni. Find out what for each college. Go to admissions website, and look for interviews.
b. Some interviews are informational...They're great but don't count. They mainly focus on student questions.
c. Some interviews are evaluative. They count!!!!! They are great opportunity to share information that doesn't appear on application. Tell stories. Give powerful examples. Do not complain. Do not get off track.
d. You can bring notes.
e. You should prepare. You should know enough about the college to have a high level conversation.
f. You can take notes.
g. Bring your resume to leave with interviewer.
h. Get interviewer's card.
i. Write a hand-written thank you note with specifics in it and with one more piece of key information about you.
1. Set up your final testing schedule.
a. Will you take more standardized tests? You should consider this if your scores do not match the median scores of your top colleges.
b. Which tests will you take? At this point in your life, you can still take both the ACT and SAT. Yet that requires double studying and preparing. Do not take these tests again without some kind of prepping. Those with limited time, should choose the test that all colleges on your list accept.
c. SAT Subject Tests. Some colleges require both the SATI/ACT and SAT IIs. So you should try to prepare for these tests as well. Choose ones in the fall that you can easily freshen up on. Don't take one from a course you took two years ago unless you have plenty of prep time.
d. Sign up now for tests.
2. Refine your senior year schedule. Remember...
a. If you're taking more rigorous classes, great. But make sure you have all the time and supports in place.
b. You need lots of time for your activities and work.
c. Colleges like rigour and they like improvement in grades. Don't take the hardest courses now, if you can't keep your grades up.
d. College applications take time. Build in time for really strong submissions.
3. Develop a resume.
a. It's time to collect all your 9th grade-present information. Do not go back before then except for math and foreign language and long term sports and artistic development.
b. You need to sort it into categories and create a resume with these sections.
i. education
ii. activities--you can create categories...in school, sports, community service.
iii. jobs
iv. if you want, and you like your test scores, you can include them
c. I can provide samples.
4. Start working on college applications.
a. The common application is up. www. commonapp.org
b. Start working on the basics of that great application.
c. Hints...with activities...go in order of importance...start with those activities you have done the longest and achieved the highest levels.
d. Draft your short and long essays. I will provide advice on these later.
e. Develop a master chart of key deadlines, requirements, and passwords. I can provide a master chart if you'd like.
f. Look at other colleges and their requirements. Add them to your master list.
5. Choose your teacher recommenders
a. Think of core teachers who know you best from 11th and 12th grade. English, SS, Science, Math, and Foreign Language.
b. A teacher in 10th grade is okay, especially if you have had this teacher more than once.
c. If you're well-rounded, chose one from humanities/social sciences and one from math/science
d. Do not choose two from same content area, unless one is a third recommender.
e. Contact your college counselor. Begin thinking of ways to build a stronger relationship with this core person
f. If a teacher you want to use has left your school, track him or her down now.
6. Plan late summer, early fall trips to colleges
a. It's best to visit colleges when they are in session. I know that's ideal but it's a better indication of what college life is like.
b. Plan visits to schools that highly recommend visits.
c. Plan visits to more realistic schools.
d. Plan visits to schools to which you may consider applying as early action or early decision candidates.
e. Prepare. Do research on each school. Keep notes of your core findings.
f. Arrange for tours, group information sessions, class visits, and interviews.
7. Prepare for interviews
a. Many colleges have onsite interviews. Some have local interviews. Some use admissions officers. Some use alumni. Find out what for each college. Go to admissions website, and look for interviews.
b. Some interviews are informational...They're great but don't count. They mainly focus on student questions.
c. Some interviews are evaluative. They count!!!!! They are great opportunity to share information that doesn't appear on application. Tell stories. Give powerful examples. Do not complain. Do not get off track.
d. You can bring notes.
e. You should prepare. You should know enough about the college to have a high level conversation.
f. You can take notes.
g. Bring your resume to leave with interviewer.
h. Get interviewer's card.
i. Write a hand-written thank you note with specifics in it and with one more piece of key information about you.
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