Last week, the Common Application announced that the essay prompts for 2019-2020 will remain the same as they were in 2018-2019 application.  So, what are you waiting for?  Now is a great time to start brainstorming topics for your Common App essay.   2019-2020 Common Application Essay Prompts  Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent

Have You Considered Taking a Year Off After High School?  What? Is that insane?! Not at all. This is the perfect moment to take a deep breath and consider taking a break from school before plunging into the next pressurized step. Now is the time to think about a gap year or semester that allows

What are your plans for summer? Now is the time to find programs for next summer to participate in. Do it this month! Many programs fill up early. Many have deadlines as early as February. What Types of Summer Programs are There? Educational Want to take an AP government class or a Biology AP class in

Welcome back from winter break! Now is the time to review your MIDYEAR CHECKLIST. January is a great time to get organized and jump start your college search.   1. Meet With Your High School Counselor Review your PSAT scores with counselor and parents (if you took it in the fall) Ask for recommendations for summer programs Schedule next year’s courses Schedule your standardized tests for

Seniors, Now is the time to search for scholarships! College scholarships come from three sources: The colleges to which you have been accepted Local community organizations National or larger regional organizations At Your College  Most scholarships come from the schools that have admitted you.   The schools lists academic scholarships offered to eight or more students. Start Local 

Now that your first semester is under your belt, it is tempting to take it easy during your second semester. Why does it matter if some of my grades slip this semester? What You Do Now Matters Colleges are going to ask the following questions of you: Did you challenge yourself? Did you take the hardest

SAT Subject tests are based on curriculum you have in class. It’s an opportunity to demonstrate your mastery of a particular subject. According to the College Board, “The SAT Subject Tests offer you an additional opportunity to show colleges what you know and what you know you can do. Many colleges use the SAT Subject Tests

Seniors, it’s high season for college applications. Students are polishing off college essays, waiting on final test scores, pushing for that last GPA point. Meanwhile, parents are biting their nails and wrestling with financial aid forms. So, let’s talk about postponing college. What? Is that insane?! Not at all. This is the perfect moment to

Seniors, it’s December! Holidays, family, days off from school – and college decisions! That’s right, if you applied to any of the schools on your list in the first round of early action or early decision, you’ll probably be receiving decisions soon (if you haven’t already). This month be sure to: Watch for admissions emails or letters

It’s pointless to take a test if you can’t learn and improve from your experience. The PSAT is meant to help you do just that. Be smart by using your PSAT scores to improve your score on the “real” SAT.  Your score report explains what areas you need to review before taking the next test.

Seniors, don’t sing this song! Singing the Senioritus Blues I worked my rear off four years straight Taken tests over and over with my classmates Volunteered in every school club Took AP classes until my brain was numb Ran for office more than was my due Played Varsity football, soccer, and wrestling too Made a

Many college applications require you to select a major or state that you are “undeclared”. But, what is the best way to choose a major? Here are five ideas to guide you. Start early. It’s never too early or too late to start exploring your interests and connecting them to majors or careers. Learn about yourself. Take advantage of

How competitive for admissions will you be at a given school? This is based on several factors. Some factors are more objectively measurable in the college applications process than others. The easily measured factors include: Your GPA Your tests scores on ACT, SAT, subject tests, and AP Less measurable, but equally important in your college

 When should you take the SAT or the ACT? Identify which statement below applies to you to help determine the best timing for the test.   Juniors Using the test dates for your personality type, plan your testing schedule for the next year. Sophomores and Freshman You will have the opportunity to take the PSAT 10