Omniac Attack: Expert Tutor Tips!

A Guide To Winter Break For Parents and Students

Ruth Cisneros — Thu, 26 Dec 2013 21:55:00 GMT

Winter Break has the allure late mornings and cozy afternoons spent indoors, away from the cold and the rigors of 11^th and 12^th grade. The reality is that even though it’s technically “break,” there are plenty of things parents and students can be doing to finish high school strong and plan ahead for college.

Below are some suggestions to help you and your family to get started on some of the aspects of testing and college prep that tend to sneak up on families until it’s almost or really too late. Take advantage of the time you have away from school to address some of the finer details in continuing your education.

For Students:

Research Summer Programs: Now is the time to start planning for the summer. It may seem so far away- the warmth of the sun and the joy of finishing the spring semester still several months away; a bunch of tests, homework assignments and social events stand in the way. However, May will be here before you know it, and if you don’t make plans now to attend a summer program, you may lose a valuable opportunity to gain new experiences and connect with others that have similar interests, not to mention strengthen your college application.
Prep for the ACT or SAT: If you plan on taking the SAT on Jan. 25^th, you only have a couple days left to register, and only about a month to prepare. In the new year, the next ACT test date is February 8^th. With the ACT being as widely accepted as the SAT nowadays, this gives you time to prepare for the four content areas with some planning ahead. There are tons of great resources out there to prep for the test, and if you learn best when you have some one on one time with an expert, give us a call. We will organize a test prep schedule around your needs, and concentrate on the areas where you need the most support. As always, taking an ACT or SAT practice test is free at Omniac, for everyone.
Read Ahead: Even though you’re on break and taking it easy, reading ahead can prove to be the smartest way to be prepared. Establishing good study habits now will pay off later because there will be breaks during your college career where you find yourself very busy with schoolwork, even though you’re supposed to be relaxing. Keeping up with your schoolwork includes getting ahead as much as possible- not only will you be more prepared in class, but it can be especially helpful to compensate for time you may have to take off during the spring semester. At the beginning of break (that’s like, right now), make a list of the most important topics to focus on, and spend an hour each day reading ahead, taking some notes, and preparing for upcoming lectures by writing down your questions. Of course, complete any assigned homework early on in break. Ask your friends to meet together for a study group. By the end of break, everyone might be bored enough to review some Algebra and study for the next test.

For Parents:

Discuss Financials: Generally speaking, kids become more and more aware of family finances the more they have to ask for money for prom, letterman jackets, and college applications. When it comes to test fees and college application costs, do your research and set clear expectations with your child. Review test registration deadlines and late fees, and discuss what kind of budget you have (if any) for college application fees. Be honest. Discuss how he or she can also contribute. If your child doesn’t have a bank account, obtain a Visa card from your bank that you can reload as necessary. Issued by major credit card companies through banks and credit unions, these cards are easy to replenish, and will help in situations where your high schooler is completing these transactions at school or with their Omniac counselor.
Set Calendars: Calendar technology has evolved remarkably. Nowadays, people can share calendars and synchronize important dates, events, and deadlines. Soothe the chaos of an active high schooler’s daily schedule by taking some time over Winter Break to get on the same calendar page. Discuss class, activity, and school-wide events like graduation. Note test dates, and set reminders for the days prior to check in with your child and make sure they’re on track. While students these days have many resources to help them stay organized, there is nothing like a few well-timed check-ins from mom or dad that can help not only organize, but stay inspired to keep working hard.
Stay Involved: Mitigating the taste for freedom that teenagers get right before they graduate is probably one of the most difficult challenges for parents and teachers. Controlling the irrepressible energy of young people moving onward and upward, and channeling their excitement (or dread), can create a lot of friction and pressure between generations. Each family manages independence differently, but staying involved remains one of the biggest ways in which we can help our kids. Follow up with them after important assignments, enforce an early bedtime on test nights. While kids are eager to take on more responsibility and explore their independence, it’s easy to become overwhelmed after taking on too much. Be ready to step in and provide perspective and advice, even when it’s not directly solicited. Even behind a sour attitude, children do listen to what they are being told, and, when no one is looking, they apply the knowledge they gleaned from you. Stay strong, parents!

Winter Break is a great time to recharge your batteries, spend time with family and friends, and eat all the treats you want. It’s also a great time, as a Junior, to start your college search, conduct summer programs research, and get inspired about what your hard work will help you achieve. As a Senior, Winter Break is the long last break you will have before college and scholarship applications are due, along with transcripts and letters of recommendation. Graduation is only a few months away, and staying organized will help you focus on maintaining strong grades.

Set time aside now to organize your calendar and check in with your parents. Share with each other what your plans and expectations are, and if you find yourself coming up against questions you don’t know the answer to, you can always give us a call.

We hope you’ve had a great holiday and are looking forward to a relaxing time with your family before the hustle and bustle of the spring semester starts.

5 Smartphone Apps to Help You Through College Admissions

Ruth Cisneros — Mon, 18 Nov 2013 16:55:00 GMT

Inevitably, the smart phone has become part of our daily experience. We’ve invented a little device that allows us to connect and communicate with each other and the world at large. It may run on Android, iOS, or Windows. It takes pictures, plays music, and from time to time, allows us to chat with each other. It fits in one’s hand, and while we dreamed it up decades ago, only now are some experiencing life with a tiny computer in our pockets.

There is no consensus among parents on what’s the best age for kids to have a cell phone. Like a majority of parenting decisions, getting a smartphone depends on a family’s budget and considerations like transportation to and from after-school activities and the overall independence level of the kid (are you responsible to handle an expensive device and help pay for the bill?). As smartphone use spreads, the devices are penetrating communities where there are no other ways of accessing online content. In some places in the U.S. and many around the world, the mobile phone as it exists now is a teen’s main source of access to the internet. Learning how to use a smartphone is good practice for the tech-oriented learning and working environments of the current era.

In case you are one of the smart phone users in the U.S. and around the world, be sure to maximize it as a tool to keep you organized and timely. After all, what’s a computer good for if not to keep track of the time?

Below are 5 Android smartphone apps that will help you stay organized through the school year, especially as you manage the college application process:

Google tools: Calendar, Drive, Gmail

Gmail: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.gm

Drive: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.docs

Calendar: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.calendar

Okay, maybe I’m cheating a little by putting three apps in the first category, but these three work really well together, and are a great way to practice keeping a calendar and corresponding via email. While it’s true that 39% of students don’t use email, there’s no good excuse to be part of that statistic. Email is a regular part of college and work life. Respond promptly, and always follow up via email after a meeting. Enter all important dates, deadlines, meetings, and appointments into your calendar and set reminders for yourself. Keep all your documents handy on your Google Drive so you can access them from any computer. You never know when having a copy of your resume handy will land you a new connection or even a new job. Keeping your college application essays on your Google Drive means that you can work on them from anywhere, at any time.

Alarm Clock Plus

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vp.alarmClockPlusV2

From timing a home practice ACT test to waking up on the morning of the real thing, alarms are a handy use of a smartphone. Alarm Clock Plus is a neat app that allows you to set multiple alarms, and different types of alarms. Use it to remind yourself of tasks throughout the day. You can even set up a special alarm for a nap when you’re totally exhausted.

Color Note

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.socialnmobile.dictapps.notepad.color.note

I love Color Note because it’s so easy to use. It keeps my to-do and grocery lists organized, and I can further categorize my notes by color. It has lots of functionality, and can come in really handy to take notes on the fly. Use Color Note to capture ideas and thoughts that might otherwise slip away when you’re inspired away from the computer.

Dictionary.com – Offline

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dictionary

Dictionary.com’s new offline feature means that you now have thousands of words at your fingertips, even when you’re not connected to the internet. I’ve been using the website for years. It’s the best way to search for definitions because it pulls from all major dictionaries, offering you a number of relevant definitions. There are also interesting entries on phrases, grammar, and other writing-related subjects. Stay on top of your vocabulary by checking out the Word Of The Day in the app.

Toshl Finance Budget & Expense

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.thirdframestudios.android.expensoor

Last but not least we have a money management app because learning how to spend your dollars correctly is key to maximizing your funds and taking care of yourself in the best way possible. The look of the app is fun, with an interesting-looking mascot that walks you through the initial set-up. This app asks you to enter your expenses at a certain time each day. Input is very easy, and you can set up recurring bills, label each entry, and create some self-awareness on where your dollars go. Studies show that as we become more aware of how we’re spending money, we make smarter spending decisions overall.

Omniac Tip: Set Up Your 529 Plan for College Now!

Annie Bumgarner — Thu, 30 May 2013 12:36:00 GMT

As every family knows, the cost of a college education is rising. (Photo credit: pixculture via Flickr)

In case you missed it, yesterday (May 29, 2013) was National 529 College Savings Day, with events taking place across the country. But what is a 529...? Read on to find out.

Families are well aware of the increasing costs of college tuition. With each passing year, there seems to be a hike in the overall cost of higher education. For this reason, it's imperative that familes use wise financial planning. This can entail putting aside funds in a specific educational account, such as a 529 Plan, which offers tax benefits. However, not only are most American families not doing this; most American families don't even know about the 529 Plan! This fact was highlighted in a recent survey from Edward Jones.

The 529 Plan takes its name from Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code, which instituted this form of savings plan in 1996. Educational institutions or the state operate these plans, as a way to assist American families in putting aside money for college. Specific tax benefits have been set in place by federal law in order to encourage families to allocate funds into the accounts.

Sounds great, right? Unfortunately, people just are aware that these accounts exist. The Edward Jones survey that was done earlier in 2013 indicates a 6% drop in families' awareness of 529 Plans. This follows a similar dip last year, where awareness had fallen by 11%. The biggest drop was among young people ages 18 - 34. Awareness also varied by geographical area, with people in the Northeast being more aware of 529 Plans than people in the South and the West of the US. Income was also a factor, with awareness higher among the wealthy, and faltering in low-income populations.

According to research from the Government Accountability Office in 2012, only a scant 3% of families in the U.S. make use of 529 Plans or other savings accounts for college, e.g. the Coverdell Education Savings Account. What's more, another recent survey, from Sallie Mae, showed that far fewer people are putting any money aside for college at all, with a huge drop in just the past two years. In 2010, 60% of parents set aside some college funds for their children under age 18, whereas this number had dropped to 50% in 2012.

The College Savings Plans Network is a non-profit organization that is committed to raising awareness of 529 Plans on a national level, along with the National Association of State Treasurers. For National 529 College Savings Day, various events were hosted across the U.S. to help families discover the options available to them.

Almost all 50 states have instituted a 529 Plan; however, families may also choose to invest in a different state; this is true even if their child does not plan to go to college in that particular state. For instance, if a family lives in Arizona, but wishes to make use of New Mexico's sponsored 529 Plan, they are free to do so. The child does not need to attend college in New Mexico to take advantage of the 529 Plan there.

Why would parents want to use a plan that is out-of-state? The reason is that plans differ slightly from state to state. Families can view states by ranking at SavingforCollege.com to see how their home state compares. As of March 2013, the top college savings plans can be found in South Dakota, California and Michigan. The College Savings Plan Network also offers a very useful breakdown of plans for parents and students. To find out more about New Mexico's 529 Plan, click here.

Why wait any longer? With 529 Plans that offer increasingly better features and the cost of higher education on the rise, families with children under the age of 18 are advised to start investing in a college savings plan today.

For more information on college consulting questions, please contact Omniac Education's consulting team. You can reach us at (505) 750 4813 or by emailing info@omniaceducation.com.

College Consultant Tip: Make the Summer Count

Annie Bumgarner — Fri, 03 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Don't mess around this summer...use your time productively to build college skills! (Photo credit: Univers beeldbank via Flickr)

Summer is just around the corner...how are you spending yours? If you are a junior or sophomore in high school, this summer is a crucial opportunity for you. As tempting as it may be to kick back, relax, and soak up the sun, the summer months actually play a vital role in setting you up for the coming school year. Engaging in meaningful activities during this time can help you create a fabulous college application, write a stunning college application essay, and gain valuable skills that will carry you through your college career and a lifetime!

So, what should you do? There is a multitude of options. These include:

Volunteer work at a local non-profit organization

Why not spend time making the world a better place? You might consider doing volunteer work at the following types of organizations:

-- animal shelter

-- community center

-- program for at-risk youth

-- programs for the homeless

Volunteer work gives you the opportunity to experience life outside of your comfort zone. You'll learn a tremendous amount, build new skills, and come away with some amazing memories that can lend an extra layer to your college essay and application.

Summer internships

A summer internship at a local business will allow you to get a taste of the job world. You'll have a chance to see how a business runs, and practice an applicable skills set. This is also an excellent way to try out a career field, with little pressure. If you're thinking of going into law, try to get an internship in a law firm. If you're considering business school, find a successful small business. Choose a business that you like, and call them up to offer your services! Most business owners and managers will jump on the chance to get a little bit of free labor. Everyone wins! Check out these internship opportunities at UNM, or these paid intern positions at Smarter Schooling.

Work at a summer camp

Remember how much you enjoyed summer camp as a kid? Remember how much influence your camp counselor had on you? Well, now YOU can be the role model to younger kids. Being a camp counselor provides opportunities to use leadership and managerial skills, as well as foster good relationships. If you are enjoy the atmosphere of summer camp, this is a good way to spend a few weeks of the summer. Counseling isn't the only option, either...you could land a job as a trail guide, sports coordinator, or cook! Check out My Summer Camps to find camps around New Mexico.

Omniac Summer Academy

Looking for a way to really challenge yourself acacemically, and build skills in the career field of your choice? Omniac's "Taste of College: Summer Academy" may be the ideal way to spend part of your summer vacation.

Omniac Education's innovative summer school programs are one-of-a-kind, and focus on building essential academic skills in preparation for college.

What are the summer programs?

Students can select one or more of the following tracks:

Pre-Law
Pre-Business
Pre-Medicine
Pre-Engineering

Who should take the programs?

The programs are designed for high school students, including freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors. These programs will benefit students who are focused, driven, and want to achieve success in college.

How long are the programs?

Each program will be 32 hours, over a two-week period. (Monday through Thursday, 4 hours a day, for two weeks.)

What will the programs include?

Each program will include the following:

Curriculum manual and materials
Classroom instruction
A hands-on project related to your chosen field
Instruction in essential college-level skills, e.g. conducting research, writing papers, using resources, creating MLA bibliographies, etc.
One-on-one interaction with Omniac tutors and college consultants

Whether your volunteer at your local Humane Society, work as an intern or camp counselor, or build your set of college skills at Omniac's summer academy, make sure that you make the summer truly count! With only a short time left in your high school career, each decision that you make from here on out can have an effect on your future. Make the right choice for you!

For more information on summera activities for high school students or for Omniac's summer academy, call our expert team of tutors and college consultants at (505) 750 4813 or email info@omniaceducation.com.

ACT Tutor's Tip: How To Manage Test Anxiety

Annie Bumgarner — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 08:30:00 GMT

By targeting easier problems on the ACT, students can slow down and buy some time. (Photo credit: Wong Tong via Flickr)

Many students will be taking the April ACT this Saturday, April 13. For some teenagers, this is a nerve-wracking experience. In fact, at Omniac Education, our team of test-prep tutors often gets asked about test anxiety.

So, how can students overcome their nerves in order to be successful?

A large number of students have the academic ability to perform very well on the ACT, but their performance is sabotaged by crippling anxiety and "blank-out" syndrome.

With that in mind, we've compiled some tips for test-taking day that can help students to relax and boost performance.

1. Slow down, and take your time.

As anyone who has taken our test-prep class knows, our ACT tutors encourage students to use a personalized timing schedule for the ACT. Depending on what ACT score you aim to achieve, it may be in your best interest to focus solely on certain problems (the easy to medium difficulty questions) and simply guess on the harder questions. This will allow you to take more time on those easy questions, resulting in less stress, and a better score. Guessing on the more difficult questions is unlikely to affect your score negatively, providing that you take your time and answer a majority of the easier questions correctly. Omniac Education has developed a great timing schedule for the ACT; call us to find out more! Also, don't forget to bring a watch on test day; there may not have a clock in the testing room, and keeping track of the time is essential!

2. Don't be tired, hungry or uncomfortable.

It may seem obvious, but it's amazing how often students forget some of the basics on test day. If you are combating test anxiety, make doubly sure that your basic needs are met. Make sure that you get a good night's sleep on the night before the test; in fact, make sure that you are rested for the entire week before the test. Bring a snack (piece of fruit, granola bar, sandwich) to eat during the break. Dress in layers, so that if the test environment is too hot or too cold, you can adjust accordingly. Paying attention to the small things can make a big difference to your comfort level while taking the test.

3. Get physical!

It has been shown that by being physically active, you can improve brain function. So how can you do that? You don't necessarily have to get up at 6am on the day of the test and go for a jog (although if you want to...do it!). Just taking 15-20 minutes to briskly walk around the building or do some stretches will help get your brain and body moving.

4. Get mental!

It may sound cliche, but positive thinking is probably the most vital part of overcoming test anxiety. If you believe that you will do badly on the test, then you probably will! Getting around this problem is easier said than done, though. One thing that our tutors tell our students is that it is helpful to remember that you can take the ACT multiple times, in order to get the score you want. In other words: try to think of this test as just another practice test. While you might have the impulse to think of this test as being the key to your entire future, let us clarify: IT ISN'T. You will have another chance..and another...and another.

5. Practice makes perfect.

Another part of getting "mental" is practice. Practice, practice, practice! In our ACT classes, we provide all of our students with the "Real" ACT guide. In that book alone, there are five complete practice tests, and we highly encourage students to do all of them, prior to the actual test. The more you practice, the more comfortable you'll be. If you are short on time and there are some sections with which you struggle (e.g. math or science), then spend more there. Also, don't forget to practice the timing! Use a stopwatch and time yourself in the same way you would on the actual test day.

At Omniac education, we realize that test-taking can be tough and produce a lot of anxiety. However, we encourage all students to use some of the techniques outlined above, take a deep breath, and do their best. Good luck!

Questions about the ACT? Need more ACT tutor tips? Call us at (505) 203 4908 or email info@omniaceducation.com.

College Applications: 3 Things Low-income Families Need to Know

Annie Bumgarner — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 10:20:00 GMT

Many students are unaware of how many college options are available to them. (Photo credit: Mer Chau via Flickr)

A recent article on Slate.com commented on the way in which low-income students often miss the chance to attend America's most selective schools.

As the article suggests (and we recommend that you check it out) the answer is surprising for many people. Contrary to popular belief, it's not that low-income students can't afford to go to top-tier schools; actually, there is a wealth of scholarships available that make these institutions extremely affordable to struggling families, providing that the grades and test-scores are high.

In fact, as demonstrated in this research paper, which outlines the average cost of college for low-income students, tuition at an extremely selective school, such as Harvard or Yale, is often lower than tuition at a state university, providing that a student has good scholarship support. The main reason that poorer students don't attend top schools more frequently is that they are simply unaware of the process. Students and parents don't know the significance of ACT scores, or the framework of the college application process, where the college essay fits in, "reach" schoools vs. "target" schools, etc.

Perhaps, as an Albuquerque parent or student, you find yourself in this situation. The information out there certainly can be overwhelming: a Google search for "college application advice" turns up no fewer than 97 million results! Some families rely on college and careers counselors to guide them through, but sadly, this reliance is not always justified.

So, in a nutshell, what is it that "low-income" parents and students need to know that they're not being told?

1. Scholarships, scholarships, scholarships!

The American education system is ridiculously expensive. However, a huge and expansive network of scholarships exists that can make college much more affordable. Unfortunately, families rarely take the time to investigate and discover the financial aid that is available to them.

The most common types of scholarships include:

Academic and academic merit
Ethnicity
Gender
Religion
Community service
Disability
Sports

However, there are hundreds and thousands of less common scholarships out there, including some that are pretty unusual. Here are just a few of the weird ones:

The Kor Memorial scholarship; preference is given to students who are fluent in Klingon, or other "created" languages.
The National Candy Technologists scholarship
Chick and Sophie Major Memorial Duck Calling Contest
Tall Clubs International Student Scholarships
Scholar Athlete Milk Mustache of the Year (SAMMY) Award
Duck Brand Duct Tape Stuck on Prom Contest

Obviously, these unusual scholarships will not necessarily be suitable for everyone, and Omniac Education does not endorse any particular scholarship. The point is that there really is something out there for each and every family; we hope that students will do a little bit of investigative research and find the right fit for them. Check out Scholarship Experts, scholarships.com or Zen College Life for more information on scholarships available.

2. Your ACT score is a golden ticket.

Working here in Albuquerque, our tutors and college consultants often see smart low-income kids who have great ACT scores. Yet many of these same students opt to attend state or community college, without taking a closer look at the many options that are available to them.

Understanding ACT scores can be an important part of knowing which colleges you can attend, and what scholarship help might be available to you.

So what is the breakdown, in terms of scoring?

ACT score of 24: Academic scholarships start here.
ACT score of 27: A large number of scholarships become available, including some full-ride scholarships.
ACT score of 30+: Scholarships, including many full-ride packages, at a huge number of institutions, including top-tier colleges.
ACT score of 32+: Full ride scholarships at almost any institution of your choice.

IMPORTANT: The ACT scores listed above need to correspond with a GPA of 3.5 or higher, and 4.0 in many cases. As we've written before, GPA does matter. It matters a lot. However, if your grades are high but your ACT score is low, for whatever reason, you'll have a much more limited range of colleges that you can attend.

3. You have a wealth of options.

We have found that many lower-income students simply don't realize how many incredible choices are out there for them. Many choose to stay in-state and attend a low-tier college because they don't full grasp the amazing benefits of many other universities around the country. They may also feel uneasy branching out of their comfort zone. Our team of college consultants advises that students reach out to those around them who can steer them in the right direction. College counselors are a good first stop, but sadly, many counselors are overworked, underpaid, and aren't able to give students the one-on-one attention that they need. Students and parents should take it on themslves to do some online research, and also to reach out to others in their lives who can give support: family members, teachers, clergy, or other mentors.

At Omniac Education, we are always willing to chat to students and give some starting tips of where to look in the college search. We can also clarify questions that families might have regarding GPA, ACT, in-state vs. out-of-state, etc. For more information on the college application process, call us at (505) 750 4813 or email info@omniaceducation.com

College Consulting: 5 Reasons Why You Need It

Annie Bumgarner — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 09:36:00 GMT

A college consultant can guide students safely through the college application process. (Photo credit: Bedford College via Flickr)

It's officially spring, everyone! With the warm weather come thoughts of summer...and before you know it, fall will be here, along with the college application process. Whether you are the parent of a college-age student or a college-bound student yourself, spring is the perfect time to start thinking and talking in depth about those college options.

Many families opt to pursue the college application process on their own. However, not everyone is aware of the importance of following a particular timeline and procedure in terms of selecting the right college for an individual student. Believe it or not, there IS a correct way to approach this often-daunting task.

So what should you do? At Omniac Education, we are strong proponents of using college consultants. A college consultant is a person who is professionally trained to guide students through the college process, from the initial school list to the final all-important college essay.

Hiring a consultant can definitely be an investment. So why should you do it? Here are five good reasons:

Reason #1: Find the perfect fit

Every student is different, and has unique needs and preferences in terms of higher education. Although choosing schools from a list of thousands can be overwhelming, some schools will simply be a better fit than others. A college consultant's job is to sift through the many options and narrow them down to a list that fits YOU.

Reason #2: Get it right the first time

Imagine trying to navigate through all the confusion of the college application process, only to realize that you've botched the essay, missed a deadline, or simply chose the wrong school for your tastes and needs. Unfortunately, many students and families find themselves in this situation. Making a major error in the process may mean that you have to redo applications unnecessarily, costing you precious time and money! College consultants are able to guide you through the process step-by-step, ensuring that nothing is missed along the way.

Reason #3: Keep a competitive edge

With students in constant competition for coveted spots at top-tier universities, families may struggle to find the edge needed to secure a place. Students need to have a truly outstanding application, with a superb essay, and not a line out of place. This need for near-perfection is a source of anxiety for many families, but with their level of expertise, college consultants are a great way to ensure that you or your child really has that extra bit of "oomph".

Reason #4: Lower your stress levels

Let's face it: the whole college application process is just plain stressful. But it doesn't need to be! What could be better than turning the whole thing over to someone who truly understands the ins and outs and can instruct you throughout each step? Using the skills of a college consultant takes the pressure off and allows students and parents to really enjoy the last year or so of high school. Let your consultant do the heavy lifting!

Reason #5: Save big bucks!

Although hiring a college consultant may seem like a big expense in the short-term, it can actually save you a massive amount of money in the long term. Why? Because consultants know exactly how to save you money through scholarships, grants, and identifying the best schools in terms of financial options. Omniac college consultants are well-versed in finding the ideal financial fit for each student, making the intial investment well worth it.

If these five reasons haven't got you fully convinced, then give us a call to discuss more of what an Omniac college consultant can do for you. You can reach us at (505) 203 4908 or email info@omniaceducation.com.

Albuquerque Tutor's Tip: NMSBA -- Cracking the Questions

Annie Bumgarner — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 08:00:00 GMT

The NMSBA is a challenge for some students. Don't hesitate to ask for help! (Photo credit: Bedford College via Flickr)

Our intrepid blog readers will remember that last week, we looked at the different question types that can be found in the NMSBA (New Mexico Standard Based Assessment).

As mentioned previously, the three NMSBA question types are:

1. Multiple Choice (85 questions per test)

2. Short Answer (13 questions per test)

3. Open-Ended (8 questions per test)

So let's take a closer look at each of the question types and the benefits/drawbacks of each.

Multiple Choice

There are four primary advantages to the multiple choice questions.

Advantage One: Group Key Words and Phrases

Because these question offer only four answer choices, students are able to hone in on key words or phrases that give clues as to how to answer the question. This allows a greater degree of focus; students know that one of the four choices much be correct!

Advantage Two: Process of Elimination (POE)

Our team of tutors cannot stress the importance of POE enough. Process of elimination increases the chance of selecting the correct answer dramatically! By getting rid of one or more bad answer choices, a student is far more likely to guess the right answer, if guessing becomes necessary. Which leads us to our next advantage...

Advantage Three: You Can Guess!

Unlike other standardized tests, such as the SAT, students are not penalized for guessing incorrectly on the NMSBA. This is great news for test-takers! By using POE, as outlined above, students can vastly improve their chances of scoring one point per MC question.

Advantage Four: Just Relax!

One thing that separates the NMSBA from other tests is the amount of time that is allotted to students to complete the test. This is a very, very, very long test! As mentioned in a previous post, the complete test is over six hours long. This means that students do NOT have to rush it. Omniac tutors recommend that stuents relax, focus, and spend more time on difficult questions.

Short Answer Questions

Short answer questions ask that students generate their own answers, rather than choosing from a list. It is very important to note that students should NEVER LEAVE A SHORT ANSWER BLANK! Even if a student's answer is incomplete or imperfect, it may be possible to earn one out of the two possible points.

For math short answer questions, students should always show work, draw, and label where possible.

For reading short answer questions, students should be very careful with grammar and spelling. Making careless errors here can cost you a point. Also, write in full sentences. No sentence fragments!

Open-Ended Questions

Open-ended questions require the most amount of focus from students; they also have the most time allotted (10 minutes per open-ended question). Just as with the short answer questions, students must:

Be careful with spelling and grammar.
NEVER leave the question completely blank.
Write in complete sentences.
Use details from the question/passage to support their written answer.

In addition, students should remember that it is not necessary to get all four available points for open-ended questions. Even one or two points will help students achieve proficiency, which is the primary purpose of the NMSBA.

At Omniac Education, our tutors and college consultants strive to help students achieve their academic goals. We have helped many students be successful with the NMSBA, as well as other standardized tests. If you, or your child, is struggling with the skills needed for the NMSBA, please do not hesitate to contact us by calling (505) 203 4908 or emailing info@omniaceducation.com.

Albuquerque Tutor's Tip: NMSBA -- Question Types

Annie Bumgarner — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 08:00:00 GMT

With a little practice and guidance, students can ace the NMSBA. (Photo credit: Bedford College via Flickr)

In last week's post, we looked at some basic facts about the NMSBA (New Mexico Standards Based Assessment). This week, it's time to dig a little deeper and examine some more details of the test structure. This post outlines the different question types on the NMSBA, the timing of these questions, and how each question type is scored.

NMSBA Question Types

In all three sections of the NMSBA, students will find three distinct styles of question. They are as follows:

1. Multiple Choice

As with all standardized tests, the NMSBA has a massive number of multiple choice questions. In fact, there are 85 multiple choice questions in total. All MC questions have four answer choices: A, B, C, and D. In terms of test timing, students have approximately one minute in which to answer each multiple choice question. This may seem like a short time, but compared to other tests (such as the ACT), this is actually a very generous amount of time. In terms of how they contribute to the overall score, each MC question is worth exactly one point.

Multiple choice breakdown:

85 questions
4 answer choices
1 minute per question
Worth 1 point per question

2. Short Answer Questions

Unlike many other tests, the NMSBA actually requires some production-based responses from students. In other words, it's not enough for students to just pencil in a blank circle on an answer sheet; they are actually expected to use their writing skills and reasoning skills on this test.

This occurs in two question types; the first of which is the short answer question. There are thirteen of these on the test, and they are worth up to two points each. Students are required to write 1-4 sentences as a response, and are given three minutes in which to do this.

Short Answer Breakdown:

13 questions
1 - 4 sentences required
3 minutes per question
Worth 0-2 points

3. Open-Ended Questions

The writing doesn't stop there, though. In addition to multiple choice questions and short answer questions, the NMSBA also features Open-Ended questions, which require a longer, more essay-like response (approximately 4-10 sentences, or more). Fortunately for beleaguered students, there are only eight of these questions on the test, they are worth 0-4 points each, and students have roughly 10 minutes in which to complete them.

It is very important to note that these open-ended questions occur on all sections; they are not contained solely within the English section. They pop up in the math section just as frequently. For example, an open-ended question in the math section might ask students to show their work, or to explain their reasoning in answering a particular problem.

Open-Ended Breakdown:

8 questions
4-10 sentences required
10 minutes per question
Worth 0-4 points

Practice, Practice, Practice!

We've now described the three different types of question that can be found on the NMSBA. For students who are used to strictly multiple choice tests, the NMSBA may take some adjustment. Therefore, it's extremely important for students to know what to expect, and to practice the various types of problems in advance.

Our expert team of tutors at Omniac Education has put together a complete curriculum to help students be successful with the NMSBA. Our blog series will continue to look at various aspects of this important test; however, don't hesitate to contact us if you or your child is struggling and needs some extra help and advice regarding the NMSBA.

Our next post will cover some more specific tips for tackling and mastering each of the three question types. Don't miss it!

Our dedicated team of experienced tutors is standing by to help New Mexican students succeed academically. Contact us at (505) 750 4813, or email info@omniaceducation.com for more information about our tutoring, test-prep and college consulting services.

Albuquerque Tutor's Tip: NMSBA --The Basics

Annie Bumgarner — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 08:00:00 GMT

For many students, the NMSBA is the final step before achieving that high school diploma! (Photo credit: Bedford College via Flickr)

NMSBA Basics

As promised, our next series of blog posts will be about the NMSBA, how it works, and how New Mexican students can be successful with this important test.

First things first!

How is it used?

The NMSBA is used for two purposes.

1. For graduating seniors to demonstrate that their knowledge is at an appropriate level.

2. To hold schools across the state accountable, in terms of how they deliver the standard core curriculum.

How is it structured?

The NMSBA has three different sections: Reading, Math, and Science. However, it's important to note that the Science section is only taken in a student's junior year. Seniors only take the Math and Reading sections of the test.

Math and Reading

In addition, only the Reading and Math sections actually count towards a student's overall mark on the NMSBA. The Science section is used more as a gauge of a particular school's overall success; they reflect on the school, but not the student. At Omniac, our test-prep tutors do recommend that students do their best on all threesections; however, it's important to know that the most time and energy should be put into the Math and Reading sections. We will be focusing on these two sections in this post and subsequent posts.

The Breakdown

The breakdown of Math and Reading is as follows:

Reading

41 items
160 minutes (just over two and a half hours)

Math

65 items
210 minutes (three and a half hours)

In other words, the Math and Reading sections combined are five and a half hours long! The NMSBA is definitely a marathon, not a sprint. This is why some schools divide the test up over several days or an entire week. Students should be prepared both mentally and physically for the duration of the test.

How is it scored?

The NMSBA is scored according to level of proficiency. Proficiency is broken down into four different levels:

1. Beginning Step
2. Near Proficiency
3. Proficiency
4. Advanced

In order for students to "pass" the NMSBA and graduate high school, they must demonstrate proficiency. In order to demonstrate proficiency, they must accrue two thirds of the total number of points possible on the NMSBA. Less than two thirds of the points is considered to be below proficiency.

In our next post, we'll dig a little deeper into the scoring system to unpack the way that the scores are calculated, and also talk about how the individual question types are scored.

As always, if you are in need of academic tutoring, test-prep guidance or advice on any other school-related issue, please don't hesitate to contact us at (505) 203 4908 or email info@omniaceducation.com for more information.

Albuquerque Tutor's Tip: Cracking the NMSBA

Annie Bumgarner — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 08:00:00 GMT

It's test time again...this time it's the NMSBA! (Photo credit: WesDigital via Flickr)

Attention students and parents! Just when you thought that there couldn't possibly be any more standardized tests to take...it's almost March, and that means that it's almost time for the NMSBA (New Mexico Standards-Based Assessment).

There have been a lot of changes in the last couple of years in terms of the NMSBA and its importance to students, leading to some confusion among students and parents. Because of these changes, our Albuquerque tutor team has put together a series of tips and tricks for cracking the NMSBA.

But first and foremost...let's get some basic info out of the way:

What is the NMSBA, exactly?

The NMSBA is a standarized test (taken by all public school or charter school students) that is intended to assess a student's overall level of learning.

When is it taken?

The NMSBA is usually taken in the spring (usually March) of a high-school student's junior year, and then if necessary, again in the spring of the student's senior year.

Why is it important and different from other tests?

In a single word: GRADUATION! If a student does not pass the NMSBA (and we'll discuss what "pass" means in a later post), he or she will not be allowed to graduate with a high-school diploma. It may still be possible to leave school, but the student must then take his or her GED and will not have a high-school diploma from the school.

In other words...this is serious business. And what's more, the state recently tightened up the requirements for the NMSBA in math and reading. This has both teachers and students scrambling to ensure that students pass the test and achieve success.

So where does Omniac come in?

Fortunately, if you are feeling some of the NMSBA blues...the Omniac team is here to help! Last year we ran a number of very successful NMSBA classes, classes that were designed to help students be successful in taking the NMSBA. Using our experience in teaching test-prep for the ACT and SAT, we developed a full curriculum to teach the NMSBA. Our aim was to demystify the process and make sure that students (and parents) really understand the way that the test works, in order to get maximum results.

Over the next few weeks, the Omniac blog will take a look at a few key aspects of the NMSBA, including the various question types, the math section, English section, and a variety of test-taking tips. Don't miss it!

If the NMSBA has you stressed, our team is here to answer questions and provide you with academic assistance. Call us at (505) 750 4813 or email info@omniaceducation. com.

News and Special Offers from Omniac!

Annie Bumgarner — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 08:00:00 GMT

We offer academic tutoring for kids (and adults!) of all ages! Check out our special offers below. (Photo credit: arrathoonlaa@att.net via Flickr)

Our trusty team of tutors and college consultants here at Omniac Education is pleased to announce a number of special offers that are currently available.

Check out the following offers:

1. New referral program!

Are you one of our many satisfied current Omniac clients? Then save yourself some cash by referring a friend through our brand-new referral program!

Any client who refers a new client to us will receive a refund equal to 20% of the cost of their package.
A 'new client' is someone with whom we have not worked previously.
Both the old and new client must have purchased (or will be purchasing) packages totaling at least $500.
The total value of the new client's package must at least be equal to that of the old client.
Does not apply to academic tutoring (test prep or college consulting only).
Refer up to FIVE new people to get the maximum benefit!

1. New loyalty program!

Are you a loyal Omniac customer? We've created a way to reward you for your continued patronage!

Any client who has completed an ACT program (affiliate class, standard class, or full tutoring package) now will receive a 20% discount on any future test-prep tutoring hours.
Standard class and test-prep tutoring students who do not meet our 2-Point-Promise (an increase on the ACT of at least 2 points) receive free refresher tutoring as always.
Students may qualify for the Loyalty Program after their free refresher tutoring is completed.
Applies to test-prep tutoring only

3. Special offer on academic tutoring!

Do you, your child, or someone you know need some help in boosting grades? You're in luck! Omniac is offering a special deal on academic tutoring.

Sign up for academic tutoring (no contract required!) and receive 10% off UNLIMITED TUTORING HOURS for your first full month of tutoring! This deal beats every available price out there. Call us and mention code ACHIEVEMENT to take advantage of this awesome deal!

We are excited to be able to offer these special deals to the Albuquerque community. If you need academic tutoring, test-prep tutoring, college consulting or advice, please call us at (505) 750 4813 or email info@omniaceducation.com. We look forward to talking to you!

Albuquerque Tutor's Tip: Take Free Online Courses!

Annie Bumgarner — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 08:00:00 GMT

We encourage all of our students to pursue online courses to increase your knowledge and enhance your college application! (Photo credit: onlinedegree7 via Flickr)

Ok...so we realize this may start to sound like a broken record, but here at Omniac we can't stop talking about how awesome MOOCs are! In a recent post, we wrote about the availability of MOOCs (Mass Online Open Courses). For those of you who missed it the first time around, MOOCs are college-level courses provided by a host of top-tier universities (including many Ivy League institutions, such as Harvard, Yale, Duke, and others!).

There are several reasons why our Omniac tutors and college consultants recommend that high-school students enroll in these courses.

1. Show interest in your chosen field of study.

We recognize that not all students may know right now what they want to study in college, or have chosen a specific major. However, hopefully you do have some idea of what area interests you most, e.g. arts and humanities (English, History, Art, Music, Sociology, Psychology, International Relations, etc.) or sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Computer Science). Perhaps you are a math whiz, and are thinking of going into engineering or architecture. Or maybe you are thinking of pursuing a career as a doctor or lawyer.

If you are considering any of the above, then choosing some MOOCs that correspond to your interests is an unbeatable way to dip your toes in to a subject, and also to prove to colleges and universities that you have a genuine interest in further studies. Many of the MOOCs offer certificates of completion, if you finish the course. These certificates and the knowledge you gain are invaluable when it comes to those college interviews and applications!

2. Create material for your college application essay.

We have written in the past about the importance of writing great college essays. We can't stress it enough: your essay is a VITALLY important piece of your college application. With thousands and thousands of applicants each year, college admissions offices rely on your essay to distinguish your application from the masses. Your essay on how your MOOC about Women and the Civil Rights Movement (or another course) changed your life could be what pushes your essay out of the "average" category!

3. Learn and have fun!

With top professors and a vast range of topics, let's face it: these courses are just plain fun, for their own sake! At Omniac, we encourage all of our students to pursue learning, in any form. These courses are extremely accessible, enjoyable, and can improve your skills in many different areas, and can also help prepare you for the academic atmosphere of college.

Here are some of the courses available, broken down by subject (many of them are about to begin, or are in progress, so check them out ASAP!):

Science:

Fundamentals of Human Nutrition

Introduction to Evolution and Genetics

Science from Superheroes to Global Warming

Synapses, Neurons and the Brain

Galaxies and Cosmology

Math:

Algebra

Pre-Calculus

Calculus One

Calculus: Single Variable

Introduction to Logic

Arts/Humanities:

The Modern World: Global History Since 1760

Fantasy and Science Fiction: The Human Mind, Our Modern World

Introduction to Philosophy

Introduction to Sociology

English Composition 1: Achieving Expertise

The Ancient Greeks

We've presented just a few of the courses available. Check out Coursera for more courses and more information!

If you would like academic tutoring, test-prep tutoring, or college consulting services, please call Omniac's expert team of tutors at (505) 750 4813 or email us at info@omniaceducation.com.

Albuquerque Tutor's Tip: Second Semester Success

Annie Bumgarner — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Whether a student is in elementary school or high school, the second semester of the year is an important time. (Photo credit: Lel4and via Flickr)

2013 is here at last! We at Omniac Education would like to wish all of our students, and parents of our students, a very happy New Year.

We hope that everyone has enjoyed a wonderful winter break. Winter break is a great time to rest up, relax, and reflect on the past school semester. It's also a time to think about the coming semester. Depending on what year of school a student is in, the second semester can be an extremely important time for some very specific activities and goals.

Our team of academic tutors and test prep tutors has put together a list of action items, according to grade level:

Grades K - 8:

In elementary school and middle school, the second semester of the school year is a time for parents to really assess their child's progress. With the first semester in the past, a very realistic portrait of your child's grades has emerged. Where are his/her strongpoints? Weak points? How is he/she doing in the basics, like math and English? Is there room for improvement?

These early years are extremely important for laying a foundation for good study habits and satisfactory grades. Our tutors often work with students in high school who are struggling because they fell behind in elementary school or middle school and never caught up. For this reason, it is extremely important for parents to pay attention, especially in this second half of the year. If help is needed, our academic tutors are always on hand to give advice and to work with students to ensure better grades.

Grades 9 - 10 (Freshman/Sophopmore):

For freshmen and sophomores, the second semester is a time to buckle down and get really serious about high grades. It may not immediately seem as though these early high school years are as important as a student's junior and senior year. However, our Omniac college consultants are quick to tell students that this simply is not the case. The freshman and sophomore years are the time to build an excellent high school transcript. These grades are extremely important when the time comes to put together a college application package.

Grade 11 (Junior):

CALLING ALL JUNIORS!!! This semester is EXTREMELY important for you! In fact, it may be the most important semester of your entire high school career. Why? Because this is the time to start getting serious about the college application process. There are several different things that you really need to do in this semester:

1. Keep those grades high.

Hopefully you've been doing this all along...but whatever you do, don't stop now! Your college applications will be submitted in the fall of your senior year, so colleges will be looking at your junior year as the most complete picture of your grades.

2. Compile a college wish-list. Then act on it.

The second semester of your junior year is the ideal time to make your college wish-list. According to our college consultants, there should be three different types of schools on your wish-list: "reach" schools (schools you would like to attend, but that may be at the high end of your reach), "target" schools (schools where you have a solid chance of acceptance) and "safe" schools (schools where you are guaranteed to gain acceptance). Once you've made your wish-list, start scheduling campus visits!

3. Take the ACT and SAT for the first time, if you haven't already.

Fortunately for students, the ACT and SAT occur several times during each year. The second semester of your junior year is a perfect time to take these tests. If you get the score you want...fantastic! If not, then you still have plenty of time to take the tests again and improve. Of course, our expert test-prep tutors are always here to help you get your ideal score, whatever that may be.

4. Consider seeking professional college consulting guidance.

Here at Omniac, we advise students to begin college consulting programs during the second semester of their junior year. It gives plenty of time to accomplish everything that needs to happen in order to complete college applications in the most thorough way, ensuring that students and families are not rushing through the process. With the help of an expert college consultant, students can see optimal results in terms of college selection.

Grade 12 (Senior):

Well, seniors, the good news is...in YOUR second semester, you really don't have a lot to worry about! If all has gone well, then your college applications have already been submitted. You may have even heard back from colleges already. All your standardized tests have been taken, and it's really time to enjoy the last fleeting days of the high-school experience. Of course, there may be some exceptions to this rule. If you are struggling at this point in your senior year and need academic guidance, test-prep guidance or college consulting, then please do not hesitate to contact us.

Happy Second Semester, everyone!

Our team of academic tutors, test-prep tutors and college consultants is always ready and willing to help Albuquerque students meet their scholastic goals. Call us today at (505) 750 4813, or email us at info@omniaceducation.com.

Albuquerque Tutor's Tip: Super Study Skills

Annie Bumgarner — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Developing great study skills can last a lifetime. (Photo credit: Paul. B via Flickr)

In our last blog post, our tutors gave some great tips about making the most of semester finals. However, if you are a high-school student or parent, you may be asking, "Ok, I get it that we need to buckle down and study, but HOW exactly do we do that?"

Here's how. Our team of expert tutors has put together a great list of ways in which you can improve your study skills in a very useful, concrete way.

Study Tip #1: Find Your Motivation

Human beings are driven by needs and wants. If you can find a reason to need or want good grades, you will get them! It's that simple. But how can you locate that driving reason? The obvious way is to think of the future benefits of studying: having a job you enjoy, having money to buy stuff, having a sense of success...these are all things to focus on, in terms of motivation. However, for many students, this is all too far away. What about NOW? Well, it's a great chance for parents and students to work together to find that immediate reward for studying. One idea is to have a "reward fund". For every "A" that a student receives on a major test, parents can put an agreed-upon certain amount of money in a "reward" jar. It doesn't need to be a lot...even $2-5 per test can add up to a hefty amount at the end of the year. Parents and students could also agree on other rewards. How about a new electronic gadget, shopping spree, or extension of curfew privileges? These rewards will vary from family to family, but material motivation can work wonders!

Study Tip #2: Set Up a Comprehensive Schedule

We've already talked about setting up a study schedule, but setting up a broader, more comprehensive schedule for the entire school year can also be extremely useful. By getting organized with a day planner or calendar, students can map out their time. Write down all important events: tests, homework deadlines, social events, sports events, family vacations, extracurricular activities, ALL of it! This is a great way to budget your time and developing organizational habits will serve a student well in years to come. In the short-term, it can help to zone in on precious study time in order to use it wisely.

Study Tip #3: Start Slow and Build Up

Have difficulties focusing? By starting with just a few minutes at a time, you can adjust and build up to longer study periods. At first, set a timer for 15 -20 minutes. Focus as much as you can. Then take a break of half an hour or so, and do something that isn't related to your schoolwork. Then come back and study for another 15-20 minutes. After a few days, increase your study time to 30 minutes. Work your way up to 45 minutes or an hour at a time.

Study Tip #4: Location, Location, Location!

Where you study can have a huge impact on how well you are able to concentrate. Firstly, you should make a habit of always studying in the same place, if possible. Either a desk or table is ideal. Also, your location should be quiet and free of distractions. Omniac's top tutors also recommend that you practice studying WITHOUT headphones or music. Although many students feel that having the background noise helps them focus, this is not actually true, and can damage your attention span.

Study Tip #5: Get In the Mood

It has been shown that people perform highest on tests when they are able to study while experiencing the same mood or emotional state that they have during the test. In other words, the mood you have while you study should be similar to the mood you have when you take your test. If you are too relaxed while studying, you won't remember the material as well. By the same token, if you are too hyper or wound up, you won't really absorb the material either. We recommend adopting a calm, but serious mood. This will also help you combat text anxiety on test day!

Need more study advice, academic tutoring, test-prep tutoring, or college consulting? Call our expert Albuquerque team of tutors and consultants at (505) 750 4813 or email info@omniaceducation.com. We're here to help!

Albuquerque Tutor's Tip: How to Ace Those Finals!

Annie Bumgarner — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Many students experience test anxiety at the end of the semester. (Photo credit: H o l l y via Flickr)

It's almost the end of the semester...and high school students across Albuquerque and the rest of the country are sliding into a state of terror and panic. Why? It's finals time! A thought that can strike fear and horror into the heart of even the most diligent student...

Whether you are a straight-A student (and of course we hope you all are) or not, test-taking can be a difficult and challenging experience.

Fortunately, our team of expert Albuquerque tutors has a lot of tips on how to ace those tests and keep your grades on track.

1. Make a study plan.

It may seem elementary, but we're always surprised at the number of students who just don't bother to do this. It doesn't take long...our tutors suggest taking an hour or two per subject. Want to get really organized? Use Excel to create your study schedule, with dates assigned to each chapter or topic. Highlight them according to subject, if need be. Then use Google calendars to set alarms for your email or phone to remind you!

2. Once of you've made your study plan, STICK TO IT!!!

So you have that great study plan...now actually use it! We know that this time of year is full of distractions...(Christmas shopping, anyone?) but it's vitally important for students to buckle down to the task and actually stick to a study schedule.

3. On test day, don't panic.

Our tutors see cases of test anxiety all the time, whether with the ACT, SAT or these pesky semester final exams. Regardless of the situation, there are a few things you can do to calm your nerves and ensure that you are at you very best:

Get plenty of rest. This means NOT staying up until 3 a.m. cramming!
Get moving. Physical exercise wakes up the brain and gets the blood flowing. Even just briskly walking around the school a time or two will help.
Get serious. Study, study hard, and study well. Stick to the study plan and don't cram at the last minute.

Following these simple tips can help you be more alert and ready for that chemistry or English final.

We also encourage all high-school students to take these finals extremely seriously. Even if you are a freshman or sophomore, these tests do matter. Always do your best!

Of course, we at Omniac are also more than happy to work with students on any high-school student that might be particularly challenging or troubling. Is calculus stressing you out? How about physics, or that big English essay that's due? Our tutors are all highly trained and experienced; we'd love to help you out! We don't have any contracts, so you can have as many or as few hours of tutoring as you need. Call us at (505) 750 4908 or email info@omniaceducation.com for more information.

Albuquerque College Essays and Applications Workshop

Annie Bumgarner — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 12:45:00 GMT

The new workshop will give students valuable college essay tips. (Photo credit: CollegeDegrees360 via Flickr)

NEW!!! Omniac is offering a College Essay and Applications workshop, starting on December 9, 2012!

If you are a senior in high school or the parent of a senior, you may be experiencing a slight sense of panic right about now. It's that time! Time for all those college applications to be finalized and submitted.

For many students and parents, this can be a real period of terror. Did you fill out all the forms correctly? Are you hitting the correct deadlines? And what about that college application essay? Was it good enough? Could it have been better?

Ideally, our expert team of college consultants at Omniac Educations likes to start working with students in their junior year of high school. This leaves lots of time to create valuable college checklists, narrow down the college search, and provide that the entire process is as thorough and complete as possible.

However, it's easy to lose track of time...and for many families, the college deadlines are here before they know it! With that in mind, the Omniac Education team has come up with a great new workshop to help students who are in the process of completing the college application process.

The College Essays and Applications workshop will include the following:

Three (3) hours of instructional classroom time
One (1) hour of one-on-one personalized guidance and advice
Essay packet and college workbook

The course is priced at $299, plus tax, for all of the above.
There are two sets of dates of the course in Albuquerque. They are:

December 11 & 13, 2012, 6 - 7:30 pm
December 17 & 19, 2012, 6 - 7:30 pm

The course will be held at the Omniac Education office, at 3150 Carlistle Blvd., 87110.

Again, this is a fantastic opportunity for students to ensure that applications and college essays are in the best possible shape prior to subission. In particular, colleges pay extremely close attention to submission essays. It's vital that a college essay reflect the full extent of a student's potential. Anything less could cost you a place at the school of your choice!

Don't delay...time is running out. Sign up for the College Essays and Applications class today! To register, you can reach the Omniac team at (505) 750 4908 or email us at info@omniaceducation.com.

College Consulting News: Colleges Agree to Online Courses

Annie Bumgarner — Mon, 26 Nov 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A group of prestigious colleges has recently agreed to offer online courses. (Photo credit: vanvouverfilmschool via Flickr)

In a recent blog post, our team of expert Albuquerque tutors took a look at MOOCs, or Mass Online Open Courses. Lots of leading universities, such as Harvard, Stanford and Yale are making these courses available online for free, thereby bringing top-notch education to the masses.

Fortunately for all of us, MOOCs may be part of a bigger trend towards online courses in general. In the past, online courses have often been considered to be slightly sub-par to regular courses in terms of earning a college degree or credit. Now this is changing, quickly. In fact, following on the heels of the recent boom in MOOCs, a group of ten major universities recently announced the fact that they will offer online courses for college credit, starting in the fall of 2013. Kown as "Semester Online", the classes will be pilot classes, will use the same faculty as regular classes, and will be available to anyone who has gained acceptance to any of the colleges in question. The universities involved in the consortium includes Duke University, Northwestern University, Vanderbilt University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, among others.

What does this mean, in practical terms? According to the college consultants at Omniac Education here in Albuquerque, online courses offering college credits can be a great opportunity for students. Benefits include the following:

1. Flexibility in working from home.

Just as working from home is a much-coveted situation for professionals in the workplace, the capacity to earn credits with well-respected universities from the comfort of one's own home will be a much-welcome development. Students will have less excuse to miss class if they are able to attend classes in their pajamas!

2. More creativity in learning.

As with MOOCs, the new online courses will open up a whole world of possibilities in terms of interaction and learning. Professors wil be able to use online tools much more effectively, while students will be able to work in virtual groups and communicate much more readily outside the confines of a traditional classroom.

3. Financially affordable.

Don't quote us on this...but our college consultant hypothesis is that these online courses are likely to be far more affordable than traditional classroom education. Just think: a traditional classroom has to account for facility costs, janitorial maintenance, transportation, utilities, etc. If students are able to study at home, the college or university does not have to cover these costs and can pass on the savings to the student. Great news for parents and students alike!

We at Omniac will be keeping an eye on the latest developments in regards to online courses. Keep checking in to our blog for the latest news!

Do you need college consulting guidance, academic tutoring, ACT tutoring or SAT tutoring in Albuquerque? Contact our team of tutors and consultants at (505) 203 4908 or email us at info@omniaceducation.com.

Albuquerque College Consulting: Last Minute College Application Tips

Annie Bumgarner — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The essay is a vital part of your college application package. Don't rush it! (Photo credit: tonyhall via Flickr)

It's mid-November: the time of year where parents and students might begin to panic about the college application process, especially if a student is in his or her senior year.

Here at Omniac Education, our college consulting team highly recommends that students begin the college application process in the spring of their junior year of high school. This leaves plenty of time to look at a wide range of different colleges, compare benefits and drawbacks, visit campuses, ensure that ACT and SAT test prep is done in a timely fashion, and develop an amazing application essay.

However, while we would like to see all Albuquerque families follow this timeline, it just isn't always the case. Parents and students alike can get caught up in the day-to-day business of living, and before they know it...fall of senior year has arrived, and those application deadlines are just around the corner! Most colleges and universities set their deadlines for late winter/early spring (usually January - March). This means that application packets really should be submitted before Christmas, in most cases.

Fortunuately, our college consultants have a few handy tips to calm the panic and make the process just a little bit sweeter.

Last Minute College Application Tip #1: Make a School Checklist

This is a great way to organize your application in a shorter amount of time. Making a checklist for every single school will also ensure that you don't miss any uber-important deadline dates or pieces of your application packet.

You should have a checklist for each school to which you are applying. Your checklists should include the following:

Each and every deadline for that school
Each document or piece of information required by the school
Any other special requirement for that particular school

When it comes to making checklists, Omniac college consultant Mark Truman says, "We do this for our students to make sure they don't miss anything. Each school has very unique needs!" Keeping an organized list of those needs is immensely helpful, especially if you are running out of time.

Last Minute College Application Tip #2: Make Time For Your Essay.

You may be in a hurry to get that application in the mail, but your essay is one part of the application process that should not be rushed. Application essays play a very important role in college acceptance, so this is one area where, as a student, you should take time to do your best and really shine. Don't try to cram it in at the last minute and stay up until 3 a.m. the night before your packet needs to be in the mail. Spend as much time as possible perfecting your essay.

Last Minute College Application Tip #3: For the Essay, Review Past Activities.

Past experiences or activities make great topics for that fabulous college essay. However, you often won't remember what you did as a sophomore. Ask your parents for help brainstorming about what was going on in those early years of high school. They may prompt some relevant memories about that volunteer trip you took, or the summer you spent working with the elderly at the local nursing home. Teenagers are more likely to live in the moment and not realize how useful these past experiences really are when writing a fantastic essay.

Following these tips can help make a last-minute application process slightly less painful. Of course, you can also contact our expert team of college consultants here in Albuquerque by calling Omniac Education at (505) 750 4813 or emailing us at info@omniaceducation.com. We can also provide top-quality ACT test prep tutoring, SAT test prep tutoring and academic tutoring.

Albuquerque Tutor Tip: Why Vote for Higher Education Bond C?

Annie Bumgarner — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 08:00:00 GMT

There are local issues on the ballot that affect Albuquerque students. Get out and vote! (Photo credit: kristin_a (Meringue Bake Shop) via Flickr)

With all the hype that currently surrounds the presidential election, it can be easy to lose sight of other, more local issues that will be on the ballot when Albuquerque voters head to the booths on November 6.

According to our expert college consultants at Omniac Education, one of these local issues is guaranteed to have a huge effect on Albuquerque college students and those who are heading to college soon. In fact, Albuquerque students who are 18 or over (i.e. voting age) and concerned parents have an opportunity this election to make a lasting impact on the quality of education at the University of New Mexico (UNM), College of New Mexico (CNM), and other institutions of higher learning across the state..

This opportunity for educational improvements, which is also the last item on the New Mexico ballot, is titled General Obligation Bond C for Higher Education. Bond C will give colleges and universities across the state (including CNM and UNM) just under $120,000,000 in funding for renovations, expansion, and general improvements.

What does this look like in practical terms? If the bond passes, UNM will get $24.5 million dollars of funding. This funding will primarily used to remodel the biology and chemistry buildings on UNM's campus. The labs and classrooms in these buildings date back to the 1960s currently, even though enrollment in Chemistry alone at UNM has risen by 80%. Bond C would give students and faculty a more modern facility in which to work and study. This, in turn, could attract a lot more students to those departments at UNM, and to New Mexico in general.

As for CNM, GO Bond C would give the college $10.5 million dollars in funding. The plans for this money at CNM include renovating the science building, with particular attention to anatomy, physiology, biology, physics and chemistry labs. The funds would also go towards building new labs in the building. Faculty say that these improvements will allow many more students to have hands-on experience in the science labs. Although a handful of faculty members at CNM have protested agains the bond, arguing that the money should be spent on increasing faculty salaries rather than facility improvements, the majority of faculty members are thrilled about the possibility of the bond passing.

The best thing about Bond C? It will come with no tax increase! The money brought in by the state through existing property tax revenue is sufficient to cover the bond money, as is. In addition, the new renovations at UNM and CNM (as well as at other colleges across New Mexico) will bring in over 1,200 new construction and labor jobs. What a great boost to the New Mexican economy!

As academic tutors, ACT tutors, SAT tutors and college consultants here at Omniac, we are passionately invested in education in New Mexico. Voting for GO Bond C is a fantastic way to support educational growth and development. We encourage all of you (who are of voting age) to get out there and support education with your vote. The bond is likely to be at the very end of your ballot, so be sure to look for it.

Have questions for our college consulting team? Need tutoring services? Call us here in Albuquerque at (505) 750 4813 or email info@omniaceducation.com.

Albuquerque ACT Tutor Profile: Sarah McPhee

Annie Bumgarner — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Sarah McPhee is an Omniac Education tutor and former student. (Photo courtesy of Sarah McPhee)

At Omniac Education, we ensure that our students have only the best and brightest tutors in Albuquerque. One of these tutors is Sarah McPhee. Sarah is actually a former Omniac student who went through the ACT tutoring program in Albuquerque. As a result, her high ACT score allowed her to get a Regent's Scholarship at the University of New Mexico (UNM). Sarah then went on to complete tutor training and become an Omniac tutor! We caught up with her to find out about her Omniac experience as both student and tutor, and to find out what advice she has for ACT students:

How did you first find out about Omniac Education?

I wish I had a better answer, but my mom actually found out about Omniac. She had been worrying about my consistent ACT scores, which were not quite where we wanted them, and was looking for a program that would give me the final push into the thirties.

What kind of class did you take with Omniac? Why?

At Omniac, I had one-on-one ACT tutoring with a standard tutor. We choose the one-on-one tutoring because I was in a tricky position; I needed to increase only 1 or 2 points but I was already scoring at a high level. The tutoring gave me specialized help that focused only in the areas needed to improve my overall ACT score.

What were some things that really stood out about your experience as an Omniac student?

I had taken ACT prep before and it had always been dry and slow paced. Omniac made the experience much more interactive and interesting while still maintaining the educational integrity.

What made you decide to become an Omniac tutor?

I decided to become an Omniac tutor because, having gone through the all the standardized tests and the college admissions process, I know how big of a difference a high ACT score can make, for both the schools you can be accepted to and what those schools are willing to offer you. I wanted to be involved with helping other students receive those same benefits.

What has been the most rewarding thing so far about tutoring?

The most rewarding thing that has come from Omniac tutoring has been the looks on students' faces when they learn that with a high ACT score, they can get scholarships and be paid to go to college!

As both a student and teacher, what advice do you have for current students?

Don’t be afraid of the ACT and don’t be afraid to take it more than once. I took the ACT five times! And in the end, it was worth the early Saturday morning frustration. The increase of 2 points made the difference between going to college and getting paid to go!

Are you a student who needs help with those last couple of points on the ACT? Need academic tutoring or college consulting? Our team of tutors and college consultants at Omniac Education in Albuquerque can help. Call us at (505) 750 4813 or email info@omniaceducation.com for more information about tutoring programs in Albuquerque.

Albuquerque Tutor's Tip: Free Online Courses from Top Colleges

Annie Bumgarner — Mon, 15 Oct 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Free online courses are an excellent way to pad your college application. (Photo credit: hackNY via Flickr)

Recently, Harvard University became the latest in a growing list of colleges to offer free online college-level courses. Yes, you read that correctly: FREE online college level courses from the likes of Harvard, Duke, Brown, UC Berkeley, Stanford, and many more.

Known as MOOCs (Mass Online Open Courses), these courses do not give college credit. However, they are taught by highly-respected professors, they include homework and projects, and students receive a certificate of completion after passing the course. The courses also foster interaction between various students all over the country, and the world.

According to our Omniac tutoring team, these classes are a fantastic idea for bright and gifted high-school students (in Albuquerque and elsewhere) who want to explore college options and sharpen their academic skills. In addition, taking college-level courses could have a very positive effect on your college application. Colleges will see this as a sign of initiative and intellectual curiosity...always a good thing! You'll also have a chance to hone study skills and essay-writing skills. Omniac Education's academic tutors and college consulting tutors highly encourage New Mexico students to take these classes when possible.

Here is a list of websites where you can find more information and enroll for free online courses:

Class Central: This is a comprehensive listing of all available free courses from the other sites below. You may still want to visit the individual sites (as Class Central may not always be fully up-to-date), but this combines listings into one convenient place.

Coursera: This is most likely the best selection of free online college courses on the web at this time. Topic range from arts and humanities to medicine, law and a wide range of sciences. Schools include Princeton, Stanford, U. Penn, Duke, Brown, and many, many more.

Udacity:This site has a limited number of courses, but features computer, science and math classes from professors at colleges like the University of Virginia and MIT.

EdX: You can find free courses from MIT, Harvard and Berkeley here. The selection is currently small, but keep an eye on this site for additional courses in the future.

Open Culture: Unlike Coursera and some of the other sites, the classes listed on Open Culture don't involve interactive homework and grading. However, it is great resource for downloading video and audio lectures.

Venture Lab and Class2Go: Two different platforms offering free courses from Stanford University.

The trend among top-tier universities to offer these online courses is booming. Wonderful as it is, the "free" aspect of these classes may not last forever. Take advantage of it now!

For more academic tips and guidance, please contact the Omniac team here in Albuquerque at (505) 750 4813 or email info@omniaceducation.com.

Albuquerque Tutor Tip: Early Action Applications

Annie Bumgarner — Mon, 08 Oct 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Harvard is among the many colleges that offer Early Decision and Early Action programs. (Photo credit: timsackton via Flickr)

Last week the Omniac Education college consulting team tackled the topic of Early Decision applications to college. ED can be a perfect option for some students, but not so ideal for others. Fortunately for high school seniors in Albuquerque, and all those exploring college options, ED is not the only application route available. Another way to apply to the school of your choice is through Early Action (EA).

EA differs from Early Decision in several important ways.

1. There are no strings attached. In other words, when you apply through EA, you have expressed a strong interest in a college, but you have not made a firm promise to attend that particular school.

2. You are still free to submit applications to other schools. If you choose the ED application route, schools do not permit you to have more than one ED application at a time. Schools also respect each other in regard to this rule; if you break your ED promise to one school, it is extremely unlikely that you will be offered a place at a competitive school.

3. EA leaves you plenty of time to consider financial aid packages. Unlike ED, EA gives you plenty of time to consider various financial aid packages. This is a definite plus for students who are concerned about money issues.

4. Some colleges have a "Single Early Action" program. As a sort of halfway point between ED and EA, many colleges (including top tier schools such as Harvard and Yale) have instituted an application process called "Single Early Action". If you choose to use this program, it is non-binding. However, you can only have one SEA application at one time. If you are not accepted into the college of your choice, you may then submit additional Early Action applications to other schools.

So why choose EA over ED? Simply put, EA is better for many students because it leaves more options and provides greater flexibility. If you are at all sure about where you want to study, or if you have concerns about financial aid, than EA is a safer bet. Early Decision is for those students who are very sure about the school of their choice, and who have the grades and test scores to guarantee admission.

As always, please contact the Omniac Education college consulting and tutoring team for further guidance and advice concerning all your college application questions and concerns. We're here to help students in Albuquerque and across New Mexico! Call us at (505) 750 4813 or email info@omniaceducation.com.

Albuquerque College Consultant's Tip: Early Decision Applications

Annie Bumgarner — Thu, 04 Oct 2012 14:05:00 GMT

The college application process can be a time of confusion for students and parents. (Photo credit: Lori Greig via Flickr)

At Omniac, our college consulting tutors often get questions from students about Early Decision (ED) applications for college. Simply stated, an ED application is one in which a student applies early and makes a binding commitment to attend a specific college. For some, this can be a confusing and frustrated topic, as students and parents wade through the complications of the system, and also agonize over the pros and cons of the ED process.

So, how does a student apply for Early Decision? What are the "rules"? Unfortunately, there is no simple answer to this question, since the conditions of ED can vary from school to school. Our college consultant team advises students to look carefully at individual colleges to determine what is needed. However, there are some general rules that apply to most (if not all) colleges:

1. Your application must be submitted in the fall of your senior year (i.e. one year before you wish to begin your first semester of college). This means that you will receive a decision from the school by mid-December, or earlier.

2. A student may submit an ED application to one college only. You cannot have two ED applications. You may, however, use the regular application process for other schools.

3. If you are accepted, you must attend that college. Colleges require a sizable enrollment deposit along with an ED application. If you choose not to attend, you will lose your deposit. This can be an extremely hefty price to pay for changing your mind.

4. Once you have been accepted by the college of your choice, you must withdraw all other applications. Colleges expect to see you follow through on the commitment you've made to them, shortly after you've been accepted.

Early Decision programs can be extremely beneficial for students who know exactly where they want to study. Colleges see ED as a sign of serious commitment, and this gives applicants an advantage over those who use the "regular" application route.

Mark Truman, Omniac's premiere college consultant and tutor, has this advice for Albuquerque students:

"I advise all my students to strongly consider all Early Decision programs. Studies have shown that applying early improves student's chances of being accepted, and focusing on an early deadline helps students better structure the application process. I caution students that the Early Decision process, however, may short them on financial aid, and that only students who are willing to pay the full cost of their college tuition should be applying early when the application is binding."

Indeed, the financial aspect of an ED application is an extremely important factor. Because ED is done so early, students may not have a finalized financial aid package at the time they are accepted. If the financial aid package is less than anticipated, this can cause some major problems.

The bottom line? If you know where you want to go, have the test scores to match, and can afford the school of your choice, then Early Decision is a fantastic option.

Our next blog will take a look at another early application process: Early Action. This process differs from ED in a few significant ways; we'll look at some helpful tips. Don't miss it!

Feel free to contact the expert college consulting team and tutoring team at Omniac by calling (505) 750 4813 here in Albuquerque or emailing us at info@omniaceducation.com.

Albuquerque ACT and SAT Tutor's Tip: How To Avoid the Falling Scores

Annie Bumgarner — Wed, 26 Sep 2012 19:47:00 GMT

Scores on the SAT have steadily declined over the past decade. (Photo credit: derrenyork1968 via Flickr)

In our last post, we wrote about the low Science Reasoning scores on the ACT. Unfortunately, while a large number of sudents have sub-standard ACT scores, the outlook is even worse for the SAT. While ACT scores, low as they were, stayed the same relative to last year, SAT scores actually dropped two points from 2011. Even more shocking, SAT scores dropped six points the year before. That means that in just two years, SAT scores have plummeted by a whopping eight points! And that's not even the worst of it. In fact, since the new SAT format was introduced, in 2005, scores have consistently declined each year.

Omniac tutors have discovered that one reason cited for this steady decline in SAT scores is that a greater number of high school students simply are not learning college and career skills. Because of education reforms, teachers are under pressure to teach to a test, at the expense of actual curriculum and additional critical thinking skills. This means that students go into the test with significant disadvantages.

So what can Omniac students in Albuquerque do to avoid becoming casualties of these falling scores on both the SAT and ACT?

1. Know your test well. Are you taking the ACT, SAT, or both? In general, our tutors here at Omniac Education are big fans of the ACT, however, the college that you wish to attend may prefer the SAT. Do your research, to find the best fit for you. Don't hesitate to contact our expert college consulting team for more information and guidance. Also, be aware that the ACT is more focused on a traditional high school curriculum, while the SAT traditionally measures inherent skill, rather than material. This means that the skills needed for each test are different.

2. Go out of your way to supplement your regular classes. Don't rely on your regular school classes to teach you all the information you need. Some schools offer classes that are designed to prepare students for college, such as advanced placement or honors classes; ensure that you get into these classes. However, if you find yourself struggling academically, don't hesitate to seek help! Our great team of Albuquerque tutors can help you with that challenging calculus class, or guide you in perfecting your essay writing skills.

3. Don't hesitate to retake the test. Didn't get the score you want? Take it again. And again. And again, until you get the score you want. Of course, this is a great reason to start early. Taking the test (whether ACT or SAT) in your junior year is your best bet; this gives you plenty of time to retake the test in the fall of your senior year, and then again in the spring, if necessary. Don't forget that the college application process usually kicks into gear around January or February of your senior year; don't wait too long to get that test score!

As always, don't hesitate to contact the team at Omniac Education for college consulting, academic tutoring, and test prep tutoring for the ACT and SAT. Call us here in Albuquerque at (505) 750 4813 or email info@omniaceducation.com.