Teen College Education

Sowing the Seeds of a Digital Education

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 20:40:00 +0000

An Apple for Teacher: Sowing the Seeds of Learning.

Imagine a world where you can earn an advanced physics degree without ever opening a textbook. The rise of tablet computers and e-books is making this a growing possibility. The technology innovator Apple is at the cusp of this change, poised to take the education market by storm by entering the world of digital textbooks.

On Thursday, January 19, Apple held an event at the Guggenheim Museum in New York to discuss its goals in the educational sector. Executive Phillip Schiller, senior vice president of worldwide marketing, used this event to showcase the company’s new textbook experience for the iPad, an app called iBooks 2, as reported by the Washington Post.

This new app makes textbooks interactive. Students can capture notes and send them to the iCloud, highlight text with just a touch of the finger, and quickly switch to glossary sections for words they do not understand.

According to the Chronicle of Higher Education, other tablet computer manufacturers are adding college texts to their e-book databases, but Apple is taking this one step further by working to get high school and even elementary texts digitized. The company is currently working with Pearson, McGraw Hill, and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt to make their textbooks available on the iPad.

Long Road for Integrating iPads Into Classrooms

While this announcement and the sale of the new app does stand to change the way Americans approach education, it is not without its difficulties. The truth is that the average student in the public school setting is not going to own an iPad. In order to make this a viable solution for schools, schools need to have the tablets in the classroom.

Apple has a solution for this as well, and it is one they have used in the past. Three decades ago, Steve Jobs himself ran a lobbying campaign to get funding for Apple computers in public school classrooms around the country, and he was successful. Today, the Washington Post reports that the technology giant is striving to get similar tax breaks and public funding to put iPads in classrooms, so students can have access to their digital textbooks regardless of income levels. The benefit for Apple is the branding this creates, as students work daily on tablets sporting the company’s logo.

Testing Already in the Works

Currently, Apple has launched an iPad pilot project in a few districts around the country. In these districts, teachers report greater excitement and engagement on the part of the students after the iPads and digital texts came to the classroom. No testing has been done as of yet to determine if the tablets encourage greater performance from the students, but that assessment is in the works for the fall.

Could these changes bring permanent change to the face of education? Perhaps, but do not expect your local public school to look like something out of a science fiction movie any time soon. There are still many educators and parents who believe the traditional ways of educating are best, and some doubt that technological gadgets actually improve outcomes for students.

Teachers will need training to embrace this technology, and that training costs money. However, Apple sees a market for their products in the classroom, and they plan to continue lobbying to reach this goal. Consequently, the next generation of students to come through America’s public schools and universities may well use tablet technology for at least a portion of their education.

By Guest Contributor: Joe Barker
You can reach Joe at josephbker@gmail.com

Admissions Officer Tells Secrets

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 07:48:00 +0000

As an Admissions Counselor, what are your day-to-day responsibilities?
Meeting 1-on-1 with prospective students and their families through our admissions interview process, follow-up with students, parents, coaches, campus constituents, etc. through email, mail, phone correspondence, first-year application review (400+ applicants in my territory), closing calls to admitted students who receive a financial aid package, admissions recruitment travel (college fairs, high school visits, classroom/community presentations, etc.), campus recruitment event planning/coordination/implementation/assessment, other duties as assigned :)

What do you consider the most significant parts of an application, the parts which applicants should prepare the most carefully?
Rigor of course-load (i.e. Advanced, Honors, AP, dual-credit courses & core course involvement), an active co- and extra-curricular schedule, and showing the ability to adapt well socially to the college community

What common pitfalls should applicants be careful to avoid?
Using another college or university's name in the application essay (i.e. "..and that is why I think I'd be a good fit at the University of Illinois" when they are applying to Augustana),

Are there any myths about the application process which you would like to dispel?
"Admissions offices ignore senior year grades" (on the contrary, we typically look at trends in a students academic record to recommend admission, scholarship, etc.)

What advice would you give to an applicant with below-average test scores but significant work experience?
Utilize our test-optional policy which allows you to submit a graded paper and conduct an official admissions interview. This can help students show through a different indicator their ability to be an effective problem solver, critical thinker, etc.

What do you look for in a letter of recommendation?
The mention of our colleges name because that typically means the student spoke with the teacher/coach/director about us individually -- also reading about the students ability to overcome an adverse situation or be a leader among his or her peers

How much faith do you have in the ability of the SAT or ACT to predict success in college?
It can be a great or extremely bad indicator. That is why we have our test-optional policy. Math & Science scores stick out if a student is looking for a career in the health field; low reading scores can also raise a red flag.

Suppose an applicant has little or no experience relevant to your program, but has significant experience in other fields. What can that applicant do to distinguish himself or herself as a good candidate for your program?

Candidates who we feel are "on the bubble" or just can't get a good "read" on can typically strengthen their case by visiting campus and meeting with a counselor one-on-one. This typically is one of the most influential factors for a student during the application process.

Thank you to Mike Pettis for participating in the Admissions Spotlight Series. Mr. Pettis is an Admissions Counselor at Augustana College in Davenport, IA. In this interview he give us a behind-the-scenes look at the undergraduate admissions process.

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This interview was conducted by Joseph Fernandez, a New York Tutor with Parliament Tutors. Joseph specializes in SAT Tutoring.

Answering the Question "Why Do You Want to go to our College?"

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 21:53:00 +0000

If you have just started applying for college, you may have noticed that many college applications ask similar types of questions in their application essays. A question that many colleges ask is "why do you want to go to our college?"

This may seem like a complicated question to answer. Why are they asking you this? Why do they care? What kind of answers are they looking for? If you say the wrong things, will they reject your application? If all of these stressful concerns are running through your head, it will be very difficult to start writing. As with almost all personal essays, the easiest way to write a solid paper is to be informed about the topic before you start writing and to be honest as you write.

With this in mind, the first step you should take is to thoroughly research the college. Find out every single detail that will matter to you. Which majors does the college offer? How big are the class sizes? Does the school have the kind of extracurricular or social setting that you are looking for? What kind of housing do they offer? How much money will it cost to attend the college each semester? What kind of financial aid options are offered? How far away is the campus from your current home? Is the campus located in a city that you like?

Once you have a good understanding of what it will be like to attend this particular college, think about all of its aspects that suit you best. Maybe you really like their attitude toward learning. Maybe their art program is one of the best in the country. Perhaps the city in which the college is located is perfectly fitting for your tastes and lifestyle. Maybe the tuition is incredibly low and will save you tons of money. Make a list of everything you like about the college.

Now, add more information to the list. Next to each item that you like, write down why you like it. Your list should be honest and personal. You should also write down why you want to attend college at all. Next, take another look at the website or brochure for the college. Take a note of all of the adjectives that are used to attract students to the college. If these adjectives describe what you are looking for in the college, write them down.

Begin your essay. Explain who you are, where you are in life and what you hope to accomplish by attending college. Explain what kind of degree or major you plan to pursue and why. If you have not yet chosen an area of study, explain the aspects of the college that you think will lead you toward finding yourself and what you want to do with your life. Be concise, but also honest, personable and, if appropriate, passionate.

Using your list, describe everything about the college that you like and explain why it is a perfect fit for you specifically. If applicable, try to use some of the adjectives that you found in the college brochure or on its website.

If you are still having a really hard time with this and cannot find good reasons for attending this college, perhaps you should rethink even applying in the first place. There are so many wonderful colleges in the United States. Try to find schools that are actually a good fit for you. Imagine getting an acceptance letter in the mail from each college to which you apply. If you cannot picture yourself getting excited about attending this school, then it probably is not the right school for you.

The Value of AP Classes

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 04:50:00 +0000

Almost everyone hates AP classes. Parents hate them, students hate them, schools hate them, even colleges are wary of them. In high school, these AP classes add a significant amount of work to the regular student schedule. Active students who play sports and are involved in their community are often forced to sacrifice leisure time or hours otherwise spend sleeping in order to finish their AP work.

Then the AP test comes in May, and the last 2 or 3 weeks in April are an endless cramming session. For students who take multiple AP tests, it seems like the work will never end. I know because I went through it just like every other high school student. It does, however pay off.

As a college student right now, I am very happy that I took AP classes. First off, I started my freshman year with 17 AP credits; a standard college semester is only 16. I have friends with over 20 AP credit. This can mean many things depending on how you look at it. If I decide to graduate a semester early using my AP credits to fulfill electives, then I can save a lot of money, somewhere around $20,000. My particular school requires 4 years of study to graduate, but many others will let students graduate early.

What AP credits mean for me is that I can pursue minors and/or take other classes that interest me besides those in my major. I could also take a slightly easier workload every semester and still graduate on time. With this approach, I could dedicate more time to running this website along with others, and possibly find other jobs. There will be more time to socialize as well, but that is not everything. Knowing that I will be able to graduate in 4 years takes off a lot of stress.

My particular credits also mean that I can spend time studying abroad without fear of falling behind. Some classes in foreign universities might not be recognized at my university, but with credits already stacked up, I won’t need to worry.

Finally, there is the value of taking a college “level” class in high school. Although college classes are nothing like high school classes, there is no question that AP better prepares students for the vigor of college. 100 pages of reading per class seems like nothing after doing it for years in high school. Additionally, much of the knowledge learned in AP classes can be directly applied to college. I draw upon knowledge from AP History, Gov, and English classes every day because it makes a substantial part of my academic core. Science and Math classes act the same way for engineers and physicists.

Hopefully, you will think differently about AP classes in the future. Yes, they are a lot of hard work but the work will come sooner or later. Is it not better to get accustomed to it early on? In hindsight, even though I hated the work at the time, I am very glad that I took so many AP’s in high school. My words of wisdom to all students is this: It gets better.

Andy Soluk

Editor in Chief and CEO

2012 College Rankings

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 17:35:00 +0000

It is that time of year again, the time to start worrying about college. US News and World Report released their 2012 college rankings a few weeks ago, and for anyone who follows the admissions game, this is a big deal.

Colleges often compete with one another to improve their rankings and become even more exclusive. This results in more students applying to top notch universities, creating a larger pool of applicants. The university then gets to reject a larger number of applicants, lowering acceptance rate and adding to the "exclusive" feeling one gets at being at such a university. Acceptance becomes more difficult and students must work even harder in high school. It is a terrible cycle, but the rankings do have some value for quickly judging the caliper of a school. They give students and parents a basic and easy way to compare schools and see what is a reasonable college goal.

Here are the top 20 schools in the 2012 rankings for national universities:
(If more than one school has the same number, they are tied for that rank.)

1. Harvard
1. Princeton
3. Yale
4. Columbia
5. Cal Tech
5. MIT
5. Stanford
5. University of Chicago
5. University of Pennsylvania
10. Duke
11. Dartmouth
12. Northwestern
13. Johns Hopkins
14. Washington University in St. Louis
15. Brown
15. Cornell
17. Rice
17. Vanderbilt
19. University of Notre Dame
20. Emory

Here are the top 10 liberal arts colleges for 2012:

1. Williams
2. Amherst
3. Swarthmore
4. Pomona
5. Middlebury
6. Bowdoin
6. Carleton
6. Wellesley
9. Claremont MnKenna
10. Haverford

The full list of rankings for both national universities and liberal arts colleges can be found here.

Retaking the SAT: Should You Take the SAT Again?

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 14:41:00 +0000

“1,597,329 million college-bound seniors in the class of 2010 took the SAT.”

Resource: 2010 College-Bound Seniors Profile Report issued by the College Board.

Despite the impressive number of participants, the standardized college testing experience is very personal. Results are commonly used in higher education admissions decision-making processes, as well as determining eligibility and awarding of scholarships. Each student who takes the SAT is directly impacted by the scores achieved on the test. That said, the statistics of who takes the test and the variance in scores are significant and a good place to start when considering your decision to retake the SAT.

If you’ve taken the SAT and didn’t get a perfect score or the score you wanted, you may be thinking about taking the test again.

This graphic uses data from the 2010 College -Bound Seniors Profile Report issued by the College Board and illustrates the score distribution of the college-bound seniors in the class of 2010 who took the SAT. If you didn’t get a perfect score on your SAT, you clearly are not alone.

Data from the Effects of Repeating the SAT ®, Percentage of Students with Senior-Year Score Gain or Loss (2010 Cohort) by College Board indicates that in all parts of the test, the lower your score, the better your chances are of improving your scores by taking the test again. This may seem obvious, but is worth remembering when making the decision to take the SAT again.

If you are still considering taking the SAT again, answer these questions before you sign up:

Have you gained more experience and/or have more applicable coursework “under your belt” since the last time you took the SAT?

If you have since taken additional coursework or gained experience that has increased your knowledge in areas covered in the SAT, you should consider taking the SAT again.

Are you in a “better place” mentally and/or physically than you were the last time you took the SAT?

If your circumstances, either physically or mentally, were not ideal for your best performance the last time, you should consider taking the SAT again.

Are you, or will you be, better prepared to take the SAT than the last time you took it?

If you are willing to study, take practice tests, and/or take advantage of tutoring resources in order to set the stage for the best possible testing outcome, you should definitely consider taking the SAT again.

What is your ultimate goal for taking the SAT? Does this goal require a higher score?

Once you determine your goal for taking the SAT, if you find that your previous score does not meet the standards needed to achieve that goal, you should consider taking the SAT again.

Answering “yes” to one or more of these questions is justification and motivation for taking the SAT test again.

One more thing…

If you make the decision to take the SAT again, set the stage for success by consciously making a personal commitment to prepare yourself so you can perform to the best of your abilities. Like an athlete, you must “train” for this challenge. Take advantage of preparatory resources and practice, practice, practice! If you make this commitment and follow through, you increase the odds that your score will improve and will find that the decision to take the SAT again was a good choice.

Good luck and have a great testing experience!

Anne N. is a SAT Tutor for Parliament Tutors in Des Moines, IA.

How to Avoid Overbearing Parents

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 08:00:00 +0000

“How can parents help students with the college search and application process?”—Vanessa K., Boise, ID.

A: Five things parents can do to help with college admissions

It’s not easy for parents to know if they are doing too much or too little regarding their child’s college admissions. A little advice about testing is a good start. 1) Become educated about the various tests. 2) Remind your student about test registration deadlines and test dates; put them on a visible family calendar. 3) Help him/her complete the test registration forms. 4) If it fits your budget, pay for test prep books or tutoring. 5) Provide your child with chauffeur services on the day of a test so he/she doesn’t have to locate the test center and find a parking space.

Marjorie Shaevitz—Author, Founder - adMISSION POSSIBLE

A: The three C's of parent college coaching

The hardest part of parenting a teen is coaching them to do things themselves and attain increased levels of independence. As far as the college process goes, you have three roles as a parent. I call them the 3 C’s. Chart the course by helping them plan for the future. Catalog the journey by keeping track of the details. Cheer them on by encouraging them to study hard, volunteer and get involved in extracurricular activities. Be a coach, not a taskmaster, by following the three C’s: Chart, Catalog and Cheer. Your teen will be happy, well-rounded and prepared for college.

Suzanne Shaffer—Founder - Parents Countdown to College Coach

A: Parents should serve as mentors in the college search process

It’s been said that the relationship between the parent and child changes when the child goes to college. As children begin to assert their independence and their ability to make decisions without parental involvement; parents must take on the role of mentor/supporter. The college application process is a great time for parents to lay the foundation for this type of relationship. The primary role for parents throughout the college admissions process is to encourage their child by consistently reminding them of their confidence in his/her ability to complete the application process and to choose the college with the best fit.

Dorothy Styles–Director for College Readiness Programs & Initiatives - Project GRAD Atlanta

The Unigo Expert Network is a group of top education experts from across the US answering questions submitted by students and parents about college admissions and succeeding after high school.
Don’t miss answers by the Dean of Admissions at Sweet Briar College, Associate Dean of Admissions at University of Delaware, and more – at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork.

SAT and ACT Testing days 2011/2012

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 16:05:00 +0000

All high school students need to take either the SAT or the ACT sometime during their student careers. To make it easy for you, we compiled a list of all the SAT and ACT test days in one place.

SAT test days

October 1, 2011 Register by September 9th (21st and pay a late fee)

November 5, 2011 Register by October 7th (21st and pay a late fee)

December 3, 2011   Register by November 8th (20th and pay a late fee)

January 28, 2012 Register by December 30th (Jan 13th and pay a late fee)

March 10, 2012   Register by February 10th (24st and pay a late fee) No subject tests in Mar

May 5, 2012 Register by April 6th (20th and pay a late fee)

June 2, 2012 Register by May 8th (22nd and pay a late fee)

http://professionals.collegeboard.com/testing/sat-reasoning/register/test-dates

ACT test days

September 10, 2011   Register by August 12th (26th and pay a late fee)

October 22, 2011   Register by September 16th (30th and pay a late fee)

December 10, 2011   Register by November 4th (18th and pay a late fee)

February 11, 2012    Register by January 13th (20th and pay a late fee)

April 14, 2012    Register by March 9th (23rd and pay a late fee)

June 9, 2012    Register by May 4th (18th and pay a late fee)

http://www.actstudent.org/regist/dates.html

College Success Stories

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 17:06:00 +0000

The Unigo Expert Network is a group of top education experts from across the US answering questions submitted by students and parents about college admissions and succeeding after high school.

“In all of your years working with students, what were some of the most unexpected successes you witnessed – I could use a little pick me up?”—Jamie S., Rutland, VT.

A: Parent's thanks

I have been pleasantly surprised in my career with some of the "thank you’s I have received from parents who initially totally disagreed with advice I had given them and their children. Many of the parents I have dealt with are as young as my own children and, perhaps, my "generational" perspective was not always welcomed. I strongly believe that as children move toward college choices and decisions they must also move toward finding their own path. Parents can be loving and all concerned, but this can also be overwhelming for kids who truly must start to make their own way.

Marie Bullock— Independent Counselor - Washington Lee High School

A: Enhanced study skills = better grades and more college choices

“Anna” came to us during sophomore year with dreams of attending medical school. Yet she had a B- average and test anxiety. Over the summer we helped analyze her study habits and come up with a concrete plan for the next school year. One of Anna’s strengths was her leadership in extracurricular involvement. We encouraged her to apply her enthusiasm to her medical interests—and she landed a paid summer position in a top tier medical research lab. When junior year rolled around, she put her new study plan in place and earned much stronger grades and improved SAT scores. This upward trend combined with her compelling activities helped her gain admission to her top college choice.

Joan Casey—President - Educational Advocates College Consulting Corp.

A: Persistent, post-graduate, and Division I dreams come true

Persistence is the common denominator among students who have taken a gap year in order to gain acceptance to their dream colleges. These students had an interest in playing sports at the collegiate level. While each played sports competitively during high school, each needed the additional time and demonstrated academic rigor to advance to the Division 1 levels. Each student attended a selective boarding school post-graduate and is now playing basketball at Dartmouth, and the other is playing lacrosse at Davidson.

Pamela Ellis– Founder - Compass Education Strategies LLC

Don’t miss answers by the Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies at Seton Hall, and more – at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork. To send your question to our experts, visit www.unigo.com/expertquestions

College Myths: Are they Real or Fake?

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 17:36:00 +0000

The Unigo Expert Network is a group of top education experts from across the US answering questions submitted by students and parents about college admissions and succeeding after high school.

“In your experience, what are three of the most accepted or exaggerated myths in the college admissions process?”—Donald J., Park City, UT

A: Community college is a great option for many high-schooler graduates

Myth: Community college is a consolation prize for students who aren’t academically ready for a four-year college. Truth: Community colleges can help students learn important academic and organizational skills that will prepare them to succeed in upper division courses at four-year colleges. Myth: Community colleges deprive students of the rich social experiences that a four-year college can provide. Truth: Community College students can take advantage of theater, athletics, clubs or student government, in many cases with no prior experience. Myth: Community Colleges are a dead-end. Truth: The best way to ensure a successful transfer to a four-year college is to enter community college with clearly defined goals and a well-crafted transfer plan.

Joanne Levy-Prewitt— Creator & Founder - CollegeMapp

A: Admissions myths debunked

Myths: (1) a Pulitzer Prize essay, (2) killer teacher recommendations, and (3) superhero extracurricular activities. This myth distracts families from the essential ingredient in a winning college candidacy: academics. 87 percent of colleges attribute “considerable importance” to the impact of “college prep grades” on the admission decision, 71 percent to “strength of curriculum”, and 58 percent to “admissions test scores”. By contrast, only 26 percent of institutions attribute “considerable importance” to essays, 17 percent to teacher recommendations, and a measly 9 percent to extracurricular activities. (NACAC, 2010) Do your best on these three elements of the application, but throughout high school, focus on academic performance.

Kris Hintz—Founder - Position U 4 College LLC

A: No need for essays, standardized tests, or stress

While the most competitive colleges have extremely rigorous admission standards that include earning high grades, completing several essays, taking a number of challenging standardized tests, and pursuing a variety of extracurricular activities, the vast majority of America’s four-year colleges have far more modest admissions requirements. In fact, despite what you may have heard, many colleges require no admission essays, and a growing number of colleges are easing their admission requirements, as evidenced by the number of schools becoming ACT- and SAT-optional. If you want to attend a four-year college, stay calm and you will find one that will admit you.

Craig Meister– President - Tactical College Consulting

Don’t miss answers by the Director of Admissions at University of Washington, and more – at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork. To send your question to our experts, visit www.unigo.com/expertquestions

3 Admissions Mistakes You Can Avoid

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 02:17:00 +0000

The Unigo Expert Network is a group of top education experts from across the US answering questions submitted by students and parents about college admissions and succeeding after high school.

“In your experience, what are three of the most significant and avoidable mistakes students make throughout the admissions process?”—Elizabeth R., Omaha, NE.

A: Fit, follow-up and folly

FIT: Students must do the self-analysis necessary to determine what kind of school will be the best match for them. Too often, they are swayed by the opinions of others – parents, friends, rankings, etc. FOLLOW UP: Many students assume that their documents have arrived at admissions offices. If they have not received confirmation that their file is complete, they should contact the school to verify. FOLLY: Too many students believe that “senioritis” is a privilege/right. It is not. Schools will be reviewing final senior grades and reserve the right to revoke admission if there are significant declines in performance.

Alison Almasian— Director of Admissions - St. Lawrence University

A: Proofread, proofread, and proofread again

Much like the rules for hair care in the movie Legally Blonde, there are three simple and finite rules that will keep you from making the most egregious application mistakes: Proofread, proofread and proofread again! You do not want your essay to stand out because of an outrageous spelling error or a naïve double entendre. Before any item is matched with an envelope, email address or upload site, double and triple check that you are sending the right item to the right college. Nothing makes you look more disorganized and silly than sending an essay about why you love Carol Stack’s College to Faber College. Deadlines do matter!

Carol Stack—Principal - Hardwick Day Inc.

A: 3 significant and avoidable mistakes

1) Shopping by "brand name." Some students (and their parents) are way too focused on the prestige of the college name, rather than whether the college is a suitable intellectual and social match. 2) Under-utilizing the opportunity offered by the "personal statement." Admissions officers would rather hear about a typical day in an applicant's life or how a quirky relative affected the student, than about the applicant's plans to stop global warming. 3) Resume-building instead of enjoying a healthy balance of activities. If the fulfilling activities also look impressive, that’s great, but simply piling up activities with college in mind cheats many students out of enjoying high school.

Jane Gabin– College Counselor - New York City

Don’t miss answers by the Director of Admissions at St. Lawrence University, and more – at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork. To send your question to our experts, visit www.unigo.com/expertquestions

The Costs of Being a College Student

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 03:02:00 +0000

The Unigo Expert Network is a group of top education experts from across the US answering questions submitted by students and parents about college admissions and succeeding after high school.

“What are some of the most unexpected costs for incoming freshman?”—Peter T., Covington, KY.

A: The costs of living more independently

Many incoming freshman may have trouble anticipating and estimating the costs associated with living more independently than they were used to while in high school. The costs associated with keeping clothes clean (detergent, the use of washing machines and dryers, and dry cleaning for those so inclined) may be newly their responsibility. While the costs of printing may have been absorbed by mom or dad at home, they may now be the responsibility of the student. And while freshman may have previously been under a parent’s cell phone plan, those expenses may be a new responsibility.

Jane Hoffman— Founder - College Advice 101

A: Costs beyond textbooks: printing, study guides, software, and more!

According to the College Board, the average cost for college course materials per year is $1,137. Depending on your major and your chosen courses, you may find this to be rather conservative estimate. Therefore, budget wisely and shop around for the best prices on your textbooks. Also, keep in mind that you may need to invest in supplemental items such as software, study guides, and printed materials. Consequently, your budget should include room for these items as well as. Accessing the syllabi for your courses in advance should provide you with some of the additional insight needed to more accurately project costs for course materials beyond required textbooks.

Sarah Hernandez—Director of the Office of Diversity Programs in Engineering - Cornell University

A: One tip for students and two for parents

If you are headed north to college, remember to take a winter coat. It gets cold earlier up north, and you don’t want to be forced to buy a new coat that you don’t need. Moms and dads who plan to attend Parents’ Weekend and who will need a hotel near the college should make reservations now. Rooms fill quickly for events such as athletic competitions, Homecoming, and Parents’ Weekend. Families with small cars who need extra room for move-in weekend sometimes consider renting a trailer. Trailers are in high demand in August, so reservations need to be made immediately.

Bill Yarwood– Director of Guidance - Moorestown High School

To send your question to our experts, visit www.unigo.com/expertquestions

Extra Curriculars: What is the Right Amount?

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 18:46:00 +0000

The Unigo Expert Network is a group of top education experts from across the US answering questions submitted by students and parents about college admissions and succeeding after high school.

“I’ve heard that spending a little time with many extracurricular activities is less attractive than a ton of time with one or a few. If I haven’t found an activity I’m passionate about, how can I still seem like a dedicated individual?”—Tami G., Pine Bluff, AR.

A: Follow your passion

Quality not quantity is something to remember when engaging in activities. Too often students think that they need to do everything and be great in school. If you are searching for an inspiring activity and nothing seems to match, take some time to evaluate what you have tried. What did you like and what did you not like and why? Even by not finding some activity that suits you is a learning experience as long as you take the time to determine why you did not like it. What is your passion? Take your passion and make it work for you?

Hamilton Gregg – Educational Consultant - Private Practice

A: Size of the college is one variable to consider in your college search

You are who you are, but that doesn’t mean you can’t grow. If your list of activities does not paint a picture of being well rounded, it would be disingenuous to portray yourself otherwise. This dilemma can be a personal wake up call for you to take a risk, leave your comfort area, and engage in a meaningful activity. Ask people who know you, your family, friends, teachers, and counselor for ideas. This might be a struggle for you, but I encourage you to embrace this problem, worry less about how things look, and focus on finding meaning in this dilemma. Then share your journey with colleges!

John Frahlich— Counseling Department Chair - Hudson High School

A: With extracurricular activities, sometimes less is more

Yes, colleges want to enroll a well-rounded class. However, that doesn’t always mean that every individual is well-rounded in his or her interests or talents; rather, collectively, a class is made up of a mosaic, and each tile shines in different ways. Your contributions should be sustained and meaningful. Find things you care about and do them well. Perhaps you will lead, perhaps you will support; but make sure you contribute. Your significant activity might even be a job where you learn a lot. Commitment and depth is far more important (for your application and for your life!) than joining a bunch of clubs to make your list longer.

Monica Inzer– Vice President & Dean of Admission & Financial Aid - Hamilton College

To send your question to our experts, visit www.unigo.com/expertquestions

Learning in Large Classes

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Mon, 30 May 2011 09:00:00 +0000

The Unigo Expert Network is a group of top education experts from across the US answering questions submitted by students and parents about college admissions and succeeding after high school.

See answers from the President & Founder of HernandezCollegeConsulting.com & ApplicationBootCamp.com, and have your questions answered at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork

“High school classes haven’t been that bad, but I’m not sure how I’ll fare in lecture halls with hundreds of other students. How can I stand out to professors and keep from feeling overwhelmed?” – Steve A., Decatur City, IA.

A: Where you sit matters!
Try to sit in one of the first couple of rows—that will put you in a good spot to ask a question or offer a comment before or after the lecture. If you sit in the middle, you may feel surrounded by a sea of other kids; if you sit in the back, you may feel separated from the lecturer by a wall of other students. So, sit up front, come to class prepared, maintain eye contact with the prof whenever possible, and, at least twice a quarter, visit your lecturer during office hours.

Susan Marrs – Director of College Counseling - Seven Hills School

A: No need to feel intimidated!
My tip to students is to try and get a copy of the textbook before classes start. Read the first chapter or two before classes start so that you have an idea of the scope and sequence of the subject matter right from the beginning. Go to the lectures—don't rely on others for notes! If you have questions, raise your hand and ask them! Make sure you touch base with the professor during office hours within the first 4 to 6 weeks of class. If you have concerns express them... if you have thoughts discuss them. Don't be shy—this is your time!

Marie Bullock— Independent Counselor - Washington Lee High School

A: Make Yourself Known and Visible
Unless you will be attending a small liberal arts college, chances are you will have a few large classes. For big lecture classes, be prepared: do the reading, arrive early, sit in front and take good notes. Introduce yourself to the professor. Resist the urge to skip classes, even if no one notices. If the class also has a smaller lab or recitation, make sure you attend these, even if they are optional. You should also use the professor’s office hours as a time to get questions answered or expand on related topics not covered in lecture.

Janet Rosier– College Admissions Consultant - Janet Rosier's Educational Resources

To send your question to our experts, visit www.unigo.com/expertquestions

Deciphering your Financial Aid Package

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Fri, 06 May 2011 00:01:00 +0000

The Unigo Expert Network is a group of top education experts from across the US answering questions submitted by students and parents about college admissions and succeeding after high school.

See answers from the Dean of Admissions at University of Illinois, VP of The College Board, and have your questions answered at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork

(Note: the Pictures did not work on this post)

“I just got my financial aid package and don’t know what to make of it. What are some terms I should know, things I should look for, or tips and tricks to maximize my aid?” – Mary S., Boston, MA

A: Be sure you’re comparing apples to apples!
Analyze the award letters carefully, and figure out how much is being offered in grants and scholarships (the money that won’t need to be paid back) and how much represents loans. Don’t count the work-study in your calculations. Know what the total cost of attendance is at each school (not just tuition); also determine whether grants and scholarships are renewable for four years, or only offered to freshmen. Call the financial aid office if the terms of the offer are unclear, and then focus on the bottom line: how much will each college cost you and your parents out-of-pocket?

Marilyn Morrison – Founder, Morrison Educational Consulting

A: All financial aid packages are not equal. Persistence pays off!
The most affordable college may not be the best school for you. You should make a worksheet with columns and fill in the details from each financial aid package you receive. Consider the cost of attendance and which colleges offer the most federal grants and school scholarships. This is preferable to receiving college loans which need to be repaid. Also check the interest rates for any loans and the repayment policies. If you receive less financial aid from a school you really want to attend, contact them and ask whether they can match an offer from another college.

Susie Watts – College Consultant, College Direction

A: Evaluate the Net Cost of Attending College.
Financial Aid awards are based on your EFC (Expected Financial Contribution). It is imperative that you evaluate your financial aid packages from the various schools. It is important to prepare a chart to evaluate the Net Cost of the schools you are considering. Take the school’s Cost of Attendance and subtract free money, including Scholarship/Grants and Need-Based Aid. You will then arrive at your Net Cost which you can compare with the Net Cost of the other schools you are considering. Then you can take into account the parent’s and student’s loans which must be paid back. Remember, you may appeal the decision if you clearly explain your circumstances such as unusual medical bills.

Rachelle Wolosoff – Founder, CollegeSearchExpert.com

Don’t miss answers by the Dean of Admissions at University of Illinois, VP of The College Board, and more – at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork. To send your question to our experts, visit www.unigo.com/expertquestions

How to Pick the Right College

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 23:50:00 +0000

Each year, high school seniors take the SAT’s. They visit colleges around the nation. Then, they apply to the colleges that seem like the best fit academically, socially and financially. If these students are lucky enough, they get accepted to multiple schools. So, which college should you pick? Ask yourself these key questions to help you determine the right college for you.

What are your academic goals?

It is helpful if you have an idea of which career path you would like to take. However, a lot of high school seniors do not know that yet. Do you want a liberal arts education, or something more specific? If you are science-minded, does the college have a good chemistry department? If you know your major, where does the college rank in that area? Research how many students at the school are studying your intended major and how many faculty members are devoted to it. If your major is not very popular, you might wish to visit some of the large universities.

How important is the social scene to you?

Are the sororities and fraternities an important factor to consider? Not all colleges have a Greek system. Does the school offer a variety of extracurricular activities? If you are a die-hard environmental activist and the college does not have an environmental organization, this could be an important consideration. The same advice can be applied to sports. If you are an all-star soccer player, is the school known for its soccer program? Seeking out a college directory may give you a lot of answers about the college’s social scene.

How is the living situation?

Do a lot of students live on campus, or do many of them commute? Visiting a college campus can give you insight into just how close the quarters are. Some colleges have issues with overcrowding, but if you do not mind sharing a dorm room with two or three roommates, then that should not be a problem. As you visit colleges, keep detailed notes. Do the dorm rooms each have a bathroom or is there just one bathroom per floor? Are the dorms co-ed? Do you have the option of off-campus housing? These are all questions to ask yourself.

Can you afford the college in question?

You may be surprised by the scholarships and grants that many colleges offer. Talk with someone in the college’s Financial Aid department or research grants online. Some sites, such as College Scholarships.org, provide instructions for how to apply for these grants.

If you are able to answer all of these questions, choosing the right college should not be a difficult feat.

-Louise Baker

Louise Baker is a freelance blogger and journalist who writes for Zen College Life, the directory of higher education, distance learning, and online degrees. She most recently wrote about where to get the best criminal justice degrees.

Finding Scholarships for College

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 18:43:00 +0000

A: Searching For Scholarships Takes Time and The Will To Do The Work
Apply for as many scholarships as you can. You need to be willing to make time because there are required essays, forms to complete, deadlines to be met, and recommendations that must be sent. Fastweb.com, Finaid.org and Scholarshipexperts.com are two reliable websites where you can begin your search. Scholarships are available from private corporations to community organizations. Students should check with the financial aid offices at their colleges of interest to see what scholarships are available through that school. Sometimes, essay prompts are similar so you may be able to reuse one strong essay.

Jeannie Borin – Founder and President, College Connections

A: Want lower tuition? Look for colleges looking for you!
Some colleges award generous scholarships or “merit aid” to entice students to bring them something they want. For example, look for private colleges far from your home that have a large percentage of students from their regions—you can contribute to campus geographic diversity. Grades and test scores above or near the top of the school’s averages (which might be lower than you expect) may bring big tuition discounts along with an acceptance letter. In some cases, merit offers reduce private college tuition to near the cost of in-state tuition at public universities; so don’t be afraid to apply!

Stephanie Meade – Owner, The Collegiate Edge

A: Look locally and identify your best matches
My first tip for maximizing your scholarship search is to look locally. Visit your high school college center to get a list of local scholarships. Local scholarships have much less competition than national one's. While their dollar amount is sometimes less, the likelihood of receiving them is far higher. Also, when looking for scholarships, take some time to identify your best matches. Look for scholarships that reward your strengths. There are scholarships for almost everything including: academics, talents, interests, cultural background, religion, etc. And remember to think outside the box. I have heard of scholarships for exceptionally tall students, best duct tape prom dresses and students with specific last names.

Kathryn Favaro – Independent College Admissions Counselor, Favaro College Counseling

A: Scholarships reward what a student has done—perform and they will pay
In looking for scholarship money, one must first distinguish between the school sponsored ones and those sponsored by outside groups or organizations. Concerning the outside sources, to avoid a scam remember the general rule: if you need to pay them, they won’t pay off for you. Meanwhile, school sponsored scholarships are the most common form of merit scholarships. To earn them, the best thing a student can do is maximize their academic record and test scores. Schools will reward those efforts in part because those measureable attributes help the school enhance their profile and serve as valuable marketing data.

Bill Pruden – Head of Upper School, College Counselor, Ravenscroft School

A: Use Several Resources and think BIG!
Start with the mindset that you will need to think big and use several resources, books, websites, and personal connections. In brief, winning scholarships requires insight, the right match between student and scholarship source, and attention to detail. And, in terms of extra-ordinary scholarships, here’s a short list-there are more! For twins and more: http://www.twinstuff.com/college_scholarships.html, for the aspiring chef: www.theculinarytrust.org and for students interested in the study of language (really!): Klingon Language Institute, www.kli.org/scholarship

Jill Greenbaum – Founder, MajorInYou.com

Getting Ready For Senior Year

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 00:00:00 +0000

It’s easy to get excited about summer break and zone out during the last weeks of school, but these are the days that count! So wake up and start planning! Your first step is to research colleges and programs that fit your needs and interests. That’s where a counselor comes into play. Set up a meeting with one and get some guidance picking colleges and majors that seem interesting to you. Once you’ve narrowed down your options you can start applying. Sure the application process can get overwhelming, but if you’ve picked some top schools and majors you’ve already tackled some of the hardest work!
Enid Arbelo – Editor in Chief, NextStepU

A: Getting ready for your college search, think "marathon," not "sprint"

By planning ahead, you can be ready to hit the ground running in senior year. Do what you can this year, beginning with SAT and ACT testing. Try to take each twice in second semester. Learn about the options: large v small; urban v. rural or suburban; liberal arts college v. university. Don't "think" you know the differences--take time to see samples of each. Do this at schools near you--you'll learn how to "do" a college visit and be ready for serious campus visits in the summer and fall.
Susan Sykes – President, SS Advisor

A: Follow a clear game plan and meet your objectives efficiently

Paradoxically, much depends on junior year accomplishments, yet application time seems remote in 11th Grade. Sharpen focus by targeting your college goals early; then design and carry out an efficient game plan. Top students aim for highest grades in challenging classes, ace standardized tests through solid preparation and establish strong relationships with teachers/coaches. They invest personal time in meaningful extracurricular activities, assuming leadership roles when offered. Consider how you can excel in unique ways to differentiate yourself from other good students - through competitions, independent study, talents, community service. Above all, maintain your zeal for knowledge and joy in learning.
Gail Lewis – Educational Consultant, College Goals

A: Sign up to take challenging courses in your senior year

Contrary to popular belief, senior year is definitely not the time to slack off and take it easy. That is because colleges tend to look for and choose students who they believe are likely to be academically successful at their school. The best things you can do to show them that are to maintain strong grades and sign up to take challenging courses next year. By choosing to take more rigorous classes, and succeeding in them, you demonstrate to colleges that you have both the motivation to take on new challenges and the preparation needed to do college level work.
Julie Manhan – Founder, College Navigation

A: Juniors should commit to working hard in their academics

As the junior year progresses and the college admissions process begins, it is important to remember that a student’s first commitment should continue to be working hard in all their courses. Throughout the college admissions process the student’s academic performance is the most important element in being successful. Also, talk with your guidance counselor, develop a testing schedule and discuss what things you (the student ) have done in and outside of school since starting grade 9. Remember, the guidance counselor is going to be writing your recommendation and knowing you well is the key to being able to highlight your accomplishments.
Elinor Adler – Founder, Elinor Adler College Counseling

Don’t miss answers by the Dean of Admissions from University of Pennsylvania, Wesleyan, and more – at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork. To send your question to our experts, visit www.unigo.com/expertquestions

Is it Better to Buy Textbooks or Rent Them?

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 07:23:00 +0000

This is a guest post from bookace:

Is it better to buy textbooks or rent them?

Although a student might at first enjoy the idea of going to college, this soon changes when they have to buy textbooks; most to-be college students looking to buy textbooks have no idea how expensive this can be. Some are known to cost more than $200 themselves! But there IS a way to get textbooks for cheap; you can rent them! Students nowadays have access to the facilities needed for renting textbooks for extremely low prices. Renting textbooks can keep you from having to buy textbooks carrying price tags of hundreds of dollars. This is more beneficial than even buying used textbooks as even though the prices of those are low relative to the prices of brand new books, they aren’t so low either.

Renting textbooks is the new trend for saving money in the college society and the number of people doing this keeps increasing every day. Students usually need textbooks only for the duration of the semester. This is where the rental system’s benefit comes in; students can rent textbooks (for a fraction of the price they would have to pay if they buy textbooks) for the duration of the semester and send them back to the company after the semester is over. No worrying about how to resell out of date books.

Here’s the exact procedure of renting textbooks; step one is searching the lenders’ listing to see what books they have available for renting. Any rental company would have a very diverse listing for many subjects. The next step is to select the time period you want the book for. After you are done with selecting the books and time period, you can actually go ahead and buy textbooks you need- you can use a credit/debit card to pay. The books will arrive in your mail after several days. Once you are done with using them, you can mail them back to the company which will pay for the shipping.

There are lots of websites out there that can lend books to fit whatever course you might be taking. The benefits you receive when you rent over when you buy textbooks are almost endless; you’ll save money, effort and time. It’s also very convenient as you need only a computer with internet to buy textbooks and wherever you have that, you can rent textbooks online; no matter whether it’s your dorm room, home or your seat in a bus with a laptop with you! No queues to wait in and no pushy students or stubborn cashiers to deal with.

There are lots of students from institutions countrywide who rent rather than buy textbooks. This is one reason for those competitive prices. The amount you’ll save per semester can be averaged to about $250, but this can change vastly between colleges, courses and semesters.

So with these in your mind, you can think why you would want to buy textbooks you would be using only for several months rather than rent them anymore, wasting your parents hard earned money.

Helping students save money on their college textbooks.

College Admission Specialists and Facebook

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0000

The Unigo Expert Network is a group of top education experts from across the US answering questions submitted by students and parents about college admissions and succeeding after high school.

To have your questions answered visit www.unigo.com/expertquestions

“Can what I post on Facebook affect my chances of getting accepted?” – Derrick L., New York, NY

Post publicly only material that would make your grandmother smile

Ralph Becker
Owner & Director
Ivy College Prep LLC

In September 2008, Kaplan surveyed 500 top colleges and discovered 10% of the admissions officers had investigated Facebook sites, discovering, in almost 40% of the cases, questionable content that reflected negatively on the candidate. That was three years ago. Facebook reviews are far more prevalent today and many junior admissions officers are savvy, inveterate users, who, if they need to, can find you on the Web. If you must post something risqué (raucous parties, inflammatory remarks, drug or alcohol use), out of peer pressure…, make sure your privacy settings strictly control access. Otherwise, yes, you are gambling your candidacy.

Facebook postings can absolutely hurt your chance of being admitted

Susan Smith
Educational Consultant
Bedford Educational Consulting

Although many admissions office personnel are not as tech savvy as they might wish to be, the student volunteers and workers in the office are, and often the search for student applicants on Facebook falls to them. Many candidates are definite – they are accepted or rejected for obvious reasons – but many more fall in that middle range, so that additional information that can be gleaned from viewing a Facebook page can help the committee make a decision. Inappropriate or compromising content such as party pictures that could be embarrassing should be deleted, going back as far as might be necessary.

Admissions officers don’t routinely check, but be careful

Patti Demoff
Co-Founder
College Circuit

Few college admissions offices have the time, resources or inclination to routinely scour the internet and social media sites for incriminating information on applicants. However, most admissions officers I have spoken to acknowledge that they do occasionally check Facebook or Google students if there is something in an applicant’s file that is inconsistent or raises a red flag. Remember, it isn’t appropriate to post anything that could be considered abusive or demeaning to another person. Nor should there be profanity, references to or photos of drugs alcohol or illegal behavior. Always use privacy settings and do not “friend’ admissions officers.

Let your Facebook page reflect well upon you

Mary Beth Fry
Director of College Counseling
Savannah Country Day School

Consider this: when you apply to college, you’re asking to join a community. Colleges admit excellent students who also promise to be good roommates, great friends and interesting classmates. Profanities or extreme photos on a Facebook page just don’t reflect well on anyone. You’ve done your best in school and worked hard on your applications. Right now, today, would you want admission staffers to look at your Facebook wall? If not, consider making changes: even if admission staffers don’t read it, potential roommates probably will.

The implications of posting on social networking sites

Jennifer Evans
Counseling Department Chair
Broadneck High School

The short answer is a resounding YES! College admissions officers are extremely tech savvy and they know that this generation of prospective students is using social networking sites like Facebook all the time so they need to be in tune with it as well. Conscientious students should manage their online presence to ensure there is nothing inappropriate or compromising. Anything that is on the internet is in the public domain. Students should not post anything that they wouldn’t want a college, prospective employer, teacher, or parent to see. There is always a way for people to access this information.

Maybe. To Be Safe, Use the “Grandma Test” for Facebook

Majorie Shaevitz
Author & Founder
Admission Possible

Do they or don’t they? No one - except admissions officers themselves - knows for sure whether they peek at applicant Facebook accounts. Given that a NY Times article by Sarah Perez noted that “30% of today’s employers use Facebook to vet potential employees,” I’d say the chances are pretty good that some do. Emory University professor, Brian Croxall, offers the best advice I’ve ever seen at The Chronicle of Higher Education (http://chronicle.com/blogs/profhacker/six-steps-for-checking-your-facebook-privacy/30402) about how to protect your Facebook privacy. Then there’s the tongue-in-cheek, but oh-so-wise suggestion that to be safe, use the “Grandma test:" never put anything on Facebook that you wouldn’t want Grandma to view.

Facebook postings can adversely impact admissions chances

Michael Goran
Director & Educational Consultant
IvySelect College Counseling

Using “The Social Network” can have consequences in the college admissions process! Although admissions officers don’t have time to regularly access applicants’ Facebook walls, a fair percentage of them do look at prospective students’ profiles. Still, students need to realize that if it’s public, it’s possible to see compromising items. If told about something that adversely reflects on your integrity or your behavior, admissions officers may go to Facebook to check it out. If you think it’s inappropriate – whether it’s a photo or a comment – don’t post it! The best advice is to clean things up and keep things private.

Yes, inappropriate postings can hurt chances for admission

Wynne Curry
College Advisor
Seven Hills School

The short answer to this question is yes. Facebook, for all its social utility and amusement, can also expose you, your life style, and habits in ways you never imagined. Just like an inappropriate email address can cause admissions officers to wonder about whom they’re dealing with (like partyanimal@aol.com for instance), photos of drunken parties or embarrassingly intimate poses can raise questions as well. Admissions officers are incredibly busy people and while they may not have time to fish around Facebook for incriminating information, students are often surprised by the ways in which their social networking information finds its way to admissions desks. Use good sense and judgment when posting any information.

Get the full story from 34 more experts – including the VP of the College Board, Dean of Admissions from University of Illinois and more – at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork. To send your question to our experts, visit www.unigo.com/expertquestions

About the Unigo Expert NETWORK:

The Unigo Expert Network is a group of top education experts across the US dedicated to the success and well-being of high school students as they make the transition to college life. With members from two-year, four-year, private, public, and independent institutions, the network has over 3,000 years of collective experience, spanning all areas of admissions, financial aid, and how to succeed in college.

To see all members of the Unigo Expert Network, visit www.unigo.com/admissionsexperts
Unigo.com is the web’s largest, 100% free resource for college information, used by over 4 million high school students and parents.

A Background in Chemistry Opens Many Doors

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 03:48:00 +0000

As the economy is only beginning to recover, many college students are seeking ways to distinguish themselves in one of the most difficult job markets ever. To look more attractive to employees, college students may want to consider a degree in chemistry. And while many may think a chemistry degree is a one-way ticket to laboratory work, the comprehensive scope of a chemistry degree can help you land a job in a number of fields. According to Dow Chemical CEO Andrew Liveris, whose interest in chemistry started in grade school, “95 percent of the things that touch our lives — such as food, water, shelter, transportation, and medicine — are made possible through chemistry.” It’s no surprise then that so many industries look approvingly on students that graduate with a chemistry degree. Further, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers, those who graduate with a chemistry degree earn 12% more than those that graduate with degrees in psychology, biological sciences, linguistics, or history and 30% more than those without a degree at all. Here is a more complete look at some of the opportunities:

1. Environmental control: Governmental enterprises like the EPA and environmental groups like the Sierra Club or the NRDC all rely on scientists to provide them with the most appropriate environmental data. Chemistry is extremely important, especially when measuring air, soil, and water quality for possible contaminants.

2. Forensics: From your local police force to the CIA or FBI, chemistry plays a huge role in the field of forensics, performing tests to help solve crime.

3. Pharmaceuticals: Whether you choose to work at a local pharmacy or help design new life saving drugs, some of the most beneficial careers for those with a chemistry degree can come in this field.

4. Graduate Study: Having a background in chemistry also builds a solid foundation for those looking to enter medical school or law school, and also provides a concrete knowledge base for those interested in teaching at the high school or college level.

One other interesting and emerging concept is that of “green chemistry” which, as defined by the EPA, is the design of chemical products that eliminate the use of hazardous substances. When envisioning a chemical plant, it can sometimes bring to mind pipes with green ooze trickling out into the local water supply. Historically in chemistry, this type of hazardous waste came from solvents and resources needed for the chemical reaction to create the end product. But through green chemistry, scientists are developing ways to remove these hazardous materials from the process altogether, creating a safer way to produce items we need daily without contaminating the environment.

Overall, the list above is just a small sample of the possibilities that are presented to those with a background in chemistry. With the food, water, and energy problems facing the world today, Liveris, along with the UN and other international institutions, deemed 2011 the International Year of Chemistry (IYC) to help inspire students to consider chemistry and to encourage people from around the world to apply chemistry as a catalyst for change. Clearly chemists are desired now more than ever, and hopefully students appreciate the potential of a chemistry degree, and use it to distinguish themselves in an increasingly competitive job market.

Alan Parker is a blogger based out of New York, NY who writes about alternative energy, green business, sustainability, and climate change.
Follow on Twitter @AGreenParker

Teens Educating Others About Politics

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 22:01:00 +0000

Read about what some teens are doing to educate other students about politics. These teens are TeenCollegeEducation approved.

NewPolity.com
"A non-partisan website designed by two politically active teens to engage and inform the next generation of our society. Our goal is to raise awareness of current events around the world and increase youth involvement in politics. We will be the ones voting and making the laws in the future, so why not raise interest early? Our articles are written for young people, by young people, and represent diverse political viewpoints. Gaining knowledge has never been easier!"

You can find a unique view of politics at http://www.newpolity.com/.

October, the Hardest Month for Seniors

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 01:43:00 +0000

Right now seniors across the country are feeling the stress of college full force. It is a force to be reckoned with, and it's bad. The SAT is on Saturday the 1th, most schools have their homecoming games and dances in a few weeks, early decision college applications are due in 3 weeks, and a lot more! Oh and now that school has been in session for a full month, teachers are starting to pack on the work because the course intros are over. October is the worst month for seniors.

Let’s start with the SAT that is on the 1st, or the one that is on November 5th. Any high school student knows the stress of studying for the SAT or subject tests in addition to everything else that he or she is doing. Seniors are so busy that the extra studying really just takes away from time sleeping. Our schedules are so packed as it is, but that's life. For students who took the SAT, a weight was just lifted off of their shoulders. Otherwise, November is the last test day for a good number of colleges. Students can still test in December, but they risk not having their scores sent in time, and this does not work for early decision or early action.

  Then comes the everyday stresses of high school, especially homecoming. Everyone remembers their homecoming, seniors the most. It is their last one after all, so they want to make the most of it. Seniors need to find a date and arrange everything so that they can have a memorable time. Unfortunately, all of this planning takes a lot of time, time that could be spent on SAT studying or other school work. But homecoming is a part of high school, so the exception must me made. The drawback is that sleep deprivation starts to affect many seniors.

October is already the second month of classes. For most schools, September was an introduction to the courses and October is when everything starts to take off. Homework starts to pile up and students are not yet adjusted to the increased workload. This adds stress on top of everything else. Seniors are still on their summer schedules, so having to read a novel per week comes as quite a shock. This is not a fun experience for students. Fall sports are also in full gear by now, so anyone involved in anything has even less time than others.

Add to all of this college applications. For any student who wants to apply early decision or early action to a school, the deadline is usually Nov 1st. This means that the ENTIRE common application including essays must be perfect by the 1st. After then, students just need to do the supplementary material for each school, but the crunch before is terrible. There is a clock ticking and seniors feel as though they are running out of time. It is a race to the finish.

I hope that this brought some insight into the month of October. If you have a teen who is unusually stressed, sad, or depressed right now, this is probably the reason. October is not fun. It is the hardest month for seniors.     

College Admissions Programs that Work

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Sun, 26 Sep 2010 22:18:00 +0000

So there are a lot of people out there starting companies and websites that promise to help you get into college. They each have their own secrets and tips that claim to get you into the college of your choice. Some are more useful than others, but most, if not all of them cost money to sign up. As a writer for Teen College Education, I have had these college sites come to me to be reviewed. As such, I have actually seen the insides of these sites, and how they work (the stuff that costs you money). Because I have actually seen, used, and tested these sites I can recommend the best one that I found.

EqualApp.com

I reviewed the site and gave the webmaster some suggestions, which he told me will start as soon as possible. What I liked about this site is that there was a college finder feature where you could enter your test scores and other information about yourself and find a college that you are likely gain acceptance. It broke it down into reach schools, probably schools, and safety schools, something that all seniors should do at some time or another anyways. The best part is that if you are not ready to pay for the program, there is a free demo version with many of the same features of the real one. Try it out at least, cause for free, there isn't much to lose.

EqualApp.com

Starting Your College Applications

noreply@blogger.com (basilace) — Sun, 12 Sep 2010 06:12:00 +0000

Should I start my college applications?? The short and simple answer is YES! Do it. Start them now and get some of the applications out of the way so there is less stress later in December when you are trying to meet January 1st deadlines. If nothing else, then I recommend doing a few things to at least get the ball rolling.

1. Start researching what colleges you plan to apply to. You want to find schools that you will be happy at and that are affordable.

2. Research the requirements for said colleges. What do you need to do to get in? You have time now to get it done.

3. Finish your testing!!! Get your standardized tests out of the way already. Most schools require that you have SAT or ACT scores by the December test date.

4. Start brainstorming for your essays. Write down what you do and how it affects you as a person. If you want to start writing your essays, then go ahead.

5. Talk to your college counselor. He or she will know exactly what to do to get started if you haven't or how to help you if you have.

The most important thing that I can say is start now. Start doing something because the more that you do now, the less there will be for later. Senior year is stressful enough, so you want to do everything possible to stay calm. And remember, college is not the most important thing in the world.     You will go somewhere and have a good time.