With so many schools going “test-optional” (see the full list at Fairtest), high school juniors are asking me if they still need to take the ACT or SAT. Let’s start with some definitions. “Test-optional” is not the same as “test-blind”. A test-blind school will NOT consider your standardized test scores even if you choose […]
College Admissions
Are Online Classes the Way of the Future?
If you asked a current high school and college student, the answer is probably no. (Check out this NYTimes article.) Thanks to Covid-19, they are no longer taking for granted in-person classes, labs, and performances because for many of them, distance learning unfortunately has not been the same academic experience they were used to […]
Will Students Be On Campus in the Fall?
Everyone wants to know if students will be on campus in the fall. Covid-19 has made this a difficult question to answer. Some schools such as Notre Dame have said they will start early, end early (before Thanksgiving), and forego all breaks in order to bring students back on campus. Others such as the Cal […]
Summer Programs
What should I do this summer? This is a common question I’m asked by my high school clients. The answer of course varies depending on their interests, financial situation, and, this year more than most, what’s available. One great option for everyone is to take a summer class. A plus side to the distance learning […]
Get Ready to Take Your AP Exams
AP exams are going virtual. Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions, schools across the world will not administer the tests in person, so College Board has created a way to still allow students to take the AP exams (and hopefully receive college credit) beginning next Monday, 5/11 – Friday, May 22. Check out my blog […]
Remote Volunteer Opportunities for Students
Looking for something to do since in-person activities came to a screeching halt with the arrival of COVID-19? The good news is there are plenty of things to do. Follow these steps to find meaningful activities to give back to your community, build your skills, and/or dive into your passion. Step 1: Identify Your […]
Gap Years Are the Latest Craze. Should They Be?
Given the state of the world in terms of both health and the economy, many students who would never have considered taking a gap year are now requesting a deferral, but should they be? Let’s start with the basics. According to the Gap Year Association, a gap year is “A semester or year of experiential […]
Preparing for the Uncertainty
Much has changed in the past few weeks from the implementation of distance learning, to the cancellation of Admitted Students Days at colleges across the country, to the disintegration of the economy. What does this mean for high school seniors who are learning the ropes of virtual classes and mourning the loss of their senior […]
June SAT Canceled
It should come as no surprise that the June SAT has been canceled. College Board is pledging to add additional test dates to provide ample opportunity for students to take the SAT. (https://pages.collegeboard.org/sat-covid-19-updates) My thoughts: I would be surprised if the ACT doesn’t quickly follow suit and cancel their June test date as well. […]
High School Seniors Are Changing Their Minds Thanks to COVID-19
Are you a high school senior who’s no longer sure what you’ll do in the fall? Have you changed your mind about the school you’ll attend or decided to take a year off? If so, you’re not alone. According to a national survey of prospective college students conducted by the Art & Science Group, up […]
The latest news on the changes to the AP exams
As of April 3, AP exams will only be offered digitally as 45-minute, primarily free response, at home exams in all subject areas except for Art. AP Art portfolios will require a reduced number of pieces. The exams will be given May 11 – May 22. Make-up test dates will be offered for each subject […]
Changes Are Coming to the AP Tests
College Board has announced that due to COVID-19, they are changing the way AP tests will be administered for the 2019-20 school year. Instead of in-school exams, they will be offering students the opportunity to take the test remotely. More specific details will be announced by April 3. What are the changes? As of […]