What is your “Perfect College”?
When you think about the “Perfect College” what comes to mind? Bucolic hills, palm trees, or urban energy? Classes with 12 students or with 120? Going to a football game, a political debate, an art show – all of the above? How do you know which college is perfect? You need to know what is important to YOU.
Here are the Top 10 factors to consider for your “Perfect” college:
- Academics: If you know your major, that should be a requirement. But what about special programs such as honors, study abroad, co-ops or senior projects? Also consider the learning environment. Is the campus on semesters, quarters, or offer a May or January term? How do you learn best?
- Climate: Think about what climate you will want to live in for at least three seasons of the year while at college. If you have never lived through winter in New England, think about how you will feel...
Get to Know Your High School Counselor
Do you know your high school counselor? Maybe you’ve met with them to sign up for classes or to make a schedule change. Or maybe not. Depending on your school, your counselor may could be responsible for 30 students or 300+ students so some counselors are more accessible than others. Regardless, it’s important for you to know this person and know what they can do for you in the college search.
- Make an appointment to meet your counselor. If possible, make an appointment at a time where you won’t be talking about what classes to take next year. This is a separate opportunity to talk mostly about college planning.
- Ask Questions. The CollegeBoard
has a great list of 20 Questions to Ask Your School Counselor. - Get Personal. Colleges that you apply to may require a letter of recommendation from your counselor. This is one of many...
Singing the Senioritus Blues
What do I need to focus on in my second semester?
Now that your first semester is under your belt, it is tempting to take it easy during your second semester. Why does it matter if some of my grades slip this semester?
What You Do Now Matters
Colleges are going to ask the following questions of you:
Did you challenge yourself? Did you take the hardest classes you could!
Did you get the best grades you could? This includes both first and second semester.
What did you do extra in your classes? Are you contributing to the class? Will your teachers discuss your contributions in your recommendations?
Finish Strong
Keep your grades up and your enthusiasm going as you start in your spring semester. You will be glad you did!
SAT Subject Based Test Questions & Answers
SAT Subject tests are based on the curriculum you have in class. It's an opportunity to demonstrate your mastery of a particular subject. According to the College Board,
"The SAT Subject Tests offer you an additional opportunity to show colleges what you know and what you know you can do. Many colleges use the SAT Subject Tests for admission, for course placement, and to advise students about course selection. Some colleges specify the SAT Subject Tests that they require for admission or placement; others allow applicants to choose which tests to take."
Make plans now to include SAT Subject tests as part of your college planning process.
