A publication of Higher Applications                                                                                                                                    Volume 6,  Spring  2009

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Spread Your  Wings this Summer

Even though it's a little chilly out it's not too soon to start thinking about you summer. We've just updated our website with some new enrichment programs ideas. As you make your plans allow time to expand your horizons. The high school years should be spent exploring many different options. Summer camps, jobs, internships, travel, volunteer work and classes can all help develop the leadership, responsibility, independence, and maturity needed for college. Summer is the perfect time to immerse yourself in a subject or activity you love or are curious about. Choose summer activities based on your interests and talents not on what you think might impress an admission officer.

     

Without doubt, you can have a fun and productive summer without participating in an organized program. Volunteer for a cause that's important to you, write short stories, conduct a science experiment, teach yourself a skill, volunteer for a political campaign, or "shadow" someone working in a career that interests you. The possibilities are limited only by your imagination. Whatever you plan, leave time to relax and enjoy the beach with friends and family.

Click to find an enrichment activity perfect for you.

Did you take the PSAT or PLAN in the Fall?

Don’t let your efforts go to waste! Make your PSAT/PLAN score reports work for you. The best way to begin preparing for the SAT and/or ACT is by reviewing your results. If you have not already done so pick up your results and test booklets from your High School counseling office then follow the steps below:

     PLAN

Go through the exam booklet reviewing all missed or omitted questions. The back of your score report lists your answers as well as correct answers.

Read the suggestions for improving skills section of report.

     PSAT

Use the access code on your score report to sign in at www.collegeboard.com/quickstart .

Evaluate your online score report.

Review your customized Study Plan.

Explore major and career matches with My Roads.

Testing Rumors and Changes

How does the new Score Choice option from College Board affect me?    

Many of you have received notification about Score Choice from College Board.  This new program allows students to report their best scores from multiple sittings.I imagine that test prep companies will come up with new products to address test preparation or this new reporting option. However, I believe it is more of a reporting strategy issue.  For example, students often take advantage of the free tests sent at the time of the test option. With this new policy, students will most likely opt out of that option and wait to send until all testing is complete.
 

Is it true that the UC's are dropping the subject tests requirements?

Yes, beginning with the class of 2012 Two SAT Subject Tests will no longer be required for admission. However, under the new policy, campuses can still recommend SAT Subject Tests for admission to particular majors. Also, students who believe that the subject test scores help boost their case for UC admission will still be able to voluntarily submit them. Many Private colleges will also still require them.

Shan and I attend regular seminars with College Board, ACT, and the UC regents and will keep our clients informed as we receive new information. At this time, we recommend our students continue to prepare for the SAT, ACT and subject tests by taking a rigourous course load and doing the best they can at each sitting. Click for more info.

Jayne