Inspiring Young Children to Read

Convincing a child who hates books to read can be an extremely daunting task, especially if we’re dealing with the most stubborn kid who just won’t switch a video game console for a book. In most cases, the parents are to blame for their kids’ hate for books. If you haven’t been paying too much attention on your child’s hobbies and passions lately, maybe it’s time to rethink your priorities; otherwise, you’ll end up with a TV addict who will never know who Huckleberry Finn was.  

 

Inspiring Children to Read: Flickr Harald Groven

Inspiring a love for reading is devastating, especially if your precious son/daughter doesn’t like books. We must admit that technology hinders our abilities to raise our kids the right way, so rather than turn it off for good, it’s best to use it in your advantage. Here’s how:

Buy an iPad

Buying an iPad and using it to make your child start loving books is more like a trend these days. Your kid might not like actual books, but he will certainly love the beautiful images on a smart device. With Kindle and iBooks at your disposal, who needs books anymore? Organize periodic reading session, choose enticing books, and let your kids discover the wonders of an interesting plot on their own. Don’t forget to limit their reading time on the iPad in order to keep them interested. 

Read to your kids every night

Your 9-year old might not like reading, but that shouldn’t stop you from reading to him/her every night. Choose an interesting book and find a way to maintain their interest. Mystery books, adventure books like “Harry Potter” or “The Hobbit” will definitely make them want to know more. It will be difficult at first and you might have to deal with your kids’ grumpy attitude, but try not to give up. 

Reward your kids for every chapter read

The best way to convince your kids to read is to reward them after they’re done. They might not like the activity, but they will surely adore that chocolate cake you’ll be making for them afterwards. Don’t force them though, and let them pick their own books. It might be a good idea to stock your bookcase with new books your kids might like. 

Make reading fun

A lot of books for kids have onomatopoeia and rhythmic sounds, so use them to make reading a fun activity. These specific literary techniques additionally involve action and mimicry, which are really important for the little ones. It’s important to make your kids become part of the story and not just force them read for the sake of reading. If they’re not enjoying the activity, they’ll never see it as a relaxing endeavor. 

Reading out loud

Children should be thought by their parents that reading is important. The best way to do that is by organizing a reading session with the whole family. Make it a weekly ritual; bring the whole family together, create a suitable environment in the sunroom for example or by the fireplace, and engage in the experience. After the session is done, devote a couple of minutes to talk about the story. Ask kids what they understood, what they liked, disliked, and so on. Don’t forget to keep things fun.

Visit local libraries

Another great way of making your children curious about reading books is to take them to the local library. Don’t buy anything for them at first, and pick something for you only. We all know kids are curious, so 2-3 visits a week will eventually make them want to read too. Recurrent visits create a ritual, so it will be a lot simpler for you to instill a passion for books in your stubborn kids.

It’s official! Kids hate reading books because they’re used to playing video games all day long. As a responsible parent it’s your job to inspire a love for reading in your kids. How do you do that? Simple; start by limiting TV and computer time, make reading fun, and never force your kids to read a certain book you’ve chosen for them. Be a role model, read frequently, and don’t forget to make your home a book-friendly environment.

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Pointers for Underprepared College Students

Many academically successfully students find themselves in a tough quagmire following graduation from high school: though they’ve managed to attain top grades, they haven’t adequately prepared themselves for the difficult, relatively structureless environment of college. During high school, their teachers took a personal interest and the time to talk to them if their work was below par; their parents regularly checked up on them to make sure that they comprehended and finished their homework; the tests and essays they were assigned were not nearly as hard as those at the college level; and they usually know all of the students in each class they have. Academic life tends to be grand for these students; however, they will have a much harder path to travel once they reach the post secondary education level.

In college they will not easily find friends and their teachers will not pamper them by coming around the classroom to see how they are doing on their assignments or plead with them to catch up on their work. It is totally up to them to take the initiative to have academic success now because they are adults who are paying for their own education. They can experience a fabulous social life and academic success by heeding the pointers discussed below.

Attendance

It is vital for them to take class attendance seriously. By attending all of their classes, they will avoid having their final grade reduced, hear information that might appear as questions on their exams and have an easier time understanding their textbooks. It is imperative for them to always come to class on time to avoid missing key information, interrupting the class and getting expelled.

Responsibility and Diligence

They must take responsibility for their own success and do what it takes to be great students. They must take notes because they are likely to forget most of what the professor says if they do not. They can make the most of the note taking process by using a tape recorder during the class lectures, sharing notes with their classmates and using shorthand, a method of note taking that involves abbreviating key words while writing them down. It is also up to students to be diligent while they are on the campus. It is crucial for them to ask the professors questions about any course material that confuses them. They must also take advantage of the extra help that is offered to them by visiting their professors during their scheduled office hours and attending the student labs. The labs provide tutors for subjects such as math and writing.

Getting a head start on writing term papers

The students will have many term papers to write until they graduate. Once they are assigned a term paper, they should begin writing it as soon as possible. By doing it now instead of starting toward the deadline, they will have more time to write the paper well and make all of the necessary edits, while reducing their anxiety. Also, they should show the teacher what they have written for their rough draft in order to see if they are on the right track.

Studying properly

It is also essential for them to study well. They can achieve this by using repetition as they read their notes and textbooks; being in a study group; and focusing most heavily on the first few sentences of each paragraph and reading each chapter summary in their textbooks. Developing solid study skills is critically important for these students because, unlike at the high school level, they are without constant adult support and supervision.

Social Aspect

In order to develop friendships in college, the students must make an attempt to become friends with their classmates and exchange telephone numbers; they must take the initiative in social settings to a greater extent than was expected at the secondary school level. For academically successful but under-prepared students, social connections should be tempered so as to reinforce and support academic success; these students should learn to independently develop novel social connections, but also keep their focus on academics to a substantial extent.

Terrence Harrisburg frequently contributes commentary and articles on education, educational policy, online learning and other related topics; for those who may be interested in online learning check http://www.onlineschool.com/online-schools/ for more information.

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Going to College: Leave This Stuff at Home

When you are leaving home for the first time to go to college, you'll find that there are a number of things that you need to bring. Most college pack lists tell you to bring things like lamps, wastebaskets, laundry baskets and blankets, but they do not mention what not to bring. The last thing you want to worry about when you are thinking about your first semester is having too many things cluttering your dorm room. However, what exactly should you leave at home? 

Clothes  

You will not need as many clothes as you think that you do. For the most part, a college dorm room only has so much closet space, and this is often shared with a roommate. If you're lucky, you might have a chest of drawers next to your closet; in some cases, you only have the chest of drawers. College is a busy time, and chances are good that you will be throwing on a pair of jeans and a T-shirt every morning. Make sure that you have plenty of mix and match staples, and throw in one nice outfit for special occasions. Pack only seasonal clothing; you can leave summer clothes in a bin at your parents' house, and switch out your wardrobe after the semester is over.

Extra Sheets 

Having extra sheets is just something that leads to more laundry and more random things to get thrown around the room. It might be convenient when you're home, but when in college, try to wash and re-use the same set of sheets. This might mean doing laundry more often, but you'll be glad you have the extra storage space in your room.

Cooking Supplies 

You are not going to have much time for cooking in college unless you are living off campus. When you are living in the dorm, you will likely have access to a microwave in the dining hall. A mini-fridge is nice for a number of different snacks, but that should be the extent of it. Leave things like coffee makers and popcorn poppers at home. They will take up space and you will not have the time to use them. In many cases, these things are also banned by your dorm; be sure to check a list of banned materials before you waste time packing anything you might have to take home later.

Printer 

A printer can make things more convenient for you, but you do not necessarily need one. Printers take up a lot of space on your desk, and they can be quite bulky to transport. Most colleges and universities will give you a chance to print your papers in the computer labs. You'll find that having a USB flash drive around can make a big difference--keep papers stored on this instead, and print them in public facilities.

Ironing Board and Iron 

There are a few students who need to make sure that they have an iron and an ironing board. If you are going to be going to law school, where the professors demand professional dress from the students, or if you are going to a professional job or internship, then by all means bring along an ironing board and an iron. Otherwise, make sure that you leave it at home!

Stuffed Animals 

Stuffed animals are nice, but they can get in the way when you are moving. If you do want to bring along a stuffed companion, make sure that you just choose one or two. Bringing along an entire collection is something that is going to feel very crowded in your room.

Books

Perhaps there are some books that you would like to bring for leisure reading between classes, but most of the time, your time--and space--will be consumed by textbooks and folders of assignments. An alternative solution is to purchase an e-reader; other than that, opt to bring a maximum of three books from your personal collection to the dorms. Another possible option is to combine your collection with your roommate. Doing these will lessen the clutter and help you organize the limited living space that is your dorm room much better.

When you are going away to college for the first time, there might be a lot of things on your mind. Take a few moments to consider what you should bring and what you can easily leave behind. With so little space available, make the most of what you've got!

Author's Bio:
Obsessed with efficiency, Linda Wheaton is a college senior based in Seattle, regularly scours the Internet for new organizational tips for the home. She relies on Stita Taxi to efficiently navigate her way around Seattle.

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Should Everyone Go To College?

Numerous studies have shown that people who attend college earn much more over their working lives on average than those who never attend college. Compared to those with a high school diploma, college graduates reportedly earn approximately one million dollars more over the course of their economic lifetimes. Numerous economists and educators have called this oft-cited “million dollar figure” into question; however it is certainly clear that a substantial “wage premium” exists for those who complete college. 
 

There is an even larger lifetime earning gap between those who earn a graduate degree and those who only have a high school education. These statistics would seem to indicate that a college degree is a must in today's world because what one learns contributes to what he or she earns.  The question must be asked as a result: Should everyone go to college? Given the undeniable economic premium associated with college, the question would appear to answer itself. However, is college attendance – and to a greater extent completion – truly the causal factor of the supposed wage premium? Might college actually not be for everyone, despite the definite economic advantages of degree holders?

Many colleges are open enrollment, which means that the only requirement for admission is a working respiratory system. These colleges will take just about anyone. They will also take money from these unsuspecting souls. However, these open enrollment colleges are not alone; even the more selective schools are more than willing to take tuition money, often in the form of student loans, from students. Some people will benefit immensely from the work that they do in college for their degrees. Others will not.

Some people are not cut out for college and some may actually do better without a four-year degree. Here are a few examples of people who should not go to college.

Party Animals

Those who think that partying is the main major in college may want to think twice about attending college or at least wait a while before taking the plunge.  Some fraternities and sororities use just about any excuse to start partying and with this partying there is usually quite a bit of drinking. Have an exam in the morning? It's not exactly a good idea to take a final while coming off a hangover.

The Academically Lazy

Some people just do not like to study or do school work. These people could have a problem succeeding in school because people tend to excel at tasks they enjoy. If a student did not like studying in high school, it is quite probable that she will not like spending late hours in a library studying.

Those Merely Looking for a Significant Other

Those who think that men or women are the only reason to attend college might be better served sitting out after high school. A significant other or significant others can detract from the concentration that would be necessary to completely succeed in school. Focusing upon a boyfriend or girlfriend too much can take away from studies and waste time and money.

People Who Only Need Vocational Training

It may be beneficial for some people to sit out college and focus upon vocational school. Many states provide some level of vocational training for high school students. People who want to become welders do not need a bachelor's degree in philosophy or business. They merely need a welding certificate and some experience to make a decent salary. The same can be said for those who want to become electricians or plumbers. A vocational education can open doors to successful careers in these instances.

The Undecided Millions

Some people may have no idea what they want to study. There is always the option of taking general education classes for a year or two, but it may be more beneficial for such students to go to work. Perhaps they will find something that interests them and they will be ready to go to college later.

It is not necessary to be exceptionally brilliant to succeed in college, but there are some people who may want to think twice about going, at least for a while. There are plenty of satisfying career paths for those who do not have a college degree. Why go to college if being a master welder is a your career goal?  

This article was written by Karl Stockton for the team at Civil Engineering Careers.

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College Dean on Admissions Process with Tips

A special thanks to Dean Lisa Meyer, Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid at Lewis and Clark College, for participating in our Admissions Spotlight Series  Joseph Fernandez from Parliament Tutors conducted this interview.

As the Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid, what are your day-to-day responsibilities?
One of the things I most enjoy about my profession is that my responsibilities greatly vary from day to day and month to month.  On a macro level, fall is devoted to getting the word out about the College.  My staff and I are visiting high schools, interviewing students, attending college fairs, and generally communicating with as many interested students as possible.  December through March is devoted to reading admissions applications and creating financial aid awards.  In April, admissions decisions are sent, and the campus hosts visitors who are making their college choices.  Summer allows a little time for planning, and then we start all over again.

What do you consider the most significant parts of an application, the parts which applicants should prepare the most carefully?
The student's transcript is the most significant factor in an application. This is not something that can be "prepared" as the student is filing the application, but what appears on the transcript is certainly driven by student choices.  Many students think that the Admissions Committee only cares about the grade point average.  While a GPA is certainly calculated, the committee looks closely at the rigor of courses the student took and the trends in grades (do they steadily go up over the years, or is this student record on the decline?).  One common mistake on the part of students is to take a very light load during the senior year.  This is the year that will prepare them for their first year in college.  The Admissions Committee wants to know that students will be ready to do college level work upon their arrival.


Is there anything you frequently see on an application that you hope to never see again?
Typos.  In a time when Spell Check is as easy as the push of a button, I see no reason for typos.

What common pitfalls should applicants be careful to avoid?
Don't try to complete applications at the last minute.  This means writing the college essay in advance, asking someone to proof it, and revising it as you would an important classroom essay.  It also means thoughtfully answering the application questions, giving your recommenders enough notice to write something meaningful about you, and completing the application without errors or omissions.

Are there any myths about the application process which you would like to dispel?
There is no one perfect application that if submitted would guarantee admission to every college.  The admissions process is about finding a good fit between a student and a college.  A student can be a wonderful person and a great student, but not the right fit for a particular college or university.  Likewise, a college can offer terrific educational opportunities for many, but not be the right choice for a particular student.

What advice would you give to an applicant with below-average test scores but significant extra-curricular experience?
Not everyone will have the "average" test scores for an institution.  By definition, some scores will fall above the average and others below it.  If your scores are within the range of scores found at that institution, it will be your job to make a case to the Admissions Committee as to why you should be admitted.  Remember, the Committee is putting a community together, and they are looking for people who will bring positive influences to the college.  Your strengths might lie in your extra-curricular experiences.  Make certain to outline these experiences in your application.  You may choose to write about one or more of them in your application so the Admissions Committee will understand how they have prepared you to be a positive contributor to college life.  Your application is your opportunity to share who you are and what you bring to the college.  Make the effort to make your case.

Do you frequently have to turn away applicants whom you wish you could admit? If so, what could those applicants do to be admitted?
Nobody enjoys denying admission to an applicant, but that is certainly part of the job.  Most often, the students I have to turn away are those who have not prepared themselves for the rigors of my college.  This is demonstrated in the courses in which they enrolled, their grades, their writing samples, and myriad other factors.  As I stated above, really good people are not always a really good match for every college.  Take the time in your application to present yourself in the best light and allow the admissions process to unfold.  Even if you are not admitted to one particular college, chances are good you will find another match.

How much faith do you have in the ability of the SAT to predict success at in college?
The SAT is only one of many factors considered in an admissions application.  It is a measure that can be used to compare students who are applying from very different high schools from across the country.  When I look at a student's SAT score, I look for a score that makes sense given the other pieces of the application.  Does this score seem congruent with the grades this student has received?  Is this score in accordance with the kinds of scores produced by this high school?  If the SAT score seems reasonable given these other factors, I'll move on to looking at other elements of the application.  If the scores seem discordant, I am likely to look for more information.  That information may come from a counselor recommendation, a note from the student, or a comment by a teacher.  Remember, the test score is not the sole factor used in making admissions decisions.  It was not designed for this purpose, and it would not be wise to expect any one score to predict college success.

What do you look for in a recommendation letter?
The recommendation gives the Admissions Committee insight into the intellectual development and character of a student.  Recommendations often help us to understand how a student has developed over the years, what ways he or she contributes to the classroom experience, and how he or she adds to the intellectual and community environment at the school.  Letters of recommendation are an important tool in better understanding the applicant's strengths and challenges.

Joseph Fernandez is a private tutor with Parliament Tutors.

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How to Avoid Overbearing Parents

“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.

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College Success Stories

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

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College Myths: Are they Real or Fake?

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  

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Top 10 Tips that High School Students Wish they Knew Before College

The essential things that all High School Students need to know before College.

There are plenty of things that high school students need to know, but I have compiled a list of advice that is essential to all high school students to know before college. The sooner students read this list, the better.

1. Know the college rankings. Those can be found here on an old post along with some commentary on 2011 College Rankings. It is important to know the college rankings because it helps in student's applications and everything leading up to those decisions. Obviously, students who want to apply to the top 10 schools will need higher grades and test scores than if they want to apply to the bottom 50. Knowing where the college you want to go to ranks is very beneficial in the long run. 

Image by Van Jasek

2. Consider your options for textbooks. While there will always be students who buy their books, a new and popular craze is renting college textbooks. The cost of renting textbooks is much lower than buying, which is great for students who are short on cash. These cheap textbooks are a great alternative for students who already have enough to worry about. Many college students wish they had found out about renting textbooks sooner and saved some serious money.

3. Do not fall for The Biggest College Myth. The myth is that only the best colleges, like Harvard, will help students to succeed in life. This is absolutely untrue. Any college will help students develop the skills needed to succeed in life, whether it is Ivy, community college or even online university. It doesn’t matter if you choose to earn a degree in nursing or a cyber security degree; the point is that it’s more important that everyone goes to college no matter how you earn your degree.

4. So now students are in high school and deciding what classes to take and whether or not to take AP classes. It is important that these students read about the life of The AP Student so that they are fully aware of what they are getting into. AP life is not by any means easy; I call it an endless cycle of sleep deprivation for a reason. While AP classes look great for college, there are major sacrifices to be made for them.

5. Soon test time comes around and students are faced with standardized tests for the first time in their lives. Unfortunately, standardized tests are very important which I discuss in Just How Important are Standardized Tests?  These tests are the only way that colleges can compare all of the applicants on a fair and even playing field, because EVERYONE takes the same test on the same day. So needless to say, they are pretty important. If you are having difficulty deciding between the ACT and SAT then read this article comparing the two tests.

6. The question then arises of whether or not to take SAT prep classes. Some people do not need these classes, but for most high school students, they are absolutely necessary. The article Is Test Prep Worth It dives into the value of test prep. Long story short, SAT test prep classes, no matter where a student takes them, will positively affect a student's scores and college applications.

7. During this entire time, students are faced with the everyday challenges of school. Tests in high school are very common, and finals kill all students. It is important that high school students know how to study well and efficiently, so that they do not kill themselves of exhaustion and still get a C. I discuss many tips and good study habits in Crunch Time Study Tips: How to Study for Finals.

There are also other secrets to getting work done, which you can find here in Getting Work Done In High School.

8. Besides school, students also need extra curriculars for their college applications. Extra curriculars are VERY important to any college application because they put a face on a piece of paper that is otherwise just monotonous numbers. Activities Outside of School is our most popular article because it is brief and really gives a great summary of extra curricular activities. For a more in depth analysis on extra curricular activities, Using Extra Curriculars for College explains how to get the most out of extra curriculars and look the best as possible for college.

9. All of these activities and events leave high school students with the impression that there is Not Enough Time (another article) for everything that they want to accomplish. Students must realize that in order to succeed in school they need to sacrifice some things, such as excessive partying and laziness. School and school related activities take up around 12 hours of every day, not counting homework. Students must learn to prioritize and focus their time on school if they want to succeed.

10. Finally, all students will need some sort of help getting into college. We have a nice list of tips and suggestions on Tips to Help You Get Into College. This article is a nice summary of almost everything that high school students need to focus on in order to gain admission into the colleges of their choice. Make sure to read this article!

Posted By:
Admin

Posted on:
5:11 PM

Filed Under:
admissions tips, College, extra curriculars, preparing for college, Tips and Secrets

Vacation is for Relaxing!

It seems that vacation gets shorter and shorter every year. In addition to this, holidays are being taken away and summer is getting cut in half for many students. Long gone is Columbus Day; other holidays are also becoming shorter. Not only that, but schools now give homework over vacation. It is very rare to find a "good" school that does not give summer homework, Christmas homework, Thanksgiving homework, and Easter homework. Even worse, there is ALWAYS homework over the weekends when taking difficult classes such as AP (Advanced Placement). This is odd because AP and honors classes that give weekend and holiday homework are typically the ones that are the most tiring and difficult, requiring more time to recover after each. Instead of letting students rest, these classes just pile on the work. The only escape from homework is graduation.

Summer homework is becoming especially popular. Not only is it used to start off a class, but it is also used to get ahead. Common AP history homework is reading the first 5 or so chapters of the history books, to gain "an

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understanding" of the text. The first 5 chapters usually cover a larger time period than the rest of the book! Then of course there are always standardized tests to study for as well. Many incoming Juniors in high school spend their entire summer memorizing SAT review books. What kind of a vacation is that? So a student ends a very difficult year (it is generally agreed upon that sophomore year is the hardest in high school) to be met with a summer of more stressful studying. After a 2-3 month long headache, the now junior has to actually take the tests and keep up with everything else that happens in a 17 year old's life. These years in a young adult's life are when they need vacation the most, due to added stress of school, work, and growing up. Vacation is turning into an extension of the year; the only difference is that a student can sleep in past 8 am during vacation.

People seem to forget the importance of rest and relaxation. Vacation is meant to be a time to enjoy oneself and not feel an obligation to do anything. It really is a necessary state of mind, one that occurs less and less frequently. Society as a whole is scared of falling behind during vacation and does everything possible advance itself. There is always some sort of work that needs to be done during vacation. How unfortunate.

Posted By:
Admin

Posted on:
11:09 PM

Filed Under:
College, high school, High school life, holiday work, junior summer sat, preparing for college, Summer homework

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