It's the Student, not the College, that 's Responsible for Success

Acceptance letters are rolling in. The much anticipated April 1 notification date is around the corner. Worried parents, sleepless high school seniors, stressed to the hilt.

Where will the child "get in"?

His life will be ruined if he doesn't go to a highly ranked college!

These are some of the hysterical thoughts and worries controlling lot of parents and students this time of year. Please read through the linked article, research indicates that it's the student, not the college she attends, that's responsible for her success.

http://www.brookings.edu/articles/2004/10education_easterbrook.aspx

Will You be a Typical College Freshman?

The Higher Education Research Institute at UCLA surveys freshmen each year to identify trends in the behavior, interests and goals of College Freshman in the US. The latest findings describe most college freshmen as liberal leaning(nothing new), non-business major(very new), and about a third of them need remedial courses in college(add time and $ to getting that degree).

Check out more about these findings: http://www.insidehighered.com/news/2010/01/21/freshmen

To Prep or not to Prep: That is the Question

Colleges use Entrance Exam (ACT/SAT) scores for various purposes. It's helpful to understand these purposes to inform your decision about whether preparing for the exams is worth your time and money.

Admissions Decisions: Most people think of the scores as the most influential factor used by colleges making admissions decisions. Actually, the scores are the third most important factor. Actually, the two most important factors, ahead of test scores, are a rigorous high school curriculum and good grades.

Placement Decisions: Another use of entrance exam scores is to place students into the correct level courses. For example, ACT math scores may help colleges determine whether a student is wiser to start their math sequence at the calculus level, or whether it might be better to start one or two courses below college calculus.

Scholarship Decisions: Some merit scholarships are based solely or partially on a students ACT or SAT score. In our judgment, trying for a higher score so that a student can qualify for a higher merit aid award is one of the few justifications for retaking an entrance exam.

Watch the video of Valerie discussing the issue of Test Prep:
http://www.kare11.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=837513


The University of Chicago has investigated the relationship between student learning, ACT prep and success in college. Click here for the highlights: http://ccsr.uchicago.edu/publications/ACTReport08.pdf

Course Selection Time - AP or not???

This is the time of year when high schools ask students to select courses for next year. It's important to consider many factors when faced with these decisions and students need help and guidance. Remember that a rigorous high school curriculum is the #1 thing colleges look at when deciding whether to admit a student. Should you take AP classes or not? Check out this article for valuable perspectives.

http://familytimesmn.com/FT_0110/Advanced_Placement.htm

Financial Aid Night in Lakeville

This workshop is open to everyone. Knowledgeable presenters will be available to answer your questions. Valerie from College Connectors will be there to discuss the latest in College Admissions.

http://events.linkedin.com/College-Financial-Planning-Evening/pub/170070

Are Majors overrated???

Here's what some college folks think about this question.

Career U.: Making College 'Relevant'
By KATE ZERNIKE
Students are increasingly focused on how their major will translate into a job. The response to that demand is changing higher education.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/03/education/edlife/03careerism-t.html?emc=eta1

PSAT results

Sophomores and Juniors all over the country have already received their PSAT results or will get them soon after they get back to school after winter break.

So, now what? As for testing, our advice is pick which test you'll take - ACT or SAT, pick a date this spring that's convenient for you, seriously prepare yourself for the test and plan on taking it once. Remember - your goal is to earn a score that accurately reflects your ability.