The big event for juniors in October is the PSAT. Although this exam qualifies Class of 2020 students for the National Merit Scholarship competition, its real value is as a diagnostic tool. Take a practice ACT as well and compare scores. While most students don't...
Many of you are taking the PSAT this week or next. Good luck, but don't let it stress you out. These scores will never be shared with colleges, and you'll have another dry run next fall before the real thing. More important are some opportunities to...
Now that you've had some time to settle into the new school year, keep an eye out for opportunities to expand and explore. Check out some new activities that seem interesting and fun, like sports and clubs you didn't have in middle school. As you think...
You have a lot on your plate this fall, so time management is going to be more important than ever. As always, your first priority should be earning good grades in your core academic classes. (If you missed it, check out my August article in...
The top qualifications colleges want to see from high school students are strong grades in rigorous courses, so your first priority is to lay the groundwork for a good year. Think about your fall goals, and whether your time management and study skills need some...
Your focus for the back-to-school season: get off to a strong start for the year. On the academic side, connect with your teachers to make sure you are clear on their expectations, and check in with your school counselor. Students in the Class of 2021...
You’re just starting high school, do we really need to be talking about college? Not too specifically, no. The most important thing high school freshmen can do is have a smooth transition and lay the foundation for a successful high school experience. Get to know...
This is a reminder that Claster Educational Services is offering 2017-18 rates through August 31. Students in the Classes of 2019 through 2022 can enroll now in a comprehensive counseling package that provides one-on-one guidance for everything from course selection and standardized test planning through college applications...
The 2018-19 application cycle has begun with the launch of the Coalition Application in July and the Common App on August 1. If you created a Common App profile before that date, your information is stored, but if you invited recommenders you’ll have to re-invite...
As you gear up for a busy year, it’s particularly important to set goals and prioritize. For most colleges your grades in core academic subjects are the most important factor in admissions, so school should come first. This is also the year of standardized testing,...