A 10th grader recently asked me about the importance of standardized tests vs. grades. The emphasis on testing varies among colleges, but generally grades matter most. Your grades in core academic subjects (English, math, social studies, science and foreign language) will have the most impact...
As first semester grades come in, take stock. Are you pleased with your academic performance so far? If there's room for improvement, create a strategy for yourself. Start by figuring out where your strengths and weaknesses are. For example, are you good at planning for...
With many college application deadlines in January and February, you may be wrapping up the last of your submissions or may even be done. As you finish this phase of the process, make sure that all your admission and financial aid files are complete. Note...
As colleges start back up after winter break, this is a good time to plan your campus visits for the new semester; check out these tips for campus tours and these spring semester open house events. If you like college sports, you might be able to...
Did you get some R & R over winter break? I hope you had an opportunity to reflect on 2017 and think about what you want out of 2018. There are things you can do this year to lay the groundwork for a successful and...
I hope your 2018 is off to a great start! What are your planning for the new year? The cold days and long nights can make it hard to stay motivated at this time of year, so try giving yourself a monthly challenge to focus...
Many of you are in the home stretch of your application process. As you put finishing touches on applications and submit them, be sure to arrange for test scores to be sent if necessary. (To see a list of schools that will accept self-reported scores,...
With your PSAT scores in hand, your next step is to take a practice ACT, compare scores, and develop a testing plan. Many test prep companies offer free diagnostic tests as part of their marketing outreach, and you can also print a full practice test...
If you took the PSAT, your scores are available now. While most 10th graders don't need to start test prep yet, the scores offer useful information about your strengths and weaknesses and what you might want to work on for the rest of this year....
Now that you have your first grades of high school, how are things going? If you need help to improve in any of your classes, consider getting a tutor. For improvement across the board, focus on your study skills; DC-area students should check out SmithRivas's...