By Abby G. Many students know they are interested in STEM, but they are not always sure how to turn that interest into a meaningful passion project. The best projects usually start with curiosity, a real-world problem, or a moment when a student realizes they want to understand a subject more deeply. What steps can students take to turn their different STEM interests into a real passion project? 1) One
By Sarah M. Junior year is one of the most important periods in the college admissions process. While applications may still seem far away, the steps students take now can have a major impact on their future options. The key is to stay organized, intentional, and proactive rather than overwhelmed. Here are 4 tips for how to proceed: 1. Strengthen Academic Performance Colleges closely evaluate junior-year grades because they reflect
By Justin B. Transitioning from middle school to high school is an exciting step that also comes with elevated expectations, increased independence, and advanced academics. Preparing now can make this adjustment smoother and help establish a strong foundation for a successful four years. Here are a few key tips for 8th graders to get ahead before freshman year begins. [1] Build Effective & Efficient Study HabitsStart by creating a consistent
By Abby G. A glowing college recommendation letter from a teacher or mentor does not only come from straight-A report cards; there’s so much more than simply doing well in a teacher’s class. Teachers spend their days surrounded by grades and titles; what stands out to them is the student who shows up as a real, curious, and engaged human being. Doing things like sitting near the front of class,
by David H. N., PhD College is a unique time during which teens are expected to learn independence while living away from home. Here are 3 tips below to help you on independence! What does independence mean? It means things like paying your bills on time, knowing how to take public transportation, and knowing how to find an apartment that fits your budget and transportation methods. Tip 1: Set Reminders
by Kathleen M. Your life is full of writing opportunities every day. Taking a minute to recognize these opportunities and to start to take advantage of them is a good first step in training yourself to improve your writing in a nearly unconscious fashion. So first, take a deep breath. We are creating a new habit here, not anything more. Look around for a way to practice writing that feels
by David H. N., PhD Students are often wowed by the final product of a science project that makes headlines in their community. These stories can be inspiring, but they can also be discouraging to other students. The misconception that leads to discouragement is that you don’t realize that every successful STEM practitioner started as a beginner, with challenges of a journey that must happen before the final project. What
by Jennifer L. Junior year is a crucial time for college preparation. While senior year is when you’ll submit applications, the groundwork you lay now will make the process smoother. Here are 5 key areas to focus on to begin preparing for college applications. 1. Stay Focused on Your Grades Your junior-year grades are the last full year of academics colleges will see before you apply. Strong grades can boost
by Sarah M. One of the most common questions students ask early in high school is how many extracurriculars they should pursue in order to make themselves as competitive as possible for college. There is no one simple answer to this question, but here are some tips to keep in mind:
by Sarah M. Academic summer programs are a versatile resource for high schoolers looking to set themselves apart on their college applications. There are many different kinds of programs, and they can be effective for different goals at different times. In general, applications for these programs will open between December and March: you should do your research early to know when you need to apply to your particular program. While
by Jennifer L. Very important! Your senior year grades, especially those from the first semester, can significantly influence your college application decisions. The fall semester of your senior year helps demonstrate academic consistency and improvement to admissions counselors. A strong academic finish can highlight your reliability and sustained effort, showing that you are ready for college-level work and will be academically successful at the next level. If your GPA has
by Ziba R. Transitioning from high school to college marks a significant shift in your academic journey. As you step onto the college campus, you enter a realm of newfound independence and responsibility. The choices you make and the habits you develop during this pivotal time can greatly impact your academic success and professional growth. Here are six essential tips for new students to help you navigate this exciting transition:
by Ziba R. Transitioning from high school to college marks a significant milestone in one’s academic journey. It’s a time of newfound independence, exploration, and personal growth that comes with a different set of experiences, responsibilities, and opportunities than high school. Let’s explore these variances in 9 ways college differs from high school: High School College 1. Academic Freedom Curriculum is structured, limited choice More flexibility in course selection and
by Ziba R. Test anxiety–the feeling of dread, extreme distress, rapid heartbeat and racing thoughts, affects many students before an exam. However, with the right mindset and strategies, you can overcome test anxiety and ace your exams. Here are six tips to help you navigate through those pre-exam jitters: Prepare Strategically: One of the most effective ways to combat test anxiety is through preparation. Start early, make a study schedule,
by Shiv G. As a high school student, juggling academics, extracurriculars, and a social life can sometimes feel like walking a tightrope. With so much on your plate, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and stressed out. However, prioritizing your mental health is essential for maintaining balance and overall well-being, even if it means dropping an extracurricular from your schedule or foregoing an AP course. Here are some of my personal
by Jennifer L. As a student or a parent, you may have heard of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, but have wondered about their importance and benefits in the college application process. AP courses can offer several benefits for high school students who are interested in challenging their high school curriculum. Preparation for College: AP courses are modeled after college-level courses, so taking them can provide students with a taste of
by Ziba R. High school offers a chance not just for academic growth, but also to explore passions outside the classroom. For high school students pursuing careers in the sciences or healthcare, volunteering can provide hands-on experience, meaningful connections, and valuable skills. Here, we explore science- and healthcare-related opportunities for high school students and offer tips on finding these enriching experiences. Volunteering Opportunities: Hospitals and Clinics: Hospitals and clinics offer
by Shiv G. Hey there, aspiring STEM enthusiasts! Are you ready to embark on an exhilarating journey through the realms of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics? Brace yourselves, because I’ve curated a set of study tips tailored specifically for high school students like you, aimed at helping you conquer these intellectually stimulating subjects with confidence and finesse: Active Engagement: Move beyond passive learning and immerse yourself in hands-on exploration. Rather
by Ziba R. From making scientific discoveries to developing new technologies, improving healthcare, addressing social issues, and informing decisions, research is a cornerstone of progress and innovation. Embarking on summer research internship as a high school student can be a transformative experience, providing invaluable insights, skills, and connections that can enrich students’ academic, personal, and professional development. Here are several reasons why pursuing a summer research internship in high school
by Shiv G. While it may be tempting to spend these months doing nothing but lounging by the pool or binging on TV shows, actively investing in personal development during summers between high school can lead to long-lasting benefits. In this blog post, I’ll discuss the significance of personal growth during high school summers and provide practical strategies to accomplish it. 1. Self-Reflection and Goal Setting To embark on a
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by Tony T. Summer is coming up soon, and what you do in summer may help you in many perspectives and also help you get into colleges. Thinking about finding a job, being a volunteer or doing some research this summer? There are many summer jobs high school students can do. Some popular high school summer jobs include swimming lessons instructor, lifeguarding, pool cleaning, starting a blog, tutoring, babysitting, pet
by Jennifer L. Applying to college has become much more complex than in the past when parents applied. It can have a stressful impact on students with performance expectations and making all the “right” decisions for admission into their dream college. The most important role for parents and guardians in the college application process is one of SUPPORT. Here are some ideas for providing that support to your student: 1.
The AP scores were recently released last week in July! Why are the AP exams important for students? Because by following the 3 steps below, students can earn college credit and begin their college years with a stronger start than their classmates! 1. The student takes an AP class and then the AP Exam in the spring, and scores a 3 or higher. 2. The student sends the official AP
If you are a student, it is likely that you and many of your classmates may have made a New Year’s resolution to be better at studying and preparing for tests. But how can a student do so? A student can prepare before class by making sure to have all the materials they need, like a notebook, black and blue pens, and pencils A student can take notes in an
Feeding fish to different cats in your backyard or slicing fruit into flying pieces may be all fun and games, but for students who wonder about the process that goes into making those apps, this week is an ideal time to further develop that interest. Computer Science Education week runs this year from December 5-11. How can students get more involved with computer science? 1.Play Minecraft Code.Org has a Minecraft
As AP scores were recently released for students, some student may find that they have also earned an AP Scholar award. Based on the number of AP exams completed and the AP scores earned, there are different levels of AP Scholar awards given. The students’ scores usually need to be a 3 or higher. Requirements for all the different awards can be read here. (Source: The College Board)
No matter what type of student you are, tests and exams can bring a lot of pressure on your shoulders. While you are looking through your color-coordinated notes and debating with your friends over a textbook, see if this list of apps can help you have a more engaging and efficient study period. (Source: USA Today)
You know you have three tests next week, two AP exams around the corner, and finals week right afterwards. Not sure how to structure your study time? This quick list of tips and apps can help you pen a plan and aim for test success. (Source: Huffington Post)
The AP exams are approaching quickly next month. For students who are taking the AP for the first time, do you know what materials you are allowed to bring? What test dates your AP exams are scheduled on? Before making any study plans, make sure to read up on the correct AP dates so you understand how you can make effective preparations. If you need resources to help you begin
According to the Huffington Post, the U.S. Education Department has released recent data which shows that for 2013-14, the U.S. high school graduation rate had reached as high as 82 percent. A more detailed breakdown of that information can be found at the Huffington Post article.
Current high school students may feel a certain sympathy with Alice’s White Rabbit, who shouts “I’m late!” everywhere it runs. However, to keep a better handle on a busy schedule and to help reduce stress, students should consider using a few of the 7 time management techniques from the Huffington Post.
Recently, the Department of Education released an announcement that high school students who want to take college classes through dual enrollment may soon be able to use Pell Grants towards dual enrollment. This experiment has been reported as a way to increase opportunities for high schoolers with low-income backgrounds, as dual enrollment seems linked to benefits like “better grades in high school, increased enrollment in college following high school, [and]
The news constantly seems to report that U.S. students are behind in nearly every academic subject–whether it is science or reading or languages. However, no matter if you are a high school student or a graduate from high school some time ago, take the chance to test your knowledge with the following links below: 1. The Singapore math puzzle from April which stumped many students and adults alike 2. An
Taking an AP exam next week? Give your mind a break from that AP Calculus book or those AP Lit notes to take a look at the helpful links below! 1. AP Test Dates – Always make sure to double-check on your test dates. Also put some time aside to gather your needed test materials, like No. 2 pencils, pens with black/blue ink, your photo id, and a calculator (if
In March, the Intel Science Talent Search announced Andrew Jin, a San Jose student, as one of its top winners for his project on DNA mutations. Besides Andrew Jin, a number of Californian high-schoolers also placed as finalists. More information on the Intel Science Talent winners can be read in the San Jose Mercury News. For students who hope to enter the Intel Talent Science Search or have a passion
Or to flip the question, how many students do you think a school counselor can handle while still working effectively? 50 students? 100 students? What about 500 students? According to a recent article from the New York Times, the national ratio of high school students to counselors is almost 500-to-1. Last year, Time Magazine also mentioned a similar figure, stating that a public high school counselor usually has a caseload
As winter break has just begun, some students are excited for the chance to sleep in and catch up with friends. But the holidays also provide a great chance to review school subjects or work on a long-term school project. In order to ensure the most productive study session possible, see some of the tips below! 1. Check your study environment A quiet and clean place to study is
A recent article on The Atlantic reviewed data on the amount of homework assigned to 15-year-old students around the world. According to the listed countries: Students in Shanghai spend, on average, 13.8 hours on homework each week Students in the U.S. spend 6.1 hours on homework each week Students in Finland spend 2.8 hours on homework each week The report does not take into account any time spent in after-school
On Monday, several of the largest school districts in the U.S. in New York, Los Angeles, and other locations announced that they would be making introductory computer science classes more available to their students. One problem with computer science courses is that it is usually a non-required course for high-schoolers, so schools might not place a high priority on hiring computer science teachers. For AP classes, students interested in computer
The U.S. Department of Education announced that for the 2012-2013 school year, 18 states had high school graduation rates at 85 percent or more. In 2011-2012, only 16 states had that same graduation rate. Specific information about graduation rates for each state can be found online at ED Data Express. There may be some differences between states on how their rates take account of English learners and students with disabilities.
First of all, what is the PSAT? The PSAT (Preliminary SAT) is about a 2-hour long test on critical reading, math, and writing. Usually, only high school sophomores and juniors take this test. For students who do not relish getting up on a Saturday morning to take a test at school, why should they sign up for the PSAT? 1. The PSAT results can give students an idea of their
For many high schools, community service is a graduation requirement for their students. In the Fremont Unified School District, schools like Mission San Jose High and Irvington High all have different methods for students to report their hours. However, the requirements for these service learning hours are the same across these schools. 1. Students must fulfill 40 service hours before they graduate 2. These service hours must be with a
In the past week in Colorado, many Jefferson County students participated in protests against a school board’s response to new guidelines for AP U.S. History. The Jefferson County school board took issue with new AP U.S. History guidelines which came out from College Board in the summer. Some stated that it promoted an anti-American view of history, and placed too much emphasis on the role of race, gender, and class in
If you are a junior or a senior in high school, have you taken your SAT yet? If you plan to take the SAT before 2014 is over, it is vital to register before the deadlines. In 2014, there are only 2 more SAT dates on which you can sign up to take the test: SAT Date Registration Deadline November 8 10/09 December 6 11/06 Remember to register before the
What is “Big History” and why is Bill Gates interested in it? Originally, “Big History” was a college course created by the Australian professor David Christian. His course not only covered important events in human history; it also linked history with other seemingly unrelated fields like biology or astronomy. After Gates watched the DVD version of “Big History,” he met with David Christian to plan how to convert it into
The SSAT (Secondary School Admission Test) is administered by the Secondary School Admission Test Board. It is a standardized test for students between grade 3 and grade 11. The SSAT offers 3 levels: Elementary, Middle, and Upper. The SSAT helps many private elementary, middle, and high schools make admissions decisions. It is a required admission test for some of the best private schools. The SSAT score is an important factor
Please note: all deadlines expire at 12:00 AM, EDT (US) SAT Test Date Registration Deadline Late Registration Deadline (with fee) Last day to make change to Test SAT Subject Tests Available? 10/11/2014 9/12/2014 9/30/2014 9/30/2014 Yes 11/8/2014 10/9/2014 10/28/2014 10/28/2014 Yes 12/6/2014 11/6/2014 11/24/2014 11/24/2014 Yes 1/24/2015 12/29/2014 1/13/2015 1/13/2015 Yes 3/14/2015 2/13/2015 3/3/2015 3/3/2015 No 5/2/2015 4/6/2015 4/21/2015 4/21/2015 Yes 6/6/2015 5/8/2015 5/27/2015 5/27/2015 Yes Please refer
