Are you waiting fto find the "right" college?

Like this student blogger, we have students who really don't know where they want to go to college.  Like him, they can see themselves just about anywhere or studying a variety of subjects. Large, rural, small, urban...they're waiting for some sign to tell them where they should apply. If only it were that easy. Somewhere along the way, you've been led to believe that there is one "dream" school out there or that at the age of 18, you should know what you want to do for the rest of your life.  I don't buy it.

As I have said many times, finding colleges - yes, that's plural - is like one giant research project. First of all, there's no such thing as one perfect school.  The object is to find several schools that will be a good fit for you.  Second, you can be too picky. It's unlikely that one school is going to have every single thing you are looking for in a college, so you might need to figure out what the most important characteristics are and then be willing to compromise on the others. Even if you do your homework, you may find that no school jumps out as "the one," and that's okay too. And third, I don't believe many people go to college knowing exactly what they want to study or do for the rest of their lives.  The statistics bear that out: most people change their major at least once.

At the risk of repeating myself yet again, I firmly believe your college experience will be what you make of it. You may not end up attending the school you had your heart set on, but you may find (if you only try) that the school you attend has everything you wanted and even more.

Sometimes a "No" is the best thing that could happen to you

I know it's hard to think about now, especially if you've just received bad news from the college you most wanted to attend, but that "no" from your dream school may be the best thing that ever happened to you.  Of course you'll never really know what direction your life might have taken had you gone to school there, but chances are you will have some amazing adventures wherever you go. In the end - and I truly believe this - college will be what you make of it, and if I know anything about GPS girls, I know they will make the best of their college years.

http://nyti.ms/VZUjCI

Should an English major cost more than a science major?

Being an English major myself, I don't agree with this idea, but Florida's governor is proposing that university tuition rates be frozen for students majoring in "strategic areas." For example, a student who is earning a degree in engineering would pay less for that degree than someone who is majoring in history or English. It just doesn't quite seem fair to me, but you be the judge.

http://nyti.ms/UUaLBT

Fastest Growing Careers

Have you always wanted to be a veterinarian? Or have you though about a career in physical therapy or convention planning? If you have, then congratulations! According to CNN Money, those are among the ten fastest growing careers. See the full list, plus the median pay scale and potential for growth at http://cnnmon.ie/TSAVnN
.

Waiting for the envelope...or the email!

Many years ago I read a wonderful column titled "Rite of Passage to Adulthood" by the sydicated columnist Ellen Goodman.  In it, Ms. Goodman wrote about how seniors "run this gauntlet together as classmates...and as competitors."

As we await the first round of decisions for those girls who applied early action or early decision, I am always reminded of the reality of this statement.  Were you "accepted" or "rejected?" Are you in or are you out?  It is probably the one thing about my job I dislike the most, because it is so difficult for teenagers not to see this as a referendum on themselves, and many of them cannot help but compare themselves to their classmates and friends. I wish they wouldn't.

"These acceptances that come by mail are not some final, or even critical, judgment," said Ms. Goodman.  "Those of us who have been through other seasons know that. But they come at a vulnerable moment, at the edge of adulthood, when the young are just about to become full-fledged owners of their own lives. The letters come delivering tickets that lead in a hundred different directions."

The truth is there is no perfect college. There is no one school that will fulfill all your dreams. Wherever you go, it will be what you make of it. You will find friends if you look for them, if you are willing to put yourself out there and let them find you.  Some of our girls may be thrilled this week as they open those letters (although they're emails now); some of them may be very disappointed. As parents and teachers and counselors, we know how truly wonderful our girls are, but it will still hurt.

As Ms. Goodman goes on to say "For the very first time, inseparable friends opening those envelopes may feel the chill of distance. For the first time, a class of mates may really understand how our world tries to subdivide their future." So as I recently told the seniors, celebrate the good news but be aware that one of your classmates may not be so lucky this time around (she will be just fine later on though!) And as parents, don't put too much emphasis on this process. Come May 1, all of our girls will have a home.

Great Advice for Juniors

Sometimes you don't have to reinvent the wheel.  This is some wonderful advice for juniors as they start the college process (if they haven't already). I especially appreciate his comments about being committed to the process.  Finding the right schools takes time and effort.

Dogs and Final Exams

Now that recommendations are behind us, we can get back to posting the latest in college news.  Being a dog-lover, this is a great place to start!  What a wonderful way to break the tension that builds around final exams. It would certainly work for me!

http://huff.to/UecYWx

Auburn Engineering E-Day

Auburn University is inviting students considering a career in engineering to join them and feel the excitement of Alabama's premier engineering educational experience. Auburn Engineering's annual open house gives students a chance to learn about our campus, our programs and the incredible opportunities the college offers.
Middle and high school students have opportunities to chat one-on-one with students and faculty, experience interactive exhibits, and visit classes and labs, including the new Shelby Center. They can also tour the beautiful Auburn campus, and learn about admissions, scholarships, financial aid, and residence life.  The event will take place on February 22 from 8 AM to 2 PM, CST, in Auburn University's Student Center and Shelby Center.

Register for E-Day today at www.eng.auburn.edu/eday!

Aspire Summer Programs Abroad

All-inclusive summer programs in England, France, Ireland, Italy and Spain for high school students.

Aspire is pleased to announce several new and exciting programs this year:

• Summer immersions programs in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Dublin, Ireland.
• Community service trips to Costa Rica and China.

Explore their website at www.aspirebyapi.com to complete and online application or download scholarship application materials.

Denison University Young Writers Workshop

This is as week long residential summer program in creative writing. The program brings the discipline of a professional writers' conference to high school wirters, providing a marvelous opportunity for students to work intensively with acclaimed poets and writers on Denison's beautiful college campus in Granville, Ohio. Current sophomores, juniors, and seniors are eligible to apply. This year's program dates are June 23-30.
The fee (including room and board) for the eight-day program is $1,200. This year's application deadline is March 1, 2013.
For more information visit reynolds.denison.edu.

Oxbridge Academic Programs Summer 2012

Experience Oxbridge Academic programs in New York City (Barnard College),
England (Oxford and Cambridge), France (Paris), and Spain (Barcelona).

Apply online at www.oxbridgeprograms.com. The application deadline is May 31, 2013. A small number of scholarships are available based equally on financial need and the student's ability to contribute to the program in the broadest sense.

University of Florida Young Entrepreneurs for Leadership & Sustainability

Are You?

• Innovative and Creative?
• A leader in school or the community, looking to develope your Leadership Skills?
• Anxious about applying to college and want an opportunity to explore College Life at the top university in Florida?

Do You?

• Want to be an Entrepreneur?
• Want to make a difference through Community Service?
• Care about the environment and want to learn more about Sustainability?

If the answer is YES to any of these questions, then the UF Young Entrepreneurs for Leadership & Sustainability Summer Program is for YOU!

For more information, visit:www.UFYoungEntrepreneurs.org

SPI Study Abroad

Language Immersion & Global Leadership Programs

• Total Immersion
• College Credit Courses
• Homestay Experience
• Meaningful Excursions
• Quality On-Site Leadership

Visit the SPI website (www.spiabroad.com) for prices & dates, references, program itineraries, videos, photo galleries, and specific information for parents and teachers.

Washington University in St. Louis Summer Experiences

High School Summer Scholars Program (5 weeks, credit)

• Enroll in two undergraduate courses for credit, transferable to most accredited universities.
• Develope academic skills through specialized seminars to give you a head start on your path to college.
• Live in a residence hall and enjoy social and cultural opportunities with other scholars from around the world.

High School Summer Institutes (2-3 weeks, noncredit)

• Explore a specialized interest while living on campus: Writing Institute, Pre-Medical Institute, Business Institute & Pre-Engineering Institute
• Gain valuable academic and career experience through the focused curriculum.

For more information and application materials, visit: summerexperiences.wustl.edu

Spoleto Study Abroad

The Spoleto Study Abroad summer session is an immersion program in the arts and humanities for high school students, ages 15-19, interested in visual arts, photography, creative writing, drama, and vocal music. This program offers students an opportunity to explore the rich cultural and artistic heritage of Italy; to work closely with talented faculty and motivated peers from around the world; and to grow academically, artistically, and personally. Living and studying in an environment alive with history, art, and natural beauty is profoundly transformative for a student of the arts.
Spoleto, Italy, a gorgeous medieval hillside town emblematic of Central, Italy, will be your home throughout the program. Spoleto, the seat of a Lombard Duchy during the High Middle Ages, still preserves a vast array or artistic memories from its historic past. In a captivating atmosphere of history and culture, the students live and work in a beautiful and inspiring setting.
For more information visit: www.spoletostudyabroad.com.

It is the Third Week of Block Two at Colorado College!

Bernis Hall

What is the world does "Third Week of Block Two" mean?  It means Colorado College (CC for short) students are currently engaged in focused classes including: "Women and Madness" which examines the historical concept of madness as a psychological illness from the feminist perspective.  Or, freshmen are in a first year experience course exploring the peoples, cultures, histories and physical settings that have come to define the Southwest region.  The History of Performance class introduces periods of historical significance through the artistic lens of theatre and dance in Western culture.  These classes characterize CC's unique single-class block schedule in which students immerse themselves in the study of one class for 3 1/2 weeks, typically 3 hours per day.  The style isn't for everyone, but the 2,000 undergrads that call CC home can't imagine learning and engaging any other way.

Washburn Field

 CC's unique intellectual adventure is located on a equally unique and awe-inspiring campus in the town of Colorado Springs.  One has to possess an explorer's heart to attend CC and take advantage of the residential environment that draws students from across the country.  DIII athletes (excluding men's hockey and women's soccer which are DI), practice on Washburn Field in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains. 

Shove Chapel is located in the center of campus, adjacent to the school's Labyrinth, and was donated to the college with the understanding that it would always serve as a house of spirituality for people of all religions, faiths and beliefs.  The current schedule of varied services certainly confirms its use.

So, if the idea of never cramming for 4 or 5 midterms or finals at one time appeals to you, consider CC.  Also, I can't imagine any student who wouldn't enjoy 4 days of vacation between each block!

North Carolina Outward Bound

Since 1967, North Carolina Outward Bound has delivered challenging wilderness adventures that teach more than outdoor skills. Our courses can help you learn the value of teamwork, discover your leadership abilities, find inspiration and feel a sense of accomplishment. Upholding the same ideals and goals as the first Outward Bound school established in the 1940s in Britain, every North Carolina Outward Bound course is built around a progression that delivers powerful life lessons by allowing participants to step outside their comfort zones and travel in spectacular wilderness areas.
The teen courses take place from June to August in the North Carolina Mountains and Outer Banks.
For more information visit: www.NCOBS.org.

CU Boulder is arguably one of the "Most Beautiful Campuses" Anywhere

The majestic Flatirons of Boulder provide an impressive backdrop to the Univeristy of Colorado, Boulder's Farrand Field and Stadium Building.  Denver, just 30 miles east, offers students all the opportunties of a major city while the serenity and isolation of the Continental Divide is located just 30 miles north.  Exceptional programs include Journalism/Mass Communication, Engineering, Music and the Leeds School of Business. CU Boulder encourages significant study abroad travel and is considering making a global experience a graduation requirement. 

I know I've never seen as many bikes on a college campus before and skate and long boards are also very popular.  Students take advantage of their gorgeous environment, hiking and rock climbing in their backyard or road tripping to the 11 ski resorts within an easy 3 hour drive.   If food is important to you, you'd be hard pressed to find more extensive (and delicious!) dining hall options.  During lunch I sampled fresh rolled sushi, Persian food with incredible Nan, spring rolls and stir fry and Kosher Matzo Ball Soup.

Many of the residence halls feature an academic component which means that required courses are taught by full time faculty in a small classroom within your housing complex, typically capping at 25 students.  Cheyenne Arapaho is home to the new Health Professionals Residential Academic Building which just opened in fall, 2012. 

CU Boulder is known as a "Best Value" college claiming the second highest starting salary potential for undergrads, averaging $48,000.  There are clearly many reasons to take a second look at Boulder and consider becoming a "Buff"!

Our busy day!

It's been a very busy day in the GPS College office...it's Milk & Cookies Day for seniors! That's the day every year that we stop everything we're doing and just spend the day with the girls, reviewing and proofreading applications, resumes, and essays.  And what could be better than to work on your applications with some homemade cookies and a cold glass of milk?  Of course our seniors are always welcome to come by and have us check over their applications, but we - and they - certainly enjoy this special occasion, and believe it or not, a lot of work gets done!  We will have a second special day - Pizza and Proofing day - in November.

Somewhere in the middle of all the madness, an admissions rep from Washington & Lee stopped by to talk to interested juniors and seniors.  The seniors got to ask a chance to ask specific questions related to their applications while the juniors found out more about everything W&L has to offer. 

Today has been a win/win for everyone!

Oxbridge Academic Programs

Discover the world's Greatest Classrooms.
Oxford - Cambridge - Paris - Montpellier - Barcleona
To apply now for this summer visit: www.oxbridgeprograms.com

Vistas in Education

VIE Travel and Family Stay Programs
Since 1976, VIE has organized Travel and Family Stay programs to France for thousands of American students. The year-round office in Paris is unique to the industry and exclusive French connections ensure that your travel program is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
With VIE, the Family Stay is a complete and total immersion experience. Students are with their French families 24 hours a day-living, eating, speaking, and breathing French.
Visit the website for more information: www.VistasInEducation.com

Friday Wrap Up

If you're the kind of person who is interested in rankings, you might want to see which colleges and universities are in the top 400 world-wide!  You can check by region or by discipline.

But while we're talking about rankings, here is some very good advice about why you shouldn't go too crazy over them, and as the article states, it is "just as subjective as ranking movies or music." We'll never all agree on our top ten movies, so why do we think there is a definitive list of top ten colleges?  At the bottom of the article, you will also find the methodology many of the so-called experts use.

We still believe it is all about which school fits you best!

Two recent articles in The Huffington Post gave me good reason to stop and think. The first one stems from the affirmative action case currently before the Supreme Court and is an argument in favor of considering diversity in the admissions process.  The second article is a summary of the education opportunities - or lack of opportunties - facing America's schoolchildren.  While the second piece  isn't directly about college admissions, it is an issue that is worth your consideration, and it once again makes me thankful for a school called GPS.

Changes in the Common App For Next Year

The Common Application is a godsend for many of our students, allowing them to complete just one application (plus some supplements) for several colleges.  One of the essay options has always been "a topic of your choice."  Starting in 2013 however, that option will be removed.  Instead there will be four of five topics that may change from year to year (also a change).  Also, the essay word limit will be enforced (250-500 words...no more, no less).

http://nyti.ms/RcrjAs

Parenting in the Digital Age

When I read this article in Newsweek, my first thought, to be honest, was "Whew! I'm glad my own daughter is old enough that I don't have to worry about this."  I love the power of the internet, and I regularly use facebook to connect with colleagues and old friends. But the issues of social media and privacy is something that needs to be discussed on a regular basis.

Yesterday, our seniors heard from the admissions representative from Queens University in Charlotte, who shared her personal experience with a "facebook stalker." She also discussed how some colleges and employers regularly use facebook and Twitter to investigate potential students and employees.  Even some sororities use social media when deciding on potential recruits.  As she said, "the pictures you post and the comments you make can come back to haunt you!  Once you put it out there, you might never be able to un-do the damage."

Are you one of these parents?

Hmmm....I think you will have to decide for yourself. I certainly don't believe any of our parents would resort to death threats, but I do know some parents want to talk about college all the time, and that drives your daughters crazy.  If you'll read through the piece, you'll find some great advice, including two things we've told you before. "We" are not going to college; your daughter is. And two, make sure you have days where you don't mention college at all!  In fact, pick a specific day and time of the week to talk about it. Let's say, Sunday afternoon at 4:00.  Sit down for an hour, discuss her applications, essays, whatever is on your mind, and then let it go until the next Sunday.  It may make you nervous, but ultimately you'll both feel better about it.

Can you take too many AP classes?

Actually, we think the answer is yes.  Everyone needs some balance in their life, and this article makes that argument.  Since AP classes are widely available these days, taking a plethora of them doesn't necessarily set an applicant apart from all the others, but if you're interested in science for example, perhaps your extracurricular activities can make a difference.  You can join the science club, you can participate in Science Olympiad, you can volunteer at a hospital or take care of the GPS garden over the summer, you can take an on-line science course that isn't offered at GPS, you can read science journals and attend lectures at UTC or other places...in other words, you throw yourself into your interest and take advantage of every opportunity that is available to you.  Perhaps you even create your own opportunity.

Then your science teachers rave about your commitment to the subject in their recommendations; they talk about your initiative, your drive, your curiosity. Your counselor compliments you on your willingness to think outside the box or take risks. In addition to your AP classes, you have created a much more interesting person for the admissions office to consider.  It's kind of like the old adage, "All work and no play makes Johnny a dull boy." Think about that before you overload your class schedule next year.

Can Facebook make a difference?

It may not happen often, but don't say we didn't warn you! 

http://bit.ly/UCLkqG

St. John's College Summer Academy 2013

The Summer Academy at St. John's College offers rising high school juniors, seniors, and recent high school graduates taking a gap year an experience of a lifetime. Students can choose between two St. John's campuses: one is in the heart of Annapolis, MD and the other is nestled in the mountains of Santa Fe, NM. Students read and discuss a selection of texts from some of the most important books of Western Culture in small classes guided by St. John's faculty known as tutors.

Summer Academy students live in college dormitories alongside undergraduate student mentors, and enjoy off campus expeditions creating immersion of self-discovery , independence, and intellectual growth.

Cost: $990 all-inclusive (per week)
Tuition includes room and board, books, and off-campus cultural excursions.

For more information visit: www.stjohnscollege.edu

Choosing a Career

Is it reasonable to expect a high school senior to know what she (or he) wants to do for the rest of her life? As parents, I know we worry about whether our daughters will be able to financially take care of themselves, but do we sometimes push them to choose a career path too soon?  Since the vast majority of college students change their major at least once, perhaps we need to give them time to figure it out.

http://nyti.ms/PFYH2J

College Rankings

I am not a fan of college rankings, mainly because choosing a college should be about which college fits you best, and that criteria is often difficult to measure. However, because the US News Best Colleges yearly rankings of colleges and universities came out last week, I thought I'd post some rationale (from US News) and debate.  Bottom line: rankings are not going away, but as always, you should be a careful consumer and not pick a school simply based on where it is ranked on any list.

http://bit.ly/V5xwnw (explanation from US News)
http://nyti.ms/PFXf0g  (a different option from the New York Times)
http://nyti.ms/ViBqIr (Room for Debate from the New York Times)

And since I'm on the subject of rankings, here is one from the Princeton Review that lists the top schools for financial aid.

On another note...Standardized Tests

Rather than talk about cheating, I'd rather talk about standardized tests.  A recent survey of over 300 college admissions officers found that it can be to your advantage to submit both your SAT and ACT test scores if they're both strong. But this brings up something else that some students don't take advantage of, and that is the number of colleges that are test optional. A complete list of those institutions can be found at www.fairtest.org

Can you rationalize cheating?

Apparently some of the students at Stuyvesant High School in New York could, calling it in some cases a "necessary evil" in order to get ahead and into the right college.  Even some of the teachers looked the other way, acknowledging the stress they believed their students to be under. I'd love to know what some of our GPS girls think.

Is your daughter a "First Global?"

Read this article to see what a "first global" is, and then you can decide whether or not your daughter fits the description.  But then this and his previous article begs another question: how important is it that our students have a "global competence?"

Friday Wrap-Up

There are days when I feel like there's no good news in higher education, but this report highlighting colleges with improved graduation rate of minority students was notable.  Virginia Commonwealth University is one such school, and in today's The Choice, the education blog of The New York Times, the director of admission for the department of music offers some great advice on applying to a performing arts school.

Now for some of our own advice.  As we've said before, pay attention to work and character limits when completing your applications. While some sites may allow you to go over by a few words, you don't want your essay to get cut off right at the finish.

Also, we have a great list of schools visiting GPS during the day and at the GPS/McCallie college night next week.  Please check your email or Naviance to see who's coming.  I believe you'll find there's something for everyone.

Last but not least, there is a lot of talk these days about how students are changing and how colleges need to change to meet their needs. This commentary touches on that very subject.

Is college worth the investment? The debate continues.

The debate continues over whether or not a college degree is worth it. Today's Chattanooga Times Free Press has several articles that seem to suggest a (four year) degree might not be worth the investment, while Monday's New York Times posted an article (complete with graphs) that indicate it is indeed worthwhile. I still believe it is as well.

Demonstrated Interest

Whether you think it's fair or not, we've often said that demonstrated interest (showing a college you're interested by talking to the rep when he/she visits campus, visiting the campus yourself, emailing the admission rep with questions, etc.) can play a part in the admisssion process. As the article states, why would you not take advantage of the strategy just in case?  After all, we all like to feel wanted and appreciated.

GPS is fortunate to have many colleges and universities visit our campus. Students should take advantage of those opportunities, not only to express their interest, but to let the college know a little something about themselves.

How important is a college degree?

The cover story in this week's Newsweek asks a provacative question: "Is College a Lousy Investment?"  Perhaps because I am a high school college counselor, I would still say yes, partly because most of the studies I've seen confirm that college graduates still make more money than those without a degree.  I do agree, however, that some things have to change.

Saying Goodbye to the You You've Always Been

If you are at all apprehensive about saying goodbye to all your friends and family when you leave for college, this is a wonderful article that puts it in perspective. No, things may not ever be the same again, but there is a whole world waiting for you somewhere else, and if you'll just give it half a chance, you'll love it!

Defaulting On Student Loans...the Price You Pay

While some of this news on student loan debts is depressing, it is worth noting that there are debt repayment options based on your income (make sure you ask about these), and the Department of Education is working on changes that would require debt collectors to offer borrowers an affordable repayment plan.  We also couldn't help but note that students who attend for-profit colleges often end up having the hardest time repaying their student loans.

Leaving for College

Even though my students are (almost) always ready to leave GPS by graduation, the actual leaving for college is much more emotional and fraught with problems than they can imagine.  But my friend and colleague, Marie Bigham, who is a college counselor at the Green Hills School in Texas, has some personal and astute advice on how to handle the transition.

Do college students cheat?

Did you know that according to one survey, nearly two-thirds of college students have admitted to cheating?  Many of our own alums have told us how shocked they were at the amount of cheating they saw in a college classroom and how thankful they were for the ethics the GPS honor code instilled in them.

Does the Harvard Cheating Scandal Say Something About All of Us?

Is this what we've come to now?  Do we live in a world where lying on one's resume or ignorning unethical and dishonest behavior is all the norm?   Forget for a moment that this scandal happened at Harvard.  Are you willing to turn someone in for cheating, or are you willing to do almost anything just to be successful?  These are important questions that we should all consider.

http://wapo.st/OQhDL1

Do you really need all that stuff for your dorm room?

Apparently many students do, and retailers are making big money off of college students.  Many campuses are now sponsoring a private shopping party at Target (as described in this article) so that students can pick up those last minute items.  Is it a little too much? You'll have to decide for yourself.

Friday Wrap-Up

As I believe we have mentioned before, we are a country obsessed with rankings, and there are enough college rankings for just about everyone.  Here is one we haven't seen before, however. Published by the Washington Monthly, this list focuses on colleges that contribute to the public good in three areas: social mobility, reserach, and service.

This brief story made us a little sad, because it suggests that college students don't spend much time following political news.  Since this is an election year, we wish they paid more attention.

And finally, given the cost of higher education, this study surprised us a bit because it found that less than one third of families are considering the financial realities their children may face after college graduation.

Roommate Issues

Finding a college roommate (or being assigned one) has always been one of the more interesting and sometimes stressful aspects of going to college.  So many colleges use facebook or other forms of social media to help connect students and let them make their own pairings.  But some schools still approach it the old fashioned way, and they think they can do just as good a job.

http://www.usatoday.com/news/education/story/2012-08-29/college-roommate-selection/57417968/1

The Importance of Extracurriculars

Frankly, I am tired of the word "passion," as in "your extracurricular activities should reflect your passion(s)." I don't know that many teenagers who necessarily know what their passions are at this point in their lives. However, I do think this brief article has the right idea, and that is that your high school activities should be more than something you simply check off a list.

High school is a good time to explore clubs, sports, and other extracurriculars. You may click with some of them right away, or it may take time to find the ones that spark your interest.  The point - particularly for freshmen - is to try activities on for size, and then once you find a few that you like, commit to them. Get involved on a deeper level. Make a difference.  And who knows? You might just find your passion!

Great Advice for Parents

With all the different forms of electronic communication these days, staying in touch with your college age child has never been easier.  But that doesn't mean parents should still be doing everything for them.  Here's some great advice from two college presidents.

The Future Looks Bright

Despite the gloomy student outlook reported in the news, a recent survey by Gallup, Inc. reports that roughly half of American students are hopeful about their future (meaning that the future will be better than the present.  However, there is some cause for concern as that optimism starts to slide when they get to secondary school.  Still, that hopefulness, well-being, and engagement in learning leads to academic success.

Fudging the Numbers

You may have seen recent reports about Claremont McKenna College and Emory University misreporting test scores. In fact, they are not the only schools that have admitted to the practice, and at least some of the time, is it done to improve a school's ranking in publications like the US News & World Report. 
There is, however, an underlying problem that I think this opinion piece addresses, and that is our over-reliance on rankings in the first place.  The goal should always be finding the college or university that best fits a student, and that school may not be #1 on some arbitrary list.  As the GPS college guidance mission statement says:

     "The mission of the college guidance office is to encourage students to consider appropriate and challenging college options over a broad geographic area. Although the student is ultimately responsible for taking control of the process, we will also assist students through all aspects of the application, scholarship and financial aid process with the ultimate goal of finding a college that best meets their academic, social, physical, emotional, and spiritual needs."  And that goal will be different for every girl.

Using YouTube in Your College Search

Have you tried using YouTube to research colleges? Some schools have posted video clips on essay writing, campus tours, and even sample classes.  But like everything else, you need to be a good consumer. Similar to viewbooks, the YouTube videos can be another form of marketing.  A personal campus visit is still the best way to really find out what the college is like, and if you go, ask to sit in on a class so that you can get a first-hand experience.  For more information on how some colleges are using YouTube, check out this post in The New York Times education blog, The Choice.

Ethical Decisions You May Have to Make in College

During our junior college classes, we discuss (briefly) some of the challenges and decisions students might have to make when they get to college...things like what will you do if your roommate has an overnight visitor or often stumbles in drunk.  More likely than not you will be faced with some serious ethical decisions you might not even have thought of yet.  Here is a very serious and straightforward look at just some of those issues.

Great Advice for New College Freshmen

Almost every college freshman we know gets homesick at some point during the first few months of school, but there are things you can do to combat those feelings.  Also, here's some good advice from a college junior who has already been through it!

What is the future of higher education?

Most people already know that higher education will have to change the way it does business in the future. Rising costs, technology, and other factors will continue to have an influence on the way colleges do business.  However, one of the comments in this article that stood out to me was the following: "For academia and industry alike, the greatest challenge may actually be in creating lifelong learners out of students and professionals. With a rapidly changing marketplace, "the real need for education in the economy will be re-education." Of course, creating lifelong learners has always been a goal of GPS, and that is only one of the reasons our girls do so well in college and beyond.

http://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/2012/08/16/how-the-future-of-higher-education-affects-businesses

Sacrificing sleep for studying doesn't work!

This story from NPR if for all those students out there who think the best way to study for a test is by staying up late the night before!  I would add that this applies to completing college applications as well.  It's better to pace yourself rather than try to cram it all in at one time.

On Student Debt, Internships, and Drinking

Several studies of interest were recently released at the annual meeting of the Americal Sociological Association, but perhaps none were more distrubing (at least to us) than the study on binge drinking and student happiness. There is also a look at liberal arts colleges that don't want to give academic credit for unpaid interships. The study on the relationship between the tolerance for student debt and gender and class is also worth reading, especially because it seems women have a higher tolerance for debt than men.

Friday Wrap Up

Have you ever wondered which college campuses were considered "the greenest?" The Sierra Club has just released their list, and three southern colleges are in the top ten (Georgia Tech at #2, Duke at #7, and Appalachian State at #10).  While you're there, you can check out some ways to "green" your dorm room no matter where you go to college.

While you're checking out green schools, you might also be interested in seeing which ones made the "colleges with the happiest students" list. Sorry, there are no Southern schools in the top 15.

On an entirely different note, here's an interesting article about the role parents play in helping students choose their colleges as well as their future careers. How much influence do your parents have?

The first three days of school are behind us and so far, so good. Here's to a great year!

Student Loan Management

With all the talk about the amount of debt some students are now carrying, there are organizations that are trying to educate students about finances and help them manage their loans. It is a conversation every family should have before taking on any kind of educational loan.

http://www.cnbc.com/id/48672721

A College Degree Still Matters

Over the last year many people have questioned the value of a college degree.  This study however, finds that a college degree still matters for both men and women.  A degree may not guarantee success, but it is still important...and we would agree.

How much does grammar matter?

Although this article does not directly relate to the college admission process, I think the subject is worth considering.  Is it important to have good grammar? Can poor grammar hurt you when you're hunting for a job? Are facebook and twitter hurting our writing skills?  All good questions to consider.

http://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2012/08/13/is-our-children-learning-enough-grammar-to-get-hired/its-not-just-grammar-its-clear-thinking

Letting Go...at least a little

It's not too early to begin thinking about how you are going to handle things when your daughter leaves for college next fall, especially if she is the last child in your family to leave!  This article offers some excellent advice, especially when it comes to the 24 hour rule.  Along with many other parents, I can attest to the fact that it almost always works!

http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/college_bound/2012/08/it_used_to_be_that.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

"Like" the Common App

If you have a facebook page you should consider "liking" the Common Application.  They give some great tips on how to navigate the site along with some helpful hints on problems or questions you might have.  For example, yesterday they posted information on how to find a school's CEEB code if you don't know it...a question a student also just asked me yesterday!  They also remind students about the importance of reading - and sometimes re-reading - the directions.  Let's hear it for the Common App!

Common Application

For those of you who want to get a head start on your college applications, the 2012-2013 Common Application is up and running!  You will need to register first (make sure you write down your user name and password in case you forget), but then you can get started.  Also, don't forget that you filled in a draft common application last year in college class; hopefully you still have that in your college folder.

Take your time however! You will not win any sort of prize for finishing your application first.

How Texting Hurts Grammar

For English teachers, this new study probably comes as no surprise.

http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/inside-school-research/2012/07/duz_txting_hurt_yr_kidz_gramr_.html

Campus Safety

If you've been on a college tour, you've no doubt seen or heard about the "blue" call boxes. But staying safe on a college campus involves more than just knowing where the boxes are, and some of it is just good common sense.

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/20/education/edlife/students-fear-venturing-out-alone-at-night-on-campus.html?ref=edlife

My College Visits

While I hope my students have been visiting some colleges over the summer, I've also been on the road seeing a few schools AND staying in dorms.

Don't be fooled by the sparsely decorated
dorm room; I didn't have time to decorate.
What you can't see is the beautiful fireplace!

My first stop was Bryn Mawr, an all women's college located outside of Philadelphia. Now I know a women's college is a tough sell for GPS girls, but if you're willing to consider one, this is a good place to start.  Academic programs - both humanities and sciences - are very strong, and the fine arts (theater, dance) are also top notch. If you're feeling like you want a co-ed environment, you can take classes at nearby Haverford, Swarthmore, and the University of Pennsylvania.  It will be a challenging place, but small and stimulating classes will more than prepare you for the future.

While in Philly, I also visited Haverford and Villanova. Similar to Boston College in many ways, Villanova will offer you a more traditional college experience, complete with big-time athletics and Greek life. Home to around 7,000 students, popular majors include engineering, nursing, and business.
Haverford, on the other hand, is a small liberal arts college with around 1200 students. Perhaps because of its Quaker heritage, there is a very strong sense of community and has a very strong honor code. Consequently, students are able to schedule their exams at any time they want (including midnight if that's what you want to do) and take them without a proctor. In the Quaker tradition, the students meet each year to discuss and ratify (or re-ratify) the code. Academic programs are strong and admission is competitive. 

Finally, I spent several wonderful days living at Sarah Lawrence College in Bronxville, New York. Right off the bat I will tell you this school is not for everyone, but it is an outstanding opportunity for a girl who wants to be the architect of her own education.  First of all, there are no majors, rather students choose a concentration and that concentration may not be a discipline that's part of the  curriculum. For example, your concentration might be folklore, but it allows you to tie in literature, history, and anthropology. You will also work very closely with professors, meeting individually with each one on a bi-weekly basis. In addition to coursework, students also develop individual projects for each course like an academic research paper or field work or internships. Creative projects are also possible, and in fact, Sarah Lawrence has an outstanding fine arts program in both the visual and performing arts. Almost all classes are seminar style, although students are required to take a certain number of lecture based courses. Classes at SLC are also very writing intensive, but having sat through a writing class myself while I was there, it was not at all intimidating! There are many more unique things about Sarah Lawrence College, so come see me if you're interested.

A bright spot in paying for college

Despite of the rising cost of a college education (or perhaps because of it), there appears to be a rise in the amount of merit-based aid that is being awarded.  And this type of aid, has nothing to do with need.

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/22/education/edlife/a-rise-in-students-receiving-merit-awards.html?smid=tw-NYTEducation&seid=auto

A Wonderful Commencement Address

People are buzzing about this pointed commencement speech given at Wellesley High School's graduation ceremony. It will take you several minutes to listen to, but it has a particular message worth hearing.

http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/lookout/high-school-graduation-speaker-tells-students-not-special-145709954.html

Friday Wrap Up

I hope my students are making plans to visit colleges over the summer! You have to get on some campuses in order to figure out what you like and don't like.  So if you haven't already, get busy making those travel plans today!  In the meantime, we'll keep posting interesting opportunities and articles we find, such as the ones below.

Today's New York Times takes an interesting look at the extraordinary cost of going to law school and how that problem might be fixed.

Also, there was an interesting post yesterday about what happens to cities when there is a dearth of college graduates.

Have a great summer!!

The Debit Card Trap

Several years ago, Congress made it more difficult for  credit card vendors to woo colleges students by offering them free stuff if they'd sign up for a credit card.  Now it seems like the problem still exists but in another format.  Our advice? Read the fine print and ask questions!  It pays to be a good consumer.

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/31/business/on-campus-new-deals-with-banks.html?_r=1&ref=education

Knowing the Risks of Students Loans

Knowing exactly what a college education will cost you is difficult, but there is a proposal in the US Senate that would require schools to educate students and parents about the risks of loans and the options available. In addition, there is an effort to make financial aid information more standard.

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/23/opinion/full-disclosure-for-student-borrowers.html?_r=1&hp

Does It Matter Where You Go to College?

That is the title of a recent article in The Atlantic, and while I am not sure how I feel about the research yet, I will let you be the judge.

The Benefits of Taking a Gap Year

Although taking a gap year before going to college has been popular in Europe for a long time, students in the United States are not as familiar with the idea.  There is evidence however, that taking a year off between high school and college (and doing something with that year!) can be very beneficial in the long run.

http://abcnews.go.com/Health/gap-year-momentum-grows-studies-show-higher-performance/story?id=16339935

The On-Going Student Debt Debate

Over the weekend, The New York Times published yet another interesting article about student debt, and Room for Debate offers several suggestions for what to do about it.  As you will see however, it is a complicated subject, and there are many reasons for the growing problem.  Certainly being honest about what you can afford and better educated about the terms of any loan is a good place to start.

Friday Follow Up

With graduation almost upon us, I wanted to share this quote from the Evansville Courier and Press.  "A highlight of this year's University of Evansville commencement was a line from President Thomas A. Kazee -- and the line seemed to be most popular in the sections for attendees who are family members of graduates. He won applause for telling students: "Move away from home and get a job as soon as possible. Your parents love you, but enough is enough."

If you have been reading The New York Times blog "The Choice" (we've linked to several of their comments on our blog), you may have noticed this new one titled "So Done With School, Anxious About College."  I suspect that many of our seniors feel the same way.

Since we've been discussing on-line courses recently, I also wanted to share with you this article about earning college credit for "prior learning" or "experiential learning."  The practice has its share of supporters and detractors.

Finally, in spite of the bad news about college these days (some people would say it's not worth it!), here's some positive news about the impact college students can have on our world.

Congratulations to the GPS class of 2012!

Can public service lead to a career?

In this tough job market,  volunteering can lead to potential careers and opportunities for professional development.  Today's New York Times has some good advice to offer on this subject.

The Need for Female Engineers

Stephanie Hill, president of Lockheed Martin's Information Systems and Global Solutions Civil Division, makes a good case for why the nation needs more female engineers. In fact, as she states in the article, the need for engineers has never been greater! She also discusses the need for more mentors and company partnerships. 

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/college-inc/post/why-the-nation-needs-more-female-engineers/2012/05/03/gIQAufuhwT_blog.html

Free On-Line Classes Follow Up

If you've seen the announcement about the collaboration between MIT and Harvard to offer free on-line classes, here's a good follow-up article that points out some possible problems.

The Politics of Student Debt

College affordability has been in the news quite a bit lately, and both sides weighing in with their opinions.  Inside Higher Education offers an interesting look at the politics of student debt, and while we are not advocating for one side or the other, we think it's a topic that will be in the news for quite some time, especially since it is an election year.

Free On-line Classes

Following in the footsteps of other universities, Harvard and MIT announced a partnership called "edX that will offer free on-line classes.  Students will receive a grade and a certificate of mastery, but they will not receive college credit.

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/03/education/harvard-and-mit-team-up-to-offer-free-online-courses.html?_r=1&ref=education

A Teacherless Classroom

In Virginia Tech's largest classroom - Math Emporium - there are no teachers!  Working in a large computer lab, students work in a self-paced environment with only a few roving guides to help them if needed.  It may sound crazy, but the school's philosophy - you learn math by doing math - seems to be paying off in a big way.

More News on Law Schools

As we have been saying, the nature of law schools (and even med schools) is changing.  Due to an overabundance of lawyers, one law school has decided to admit fewer students.  Could this be a trend?

Also of interest, are some law schools dropping the LSAT requirement?

George Mason University

George Mason himself

I discovered another great university last week, and I highly recommend that some GPS students consider George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. 

Home to around 20,000 undergraduate students, GMU is a great place to go if you are interested in foreign policy, language, English, education, public policy, international affairs, or journalism.  They also have an excellent nursing program. And because it's so close to Washington D.C., there are plenty of internship possibilities. There's also a shuttle bus that runs in to D.C. on a regular basis.

George Mason is a public institution in Virginia, and although it is also a research institution, it is also a traditional liberal arts colleges.  Their current student profile is around a 3.3-3.6 with 1120-1250 or 23-28 test scores (this is the middle 50% score range).  It is also test optional, but you would need a 3.5 to be admitted without test scores.

Because George Mason University (they're the Patriots, of course!) is located in the suburbs, the campus is green, leafy, and wooded....very pretty!  What did I like most about George Mason  however? It is a very diverse campus, with friendly, motivated students from all over the world.  And it might be the perfect place for you!

Friday Follow-Up

As mentioned here before, there has been a national conversation about standardized tests to measure what you learn in college.  In this morning's New York Times, David Brooks weighs in with his own opinion.

You can add another school to the list of colleges who are suspending Greek life due to hazing, and there are other colleges who are trying to do something about other less than admirable behaviors.

Here's an interesting article about college admissions - How They Get Really Get In. We all know that colleges consider grades, strength of curriculum, activities, etc. when admitting students, but this survey by a Harvard doctoral candidate finds that there are other factors colleges consider when determining "institutional fit."

And finally, just a short article on how facebook is trying to become an educational networking site as well as a social networking one.

Green Colleges

Students have many different criteria for choosing a college, but for those of you who are interested in a "green" campus, you might want to see the Princeton Review and the U.S. Green Building Council's Center list of 322 green campuses across the country.  You can check out the full list, along with a random sampling from the Princeton Review here.

The Growing Study of Food

In this day and age many people are interested in more than just the nutritional value of food.  They want to know where their food comes from, its impact on the economy and the environment. Rather than just majoring in nutrition, there are more and more colleges where you can study food science. This growing program connects food studies with other disciplines like business, health science, agriculture, the economy, and is "being embraced by students interested in new careers in food safety reform, local-food businesses and anti-obesity, equity and climate efforts, as well as those seeking broader contexts for traditional disciplines like culinary arts and farming."

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/15/education/edlife/truly-food-for-thought.html?ref=edlife

A New Breed of Doctors

A few months ago we posted an article about changes that are coming to the MCAT, the test required to get into medical school. Last Sunday's New York Times had another good article on the coming changes that will affect students who will be entering college this fall.  Students will be required to learn more about behavorial science, ethics, and emotion as well as how people process emotion and stress.  Will it make getting into med school harder? Perhaps.  Will it make for better doctors in the future. Hopefully.

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/15/education/edlife/pre-meds-new-priorities-heart-and-soul-and-social-science.html?ref=edlife

College Hazing

Hazing should not - I repeat, should not - ever be considered just a regular part of college life. 

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/15/education/edlife/a-hazing-at-cornell.html?ref=education

Comparing Financial Aid Awards

Are you having problems trying to compare financiail aid awards from multiple colleges?  Here is a preview of an upcoming article in this Sunday's New York Times education life supplement that will address that subject.  Also included in this article is a link to the new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's Financial Aid Comparison Shopper that will also help students compare awards.

Art Portfolio Prep

The Savannah College of Art and Design is hosting a Portfolio Prep information session on Wednesday, April 25,7pm, at the Hunter Museum of Art.  Students who want to learn more about how to put together a dynamic undergraduate portfolio might be interested in this program that will address visual media and performing arts, writing elements, artistic elements, guidelines for inclusion, presentation quality, and additional aspects of portfolio preparation.

Register to attend at www.scad.edu/yourarea.  You can also schedule an appointment for feedback on your work.

Miss Tennessee Teen USA

Information regarding the Miss Tennessee Teen USA Scholarship opportunity is available in the college guidance office.

Student Athletic Training Conference

For those of you who have considered a career in physical therapy, athletic training, or other related sports medicine careers, Vanderbilt Sports Medicine is offering a two day conference for high school students June 2-3.  For more information and on-line registration, visit:  http://www.vanderbilthealth.com/orthopaedics/%2028160

Can you measure what you learn in college?

Students have always been accustomed to taking standardized tests (think the ERB, SAT, ACT, TCAP), but should colleges also administer similar tests in order to find out how their students are doing?  And what should those tests measure? Content? Critical thinking skills?  You may be surprised to discover that some schools already give these exams to a small sample of their students, although they don't all make those scores public.

It might sound like a sensible idea, but there are numerous questions.  Will professors start teaching to the test? What role does the student's own motivation play in their learning? What do you do about the wildly different ability levels of entering students?  Who decides what you should know before you graduate?

Read the comments at the end of the article too.  They make some good points.

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/08/education/trying-to-find-a-measure-for-how-well-colleges-do.html?ref=education

Sometimes it's just a gut feeling.

Choosing where to go to college next year may be one of the most difficult decisions you ever had to make, but sometimes it's a good idea to simply listen to your gut.  Here's one student's explanation of how she made her college decision.

http://thechoice.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/04/05/the-envelope-please-abigail-hansen-2/?ref=education

The College Adventures of Mrs. Goldbach and Ms. McCarter, Part II

The easiest way to best explain the feel of Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas (30 miles from Little Rock), is to share a quote from a current freshman: "Hendrix has already made me a better person, period. I would have judged and written off a lot of people I now call my friend if I hadn't come here. After years of prep school elitism and homogeny, I am now appreciating the lack of stereotypes and the non-judgmental openness that characterizes the Hendrix community. In high school, I had a lot of restrictions that made me feel I had to act and look a certain way. Hendrix is allowing me to develop into my true self -- and I discover daily who that is!"

Hendrix prides itself on doing things a bit differently, left of center, and seeks students who want to be challenged, academicallly and socially. They accomplish this goal, in large part, through their unique Odyssey Program which distinguishes Hendrix from other selective liberal arts colleges. All 1500 undergrads must participate in this engaged learning program in at least three areas: Artistic Creativity, Global Awareness, Professional and Leadership Development, Service to the World, Undergraduate Research and Special Projects. Students gain disciplinary confidence and identifiable experiences by overseeing and owning their education.

Student organizations are extremely varied and often quirky, including clubs that support sword fighting, bee keeping, and skeptisim, as well as Heifer International, feminism and English tea. If you are looking for a place that is going to push you out of your comfort zone, in an idyllic campus setting, Hendrix is well worth researching. Don't be deterred by its location in Arkansas; the random group of students I talked with were from Denver, Philadelphia, Peachtree City, Ashville and Miami, and they chose Hendrix over Elon, UNC Chapel Hill, Bucknell, Pitzer and Davidson.

How hard is it for girls to get into college?

We don't believe it's quite as bad this article might suggest, but it is becoming a little more difficult for girls in the college admissions process.  As you read this however, please, please remember that the colleges mentioned in this article represent only a very tiny fraction of the schools that are out there.  We don't want you to get hung up on those very selective (Ivy) colleges when there are so many other options. 

What's really important for you to remember - and we say this all the time - is that you should be looking for a college that fits you!  And there are hundreds for you to choose from!!


http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2012/04/04/who-got-in-to-the-country-s-top-colleges.html

Getting Off the Wait List

This article from The New York Times backs up what we've been saying about what you should do if you are put on a waiting list at a college you want to attend.  And just like the article suggests, your letter shouldn't be more than one page!

How long will YOU pay for college?

Personally, I don't think it's quite as bad as the title of this article sounds, but it is important to consider how long you will be paying for college should you take out loans.

http://www.nooga.com/154641/some-senior-citizens-still-paying-on-student-loans/

What are you looking for in a college?

There are all kinds of questions you should be asking yourself about what you are looking for in a college or university. Do you want to be in a city, do you want to study abroad, do you like small seminar style classes? Do you want to be among the top of your class in college, or does that not matter to you? Then there's Greek life, the weather, and athletics to consider. The questions are seemingly endless.  If you need some help however, here's a good list to get you started.  And, these are questions you need to keep asking yourself over and over again. What are the absolute criteria? What are you willing to negotiate? You'll find that sometimes what you're looking for in the beginnning is not necessarily what you want in the end.  Happy hunting!

Reporting Violence Against Women on College Campuses

Colleges are already required to report instances of sexual assault on their campuses, but they are not reuqired to report stalking and other broad instances of dating and domestic violence.  A new bill that has been introduced in the US Senate would require colleges to report that information as well.  As always, there are pros and cons, but we'll let you judge for yourself.

http://www.insidehighered.com/news/2012/03/30/senate-bill-would-expand-clery-act-include-dating-violence-stalking

The College Adventures of Mrs. Goldbach and Ms. McCarter, Part I

While many juniors were visiting colleges over spring break, so were we! I started my journey at a large state university, the University of Georgia.  Most of you are familiar with UGA, but I have to admit that I have always thought of it as just “too big.”  But in reality, it’s not, and I understand why so many students are attracted to it.  Things I would recommend: the Honors program, the Terry School of Business, the freshman odyssey program (actually required for all freshmen), and the food, at least in the dining hall I visited. They’re also adding civil engineering this fall and mechanical/electrical engineering in the fall of 2012.  Slowly but surely the student body is becoming more diverse, but it’s also becoming more competitive, regardless of whether you’re in-state or out.

I moved on to Miami University of Ohio, a public university with around 14,000 undergraduate students. Miami’s focus is still on the liberal arts and undergraduate teaching, and their top five majors are psychology, zoology (for pre-med), political science, English (writing), and communications, which includes journalism.  However, I got a chance to spend some time in the Farmer School of Business, a beautiful, state-of-the-art building.  It’s a very hands on program and expect to spend part of your time with group projects. They have a ‘China Business Program’ and students are encouraged to study abroad while at Miami. The School of Engineering is also outstanding, with lots of opportunities for undergraduate research, internships, co-op opportunities, and service learning. Computer science/software engineering is a fast growing major within the school, and I like the fact that like the entire university, the School of Engineering is a combination of technical and liberal arts education. Not to be missed is the School of Education and the School of Fine Arts. If you want to know more about those programs, feel free to come see me. I left able to picture a lot of GPS girls being very happy on this campus, and if you like UVA, SMU, Vandy, or even UGA, you should check out Miami University as well.

Finally, I visited the University of Dayton.  As I expected, this Catholic school of around 7,000 students is extraordinarily friendly and community and service minded. Students at Dayton want to be part of a larger world and want to be involved in that world, and the school focuses on making connections between the curricular and co-curricular and on building community among diverse peoples.  International Studies includes a human rights major; students in the School of Engineering, an excellent  program, have the opportunity to work on projects for real clients; the School of Education includes the applied health sciences for students interested in becoming things like physical therapists or physician’s assistants. The sciences are also very strong at Dayton, and students will have lots of opportunities for research.  The campus is beautiful, so it’s no wonder that 95% of students live on campus all four years.  Juniors and seniors and the opportunity to live in the ‘student neighborhood,” a group of houses owned by the university.  You don’t have to be Catholic to attend, and at least to me, the school seemed more open or progressive than some other Catholic schools I have visited.  I highly recommend you consider UD!

The Agony and Ecstacy of College Admissions

I had thought about writing something about this time of year in the college world - the thrill of an acceptance letter and the disappointment and sometimes heartbreak over a denial - but I think this blog post from another counselor says everything better than anything I could say. And, I think it adds some perspective to the entire process. 

New Security Measures for the SAT

In an effort to prevent cheating, beginning next year, students will be required to upload a photo when they register for the SAT. That picture will then be compared to the studen'ts ID when they show up for the test.  This also means that stand-by testing will no longer be allowed.  For more information, you can read the College Board's press release.  The ACT is installing similar security measures.

Rejection is a part of life

Rejection is never easy, but we've all been there. And as hard as it is to believe, it can be good for you. Here's one perspective that makes sense.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/rebecca-joseph/college-rejections_b_1371480.html

Why should you go to college?

"The Choice," the education blog on the New York Times website, has had some interesting posts from high school students recently, but one in particular caught our eye.  "Why should you go to college?" they asked, and that reminded us of a question we have asked you, our juniors, this year. "Why are you going to college?" Do you know?

On another note, we hope you're having a good time on your college visits over the break.  I just recently returned from the University of Georgia (more on that visit next week), and both Mrs. Goldbach and I are headed to more schools this weekend (Hendrix, U. of Dayton, and Miami of Ohio).  We'll let you know what we discover.  Safe travels to all!

So you want to be a lawyer?

Is it worth it to go to law school?  Are graduates able to find jobs? Are law schools accurately representing their job placement percentages?  All very good questions, so here's a brief look at the state of law school admissions today.

Your Digital Footprint

For years we've been telling students that they need to be careful about what they tweet or post on facebook,   We just didn't know it might come to this!

http://www.fluency21.com/blogpost.cfm?blogID=2538&utm_source=Committed+Sardine+Blog+Update&utm_campaign=88a3bd2517-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email

Greek Life

Fraternaties have (almost) always had a reputation for drinking, but some colleges are encouraging (or perhaps strong-arming) them into cleaning up their acts!

http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/education/fraternity-rush-sobers-up-at-university-of-maryland-and-elsewhere/2012/03/01/gIQAQf6z5R_story.html

New AP Courses on the Horizon

Have you ever wondered which AP courses were the most popular and which ones are seeing the most growth?  Here are two great articles that will answer those questions and provide some information about new courses (designed to foster independent research skills) that are in development.

http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2012/02/22/21ap-popularity.h31.html

http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/curriculum/2012/03/the_college_board_has_just.html

Quinnipiac University

Most of you may have never heard of Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Connecticut, but after my recent visit to the campus, I strongly encourage you to get to know this school.  Located only ten minues or so from New Haven (home of Yale University), this school of around 5,800 undergraduates is an outstanding place to go, especially if you are interested in health sciences (nursing, physical or occupational therapy,physician's assistant, sports medicine), business, or communications.  A medical school is set to open in the fall of 2013, and an engineering school is expected to open in the fall of 2014.  All in all, it's quite an impressive place!

Although the majority of their student body is from the northeast and mid-atlantic states, this is one campus where I think a GPS girl would be quite comfortable. In fact, I don't think it would be difficult to find your niche at Quinnipiac, whether you were interested in sports, religious organizations, Greek life, or anything else.

Quinnipiac is actually divided up into three campuses, but don't worry, it's not as bad as it might


Clark's Pond

The York Hill Student Center

sound.  The Mount Carmel campus houses all the academic buildings, a student center, and freshmen and sophomore dorms. There is quite an active social life on this campus, but remember, you're a short distance from New Haven as well, and there is a regular shuttle that will take you there. 

Juniors and seniors live on the York Hill campus, only a mile away.  In an effort to make it as convenient as possible, there is also a student center on this campus (it looks like a gorgeous ski lodge!), a cafeteria, and two gyms - one for basketball and one for ice hockey, a very popular sport on campus. Then there is the North Haven campus where all the medical facilities are located.  So, a senior might live on York Hill but will go to North Haven for her nursing clinicals, etc.  It is also where the new med school will be located.  I think it's time Quinnipiac University got some students from the southeast!!