Welcome to Ensphere College Planning Services

Tip of the Week - Sept. 15, 2011

2011-09-15T16:20:00.003-04:00

Finding the Perfect College
2013 and above: It's time to start thinking about the characteristics in a college you would want to attend. Pretend that you could create the perfect college; what type of school would be just right for you. As yourself:

Where is this college located? (city, state or geographic location)
What types of students go there? (religious, race or gender affiliations)
What classes would you take?
What type of social activities would be offered? (sports, clubs or off campus activities)
How large is the college?

Once you answer these questions, enter these characteristics into the Discover Program to help you develop a list of colleges to research in more detail. Getting started early in identifying colleges you may be interested in attending will help take a lot of stress off you during your junior and senior years.

2012: Start your admissions applications as early as possible!
We know this is easier said than done; especially if you are involved in a fall sport or club. Set aside a little time each week to work on your admission applications. At this point you should:

Have your college list finalized; knowing when your application is due (be sure to look at scholarship deadlines that may be earlier than the regular admission deadline).
Have signed up for an upcoming SAT/ACT if you have not already taken it or are not satisfied with your scores
Have already requested your teacher recommendations.
If you have not completed one of these three steps; you need to set a side extra time to catch up! You do not want to be scrambling to get everything done last minute.

REMINDER: The deadline to register for the October 22nd ACT is September 16th; that is THIS Friday! If you plan to take this test, register today to avoid late fees.

Tip of the Week - Sept. 8, 2011

2011-09-08T14:53:00.000-04:00

Determining Your Priorities and More

2013 and above: As the new school year begins, it is important to manage your time wisely. Determine Your Priorities. You can’t do everything at once. Establish the importance of each item. Then set realistic goals that are attainable. Learn that It's Okay to Say No. If your friend asks you to go to a movie on a Thursday night and you have a test the next morning, realize that it's okay to say no. Keep your short- and long-term priorities in mind. Developing good time management skills now will allow them to become your normal habits and will help you succeed when you reach college.
2012: Many students have asked, What should I include in the “additional information” section of my college application? The answer is that many students leave this section blank or use it to provide straightforward information about something on their transcript that might raise a question, such as "I didn't take the second semester of French IV because it met at the same time as BC Calculus." You can also use this section to clarify points on your application that may not be clear and do not have room to fully explain. Simply type “see additional information section” into the explanation to direct the admissions officer to a more detailed explanation. This section is also the appropriate place to explain any blemishes on your high school record; academically or behaviorally.
REMINDER: The deadline to register for the October 1st SAT is This Friday, September 9th. Also, The ACT October 22nd test registration is September 16th; only a week away! If you plan to take either of these tests, register today to avoid late fees.

Tip of the Week - September 1, 2011

2011-09-01T09:50:00.002-04:00

Keep a journal of memorable experiences.
Write down how you feel in the moment and how you think each experience impacts has or will change your life. Flip back to past journal entries and add to them if you feel the experience made a significant impact on you. The entries do not need to be long, but can help you your senior year when you are trying to come up with ideas for your college essays. Most college essays have a topic that requires you to write about a person or experience that has had a major impact on your life. You may look back through your journal and find your essay has already been written!
The most common question our Education Service Councilors receive this time of year is "Where and how do I start my college essay?!". If this is a question you have, it may be comforting to know that you are not alone; most high school seniors have trouble starting their college essay.
Here are 5 tips to help you start writing.
1. Don't start at the beginning.
Write any random potential anecdotes, details, or ideas as they come to you. You can work on connecting them later. It's possible (and highly likely) you will write the most effective sentences of your essay only after a great detail of free-writing. Feel free to use any format that works for you in the brainstorming stage - it can be bullet points, an outline, or just a word or two. Your goal is just to get as much down on paper as possible.
2. Ask a friend to interview you.
Find someone you know and trust to ask you several questions about your passions, experiences, hobbies, authors, TV shows, etc. This is much more effective than the broad (and scary!) question: "What do you want to do with your life?" After having this focused interview, your "interviewer" will be able to give you extended feedback on your interests, strengths, and weaknesses. This will be helpful in figuring out your essay topic.
3. Use writing prompts.
Filling in the blanks can help you overcome writer's block. Ex. "I like ____ because it makes me feel ____." "A global issue that excites me is _____ because ______." "I enjoy learning about ____ because ______."
4. Browse your first-choice college's website.
Since you're probably passionate about your first-choice school, looking over its website may help you figure out themes to discuss in your essay.
5. Make a list of your passions.
You'll notice the idea of passion comes up a few times here. That's because passion is necessary for engaging writing. If you don't enjoy what you're writing, the admissions officers probably won't either. On the other hand, if you're clearly excited about whatever it is you have to discuss, it's more likely the admissions officers will be, too.
REMINDER: The deadline to register for the October 1st SAT is Friday, September 9th. That is less than 2 weeks away!If you plan to take this test, register today to avoid late fees.

TIP OF THE WEEK- August 22, 2011

2011-08-25T11:09:00.008-04:00

2014 and Above: Social Networking Sites: Colleges are now using social networking sites, such as "Facebook", to try and recruit students by posting pages about their university. However, many of these same colleges may be looking at YOUR social networking page to get a better idea about YOU as a candidate for their school. Just remember to keep this in mind when posting things (comments, pictures, etc...) to your Facebook pages. Just like you may be doing research on the college on these sites.... the college can be doing the same to you! If you have a Facebook account and are worried about what others may see, you can set the privacy settings on your profile so only your friends can view most details.

Also, if you have a Facebook account, be sure visit CPN's page. You can talk with other college bound families and stay up to date on all the latest CPN news! Please click on this link (or copy and paste in your browser) to join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/College-Planning-Network/183253475044175?ref=ts.

2013: The junior year is THE time to get organized for handling the onslaught of college material that will be coming your way -- in the mail, in your email, and from college fairs and visits to your high school. The whole college search can be a little unnerving, a bit daunting, so just relax and take your time during this year and the summer that follows to really focus on finding the right mix of colleges for you. Ideally, by the end of your junior year you'll have a list of no more than 10 to 15 colleges where you plan to apply.

2012: Scholarship Tip - Watch out for deadlines... and make copies before sending! To help keep yourself on track, impose a deadline on yourself that is at least two weeks before the stated deadline. Use this time to proofread your application before you send it off. Before sending your application, make a copy of the entire packet and keep it on file in case your application goes astray. Make sure your name (and social security number, if applicable) appears on each page of your application to ensure that nothing is lost.

TIP OF THE WEEK - AUGUST 19, 2011

2011-08-19T19:41:00.000-04:00

How to Succeed Freshman Year
Article from the Wall Street Journal By Emma Slayton

It’s true what they say: Time flies when you’re reading big books, meeting people, listening to lectures, taking exams and learning to be an adult.
Oh, and having fun.
You only get one chance to be a freshman in college, and you’re probably not going to do everything you set out to. In part, that’s because you’ll discover so many other things on campus that you never even imagined before. And it’s because over the course of freshman year, you’ll begin to discover things about yourself that you never knew.
That said, you don’t want to look back on the experience a year later, or 10 years later, and think of that important period as a complete waste of opportunity, time and tuition money. So with the benefit of hindsight, I offer you a few general tips will that help you make the best of your freshman year:

BE SOCIAL: The first few days and weeks of college are made for socializing. And you should do plenty of it. Because once the real work starts, you might not have as many opportunities.
Those days are set up for you to take advantage of orientation activities, ice breakers, open houses, parties and mixers, so that you’re socially comfortable before you take on the bigger challenges of higher education.
Because your friends will serve as your on-campus family, “you have to be more social than you’ve ever been in high school,” says freshman Jessy Bear, who suggests walking down your dorm hallway and poking your head into open rooms.
If you really force yourself to be social, you’re sure to find the people who fit best with you instead of clinging to that first friend and missing out on the many other friendships you could have made. “I was really unhappy until I switched out of my first group of friends,” says freshman Emma Fisher, who initially was wary of breaking away from the people whom she met first.
In those first few weeks, try changing your surroundings often, sitting down with people you don’t know or starting up a conversation with a stranger in one of your large lecture classes. “Don’t be scared to sit at any freshman’s table. They are just as nervous as you are,” says Emma. “I made friends at the library who I see a lot now.”
Heck, I met one of my closest friends at college standing in a lunch line.

BRANCH OUT: Heading into college, I knew exactly what I was interested in and what I wanted to study. I wanted to take writing and history courses. I was proud that I had such a focused plan, and this year, I did exactly what I set out to do.
In retrospect, it might have been better to branch out a bit.
Bennett Cross, a student in my dorm, did that, and I think he’s better off for it. Instead of just following his interests, he kept an open mind about what he wanted to study, which led him to courses in music, logic and religion. In the process, Bennett learned a lot about himself. “I found out that what I liked and what I’m good at are not always the same thing,” he says.
Bennett has also been smart about choosing a broad cross-section of courses that help him get his graduation requirements out of the way early. As a result, he has more freedom than I would to change majors along the way.

GET HELP: In high school, I had to stay after school with a teacher for calculus tutoring. I dreaded it, and not just because I don’t like math. Let’s face it: There’s a certain stigma associated with having to get extra help outside of class. The last thing any high school student wants to see is a teacher’s note on a test that says, “See me.”
In college, it’s very different. There’s absolutely no stigma, and for freshmen getting used to work at the college level, that extra time with professors and their teaching assistants is nothing but a prudent use of your tuition money. “It’s like having a private tutor who knows all the answers to the homework,” says Brian Orser, a freshman who never hesitates to get some face time with a professor. “No one else takes advantage of them.”
Indeed, “office hours”-those times that college professors set aside to help students outside of class-are an underused resource, probably because of freshmen who come to campus with high-school preconceptions about staying after class.
Those people don’t know what they’re missing. Especially during freshman year, you don’t want to put your grades at risk for the sake of pride. And it can be really tough to rescue your GPA from a bad first year.
In college this year, I’ve been to office hours for almost half my professors and I still haven’t gone enough. My simple advice: If you need help, go out and get it-before you get a note on your test. Professors are standing by.

KEEP LEARNING: Long after their classrooms and lecture halls close up for the evening, college campuses are alive with learning opportunities-cultural programs, art exhibitions, ethnic festivals, speeches by visiting dignitaries and informal coffeehouse chats with professors-many of which happen only at colleges.
There were many lectures, a capella performances and sporting events that I missed because I was too busy with schoolwork. Looking back, I probably should have taken more breaks to attend those events. When I finally made it to a poetry reading last semester, I met some writers on campus and engaged in an illuminating conversation with the poet. The experience of learning for the sake of it-without the pressure of exams and grades-was a real treat.
So close the books and give yourself a break once in a while. “If you get an email or see a flyer about a lecture or an event that is outside your academic focus, go to it,” says freshman Liana Engie. Consider it part of the educational experience. You won’t regret it.

Tip of the Week - Aug 9, 2011

2011-08-14T00:18:00.005-04:00

2014 and Above: It is never too early to start searching for scholarships. Knowing what scholarships are available will help you in several ways. (1) You may find scholarships that allow you to apply now and get a head start in earning money for college. (2) You can start a list of scholarships you plan to apply to, which will save time later when you may want to focus your time on standardized test prep or filling out college applications. (3) You will learn requirements for scholarships and can focus your high school courses, extracurricular activities and community service to ensure you qualify for scholarships later.

2013: Start applying for scholarships. There are thousands of scholarships available for college; most allow you to apply as early as your junior year. Set a goal for yourself to apply for one or two scholarships a month. Having a few scholarships under your belt before your senior year will allow you to focus on college applications next fall instead of scrambling to find additional aid money. Also, preparing scholarship applications will be a huge pay off when you sit down to apply to college next year... you may be able to use information from scholarship applications on your college applications and save a ton of time! If nothing else, you will already know how to sell yourself on the application. To find scholarships check with your high school guidance office weekly and try an internet search atwww.fastweb.com.

2012: As you start filling out your college applications, make sure you keep track of everything. You may find it helpful to create a spreadsheet detailing each college's requirements and related deadlines, then check each off as it is completed to ensure you complete each requirement on time. When applying to multiple colleges it can be very easy to forget which college you've completed each requirement for; having a spreadsheet will help you to stay organized and reduce confusion along the way. Also, if you have not yet registered for the September ACT and want to take this test, the registration deadline is only 4 days away (August 12th). Register today to avoid the late registration fee!

Tip of the Week - July 28, 2011

2011-07-28T15:48:00.002-04:00

What you need to do before school starts.

2014 Graduates & above:

Look for ways to get involved. With more students applying to college than ever before, colleges are looking at more than just your GPA and standardized test scores; most look to accept well rounded students. Now is the time to get involved! You want to build up your community service hours and explore your interests through clubs, internships and part-time jobs. Your involvement may also help you to choose your major down the road by identifying areas of interest for you! If you are unsure how you can get involved during the summer, check with your local community center, church or government offices.

2013 Graduates:

Is there a class you want to take that is not offered at your high school? Don't be afraid to ask about distance learning opportunities (taking an internet course) or taking a course at a local college. Many high schools have special programs to allow students to take courses elsewhere when they are not able to offer them, but many times the responsibility to seek out alternatives is yours. You need to be your own advocate in your educational career.

2012 Graduates:

Request letters of recommendation. You should put in your requests as soon as possible (but before the start of school). There will be a major rush at the beginning of the school year and your favorite teacher may be 100 other students' favorite too. Contact your teachers via e-mail this summer, if possible, to beat the rush and ensure the teachers you want are writing your recommendations!

TIP OF THE WEEK - JUNE 28, 2011

2011-06-28T16:47:00.004-04:00

10 Tips for College-Bound Teens Using Social Media

1. Use common sense. Don’t friend college admissions counselors or professors, as this is considered unethical and frowned upon.
2. Look the part. More and more high school teens are creating new email addresses and profiles specifically for college admissions purposes. Consider creating a professional email address to be used only for college applications and ensure that any content used on that page is appropriate and deemed professional.
3. Privacy is key. Set all of your social networking accounts to private and maintain your privacy settings. This includes any accounts on Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, and any other social networking site you may use.
4. Don’t look guilty by association. Even if you maintain a private online account, your friends could be saying inappropriate things about you, posting embarrassing photos, or wreaking digital havoc on your future.
5. Stop sharing unsuitable content. Avoid posting inappropriate media to any photo or video sharing website like YouTube. Even if you use a different username on these sites, there are ways people can trace them back to your email address, so your best bet is to avoid posting things there all together.
6. Avoid oversharing. Don’t say anything you wouldn’t normally share with a college admissions counselor. Any strong thoughts about politics, religion, etc. could rub somebody the wrong way and potentially smear your online reputation.
7. Do your research. Examine the honor codes of whatever colleges you are interested in attending. Make sure your online persona does not violate anything written within these honor codes because your online reputation can have a negative effect on their admissions decision.
8. Google yourself. This is probably the first thing an admissions counselor will do if they want to find information about you online, so why not be a step ahead of them? By doing a quick online search, you can find some (note: not all) information publically available. The faster you take care of any questionable content, the better.
9. Generate positive content. Experts agree that the best way to counteract negative content is by generating positive information that will rank high on search engines like Google. Sites like Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter all rank high in Google searches.
10. Use Google/Profiles. The search engine’s latest tool allows users to create a personal profile to literally control what people see about them. Visit www.google.com/profiles for more information.

TIP OF THE WEEK - JUNE 20, 2011

2011-06-20T14:38:00.001-04:00

Memorization Techniques

Memorization Techniques are helpful in many situations. For high school and college students, learning these techniques will help you to get ahead and stay ahead in your class work and studies.
Learning a new skill, language or even trying to remember a grocery list does not have to be difficult when you use these tips and techniques that are used to commit something to memory. Easily committing terms to memory can be achieved, if only you are using the proper techniques to learn terms and other aspects of lists and information.
Here are some of the most popular memorization techniques that can be used when trying to commit anything to memory.
Create an acronym for the list
Associating a list or a concept with a certain word that can be used as an acronym to remember the terms which must be recalled is an effective way to commit something to memory. Chances are that once you have associated a certain word with the list to be memorized; you will be able to recall this list for years to come.
Sing it
As silly as this may sound, singing something that you have to remember is an essential way to learn a set of words, phone numbers and even a grocery list. The song can be silly and funny – as the sillier and funnier the song, the more likely that you are going to remember it.
Practice, Practice and Practice some more
This is one of the oldest techniques of memorization which will include practice and repetition to remember the items which are on the list or the concepts which are an effective way to commit these terms to memory. If you are able to spend up to fifteen minutes practicing these items, saying them aloud and reading over the items it can be simple to remember the items in the case that they need to be recalled.
Remember by Using flash cards
Flash cards are an effective way to learn a large amount of information in a short period of time. Flash cards can be used to learn complex concepts by developing words which are associated with the concepts. Flash cards are also known to improve the memory and learn concepts as they can be used to learn terms which are associated with learning a new language, or learning something new in class. Flash cards are cheap and effective and can be used whenever you have five minutes to learn. Studies have shown that the majority of students use this method to learn information for classes.
Creating sentences with the terms
Create sentences with the terms that are required to commit to memory with new words, using the first letter of each word. This way, when you are trying to remember a list of terms, the sentence can be used to remember all of the terms and easily recall what can be remembered.
Chunking
Chunking is used most often to remember long term groups of numbers. This way, the memorizer can remember from five to eight numbers at one time, which can be completed in three to four sets of a longer number which must be recalled through the memory.
Use Patterns to remember sets of words or numbers
Are there any patterns within the words that are being memorized? Finding these patterns can help to remember more, as well as help to associated words with another. This way, rather than focusing on remembering one word – the person trying to remember can make use of remembering one word, rather than remember three to four words. The first word can jog the memory and remind the person trying to remember the other three terms which are associated with the first.
Using these tips, it can be simple to recall everything that you need to. Finding the right method for you can enable you to determine which methods work best for your learning style. Whether you are a visual learner and auditory learner or a tactile learner – there are memory techniques which have been developed for you. One of the best apart about these techniques is they can be adapted for each learning style, so it doesn’t matter which type of learner that you are.

TIP OF THE WEEK - JUNE 13, 2011

2011-06-13T16:44:00.001-04:00

Summertime Preparation Can Be Fun!

Now that summer is here, remember to stay motivated in your college planning activities before the school year starts up again. Here are some ways to stay on top of your college to do list and have some summertime fun. Remember anything you do that reflects service, leadership or being a part of a group can be added to your list of activities on you resume.

1. Do community service work - Pick up litter in a park, work in a shelter serving food, or contact someone to find out where they would need help that the whole family could get involved in.

2. Visit the elderly in homes; make cards for them and fresh cookies.

3. Visit Colleges – summer visits can be very enjoyable when added to a family trip. Make sure to contact the admissions department to see if they can meet with you. It will help the admissions representative put a face with your name when you decide to apply. Also, stop into the financial aid department to ask any questions you have about funding and scholarships.

4. If you are heading off to college this year or transferring schools, you may want to connect with your new roommate before the school year begins. If you live close enough- try to meet up.
You will be creating fond memories, keeping focused and also enjoying the summer!

TIP OF THE WEEK - June 6, 2011

2011-06-06T14:33:00.000-04:00

Career Tips for Students

Figuring out what to do for work is a process that happens over time, rather than a single one-time decision. Career Planning is a developmental, thought-provoking process. You must examine yourself: your interests, your temperament, and your values. You then need to think about what you want in a job.
1. Establish Tentative Personal/Career Goals
Write them in terms of short range and long range objectives, with an emphasis on what you plan to do after high school. Remember, you must continue your education and training beyond high school in order to support the life style you want.
2. Discuss Your Career Goals With Counselors, Teachers, & Family
Ask their advice, and encourage their input so you can evaluate their suggestions and ideas along with your own.
3. Explore Occupations and Gather Career Information
Store your collection of materials, articles, and pamphlets in a loose leaf binder or scrapbook. Find out what education or additional training will be required to pursue the careers of your choice.
4. Conduct Informational Interviews
Talk with people who are working in occupations that interest you. Consider using a tape recorder to take notes. Ask your counselors or parents to assist you in arranging field trips to see various work environments.
5. Develop a Resume of Activities, Honors, and Achievements
This can be used later when you apply for part-time jobs and volunteer to work in community and civic activities.
6. Assemble a List of Admission Requirements and Qualifications
This list will assist you in determining how competitive you are. Two and four-year colleges, military organizations, and trade schools have entrance requirements. Collect college catalogs and other brochures. Ask about open house activities.
7. Visit Colleges or Other Education/Training Sites
Talk to professors and administrators, interview students, sit in on classes, tour facilities, read the bulletin boards and get copies of its newspapers. Develop a list of questions to be answered, and names, addresses and phone numbers of key contacts. Make sure that the institutions offer the type of education and/or training you will need to pursue your career choices. Inquire about the placement of their graduates.

TIP OF THE WEEK - May 31, 2011

2011-05-31T16:15:00.000-04:00

Bad Credit Sends More Students Packing Than Poor Grades

According to a survey of student loan applicants by loan provider Nellie Mae, 83% of college undergrads use credit cards and the average card debt was $2,327 in 2001. Furthermore, the college students surveyed steadily increased usage rates and balances. From freshman to senior year, the average debt load more than doubled and number of cards held nearly tripled.
It’s easy to see why more students drop out of college because of debt than for poor grades.
But don’t forget that credit cards are designed for people with income—solid cash flow. Most young teens and college students don’t have much income. While using credit is not a beginning financial skill, teens do need to learn how credit works.
How can parents ease young teens into the eventual freedom of credit cards? Allow a debit card tied to a checking account or a fixed-amount card such as Visa Buxx, designed especially for teens. Or, try a credit card with parent supervision and low limit—$500 or less.
Before teens become regular credit users or abusers, encourage them to:
1) master a checking account, write checks, and reconcile statements
2) show responsible debit card use and understand ATM fees
3) compare credit card offers and read the fine print
4) understand interest rates and billing cycle.
Credit cards do remain an attractive alternative to cash for four reasons, providing it’s used wisely.
1) Credit is handy—and safer—to carry.
If teens don’t ever see cash leave their wallets, however, it’s difficult for them to understand the reality of expenses, budgeting, and cash flow.
2) Buy now, pay later.
Paying later also makes it easy to overspend, and not be able to pay when credit card bills arrives. It’s not easy for anyone to have the willpower to curb credit card spending once the habit is started. Teens need maturity to overcome the “I-want-it-now” syndrome.
3) A credit card is good for emergencies, when you have no cash.
But buying daily lattes, new clothing every trip to the mall, or pizza on weekends doesn’t count.
4) Using credit establishes a credit score.
Yes, frequent use of a credit card does build a credit history—good or bad. But overspending and irresponsible use can tarnish a credit score for years and affect interest rates for future loans.

TIP OF THE WEEK - MAY 24, 2011

2011-05-24T15:11:00.003-04:00

Time Management Tips For Students

Does it seem like there's never enough time in the day to get everything done? Feel like you're always running late? Here are some tips for taking control of your time and organizing your life.
1. Make a "To Do" List Every Day.
Put things that are most important at the top and do them first. If it's easier, use a planner to track all of your tasks. And don't forget to reward yourself for your accomplishments.
2. Use Spare Minutes Wisely.
Get some reading done on the ride home from school, for example, and you'll kill two birds with one stone.
3. It's Okay to Say "No."
If your boss asks you to work on a Thursday night and you have a final exam the next morning, realize that it's okay to say no. Keep your short- and long-term priorities in mind.
4. Find the Right Time.
You'll work more efficiently if you figure out when you do your best work. For example, if your brain handles math better in the afternoon, don't wait to do it until late at night.
5. Review Your Notes Every Day.
You'll reinforce what you've learned, so you need less time to study. You'll also be ready if your teacher calls on you or gives a pop quiz.
6. Get a Good Night's Sleep.
Running on empty makes the day seem longer and your tasks seem more difficult.
7. Communicate Your Schedule to Others.
If phone calls are proving to be a distraction, tell your friends that you take social calls from 7-8 p.m. It may sound silly, but it helps.
8. Become a Taskmaster.
Figure out how much free time you have each week. Give yourself a time budget and plan your activities accordingly.
9. Don't Waste Time Agonizing.
Have you ever wasted an entire evening by worrying about something that you're supposed to be doing? Was it worth it? Instead of agonizing and procrastinating, just do it.
10. Keep Things in Perspective.
Setting goals that are unrealistic sets you up for failure. While it's good to set high goals for yourself, be sure not to overdo it. Set goals that are difficult yet reachable.
Consider these tips, but personalize your habits so that they suit you. If you set priorities that fit your lifestyle, you'll have a better chance of achieving your goals.

TIP OF THE WEEK - MAY 15, 2011

2011-05-16T11:34:00.000-04:00

Four Ways to Graduate in Four Years

If you think four years of college is expensive, try five. You may hear jokes about fifth-year seniors, but the extra time and money you’ll spend on an additional year in college is serious. Not only will you pay another year’s worth of tuition, textbook costs, campus fees and other education expenses, but you won’t be earning money in your first job or getting started in graduate school.
Don’t count on graduating in four years without putting some effort into making it happen. Less than four in 10 students earn their bachelor’s degree in four years. Here are four things you can do to graduate on time.
1. Decide on your major early. The sooner you decide on a major, the sooner you can complete the requirements. Start thinking about your major the first day you arrive on campus or earlier. Don’t rush selecting a major; if you aren’t happy with your selection, changing majors later could set back your four-year plan. Declare your major as early as possible, but no later than the end of your sophomore year.
2. Figure out what classes you’ll take. Once you’ve decided on a major, get organized. Figure out what classes you’ll need to complete your major requirements in four years. Get your general core requirements out of the way first. Talk to your advisor to help form your four-year class plan. Once you’ve created a plan to graduate in four years, check in with your advisor at least once a semester to discuss your progress. Some classes are harder to get into than others, so sign up for them as early as possible to secure a spot. If you followed your graduation plan and run into trouble getting into a class that you need to graduate, you may be able to appeal to the department head.
3. Take at least 15 credits per semester. Take enough credits each semester so you can complete your graduation requirements in four years. This usually turns out to be around 15 credits per semester. Don’t drop classes. If you fall short, make up the credits right away — either over the summer or during a winter session. It’s not enough to sign up for courses worth 15 credits; you must do well enough in them to pass or you won’t earn the credit.
4. Look into four-year guarantee programs. Some schools have four-year graduation guarantee programs. These programs, like the one at University of Colorado or the University of Wisconsin, require students to pledge at the start of their freshman year that they are committed to graduating in four years. Students are often required to declare their majors during their first semester and agree not to change majors. The school agrees to make this happen by providing advising resources and facilitating registration. See if your school has a program like this during your first semester on campus.
With a little planning, you should have no problem earning your degree in four years.

TIP OF THE WEEK - MAY 9, 2011

2011-05-09T13:49:00.002-04:00

Internships Create an Advantage

Not only do internships reveal viable career paths through hands-on learning experiences, they give a student an edge over their competition when it comes to applying for jobs. You may have a killer cover letter, a stellar grade point average and glowing recommendations from your professors, but in today’s competitive market, employers are ever watchful for the new hire that knows how to jump right in and start running with the ball. "Internships have become key in today's economy," says Melissa Benca, director of career services at Marymount Manhattan College in New York City. "Graduating students with paid or unpaid internships on their résumé have a much better chance at landing a full-time position upon graduation. Students are doing internships as undergraduates, and it is now not unusual for recent grads to take an unpaid internship with hopes of turning it into a permanent position or at least making some contacts and building their résumé." Internships allow a student to explore and experiment while gaining professional experience and exposure. Additionally, interning helps participants develop essential skills and build the confidence to secure a first job or graduate school opportunity.

Interning makes sense to high school students as well. Upon applying to colleges, students that intern are showing that they are able to bridge the gap between wanting to become a professional and taking steps to become a professional.

Actual benefits besides getting a foot in the door with a potential employer and looking good on a résumé, internships have other advantages:

The opportunity to "test drive" a career (Would I be happier in marketing or advertising? Am I more comfortable working with patients or in a lab?)
Chances to networK
Establishing relationships with mentors
Possible college credit or certification
An introduction to the field's culture and etiquette (Are clients addressed by their first name? Are jeans appropriate for Casual Friday?)
Accumulating new skills
Gaining a "real world" perspective in an occupation(How much overtime do employees really work? How much time is spent behind a desk versus in the field?)

Tip of the Week - May 2, 2011

2011-05-02T16:17:00.001-04:00

Summer Jobs Tips for Students…

1. Start looking now. Employers are already thinking about their upcoming summer staffing issues. One way to beat out at least some of the competition is to start your job search early rather than waiting for the school year to end. “Consider telling them, ‘I can work 10 hours a week now, and then I can ramp up my hours after school gets out.’

2. Get the word out about your job search. Begin actively telling people that you’re looking for a job. Think about all the adults in your life: your teachers, guidance counselors and coaches, your family doctor and veterinarian, your parents’ friends, your friends’ parents, and so on. This approach could turn you on to job prospects.

3. Plan for a repeat performance. The survey of more than 1,000 hiring managers revealed that 65 percent of their summer staffs will consist of returning workers. If you had a job last summer and you didn’t absolutely hate it, consider reapplying again this year. Your past employer will be interested in you because you’re already trained.

4. Be professional. Make sure that everything you include in your job application is spelled correctly and is free of grammatical errors. Don’t use all lowercase or all uppercase letters. Be sure the e-mail address you put down isn’t silly or distracting. The same holds true for the voice-mail prompt on your cell phone or home phone.

5. Do mock interviews in advance. A job interview can be a lot more stressful than you might think. To work out the jitters ahead of time, do a few practice interviews with someone other than a friend or parent.

6. Show some energy. Employers who bring teenagers on board say they appreciate their enthusiasm and eagerness to do whatever it takes to get a job done. Display those traits on your job interview — and on the job, as well.

7. Get appropriately gussied. Dress nicely for your job interview, as if you were about to attend a religious service. Do this even if the dress code for employees is casual. Absolutely remember to send a handwritten thank-you note after your interview — a step many adults routinely forget to take.

8. Play up your strengths. Many teens show a tendency to be hard on themselves and minimize their accomplishments. Remember that a job interview is not the place to beat yourself up. Instead, emphasize flattering details about yourself, such as being an honor-roll student, juggling extracurricular activities and volunteering in the community

Tip of the Week - April 25, 2011

2011-04-26T10:13:00.001-04:00

10 Scam Warning Signs, Courtesy of FastWeb

Knowing these warning signs can keep you from being a scholarship scam victim.
1. Fees: You shouldn't have to pay to search for or apply for scholarships. Check out the free scholarship search atFastWeb.com.
2. Credit card or bank account information needed: You should never have to give credit card or bank account information to award providers.
3. Scholarship guarantee: No one can guarantee that you'll win a scholarship because no one can control scholarship judges' decisions. Also, be wary of "high success rates"—they usually do not refer to actual award winners.
4. No work involved: You can't avoid putting in time to fill out a scholarship application.
5. No contact information: Legitimate sponsors should provide contact information upon request. If the sponsor does not supply a valid e-mail address, phone number and mailing address (not a PO box) after you've asked for one, that could the sign of a scam.
6. Unsolicited scholarships: If you are called to receive an award for which you never applied, be alert—it's most likely a scam.
7. Pressure tactics: Don't allow yourself to be pressured into applying for a scholarship, especially if the sponsor is asking for money up front.
8. Claims of "exclusive" scholarships: Sponsors don't make their scholarships available through only one service.
9. Sponsor goes out of their way to sound "official": Scammers sometimes use official-sounding words like "national," "education" or "federal" or they display an official-looking seal to fool you into thinking they are legit. Check with your school if you question a scholarship provider's legitimacy.
10. Your questions aren't answered directly: If you can't get a straight answer from a sponsor regarding their application, what will be done with your information or other questions, proceed with caution.

Tip of the Week - April 18, 2011

2011-04-18T15:43:00.004-04:00

10 Financial Tips for College and “Soon-to-Be” College Students

1. Use Credit Cards Sparingly
Use credit cards wisely because this is a chance to establish a solid credit history. Watch the interest rates. Don't be suckered by low introductory rates. Expect the interest rate, or annual percentage rate (APR), to climb above 20% in three to six months. Don't use the card for routine living expenses or a night on the town.
2. Pay all Credit Card Balances in Full
Remember: Credit is a loan--and it doesn't come from The Bank of Dad. That means any balance on the credit card must be repaid. Get a card with a low limit. Shop around for the best deal and read the fine print before signing up. If you move, inform the bank of your new address. Guard your credit card number and close unused accounts.
3. Get the Best Deal on a Checking Account
Shop around before opening a checking account. Smaller banks may offer a better deal. Compare fees. Ask if there's a fee for dealing with a teller, including deposits or withdrawals. Ask if there's a fee to use a debit card. Ask about ATM fees. Ask if overdraft protection is part of the student package. If not, ask about linking such coverage to a bank-issued credit card.
4. Keep Track of your Spending
Use cash whenever possible because counting out the bills underscores the connection between the purchased item and money leaving your wallet. Use a debit card before a credit card for the same reason. Keep track of spending because a budget means nothing without accurate accounting.
5. Set a Limit on Entertaining
Set a limit for walking-around money and stick to it. Hitting up the ATM for another fistful of crisp twenties is easy--and guaranteed to deplete your bank account.
6. Keep an Eye out for Free Money
Apply for scholarships. This requires digging and persistence. See what's available. Don't be bashful. If you have a shot, apply. If it's a long shot, how can you go wrong for the price of a stamp?
7. Get a Part-Time Job
Check out college work-study programs. A few jobs may be related to your studies. Otherwise, look for a job with tips such as waiting tables, parking cars or delivering pizza. Summer work is a necessity for many students, but don't overlook internships--they're a good way to get a taste of what you may make a career and establish contacts in the field.
8. Avoid taxes on Stupidity
Avoid unnecessary expenses at all costs. Parking fines are a tax on stupidity or laziness. Read the signs and follow the rules. This goes for little things like returning library books or videos. Pay your bills on time or you'll get stuck with a late fee.
9. Don’t Eat Out All the Time
Pack a lunch. This will save you big bucks. Don't eat regularly at fast-food restaurants because it will reduce your bank account while bloating your belly. At the supermarket, buy the house brand and increase your savings. Never shop on an empty stomach.
10. Look for Student Discounts
Clip coupons. Many businesses give students discounts in an effort to establish a relationship that will continue when they enter the real world and start earning a paycheck. Take advantage of the perks. Be on the lookout for deals on plane tickets, pizza, books, clothes--everything. The student newspaper is a good place to start. The Internet can be a gold mine of discounts.

TIP OF THE WEEK - APRIL 11, 2011

2011-04-11T16:13:00.005-04:00

"CAMPUS SAFTEY"

Safety First!

One of the most important issues in choosing a college is often the most overlooked: the safety and security of your collegiate environment. Different universities handle safety differently, depending on their location and campus size.

Most colleges devote a significant amount of resources to issues of safety and security, and several safety measures have become standard on most campuses.

Call boxes

Most campuses have a number of call boxes prominently situated on campus that can immediately signal the campus police department. The phones tend to be located near buildings that receive a lot of late-night traffic - the library, student center, dorms. Once activated, police response time is usually very fast. Ask your school if they have a call box system in place.

Campus police

Whether as a fully commissioned police force or an auxiliary police force, campus police are usually a strong presence at universities. The department usually has a working relationship with the local city police, and most campus officers have full arresting powers.

Campus escorts

These student volunteers will meet you wherever you are on campus (library, class, another dorm) and actually accompany you back to your dorm. They are usually available throughout the evening. This is an excellent option if you're planning to take an evening class or have evening study sessions.

ID checks

Student ID checks are becoming increasingly common, particularly on weekends when students have more visitors to campus. You may be required to show your ID when entering dorms and other campus buildings, as well as at sporting events. Many campuses also require all visitors to sign in when entering a campus building.

Self-defense and safety classes

These free classes are usually offered through the campus police department. Most safety classes occur during orientation and self-defense classes are often available throughout the course of the semester. Resident advisors should have information on the kinds of safety classes available on campus.

These are just some examples of security measures on college campuses. You should investigate that school's security measures, as well as recent crime statistics (available in an annual report that all colleges and universities are required to produce). Give campus security the same attention you give to academic programs and professors, and make sure that you're in a comfortable and safe environment.

TIP OF THE WEEK - APRIL 4, 2011

2011-04-04T12:48:00.009-04:00

Top Paying Degrees

Whether you are in college or a prospective student, not all majors earn you the same salary. Of course, you should never choose a major just for the money. If you don’t enjoy the work, then all that money will never equal the dissatisfaction you have for your job.

Luckily, there are many majors in numerous fields of studies to choose from that will pay high starting salaries to recent graduates. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), here are the 10 top paying degrees and their salaries:

1. Chemical Engineering ($64,641)

2. Electrical/Electronics Engineering ($61,690)

3. Computer Science ($61,783)

4. Mechanical Engineering ($60,598)

5. Aerospace/Aeronautical/Astronautical Engineering ($58,208)

6. Management Information Systems/Business Data Processing ($54,687)

7. Economics ($51,698)

8. Civil Engineering ($48,885)

9. Business Administration/Management ($44,171)

10. Marketing/Marketing Management ($41,948)

TIP OF THE WEEK, MARCH 28, 2011

2011-03-28T16:54:00.001-04:00

STRESS RELIEF FOR STUDENTS

As educational requirements get more stringent in all levels of education, students everywhere experience considerable school stress. Here are some student stress relief tips and tools that students can use to learn study skills, prepare for exams and minimize their school stress levels to make learning easier.

Manage Time Wisely: It’s important to give yourself plenty of time to work on your studies if you want to do well, and you can save yourself a lot of stress if you plan ahead with good time management skills. Setting up a schedule for study, breaking up your studies into smaller chunks, and other time management skills are essential.
Get Organized: Have a system of organization for note-taking, keeping track of assignments, and other important papers. Being organized can bring you the peace of mind that comes from knowing where everything is, remembering deadlines and test dates, and clearing your mind of some of the mental clutter that disorganization brings. Keep a calendar, a schedule, and a filing system for your school assignments, and you’ll find it prevents a significant amount of stress!
Create a Good Study Environment: Creating a soothing environment can reduce stress and help you learn. Playing classical music as you study can also soothe you and help you learn (unless you find it distracting).
Know Your Learning Style: Did you know that we don’t all learn in the same way? It’s important to know whether you’re a visual, kinesthetic or auditory learner, as you can tailor your study practices around your particular learning style and make success easier to attain.
Practice Visualizations: Visualizations and imagery are proven stress management techniques. You can also reduce student stress and improve test performance by imagining yourself achieving your goals. Take a few minutes each day and visualize, in detail, what you'd like to happen, whether it’s giving a presentation without getting nervous, acing an exam, or something else that will support your success. Then work hard and make it happen!
Develop Optimism: It’s been proven that optimists—those who more easily shrug off failures and multiply successes—are healthier, less stressed, and more successful. You can develop the traits of optimism and harness these benefits for yourself, and do better in your studies as a result.
Get Enough Sleep: If you want your performance to be optimum you need to be well-rested. Research shows that those who are sleep-deprived have more trouble learning and remembering, and perform more poorly in many areas. Work your schedule so you get enough sleep, or take power naps.
Use Stress Management Techniques: Chronic stress can actually impair your ability to learn and remember facts as well, stress management is one of the most important--and most overlooked--school necessities. A regular stress management practice can reduce your overall stress level and help you to be prepared for whatever comes.
Learn Study Skills: The more prepared you are, the less stressed you’ll be!

TIP OF THE WEEK - MARCH 21, 2011

2011-03-21T12:13:00.002-04:00

Get & Stay Involved in High School and College

High school students should remember they are competing against students all across the country to get into a good college. Community service, awards and being involved in clubs and organizations can be the tie breaker to get you into a good college over someone with similar grades as you. Getting involved also prepares a high school student for college and helps gain experience working, interacting and socializing with other people. This helps build leadership experience and proves you can work well with others.

Getting into the college of your choice should not end your involvement. Not only will your involvement on campus help you to make friends and overcome home sickness, it will also allow you to put a couple more bullet points on your resume. Building your resume through clubs and student organizations is a great way to stand out from the crowd when applying for graduate school or your 1st job. Working on community service projects or clubs within your major will give you hands on experience and shows you work well with others. You can take it one step further and run for a seat as an officer in your club; this shows that you are a leader.

No matter what grade level you are, start looking for ways to get involved in school and within your community. Just a couple hours a week will greatly benefit your future.

TIP OF THE WEEK - MARCH 14, 2011

2011-03-14T12:08:00.003-04:00

Making Time

Does it seem like there's never enough time in the day to get everything done? Feel like you're always running late? Here are some tips for taking control of your time and organizing your life.
1. Make a "To Do" List Every Day.
Put things that are most important at the top and do them first. If it's easier, use a planner to track all of your tasks. And don't forget to reward yourself for your accomplishments.
2. Use Spare Minutes Wisely.
Get some reading done on the bus ride home from school, for example, and you'll kill two birds with one stone.
3. Its Okay to Say "No."
If your boss asks you to work on a Thursday night and you have a final exam the next morning, realize that it's okay to say no. Keep your short- and long-term priorities in mind.
4. Find the Right Time.
You'll work more efficiently if you figure out when you do your best work. For example, if your brain handles math better in the afternoon, don't wait to do it until late at night.
5. Review Your Notes Every Day.
You'll reinforce what you've learned, so you need less time to study. You'll also be ready if your teacher calls on you or gives a pop quiz.
6. Get a Good Night's Sleep.
Running on empty makes the day seem longer and your tasks seem more difficult.
7. Communicate Your Schedule to Others.
If phone calls are proving to be a distraction, tell your friends that you take social calls from 7-8 p.m. It may sound silly, but it helps.
8. Become a Taskmaster.
Figure out how much free time you have each week. Give yourself a time budget and plan your activities accordingly.
9. Don't Waste Time Agonizing.
Have you ever wasted an entire evening by worrying about something that you're supposed to be doing? Was it worth it? Instead of agonizing and procrastinating, just do it.
10. Keep Things in Perspective.
Setting goals that are unrealistic sets you up for failure. While it's good to set high goals for yourself, be sure not to overdo it. Set goals that are difficult yet reachable.

Consider these tips, but personalize your habits so that they suit you. If you set priorities that fit your lifestyle, you'll have a better chance of achieving your goals. Implementing these strategies will help you to be more successful in high school and in college and eventually in your career.

TIP OF THE WEEK - FEBRUARY 28, 2011

2011-02-28T14:05:00.003-05:00

Top 10 SAT and ACT Test-Taking Tips

1. Be Equipped
On the night before the test you should gather everything you'll need: the admission ticket, a valid form of photo identification, several #2 pencils, a calculator with fresh batteries (for the SAT only), a watch, and a high-energy snack.
2. Don't Cram
You've worked hard. The best thing to do the evening before the test is to get a good night's sleep. You've covered the content and you've perfected the skills. Now it's time to get in test mode -- calm, rested, confident, and ready.
3. Dress in Layers
The climate in test centers can vary from sauna-like to frigid. Be prepared for both extremes and everything in-between. You need to be comfortable to do your best.
4. Arrive Early
You may want to scope out your test location before test day to ensure that you know where you're going. Getting to the test should be the least of your concerns.
5. Don't Spend too Much Time on One Question
Each question is worth the same number of points. If a question is confusing or too time-consuming, don't lose your cool. Instead, move on to greener pastures. You can come back to hard questions if you have time at the end of a section.
6. Don't Look for Unscored Questions/Sections
The experimental section on the SAT is well-camouflaged. Sometimes the ACT contains experimental questions that are scattered throughout the sections. Do your best on every question--that way, you're covered.
7. Keep Track of Where You Are in a Section
On the SAT, obvious answer choices early in a set may be correct. Obvious choices near the end of a set are often booby traps.
8. Guess Aggressively
If you don't know an answer, don't leave the question blank or guess randomly. Eliminate the choices you know are wrong, then make an educated guess from the remaining options. Remember, if you can eliminate even one answer choice then it pays to guess on the SAT. On the ACT, students aren't penalized for guessing. Only the correct answers count toward their score, so it is better to guess than leave a blank.
9. Be Careful Filling in the Answer Grid
Make sure you're filling in answers next to the right numbers.
10. Relax
Your attitude and outlook is crucial to your test-day performance. Be confident.

TIP OF THE WEEK - FEBRUARY 21, 2011

2011-02-21T10:54:00.005-05:00

Internships Create an Advantage

Not only do internships reveal viable career paths through hands-on learning experiences, they give a student an edge over their competition when it comes to applying for jobs. You may have a killer cover letter, a stellar grade point average and glowing recommendations from your professors, but in today’s competitive market, employers are ever watchful for the new hire that knows how to jump right in and start running with the ball. "Internships have become key in today's economy," says Melissa Benca, director of career services at Marymount Manhattan College in New York City. "Graduating students with paid or unpaid internships on their résumé have a much better chance at landing a full-time position upon graduation. Students are doing internships as undergraduates, and it is now not unusual for recent grads to take an unpaid internship with hopes of turning it into a permanent position or at least making some contacts and building their résumé." Internships allow a student to explore and experiment while gaining professional experience and exposure. Additionally, interning helps participants develop essential skills and build the confidence to secure a first job or graduate school opportunity.

Interning makes sense to high school students as well. Upon applying to colleges, students that intern are showing that they are able to bridge the gap between wanting to become a professional and taking steps to become a professional.

Actual Benefits
Besides getting a foot in the door with a potential employer and looking good on a résumé, internships have other advantages:

The opportunity to "test drive" a career (Would I be happier in marketing or advertising? Am I more comfortable working with patients or in a lab?)
Chances to networK
Establishing relationships with mentors
Possible college credit or certification
An introduction to the field's culture and etiquette (Are clients addressed by their first name? Are jeans appropriate for Casual Friday?)
Accumulating new skills
Gaining a "real world" perspective in an occupation(How much overtime do employees really work? How much time is spent behind a desk versus in the field?)

TIP OF THE WEEK - FEBRUARY 14, 2011

2011-02-14T15:29:00.001-05:00

Strategies on How Students Can Triumph over Deferrals and Wait Lists

Early applicants may be deferred to regular decision, and regular applicants may be wait-listed or… just waiting. Students may see this time as a purgatory, unsure whether to hope or grieve. Choose hope. By taking action, admissions deans say, you can increase your chances of getting in. The bottom line is: Don’t Give Up. Students should make sure that the schools have received their updated winter grades and should write a letter to the admissions dean, reaffirming their interest and updating their achievements. Most deans agree that additional materials (tapes, essays, recommendations) can help only if they offer something new.

The University of Chicago’s Ted O’Neill encourages applicants to schedule an interview if they haven’t had one. The college interview can be a turning point for the student, helping him/her to see the school in a different light, and to show the college that you are putting a priority on attending their school. Make sure you talk about what interests you and be prepared to discuss items on your application and resume. Be enthusiastic, but be yourself, sharing details about your passion in life can only help the admissions officer understand who you are.

Everyone agrees that at this time showing strong interest to a school is crucial, especially if you have decided this is the right one for you.

"TIP OF THE WEEK" - February 7, 2011

2011-02-07T14:42:00.003-05:00

Top 6 Job Trends to Watch in 2011

Healthcare: The healthcare field is expected to grow at an increasingly rapid rate over the next several years, including 2011. The field is expected to see wide growth overall, but it will be especially high for specific careers. Such careers include registered nurses, physicians assistants, and physical therapists. The average salary for these jobs is between $60,000 and $80,000. Employment opportunities for registered nurses are expected to increase 22% in the next several years, while opportunities for physician assistants will grow by almost 40%, and physical therapists careers are expected to grow by about 30%.
Business and Finance: The business field covers a number of companies and industries which has plenty of sectors and growth opportunities in terms of employment. Due largely to overall business growth and constantly changing finance laws, financial sectors are expected to experience large growth boosts. Accountants and financial auditors, advisors, and analysts will be in high demand, with an expected job growth by more than 22%, depending on profession, in the next several years. Average salaries for financial accountants, auditors, and analysts are between $60,000 and about $73,000.
Information Technology and Computer Systems: Information technology jobs, also commonly known as IT jobs, and computer system jobs are on the rise. Many jobs in this area will be on the rise, with administrators, developers, and network engineers with the highest growth opportunities. In addition, many IT jobs offer annual salary averages of around $90,000 for experienced workers.
Education: The education field is expected to grow greatly over the next few years as well. Several jobs in the field are expected to see increases, but the most job opportunities will be in teaching. Occupations for all level teachers are expected to increase by 13%, adding more than 468,000 teaching jobs in the next several years. Median annual wages for all level teachers range between $47,000 and $51,000.
Marketing and Advertising: Marketing and advertising fields include promotions, public relations, advertising, and a number of other occupations. Growth in television and radio stations will produce a greater need for advertising in the coming years, as well as an increase in digital media advertisements on the Internet and other devices. Marketing managers are expected to increase by 15%, while overall employment in promotions, marketing, public relations, and sales managers is expected to increase by 13%.
Customer Service: Customer service representatives currently rank amongst some of the largest occupations. Accounting for more than 2 million jobs in 2008, customer service representatives can be found in almost every industry. Overall employment for customer service representatives is expected to grow by about 18%, bringing about 400,000 in the next several years.

January 24, 2011

2011-01-24T15:37:00.003-05:00

Public Speaking Tips for Students : Do's and Don’ts

· First very important thing to do is, to choose your speech topic very carefully. Ideally, select a topic which interests you and on which you have some previous knowledge.

· Be well-dressed. As everybody knows, first impressions count a lot.

· When delivering a speech, make sure that you maintain eye contact with the entire audience. Do not just look in one direction. Instead, look at different people at different times during your speech. This is a great way to involve the audience in your speech

· Do not read out your speech word by word.

· If quoting someone, or reading out a statistics, make sure to mention the source.

· When giving examples and stories, make sure that you include those which the audience can relate to.

· It is seen that visual aids such as power-point presentations, interest and appeal to the audience a lot, so use them creatively to enhance the effectiveness of your speech.

· Do not make the speech too lengthy. Keep it short, crisp and interesting.

In the end, it is practice, experience, patience and your ability to stay calm, which will improve public speaking skills. Good luck on your next presentation!

TIP OF THE WEEK-JANUARY 17, 2011

2011-01-18T10:14:00.000-05:00

Five ways to help you stay motivated.

1. Focus on High-Impact Activities
It may seem obvious, but it's easy to let trivial tasks distract you from more important ones. Smaller projects are often easier and quickly offer a sense of accomplishment. Keep in mind, though, that this sense of accomplishment tends to be short-lived. What matters most is still not done.
Make a list in two columns:
Column 1: What are your most important tasks?
Column 2: What's on your to-do list?
If your items in column 2 have little to do with your objectives in column 1, you have a problem. To solve it, you may need to rearrange your time and devote more energy toward what counts. This will help you build momentum.
2. Create New Challenges
When you start to feel bored with something, try changing your approach. Say you've been given an assignment similar to one you've done in the past. Think about how you can solve this problem in a different way or improve upon your previous work.
3. Set Attainable Goals
Lots of people have big dreams, but have difficulty translating them into concrete steps. The key is to think short-term, not only long-term. For example, if you're having trouble writing a 20-page paper for class because it seems too large, don't focus on that final number. Consider each section of your paper individually. Now you're dealing with a familiar task, not unlike papers you've written before.
4. Find a Social Support Network
In almost any setting, there are mentor figures who can give you guidance and help you develop new skills. Plus, there are peers who can motivate you by listening and exchanging ideas. Both mentors and peers are important elements of a support network, which is also a great resource for information and for new ways to challenge yourself.
5. Acknowledge Your Accomplishments
When you've got momentum going, it's tempting to jump from task to task. Sometimes, though, this can make you feel stressed, like you're not getting enough done. Instead, pause after you've reached a goal or give yourself a quick reward. Take a walk, send an email, get a snack—whatever works for you.

January 10, 2011

2011-01-10T11:43:00.003-05:00

Money Tips for Students

Money Management
If you play it smart, you can avoid the sort of money troubles that plague many young adults.

Don’t get a credit card unless you absolutely need one. Those guys sitting behind the sign-up table are not there to help you. They’re there to make money.
Avoid non-academic debt. It might seem like a good idea to put that Xbox on a credit card, but it’s not. Focus on developing good money skills with cash. Worry about credit later.
Save and then splurge. If you decide you must have that Xbox, then save for it. Wait until you can pay cash.
Pay your bills on time. Basic advice, but it’s surprising how many people lose track of things. If you pay your bills as they arrive, you won’t have to worry about forgetting them.

Organization and Planning
Some minimal organization will keep your finances in order. Each of these is an important adult financial skill.

Track your spending. Use a notebook, or use Quicken if you have it. Good records will prevent you from getting overdrawn at the bank or charging more than your credit limit. This habit also allows you to detect spending patterns.
Make a budget. It doesn’t have to be fancy. At the start of the month, estimate how much money you’ll receive and decide where it needs to go. Remember: you don’t need to spend it all.
Save your receipts. Put them in a shoebox under your bed if you must, but hold onto them. You’ll need to be able to compare them with statements at the end of the month. And some you’ll need to keep for several years.
Guard your vital stats. Don’t give out your social security number or your credit card info except to known and trusted sources.

Decision Making
Get in the habit of making smart choices now, and you’ll develop a pattern of behavior that will stand you in good stead the rest of your life.

Make smart choices. Decide what’s important to you, and pursue that. And remember to leave time for yourself.
When you want to buy something, ask yourself “Do I need it?” If you think you do, then wait. Don’t buy on impulse. Write the object of your desire on a piece of paper and pin it to the wall. Look at it every day for a week. If, at the end of the week, you still think you need it, then consider purchasing it.

2011-01-04T14:58:00.001-05:00

Netiquette

E-guides on social interaction and communicating electronically
Communicating clearly on the Internet without creating misunderstandings can be a challenge. One problem is that you haven't any facial expressions, body language, or environment to help you express yourself; another that there is little "give and take" for developing what you mean to say or are discussing
These guidelines hopefully will help you:
Be clear - Make sure the subject line (e-mail) or title (web page) reflects your content
Use appropriate language - If you have a question on whether or not you are too emotional, don't send the message, save it, and review it "later", remember: no one can guess your mood, see your facial expressions, etc. All they have are your words, and your words can express the opposite of what you feel. Don't use ALL CAPITAL LETTERS--it's equal to shouting or screaming
Be brief - If your message is short, people will be more likely to read it
Make a good impression - Your words and content represent you; review/edit your words and images before sending
Be selective on what information you put in an e-mail or on a web site: Information on the Internet is very public, and can seen by anyone in the world including criminals, future employers, and governments
Forward e-mail messages you receive only with permission of the sender
Remember you are not anonymous What you write in an e-mail and web site can be traced back to you
Obey copyright laws Don't use others' images, content, etc. without permission
Don't forward e-mail, or use web site content without permission Visit the Library of Congress' Guide on "Copyright Basics"
Cite others' work you use Refer to the Guide on “Citation”
Use distribution lists appropriately and with permission
Do not send SPAM SPAM is posting or e-mailing unsolicited e-mail, often advertising messages, to a wide audience (another way of thinking of it is electronic junk mail)

TIP OF THE WEEK - DECEMBER 27, 2010

2010-12-29T17:27:00.003-05:00

10 Scam Warning Signs, Courtesy of FastWeb

Knowing these warning signs can keep you from being a scholarship scam victim.

1. Fees: You shouldn't have to pay to search for or apply for scholarships.

2. Credit card or bank account information needed: You should never
have to give credit card or bank account information to award providers.

3. Scholarship guarantee: No one can guarantee that you'll win a
scholarship because no one can control scholarship judges' decisions.
Also, be wary of "high success rates"—they usually do not refer to actual award winners.

4. No work involved: You can't avoid putting in time to fill out a
scholarship application.

5. No contact information: Legitimate sponsors should provide contact
information upon request. If the sponsor does not supply a valid e-mail
address, phone number and mailing address (not a PO box) after you've
asked for one, that could the sign of a scam.

6. Unsolicited scholarships: If you are called to receive an award for
which you never applied, be alert—it's most likely a scam.

7. Pressure tactics: Don't allow yourself to be pressured into applying
for a scholarship, especially if the sponsor is asking for money up front.

8. Claims of "exclusive" scholarships: Sponsors don't make their
scholarships available through only one service.

9. Sponsor goes out of their way to sound "official": Scammers sometimes use official-sounding words like "national," "education" or "federal" or they display an official-looking seal to fool you into thinking they are legit. Check with your school if you question a scholarship provider's legitimacy.

10. Your questions aren't answered directly: If you can't get a straight answer from a sponsor regarding their application.

Tip of the week - December 20, 2010

2010-12-20T15:02:00.003-05:00

What to Do While Waiting for Admission Letters

Tips for keeping track of your college applications and keeping admissions officers in the loop. It may not look like it after you put your 10 pounds' worth of college applications in the mail, but the hard part starts once you've forked the applications over. For the following three or four months you will feel the stress of the infamous college waiting game as anxiety builds and the days go by without a letter of reply. But a little guidance and a heads up about what to expect can help you play that game like a pro. So until the mailman comes back carrying a university letter with your name on it, here are some answers to questions you may have along the way, compiled by U.S. News with the help of admissions counselors across the country.

How do I know the university has received my application? You should receive an acknowledgement E-mail that your application has been received. If you apply online, you should get this E-mail within a day or two. When it hits your in box, make sure that all information entered on the application (name, home address, etc.) is correct. Don't hesitate to call the admissions office if you accidentally entered the wrong information or if you don't get the E-mail at all. Every school's admission guidelines vary, so be sure to review the admissions requirements online before and after you turn in your application to avoid delaying the time it takes for them to consider your application.

How can I check the status of my application, and how often should I check it? Most colleges have status checks through their undergraduate admissions offices website. The confirmation that tells you they have received your application usually will have a website login and password so only you can see at what stage of the process your application is. Receipts of transcripts, letters of recommendation, and test scores are sometimes noted on these status pages, so check back regularly to make sure the required parts of your application have arrived.

How are admissions decisions made? There are so many factors that go into colleges' decision-making process that it's hard to ever really be certain about why any particular applicant gets accepted. Larger schools often break applicants into geographical sections and assign one or two people to inspect the applications from that region. Smaller schools might employ a board of admissions counselors who make the final cuts. In addition to your transcripts, essays, references, and everything else you've slaved over to meet the application deadline, admissions officers receive a high school profile with information about your school's test scores, curriculum, and college acceptance history, among other things, to better judge whether you are well suited for their college's academic intensity.

What should I do in the meantime? It's easy to become an application-status stalker as you count down the days until you know if you got in, but this in-between period is also a good time to alert the universities of changes or additions to your files. You also should use time to wrap up campus visits and do a sufficient amount of research on each school so that you can make more informed decisions once the acceptance (and rejection) letters start to roll in.

When will I find out if I got in or not? Ah, the million-dollar question. If you applied for early decision (deadlines are usually the end of October, beginning of November), you will most likely be notified before New Year's rolls around. Although you should check the university's website for its specific dates, if you apply for regular decision you will know by at least the beginning of April.

When should I start to worry if I haven't received a response? Give colleges about three weeks. If you haven't gotten a receipt from the school of your application by then, you should call the admissions office to double check. "Each year we hear from a few who thought they applied back in the fall, but they waited to call us in April, after notification letters have gone out, to ask why they didn't hear back, only to find out we never received their completed application," says Amy Widner of the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at Virginia Tech, which receives 19,000 freshman applications a year. "This is way too late!"

Do I have to wait for a letter in the mail to know if I got in or not or will I find out online? Many colleges send decisions electronically and follow up with a letter of reply.

How long until I receive a response if I turned in my application late? Trick question! Very few schools accept applications past the due date. If you do, however, turn in a late application, be sure to call the admissions office to make sure your application has been received.

What if I'm wait-listed? If you're wait-listed, you should be informed by that college what your chances are for being admitted and the date you will receive final word. You may be asked to call the admissions office or declare online whether you wish to stay on the list or be removed for good.

What if I am accepted to one of my safety schools before I hear from one of my top choices, and the safety school needs a response? You don't have to respond to a school right away, but your commitments to admission and financial aid offers should be given to the schools by the end of April. If you need more time, give the college a written request for an extension. This is one of the biggest decisions of your life, and colleges understand that. Make sure you give yourself enough time to weigh all the options.

TIP OF THE WEEK - December 13, 2010

2010-12-13T13:28:00.003-05:00

"A MUST READ FOR EVERY MEMBER OF THE FAMILY CORPORATION"

QUESTION - Are my parents responsible for my educational loans?:

Parents are NOT responsible for any FEDERAL Student Loans (Stafford and/or Perkins). However, they are responsible for the Federal PLUS loans and any other alternative loans that require a co-signer. In general, the student is solely responsible for repaying their FEDERAL educational loans. You do not need to get your parents to cosign your federal student loans, even if you are under age 18, as the 'defense of infancy' does not apply to FEDERAL student loans. (The defense of infancy presumes that a minor is not able to enter into contracts, and considers any such contract to be void.)
There is an explicit exemption to this principle in the Higher Education Act with regard to federal student loans. However, lenders normally will require a cosigner on any type of private student loan. If your parents (or grandparents) want to help pay off your FEDERAL loan(s), you can have your billing statements sent to their address. Likewise, if your lender or loan servicer provides an electronic payment service, where the monthly payments are automatically deducted from a bank account, your parents can agree to have the payments deducted from their account. But your parents are under no obligation to repay your loans. If they forget to pay the bill on time or decide to cancel the electronic payment agreement, you will be held responsible for the payments, not them.

TIP OF THE WEEK – December 6, 2010

2010-12-06T11:49:00.003-05:00

VOLUNTEER / COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS

With the holiday season upon us and winter break approaching, now is a great time to start thinking about volunteer/community service projects! Taking up a service project for a few hours, days or weeks will help you to give back to your community helping those in need, but is also a great opportunity for you to discover something new about yourself or learn a new trade. In addition to building character on-going community service shows a commitment that many colleges value and could give your application the extra edge over competition needed to be admitted to the college of your choice. There are also many scholarships available that are based on community service. So between spending time with your family, hanging out with your friends, and catching up on some much needed rest and relaxation, take a little time to help those less fortunate than you.

TIP OF THE WEEK – November 29, 2010

2010-11-30T16:13:00.004-05:00

Efficient note taking while doing homework is one of the most important study skills you need to succeed in school. These studying tips will help you get more out of lectures and class handouts, help you study more efficiently at home, and prepare for tests.

Here’s how to get started:
Steps
Pick one new note-taking strategy to try when doing homework. The following list contains some proven strategies, but don’t try all of them at once. Pick one to try this week, then add new tips as you incorporate the previous ones into your study routine.

Make up symbols and abbreviations. This can be fun, plus you'll save time when you use your own shorthand system for taking notes.
Review your notes. Students who review their notes the same day they take them—even for just five minutes—remember more than students who don't look at their class notes until they're studying for a test.
Keep track of dates. Put the date on every page. If your binder pops open and your notes spill out, the dates will help you get the pages back in order. Dates can also help you remember exactly when you learned something.

Review the tips listed. Are you already using any of the tips? How well do they work for you? Are there any strategies listed that you think would work better than what you are doing now?

Tip: Review your notes even if there isn’t a test that week. By reviewing often, you will feel better prepared when a test is scheduled.

TIP OF THE WEEK – November 22, 2010

2010-11-23T14:17:00.001-05:00

STUDYING TIPS
Efficient note taking is one of the most important study skills you need to succeed in school. These studying tips will help you get more out of lectures and class handouts, help you study more efficiently at home, and prepare for tests.

Here’s how to get started:
Steps
Pick one note-taking strategy to try in class. - The following list contains some proven strategies, but don’t try them all at once. Pick one to try this week, then add new tips as you incorporate the previous ones into your study routine.

If it's on the board, write it down. Teachers use the board and projectors to present important information. If they emphasize a point by writing it on the board or using a projector, it's important enough to go into your notebook.
Take notes in the margins of your handouts. Don't rewrite information that's already been prepared for you in a handout but add notes to yourself and clarifications the teacher offers in the margins.
Write down definitions and examples. Pay special attention to definitions and examples that your teacher uses to illustrate and explain new concepts.
Don't try to write down everything the teacher says. You'll never keep up. Just aim for the main concepts. Write down words the teacher emphasizes, key questions, and important points.
Pay extra attention at the beginning and end of class. Teachers usually introduce the lesson at the start of the class. If you keep the agenda in mind as the class continues, you'll follow the lesson more easily. Teachers often review important concepts at the end of class. During this review, be sure you've got the important concepts in your notes.

Review the tips listed. Are you already using any of the tips? How well do they work for you? Are there any strategies listed that you think would work better than what you are doing now?

Tip: Write down the strategy and put it somewhere you will see it as a reminder, like in your planner or calendar, in the inside of a binder, or on the cover of a notebook. Then use the technique in one or more of your classes until you feel comfortable using it.

TIP OF THE WEEK – November 15, 2010

2010-11-17T09:47:00.007-05:00

10 Financial Tips for College and
"Soon-to-Be” College Students

1. Use Credit Cards Sparingly
Use credit cards wisely because this is a chance to establish a solid credit history. Watch the interest rates. Don't be suckered by low introductory rates. Expect the interest rate, or annual percentage rate (APR), to climb above 20% in three to six months. Don't use the card for routine living expenses or a night on the town.

2. Pay all Credit Card Balances in Full
Remember: Credit is a loan--and it doesn't come from The Bank of Dad. That means any balance on the credit card must be repaid. Get a card with a low limit. Shop around for the best deal and read the fine print before signing up. If you move, inform the bank of your new address. Guard your credit card number and close unused accounts.

3. Get the Best Deal on a Checking Account
Shop around before opening a checking account. Smaller banks may offer a better deal. Compare fees. Ask if there's a fee for dealing with a teller, including deposits or withdrawals. Ask if there's a fee to use a debit card. Ask about ATM fees. Ask if overdraft protection is part of the student package. If not, ask about linking such coverage to a bank-issued credit card.

4. Keep Track of your Spending
Use cash whenever possible because counting out the bills underscores the connection between the purchased item and money leaving your wallet. Use a debit card before a credit card for the same reason. Keep track of spending because a budget means nothing without accurate accounting.

5. Set a Limit on Entertaining
Set a limit for walking-around money and stick to it. Hitting up the ATM for another fistful of crisp twenties is easy--and guaranteed to deplete your bank account.

6. Keep an Eye out for Free Money
Apply for scholarships. This requires digging and persistence. See what's available. Don't be bashful. If you have a shot, apply. If it's a long shot, how can you go wrong for the price of a stamp?

7. Get a Part-Time Job
Check out college work-study programs. A few jobs may be related to your studies. Otherwise, look for a job with tips such as waiting tables, parking cars or delivering pizza. Summer work is a necessity for many students, but don't overlook internships--they're a good way to get a taste of what you may make a career and establish contacts in the field.

8. Avoid taxes on Stupidity
Avoid unnecessary expenses at all costs. Parking fines are a tax on stupidity or laziness. Read the signs and follow the rules. This goes for little things like returning library books or videos. Pay your bills on time or you'll get stuck with a late fee.

9. Don’t Eat Out All the Time
Pack a lunch. This will save you big bucks. Don't eat regularly at fast-food restaurants because it will reduce your bank account while bloating your belly. At the supermarket, buy the house brand and increase your savings. Never shop on an empty stomach.

10. Look for Student Discounts
Clip coupons. Many businesses give students discounts in an effort to establish a relationship that will continue when they enter the real world and start earning a paycheck. Take advantage of the perks. Be on the lookout for deals on plane tickets, pizza, books, clothes--everything. The student newspaper is a good place to start. The Internet can be a gold mine of discounts.

TIP OF THE WEEK – November 8, 2010

2010-11-10T13:51:00.000-05:00

Six Tips for Student Success

1. Use daily, weekly, and semester calendars to keep track of appointments and assignments and to plan how you want to use your time.

Effective time managers don't rely on their memories to hold important dates and times. They write them down! This clears their brains for more important tasks like thinking.
Combine due dates for several major projects on a long-term calendar to help you set and accomplish goals, plan and use your time wisely, and avoid procrastination or last minute panics.

2. Review your lecture and reading notes within 24 hours after you take them.

Since we tend to forget about 80% of what we read or hear within the first 24 hours, this first review is vital to retention. Equally important, it helps you to build a "framework" of knowledge that you continually add to instead of starting from scratch.

3. Keep all your class materials syllabi, notes, papers, exams, and homework in a 3-ring binder.

Many students spend half their time just getting organized. Do it as you go; then, use the time you've saved for valuable physical and mental recreation.

4. Establish a regular study routine, and study during daylight hours.

Find a place that is comfortable but not too comfortable and always do your studying there, preferably during the same hours each day. Also, keep in mind that you're about 1.5 times more productive during the daylight hours than when the sun is down.

5. Begin preparing for exams from the first day of class.

Make everything you do from taking notes, doing homework, writing papers, and taking quizzes an exam preparation strategy. Watch and listen for potential exam questions. Then, use the week before the exam to review not to learn.

6. When you need help, see your instructors during their office hours, and talk to your academic advisor.

TIP OF THE WEEK, NOVEMBER 2, 2010

2010-11-02T12:02:00.025-04:00

TIPS TO GET TO KNOW YOUR PROFESSORS

Being friendly to your professors can pay off big at the end of the semester. Remember, the professor is the person who determines what grade you are going to get, so it's better to be on good terms with them. Many students just show up for class and never talk to their professor, so by putting in a little extra effort you can stand out from all of the "other" students.
Top 10 tips on how to get on the good side of your professors:
1. Try to meet with the professors one on one early in the semester (before you start having problems in the class).
2. Say hi if you see the professor walking around campus. Most students avoid professors or pretend they don't know them on campus.
3. Do the required assignments. Make sure you don't show up to class without doing the required reading or without the paper that is due.
4. Turn in work on time. Some professors are really particular about assignments being turned in on time, and may not accept work if it is late.
5. Don't be late to class. Some professors do not like it if you show up after the class has started, make sure you are always a little early to avoid this.
6. Do not miss any classes, otherwise professors will think that you don't care.
7. Contact the professor ahead of time if you absolutely have to miss a class.
8. Don't fall asleep in class. Bring a soda or coffee to class if this is a problem for you.
9. Ask or answer questions. This helps the professor get to know you.
10. Sit in the front of the class. Professors get to know the students up in front of class because they are closer and seem more interested to be there. This will also help you concentrate and pay attention.
These are all tips that should help you get to know, and get along with the people who determine your grades.

TIP OF THE WEEK – October 25, 2010

2010-10-26T10:57:00.007-04:00

Extracurricular Activities As Career Prep
Between juggling a full course load, social life and work-study job, it can be easy to forgo extracurricular activities. However, involvement in student activities can be a valuable asset when the time comes to apply for jobs.

The skills and experience you develop through student activities can be what puts you ahead of your competition in the interview process. Extracurriculars build the qualities - teamwork, commitment, responsibility, leadership - that employers value. Whether your preferred activity is the college newspaper, student government, a theater production or athletic team, your involvement indicates to employers that you possess the communication and teambuilding skills they value.

Develop Real-World Skills
Extracurricular activities can provide you with a higher level of responsibility and opportunities to supervise than those available at summer jobs. They can hone time management and organization abilities that will cross over into the professional world.

"Being involved in an organization where the students are setting goals and objectives and motivating other students is more beneficial... than spending a summer looking at a spreadsheet or crunching numbers," says Dana Ellis, firm director of recruiting for a financial services firm.

Recruiters look for students who have shown that they're effective communicators, can work as part of a team, and have good networking and relationship-building skills.

Student activities are also great for helping you figure out possible career paths. Most organizations offer a wide range of roles and responsibilities that accommodate a variety of interests and talents. You can experiment with different roles that will help you identify your own strengths, weaknesses and preferences.

Enhance Your Resume
Use student activities to add to your portfolio of work samples. This is especially important for visual and liberal arts majors, but it can be useful for all students come interview season.

Keep a souvenir or copies of materials from events and activities you helped organize. Press kits, theater production programs, even a budget spreadsheet you created can give potential employers a better sense of your skills and accomplishments.

Also, maintain a record of your tasks and projects within the student organization. What was the purpose of your role? How did that contribute to the organization or project

Selling Your Experience to Employers
When interviewing for jobs, it's very important to communicate to the recruiter how your extracurricular experiences translate into real-world skills.

Be ready to provide examples of your work and skill set.
"We devote a fair amount of attention to applicants' extracurriculars," Ellis says. "We like them to give us specific examples of their experiences and accomplishments because that gives us an idea of their potential and what they might do in our organization."

Do your homework.
Research the company, know the job description, and look at the responsibilities of the position you're applying for. Think about your extracurricular experience and how you've demonstrated those skills in the past. Tie them in with the responsibilities of the job position.

Don't Over-Commit.
While being involved in a large number of activities might show good time management skills, most employers would rather see a person who has achieved senior or leadership positions in only a few organizations.

Keep in mind that extracurriculars are still just one part of your resume. Employers look at the whole picture, including grades, internships, volunteer work, references and life experience. Therefore a good balance is important.

TIP OF THE WEEK – October 18, 2010

2010-10-19T17:30:00.003-04:00

7 Practices for Computer Security

Access to information and entertainment, credit and financial services, products from every corner of the world — even to your work — is greater than ever. Thanks to the internet, you can play a friendly game with an opponent across the ocean; review and rate videos, songs, or clothes; get expert advice in an instant; or collaborate with far-flung co-workers in a "virtual" office.
But the internet — and the anonymity it affords — also can give online scammers, hackers, and identity thieves access to your computer, personal information, finances, and more.
With awareness as your safety net, you can minimize the chance of an internet mishap. Being on guard online helps you protect your information, your computer, and your money. To be safer and more secure online, make these seven practices part of your online routine.

1. Protect your personal information. It's valuable.
To an identity thief, your personal information can provide instant access to your financial accounts, your credit record, and other assets. If you think no one would be interested in YOUR personal information, think again. ANYONE can be a victim of identity theft. In fact, according to the Federal Trade Commission, millions of people become victims every year.
2. Know who you're dealing with.
And what you're getting into. If it's your first time on an unfamiliar site, call the seller's phone number, so you know you can reach them if you need to. If you can't find a working phone number, take your business elsewhere.
Type the site's name into a search engine: If you find unfavorable reviews posted, you may be better off doing business with a different seller.
Consider using a software toolbar that rates websites and warns you if a site has gotten unfavorable reports from experts and other internet users. Some reputable companies provide free tools that may alert you if a website is a known phishing site or is used to distribute spyware.
3. File-Sharing: Worth the hidden costs?
Every day, millions of computer users share files online. File-sharing can give people access to a wealth of information, including music, games, and software. How does it work? You download special software that connects your computer to an informal network of other computers running the same software. Millions of users could be connected to each other through this software at one time. Often, the software is free and easy to access.
But file-sharing can have a number of risks. If you don't check the proper settings, you could allow access not only to the files you intend to share, but also to other information on your hard drive, like your tax returns, email messages, medical records, photos, or other personal documents. In addition, you may unwittingly download malware or pornography labeled as something else. Or you may download material that is protected by the copyright laws, which would mean you could be breaking the law.
4. Use security software that updates automatically.
Keep your security software active and current: at a minimum, your computer should have anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a firewall. You can buy stand-alone programs for each element or a security suite that includes these programs from a variety of sources, including commercial vendors or from your Internet Service Provider. Security software that comes pre-installed on a computer generally works for a short time unless you pay a subscription fee to keep it in effect. In any case, security software protects against the newest threats only if it is up-to-date. That's why it is critical to set your security software to update automatically.
5. Keep your operating system and Web browser up-to-date, and learn about their security features.
Hackers also take advantage of Web browsers (like Firefox or Internet Explorer) and operating system software (like Windows or Mac's OS) that don't have the latest security updates. Operating system companies issue security patches for flaws that they find in their systems, so it's important to set your operating system and Web browser software to download and install security patches automatically.
In addition, you can increase your online security by changing the built-in security and privacy settings in your operating system or browser. Check the "Tools" or "Options" menus to learn how to upgrade from the default settings. Use your "Help" function for more information about your choices.
If you're not using your computer for an extended period, disconnect it from the internet. When it's disconnected, the computer doesn't send or receive information from the internet and isn't vulnerable to hackers.
6. Protect your passwords.
Keep your passwords in a secure place, and out of plain sight. Don't share them on the internet, over email, or on the phone. Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) should never ask for your password.
In addition, hackers may try to figure out your passwords to gain access to your computer. To make it tougher for them:

Use passwords that have at least eight characters and include numbers or symbols. The longer the password, the tougher it is to crack. A 12-character password is stronger than one with eight characters.
Avoid common words: some hackers use programs that can try every word in the dictionary.
Don't use your personal information, your login name, or adjacent keys on the keyboard as passwords.
Change your passwords regularly (at a minimum, every 90 days).
Don't use the same password for each online account you access.

7. Back up important files.
If you follow these tips, you're more likely to be free of interference from hackers, viruses, and spammers. But no system is completely secure. If you have important files stored on your computer, copy them onto a removable disc or an external hard drive, and store it in a safe place.
8. Learn what to do in an emergency.
If you suspect malicious software is lurking on your computer, stop shopping, banking, and other online activities that involve user names, passwords, or other sensitive information. Malicious software could be sending your personal information to identity thieves.
Confirm that your security software is up-to-date, then use it to scan your computer. Delete everything the program identifies as a problem. You may have to restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

TIP OF THE WEEK – October 11, 2010

2010-10-13T14:03:00.005-04:00

To all of you with Colllege Bound Students, friends with College Bound Students and those of you who know folks with College Bound Students, this material and all the other material in our package for College Bound Students is no longer an option.
It's a necessity!

Test Anxiety
Most students experience some level of anxiety during an exam. However, when anxiety affects exam performance it can become a problem.

General preparation/building confidence:

Review your personal situation and skills
Developing good study habits and strategies
Managing time (dealing with procrastination, distractions, laziness). Organizing material to be studied and learned
Take a step by step approach to build a strategy and not get overwhelmed. Outside pressures success/failure consequences (grades, graduation), peer pressure, competitiveness, etc.
Reviewing your past performance on tests to improve and learn from experience

Test preparation to reduce anxiety:

Approach the exam with confidence. Use whatever strategies you can to personalize success: visualization, logic, talking to yourself, practice, team work, journaling, etc. View the exam as an opportunity to show how much you've studied and to receive a reward for the studying you've done
Be prepared! Learn your material thoroughly and organize what materials you will need for the test. Use a checklist
Choose a comfortable location for taking the test with good lighting and minimal distractions
Allow yourself plenty of time, especially to do things you need to do before the test and still get there a little early
Avoid thinking you need to cram just before
Strive for a relaxed state of concentration. Avoid speaking with any fellow students who have not prepared, who express negativity, who will distract your preparation
A program of exercise is said to sharpen the mind
Get a good night's sleep the night before the exam
Don't go to the exam with an empty stomach. Fresh fruits and vegetables are often recommended to reduce stress. Stressful foods can include processed foods, artificial sweeteners, carbonated soft drinks, chocolate, eggs, fried foods, junk foods, pork, red meat, sugar, white flour products, chips and similar snack foods, foods containing preservatives or heavy spices. Take a small snack, or some other nourishment to help take your mind off of your anxiety. Avoid high sugar content (candy).

During the test:

Read the directions carefully
Budget your test taking time
Change positions to help you relax
If you go blank, skip the question and go on
If you're taking an essay test and you go blank on the whole test, pick a question and start writing. It may trigger the answer in your mind
Don't panic when students start handing in their papers. There's no reward for being the first done

If you find yourself tensing and getting anxious during the test:

Relax; you are in control. Take slow, deep breaths
Don't think about the fear. Pause; think about the next step and keep on task, step by step
Use positive reinforcement for yourself. Acknowledge that you have done, and are doing, your best
Expect some anxiety. It's a reminder that you want to do your best and can provide energy. Just keep it manageable
Realize that anxiety can be a "habit" and that it takes practice to use it as a tool to succeed

After the test, review how you did:

List what worked, and hold onto these strategies. It does not matter how small the items are. They are building blocks to success
List what did not work for improvement
Celebrate that you are on the road to overcoming this obstacle
Check out local centers and resources in your school for assistance! If you are aware that you have a problem with test anxiety, be sure your teacher or instructor knows before any testing begins (and not the hour before!). There may be other options to evaluate your knowledge or performance within the subject matter.

TIP OF THE WEEK - October 4, 2010

2010-10-05T16:28:00.001-04:00

10 Money Tips for Students

Spend less than you earn. Don’t earn much? Then don’t spend much. If your spending and income are roughly even, you have two choices: earn more or spend less
Be an outstanding employee. Good work habits can pay enormous dividends, leading to recommendations and contacts that you can use after you’re out of school. Many students turn work-study jobs into launching pads for future careers.
Don’t get a credit card unless you absolutely need one. Don’t be a sucker. Those guys sitting behind the sign-up table are not there to help you. They’re there to make money.
Avoid non-academic debt. It might seem like a good idea to put that Xbox on a credit card, but it’s not. Focus on developing good money skills with cash. Worry about credit later.
Save and then splurge. If you decide you must have that Xbox, then save for it. Wait until you can pay cash.
Pay your bills on time. Basic advice, but it’s surprising how many people lose track of things. If you pay your bills as they arrive, you won’t have to worry about forgetting them.
Track your spending. Use a notebook, or use Quicken if you have it. Good records will prevent you from getting overdrawn at the bank or charging more than your credit limit. This habit also allows you to detect spending patterns.
Make a budget. It doesn’t have to be fancy. At the start of the month, estimate how much money you’ll receive and decide where needs to go. Remember: you don’t need to spend it all.
Save your receipts. Put them in a shoebox under your bed if you must, but hold onto them. You’ll need to be able to compare them with statements at the end of the month. And some you’ll need to keep for several years.
Guard your vital stats. Don’t give out your social security number or your credit card info except to known and trusted sources.

TIP OF THE WEEK – September 27, 2010

2010-09-29T12:23:00.002-04:00

Admission and Scholarship Deadlines

When applying to college make sure you look at both the admission deadline and the scholarship priority deadline. For many colleges the deadlines are the same, but for some colleges the scholarship deadline is sooner than the admissions deadline, in some cases it is months sooner. As with all financial aid, merit scholarships are awarded on a first come basis. If you submit your application after the scholarship priority deadline, there may not be funds left to support the maximum scholarship you qualify for. A little internet searching on the college's website could save you from losing thousands of dollars in scholarship money, so sign on and do a little extra research today.

TIP OF THE WEEK – September 20, 2010

2010-09-21T11:52:00.000-04:00

Close Reading – Tips for Success

Article By CollegeBoard

Much has been written for students on the topic of improving writing skills, but few articles discuss how to become a better reader. Of course, reading and writing go hand in hand; the better you comprehend a text, the more likely it is that you will successfully put your thoughts about it onto paper. So it's important to develop both strong reading and writing skills. With that in mind, check out the following suggestions on how to improve your reading comprehension:

Annotate
Be an active reader. Instead of passively reading a text, sit with a pen or a pencil in hand. Be ready to take notes in the margins of your book about important story elements, key factual information, and significant ideas in the text. If you don’t own the book, you can jot down your thoughts on Post-it Notes and stick them on the appropriate pages.

Be Aware of the Author’s Writing Style
Every author writes with a purpose. So he or she deliberately uses methods to successfully relate specific information to the audience. When you’re reading, look for patterns in the author’s writing. For example, you may notice a repetition of key words, phrases, or symbols or the use of a distinct type of sentence structure. Authors employ these writing strategies to help readers comprehend a central argument or theme, so be sure to explore how these techniques create meaning.

Do Research
Remember when you’re reading that you are never alone. The odds are that many people before you have read the assigned text, and more than likely, many people have researched it as well. Literary critics have written vast numbers of analytical and critical pieces on countless books. If you’re having trouble understanding a particular text, do some research and see what knowledgeable sources have to say about it. In addition to increasing your comprehension, you’ll also be showing initiative, something teachers always like to see. As a note of caution, though, always use legitimate and scholarly sources. SparkNotes and CliffsNotes don’t count.

Use a Dictionary
Invest in a small dictionary, and keep it with you when you’re reading. Many times, you can figure out the meaning of an unfamiliar word by using context clues, but at other times, you can’t. Rather than simply skipping over the words you don’t know, take the time to look them up. The results will be well worth the effort. Your comprehension will increase greatly, and you’ll build up your vocabulary at the same time.

Keep a List of Questions
When you’re reading and feeling confused, write down any questions you have. Sometimes as you read further, your questions will be answered. If not, don’t be afraid to ask for help from your teachers. That’s their job. Remember, teachers give the assignments, so they’ve read the texts and understand them. When you have specific questions, your teachers can provide answers that will help you better understand the material.
The philosopher Sir Francis Bacon said, “Knowledge is power.” Improving your reading comprehension is the key to gaining important knowledge and making the most of your education. So pick up a book … and a pen.

TIP OF THE WEEK-SEPTEMBER 13, 2010

2010-09-15T13:09:00.002-04:00

When touring schools it is important to check the Safety on Campus…
One of the most important issues in choosing a college is often the most overlooked: the safety and security of your collegiate environment. Different universities handle safety differently, depending on their location and campus size. A college located in a major city might be more aggressive about safety than a school in the suburbs. (However, don’t assume that safety is a non-issue in suburban locations.)
Most colleges devote a significant amount of resources to issues of safety and security, and several safety measures have become standard on most campuses.
Call boxes
Most campuses have a number of call boxes prominently situated on campus that can immediately signal the campus police department. The phones tend to be located near buildings that receive a lot of late-night traffic – the library, student center, dorms. Once activated, police response time is usually very fast. Ask your school if they have a call box system in place.
Campus police
Whether as a fully commissioned police force or an auxiliary police force, campus police are usually a strong presence at universities. The department usually has a working relationship with the local city police, and most campus officers have full arresting powers.
Campus escorts
These student volunteers will meet you wherever you are on campus (library, class, another dorm) and actually accompany you back to your dorm. They are usually available throughout the evening. This is an excellent option if you’re planning to take an evening class or have evening study sessions.
ID checks
Student ID checks are becoming increasingly common, particularly on weekends when students have more visitors to campus. You may be required to show your ID when entering dorms and other campus buildings, as well as at sporting events. Many campuses also require all visitors to sign in when entering a campus building.
Self-defense and safety classes
These free classes are usually offered through the campus police department. Most safety classes occur during orientation and self-defense classes are often available throughout the course of the semester. Resident advisors should have information on the kinds of safety classes available on campus.
These are just some examples of security measures on college campuses. Before you commit to a college, you should investigate that school’s security measures, as well as recent crime statistics (available in an annual report that all colleges and universities are required to produce). Give campus security the same attention you give to academic programs and professors, and make sure that you’re in a comfortable and safe environment.

TIP OF THE WEEK - September 7, 2010

2010-09-08T10:25:00.002-04:00

Time Management Tips

Does it seem like there's never enough time in the day to get everything done? Feel like you're always running late? Here are some tips for taking control of your time and organizing your life.

1. Make a "To Do" List Every Day.
Put things that are most important at the top and do them first. If it's easier, use a planner to track all of your tasks. And don't forget to reward yourself for your accomplishments.
2. Use Spare Minutes Wisely.
Get some reading done on the bus ride home from school for example, and you'll kill two birds with one stone.
3. It's Okay to Say "No."
If your boss asks you to work on a Thursday night and you have a final exam the next morning, realize that it's okay to say no. Keep your short- and long-term priorities in mind.
4. Find the Right Time.
You'll work more efficiently if you figure out when you do your best work. For example, if your brain handles math better in the afternoon, don't wait to do it until late at night.
5. Review Your Notes Every Day.
You'll reinforce what you've learned, so you need less time to study. You'll also be ready if your teacher calls on you or gives a pop quiz.
6. Get a Good Night's Sleep.
Running on empty makes the days seem longer and your tasks seem more difficult.
7. Communicate Your Schedule to Others.
If phone calls are proving to be a distraction, tell your friends that you take social calls from 7-8 p.m. It may sound silly, but it helps.
8. Become a Taskmaster.
Figure out how much free time you have each week. Give yourself a time budget and plan your activities accordingly.
9. Don't Waste Time Agonizing.
Have you ever wasted an entire evening by worrying about something that you're supposed to be doing? Was it worth it? Instead of agonizing and procrastinating, just do it.
10. Keep Things in Perspective.
Setting goals that are unrealistic sets you up for failure. While it's good to set high goals for
yourself, be sure not to overdo it. Set goals that are difficult yet reachable.

Consider these tips, but personalize your habits so that they suit you. If you set priorities that fit your lifestyle, you'll have a better chance of achieving your goals.

TIP OF THE WEEK - AUGUST 30, 2010

2010-08-31T17:19:00.001-04:00

Did You Know?

Cash Gifts: Cash gifts, which are paid DIRECTLY TO THE COLLEGE for tuition and fees (from people other than the parents) should be avoided. These gifts will be treated as a student ‘resource’ and a dollar-for-dollar deduction in financial aid.
Student Income: The student’s income should be kept at approximately $2,500 during the college years. Depending on the school, certain income over $2,500 may be assessed more heavily. (please note: if presented with the opportunity, it always makes more sense to earn income then to not earn income)
Capital Gains: The family should consider selling stocks in non-college years that would otherwise generate capital gain distributions during college years.
Loan Proceeds: Seeing that loan proceeds are not assessed in the financial aid formulas, it is often better to borrow funds during college years rather than attempting to pay for college by striving to increase earnings, which will decrease financial aid eligibility.

Until next week…

Your Friends At The College Planning Network

PS. As always, if you have any questions on how you're going to pay the upcoming astronomical costs of college, please do not hesitate to contact your College Funding Advisor. They can walk you through several different payment options to help determine the right one for you.

TIP OF THE WEEK – August 23, 2010

2010-08-25T16:26:00.003-04:00

Finding Out About You through your Email

Students interact with their colleges in many ways. It could be through a call to an admissions office, or to speak directly with a representative at an interview. But recently student emailing has been on the increase in all aspects of life, and emailing colleges is on the rise also. A college admissions counselor’s job is to help prospective students, but a poorly written email on the student’s part may hurt chances of getting into the school.

Writing an email to an Admissions Counselor to ask for advice, check the status of an application, or just to get a bit more information? Here's how to compose an email in a way that will not cause the counselor to hit the delete button, or worse, make the counselor reconsider an acceptance to the college. Make sure you type in complete sentences, do not use slang, and sound interesting. Here is an example:

"hi i am interested in ur school can u send me more info plz."
"Hello, I am interested in your school and would like to receive more information."

What Does Your Email Font Say About You?
As an interested student, you want to project a certain image in all of your interactions with college prospects - including your emails. A study conducted last fall by Wichita State University found that the choice of font can impact the impression you make on your email readers. The study tested several popular fonts for "appropriateness" in communication. Depending on your choice, you may come across as youthful, rebellious, unstable, less trustworthy or less professional. Not exactly what you intended.

Here's how the fonts stacked up, from most appropriate to least:

Calibri - highly appropriate
Corbel
Candara
Cambria
Verdana
Arial
Times New Roman
Constantia
Georgia
Century Gothic
Comic Sans - moderately appropriate

The fonts that rounded out the list as "least appropriate" were Gigi, Rockwell Extra Bold and Impact. The lower a font ranked in appropriateness, the more likely a reader was to assume the writer was a lower level trainee and less mature. The takeaway from the study: your font choice may create an unprofessional first impression if you're not careful. Steer clear of playful, "novelty" fonts that may not truly represent your level of experience. While Calibri ranked highest in the Wichita survey, it's not available on everyone's computer. Fortunately, nearly everyone has several of the other high-scorers, including Verdana, Arial, and Times New Roman.

How do you decide which to use? On one hand, you want your font to say something about you. Generally, sans-serif fonts such as Arial convey a more "contemporary" feeling, while serif fonts such as Times New Roman feel more "classical." On the other hand, you have to consider your audience.

Email address appropriateness
What about email addresses? Colleges will eventually see these emails and so will employers (good for our clients in school already).

Examples of obscene emails seen on a daily basis:

XXbrookeXX@something.com
PartyBoy4everEsomething.com
Sarahloves 007@something.com
RoudolfRIDICULOUS@something.com
XOXOMaryDIVAXOXO@something.com

Even though a student may be a straight “A”, hard-working individual, many college administrators do not see that aspect when their first impression is formed through email. As one college administrator puts it “Though they do make me laugh, these email addresses indicate a student’s passion in life, and obviously it isn’t studying.”

TIP OF THE WEEK-AUGUST 16, 2010

2010-08-17T10:24:00.002-04:00

How to Succeed Freshman Year
Article from the Wall Street Journal By Emma Slayton

It’s true what they say: Time flies when you’re reading big books, meeting people, listening to lectures, taking exams and learning to be an adult. Oh, and having fun.

You only get one chance to be a freshman in college, and you’re probably not going to do everything you set out to. In part, that’s because you’ll discover so many other things on campus that you never even imagined before. And it’s because over the course of freshman year, you’ll begin to discover things about yourself that you never knew.

That said, you don’t want to look back on the experience a year later, or 10 years later, and think of that important period as a complete waste of opportunity, time and tuition money. So with the benefit of hindsight, I offer you a few general tips will that help you make the best of your freshman year:

BE SOCIAL: The first few days and weeks of college are made for socializing. And you should do plenty of it. Because once the real work starts, you might not have as many opportunities. Those days are set up for you to take advantage of orientation activities, ice breakers, open houses, parties and mixers, so that you’re socially comfortable before you take on the bigger challenges of higher education. Because your friends will serve as your on-campus family, “you have to be more social than you’ve ever been in high school,” says freshman Jessy Bear, who suggests walking down your dorm hallway and poking your head into open rooms.

If you really force yourself to be social, you’re sure to find the people who fit best with you instead of clinging to that first friend and missing out on the many other friendships you could have made. “I was really unhappy until I switched out of my first group of friends,” says freshman Emma Fisher, who initially was wary of breaking away from the people whom she met first.

In those first few weeks, try changing your surroundings often, sitting down with people you don’t know or starting up a conversation with a stranger in one of your large lecture classes. “Don’t be scared to sit at any freshman’s table. They are just as nervous as you are,” says Emma. “I made friends at the library who I see a lot now.” Heck, I met one of my closest friends at college standing in a lunch line.

BRANCH OUT: Heading into college, I knew exactly what I was interested in and what I wanted to study. I wanted to take writing and history courses. I was proud that I had such a focused plan, and this year, I did exactly what I set out to do. In retrospect, it might have been better to branch out a bit.

Bennett Cross, a student in my dorm, did that, and I think he’s better off for it. Instead of just following his interests, he kept an open mind about what he wanted to study, which led him to courses in music, logic and religion. In the process, Bennett learned a lot about himself. “I found out that what I liked and what I’m good at are not always the same thing,” he says. Bennett has also been smart about choosing a broad cross-section of courses that help him get his graduation requirements out of the way early. As a result, he has more freedom than I would to change majors along the way.

GET HELP: In high school, I had to stay after school with a teacher for calculus tutoring. I dreaded it, and not just because I don’t like math. Let’s face it: There’s a certain stigma associated with having to get extra help outside of class. The last thing any high school student wants to see is a teacher’s note on a test that says, “See me.”

In college, it’s very different. There’s absolutely no stigma, and for freshmen getting used to work at the college level, that extra time with professors and their teaching assistants is nothing but a prudent use of your tuition money. “It’s like having a private tutor who knows all the answers to the homework,” says Brian Orser, a freshman who never hesitates to get some face time with a professor. “No one else takes advantage of them.”

Indeed, “office hours”-those times that college professors set aside to help students outside of class-are an underused resource, probably because of freshmen who come to campus with high-school preconceptions about staying after class. Those people don’t know what they’re missing. Especially during freshman year, you don’t want to put your grades at risk for the sake of pride. And it can be really tough to rescue your GPA from a bad first year.

In college this year, I’ve been to office hours for almost half my professors and I still haven’t gone enough. My simple advice: If you need help, go out and get it-before you get a note on your test. Professors are standing by.

KEEP LEARNING: Long after their classrooms and lecture halls close up for the evening, college campuses are alive with learning opportunities-cultural programs, art exhibitions, ethnic festivals, speeches by visiting dignitaries and informal coffeehouse chats with professors, many of which happen only at colleges.

There were many lectures, a capella performances and sporting events that I missed because I was too busy with schoolwork. Looking back, I probably should have taken more breaks to attend those events. When I finally made it to a poetry reading last semester, I met some writers on campus and engaged in an illuminating conversation with the poet. The experience of learning for the sake of it-without the pressure of exams and grades-was a real treat.

So close the books and give yourself a break once in a while. “If you get an email or see a flyer about a lecture or an event that is outside your academic focus, go to it,” says freshman Liana Engie. Consider it part of the educational experience. You won’t regret it.

TIP OF THE WEEK – AUGUST 9, 2010

2010-08-12T17:06:00.000-04:00

Finding a College Major and Career Building Strategies

Success in college and a career is a process which includes taking the time to find out and build upon the important aspects in students’ interests and abilities. This will pay off in excelled opportunities later.
Teachers and employers need to know who you are, what you are capable of, and what successes you have had to date. This is only possible by knowing what your strengths are. Students should be taking courses, and looking for internships and opportunities that enhance their strengths. Also, taking the time to create visibility, presence, and image with your teachers and professors will help by:

Building a solid resume through activities, internships and clubs that they endorse for the student and it will give you great work experience.
Creating an opportunity for top-notch recommendations because the teacher/professor will really know who that student is and believe in their ability.
Getting opportunities for special work assignments that can be used to further a student’s interests in a particular area.

Lastly, by figuring out just what his/her strengths are a student can achieve their dreams.

TIP OF THE WEEK - AUGUST 2, 2010

2010-08-03T14:19:00.000-04:00

Social Networking Sites
Colleges are now using social networking sites, such as "Facebook" to recruit students through posting pages about their school. At the same time however, many of these same colleges may be looking at the student’s social networking page (Facebook, MySpace, etc...) to get a better idea about the student as a candidate for their school. Keep this in mind when posting things (comments, pictures, etc...) on a Facebook/MySpace account.
"THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE FINDS FACEBOOK" - - Courtesy of Alison Damast of Business Week (With an eye on the demographics, schools are seeking applicants through social networking sites)
A few months ago, Steven Price logged onto his Facebook page one evening to do his usual check-in with family and friends before going to bed. He was surprised when he found a "friend" request from Scott Minto, the director of the admissions office at San Diego State University's Sports Management Program sitting in his in-box.
"I was blown away," said Price, 22, a recent college graduate who is applying to business schools this fall and is currently interning with the Minnesota Vikings. "I'd been in touch with other schools through e-mails and phone calls, but I'd never had any schools contact me through Facebook."
Minto is part of a small but growing number of graduate school and college admissions officers who are aggressively using Facebook to recruit students for their programs. Many have built their own Facebook fan pages, which they are using as a tool to display videos, pictures and news articles about their schools. Others are using the site as a marketing tool, purchasing advertisements and targeting them towards certain demographic of students, based on their age and location. By drawing students to Facebook, schools hope to keep in constant touch with potential students, as well as provide them with important updates on the school, without bombarding them with dozens of e-mails and mass mailings.
"College and graduate school admissions officers are on the cutting edge of this," said Nora Ganim Barnes, director for the Center for Marketing Research at the University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth, who recently conducted a study that found that 29% of university admissions departments surveyed used social networking sites such as Facebook and MySpace (NWS)--a level higher than fast-growing Inc. 500 corporate respondents. "If you're an undergraduate or graduate institution and you're looking to attract people 35 and under, then I think you have to go to Facebook because that's where your opportunity is," she said. This is the case for Minto, 27, who estimates that he spends several hours a day updating the page and communicating with the students who send him questions via the page. The school also spends some of its advertising dollars on other areas of Facebook, placing ads that are targeted to the student audience Minto is seeking: college graduates 24 to 34.

TIP OF THE WEEK - JULY 26, 2010

2010-07-27T13:39:00.001-04:00

Keeping a Budget throughout College and for a lifetime is Smart….

Do you find it difficult to keep your spending under control? It isn't an uncommon problem, and for many people, spending money makes them feel good. But like most things, you need to practice moderation. The best way to do this is by creating a budget. A budget will help you itemize, track, and see where your money goes. While this is a good start, it won't cure your overspending habits. College students should take time to write down what they are spending their money on and how much money they are spending before calling home to ask for more. It may be that some of the expenses are unnecessary.
Like any other habit, there are underlying forces at work, and until you understand what factors are enabling the habit, it can be difficult to break. Overspending happens for a number of reasons, but some of the most common driving forces are:

Easy access to cash.
Easy access to credit.
Misuse of credit cards.
Spending to make you feel good.

Once you identify some of the factors that influence your spending behavior, you can then focus on changing those specific behaviors. This will go a long way in helping you break the habit of spending too much money or going into excessive debt.

TIP OF THE WEEK - JULY 19, 2010

2010-07-21T10:33:00.002-04:00

Top 10 SAT and ACT Test-Taking Tips

1. Be Equipped
On the night before the test you should gather everything you'll need: the admission ticket, a valid form of photo identification, several #2 pencils, a calculator with fresh batteries (for the SAT only), a watch, and a high-energy snack.

2. Don't Cram
You've worked hard. The best thing to do the evening before the test is to get a good night's sleep. You've covered the content and you've perfected the skills. Now it's time to get in test mode -- calm, rested, confident, and ready.

3. Dress in Layers
The climate in test centers can vary from sauna-like to frigid. Be prepared for both extremes and everything in-between. You need to be comfortable to do your best.

4. Arrive Early
You may want to scope out your test location before test day to ensure that you know where you're going. Getting to the test should be the least of your concerns.

5. Don't Spend too Much Time on One Question
Each question is worth the same number of points. If a question is confusing or too time-consuming, don't lose your cool. Instead, move on to greener pastures. You can come back to hard questions if you have time at the end of a section.

6. Don't Look for Unscored Questions/Sections
The experimental section on the SAT is well-camouflaged. Sometimes the ACT contains experimental questions that are scattered throughout the sections. Do your best on every question--that way, you're covered.

7. Keep Track of Where You Are in a Section
On the SAT, obvious answer choices early in a set may be correct. Obvious choices near the end of a set are often booby traps.

8. Guess Aggressively
If you don't know an answer, don't leave the question blank or guess randomly. Eliminate the choices you know are wrong, then make an educated guess from the remaining options. Remember, if you can eliminate even one answer choice then it pays to guess on the SAT. On the ACT, students aren't penalized for guessing. Only the correct answers count toward their score, so it is better to guess than leave a blank.

9. Be Careful Filling in the Answer Grid
Make sure you're filling in answers next to the right numbers.

10. Relax
Your attitude and outlook is crucial to your test-day performance. Be confident.

TIP OF THE WEEK - JULY 12, 2010

2010-07-13T11:16:00.001-04:00

SUMMERTIME PREPARATION CAN BE FUN!

Now that summer is in full swing, remember to stay motivated in your college planning activities before the school year starts up again. Here are some ways to stay on top of your college to do list and have some summertime fun. Remember anything you do that reflects service, leadership or being a part of a group can be added to your list of activities on you resume.

1. Do community service work - Pick up litter in a park, work in a shelter serving food, or contact someone to find out where they would need help that the whole family could get involved in.

2. Visit the elderly in homes; make cards for them and fresh cookies.

3. Visit Colleges – summer visits can be very enjoyable when added to a family trip. Make sure to contact the admissions department to see if they can meet with you. It will help the admissions representative put a face with your name when you decide to apply. Also, stop into the financial aid department to ask any questions you have about funding and scholarships.

4. If you are heading off to college this year or transferring schools, you may want to connect with your new roommate before the school year begins. If you live close enough- try to meet up.

You will be creating fond memories, keeping focused and also enjoying the summer!

TIP OF THE WEEK-JUNE 28, 2010

2010-06-30T15:36:00.001-04:00

Here are a few interesting facts

Fact #1: College Distance from Home How far do students typically travel to enroll in college?
The annual American College Freshman Study has found that student distance from their permanent home varies as follows:

Distance from home - Percentage of college freshman
0 - 50 miles 35.4%
51 - 100 miles 17.9%
101 - 500 miles 33.3%
500 + miles 13.4%

Fact #2: Top paying Degrees
Whether you are in college or a prospective student, not all majors earn you the same salary. Of course, you should never choose a major just for the money. If you don’t enjoy the work, then all that money will never equal the dissatisfaction you have for your job.
Luckily, there are many majors in numerous fields of studies to choose from that will pay high starting salaries to recent graduates. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), here are the 10 top paying degrees and their starting salaries:

1. Chemical Engineering ($59,218)
2. Electrical Engineering ($55,333)
3. Mechanical Engineering ($54,057)
4. Computer Science ($53,051)
5. Civil Engineering ($48,998)
6. Economics ($47,782)
7. Management Information Systems ($47,407)
8. Finance ($46,442)
9. Accounting ($46,292)
10. Business Administration/Management ($43,256)

TIP OF THE WEEK - JUNE 21, 2010

2010-06-22T16:53:00.005-04:00

COLLEGE REJECTS WHO MADE IT BIG
This article was reported by Sue Shellenbarger for The Wall Street Journal

Teenagers turned down by their first-choice colleges are in good company: Warren Buffett, Tom Brokaw and other prominent Americans also received rejection letters.

Few events arouse more teenage angst than the springtime arrival of college rejection letters. With next fall's college freshman class expected to approach a record 2.9 million students, hundreds of thousands of applicants will soon be receiving the dreaded letters.

Famous college rejects
Teenagers who face rejection will join good company, including Nobel laureates, billionaire philanthropists, university presidents, constitutional scholars, best-selling authors and other leaders of business, media and the arts who once received college or graduate-school rejection letters of their own.

Both Warren Buffett and "Today" show host Meredith Vieira say that while being rejected by the school of their dreams was devastating, it launched them on a path to meeting life-changing mentors. Harold Varmus, the winner of the Nobel Prize in medicine in 1989, says getting rejected twice by Harvard Medical School, where a dean advised him to enlist in the military, was soon forgotten as he plunged into his studies at Columbia University’s med school.

For other college rejects, from Sun Microsystems co-founder Scott McNealy and entrepreneur Ted Turner to broadcast journalist Tom Brokaw, the turndowns were minor footnotes but ones they still remember and will talk about.

Rejections aren't uncommon. Harvard accepts only a little more than 7% of the 29,000 undergraduate applications it receives each year, and Stanford University's acceptance rate is about the same.

Buffett: 'Turned out for the better'
"The truth is, everything that has happened in my life . . . that I thought was a crushing event at the time has turned out for the better," Buffett says. With the exception of health problems, he says, setbacks teach "lessons that carry you along. You learn that a temporary defeat is not a permanent one. In the end, it can be an opportunity."

Buffett regards his rejection at age 19 by Harvard Business School as a pivotal episode in his life. Looking back, he says, Harvard wouldn't have been a good fit. But at the time, he "had this feeling of dread" after being rejected in an admissions interview in Chicago and a fear of disappointing his father.

As it turned out, his father responded with "only this unconditional love . . . an unconditional belief in me," Buffett says. Exploring other options, he realized that two investing experts he admired, Benjamin Graham and David Dodd, were teaching at Columbia's graduate business school. He dashed off a late application, where by a stroke of luck it was fielded and accepted by Dodd.

From these mentors, Buffett says, he learned core principles that guided his investing. The Harvard rejection also benefited his alma mater: His family gave more than $12 million to Columbia in 2008 through the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, based on tax filings.

The lesson of negatives becoming positives has proved true repeatedly, Buffett says. He was terrified of public speaking -- so much so that when he was young he sometimes threw up before giving an address. So he enrolled in a Dale Carnegie public-speaking course and says the skills he learned there enabled him to woo his future wife, Susan Thompson, a "champion debater," he says.
"I even proposed to my wife during the course," he says. "If I had been only a mediocre speaker I might not have taken it."

Bollinger: 'I need to work extra hard'
Columbia University President Lee Bollinger was rejected as a teenager when he applied to Harvard. He says the experience cemented his belief that it was up to him alone to define his talents and potential. His family had moved to rural Oregon, where educational opportunities were sparse. As a kid, he did menial jobs around a newspaper office, such as sweeping the floor.

Bollinger recalls thinking at the time: "I need to work extra hard and teach myself a lot of things that I need to know," to measure up to other students who were "going to prep schools and having assignments that I'm not." When the Harvard rejection letter arrived, Bollinger accepted a scholarship to the University of Oregon and later graduated from Columbia Law School. His advice: Don't let rejections control your life.

To "allow other people's assessment of you to determine your own self-assessment is a very big mistake," says Bollinger, a First Amendment author and scholar. "The question really is, who at the end of the day is going to make the determination about what your talents are and what your interests are? That has to be you."

Others who received Harvard rejections include Vieira, who was turned down in 1971 as a high school senior. At the time, she was crushed. "In fact, I was so devastated that when I went to Tufts (University in nearby Medford, Mass.) my freshman year, every Saturday I'd hitchhike to Harvard," she says in an e-mail. But Vieira went on to meet a mentor at Tufts who sparked her interest in journalism by offering her an internship. Had she not been rejected, she doubts that she would have entered the field.

Brokaw, also rejected as a teenager by Harvard, says it was one of a series of setbacks that eventually led him to settle down, stop partying and commit to finishing college and working in broadcast journalism. "The initial stumble was critical in getting me launched," he says.

Finding a place where you're welcome
Varmus, the president of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York, was daunted by the first of his two turndowns by Harvard's med school. He enrolled instead in grad studies in literature at Harvard but was uninspired by thoughts of a career in that field. After a year, he applied again to Harvard's med school and was rejected, by a dean who chastised him in an interview for being "inconstant and immature" and advised him to enlist in the military. Officials at Columbia's medical school, however, seemed to value his "competence in two cultures," science and literature, he says.

If rejected by the school you love, Varmus advises in an e-mail, immerse yourself in life at a college that welcomes you. "The differences between colleges that seem so important before you get there will seem a lot less important once you arrive at one that offered you a place."

Similarly, John Schlifske, the president of insurance company Northwestern Mutual, was discouraged as a teenager when he received a rejection letter from Yale University. An aspiring college football player, "I wanted to go to Yale so badly," he says. He recalls coming home from school the day the letter arrived. "Mom was all excited and gave it to me," he says. His heart fell when he saw "the classic thin envelope," he says. "It was crushing."

Yet he believes he had a deeper, richer experience at Carleton College in Minnesota. He says he received a "phenomenal" education and became a starter on the football team rather than a bench warmer, as he might have been at Yale. "Being wanted is a good thing," he says.

He had a chance to pass on that wisdom to his son Dan, who was rejected in 2006 by one of his top choices, Duke University. Drawing on his own experience, the elder Schlifske told his son, "Just because somebody says no doesn't mean there's not another school out there you're going to enjoy and where you are going to get a good education." Dan ended up at his other top choice, Washington University in St. Louis, where he is a senior.

Rejected once, and then again, by business schools at Stanford and Harvard, McNealy practiced the perseverance that would characterize his career. A brash economics graduate of Harvard, he was annoyed that "they wouldn't take a chance on me right out of college," he says. He kept trying, taking a job as a plant foreman for a manufacturer and working his way up in sales.

"By my third year out of school, it was clear I was going to be a successful executive. I blew the doors off my numbers," McNealy says. Granted admission to Stanford's business school, he met future Sun Microsystems co-founder Vinod Khosla and went on to head Sun for 22 years.

Paul Purcell, who heads Robert W. Baird, one of the few investment-advisory companies to emerge unscathed from the recession, says he interpreted his rejection years ago by Stanford as evidence that he had to work harder. "I took it as a signal that, 'Look, the world is really competitive, and I'll just try harder next time,'" he says. He graduated from the University of Notre Dame and got an MBA from the University of Chicago, and in 2009, as the chairman, president and chief executive of Baird, won the University of Chicago Booth School of Business distinguished corporate alumnus award. Baird has remained profitable through the recession and expanded client assets to $75 billion.

Time puts rejection letters in perspective, Turner says. He received dual rejections as a teenager, from Princeton and Harvard. The future America's Cup winner attended Brown University, where he became captain of the sailing team. He left college after his father cut off financial support and joined his father's billboard company, which he built into the media empire that spawned CNN. Brown has since awarded him a bachelor's degree.

Tragedies later had a greater impact on his life, Turner says, including the loss of his father to suicide and his teenage sister to illness. "A rejection letter doesn't even come close to losing loved ones in your family. That is the hard stuff to survive," Turner says. "I want to be sure to make this point: I did everything I did without a college degree." While it is better to have a degree, Turner says, "you can be successful without it."

TIP OF THE WEEK- JUNE 14, 2010

2010-06-14T11:31:00.002-04:00

Are my parents responsible for my educational loans?

Parents are NOT responsible for any FEDERAL Student Loans (Stafford and/or Perkins). However, they are responsible for the Federal PLUS loans and any other alternative loans that require a co-signer. In general, the student is solely responsible for repaying their FEDERAL educational loans. You do not need to get your parents to cosign your federal student loans, even if you are under age 18, as the 'defense of infancy' does not apply to FEDERAL student loans. (The defense of infancy presumes that a minor is not able to enter into contracts, and considers any such contract to be void. There is an explicit exemption to this principle in the Higher Education Act with regard to federal student loans.) However, lenders normally will require a cosigner on any type of private student loan. If your parents (or grandparents) want to help pay off your FEDERAL loan(s), you can have your billing statements sent to their address. Likewise, if your lender or loan servicer provides an electronic payment service, where the monthly payments are automatically deducted from a bank account, your parents can agree to have the payments deducted from their account, but your parents are under no obligation to repay your loans. If they forget to pay the bill on time or decide to cancel the electronic payment agreement, you will be held responsible for the payments, not them.

TIP OF THE WEEK-JUNE 7, 2010

2010-06-09T12:36:00.015-04:00

Preparing to Simplify Your Life

First – Make sure as you move into the summer that you are doing everything possible to organize and inform yourself of tasks that need to be completed before the next school year. Make a calendar of what to expect and pencil in items for action on specific dates. Here are a few important topics to consider for each stage of planning you are at.

High school students; check with your guidance counselor to make sure you have the most current information regarding summer opportunities and scholarships available. Make sure that you are keeping a list of youractivities to help when creating your resume.
College students; make sure you are using the student services at your school to keep informed of research and training opportunities. If you are still undecided on a major, make sure you meet with your instructors to find out how different majors may help you to obtain certain jobs.

Second - If you are applying to schools next fall or transferring to another college, remember to view the common application atwww.commonap.org to get an idea of what the colleges will be expecting from you. There will be areas about SAT/ACT scores, personal information, clubs and organizations, and an essay section. Take some time to think through what topics would be important for you to develop into essays. The essay is an opportunity for the student to show a side of themselves that may be missed on the application. Seniors should be finalizing their list of colleges and researching each of their schools by signing onto their individual websites. Some schools will request a supplemental essay as well as an application.

Lastly - Remember to write down college planning action items on your calendar--or the summer will go by too fast--without any action!

TIP OF THE WEEK-MAY 24, 2010

2010-06-03T16:06:00.003-04:00

Internships Create an Advantage

Not only do internships reveal viable career paths through hands-on learning experiences, they give a student an edge over their competition when it comes to applying for jobs. You may have a killer cover letter, a stellar grade point average
and glowing recommendations from your professors, but in today’s competitive market, employers are ever watchful for the new hire that knows how to jump right in and start running with the ball. "Internships have become key in today's economy," says Melissa Benca, director of career services at Marymount Manhattan College in New York City. "Graduating students with paid or unpaid internships on their résumé have a much better chance at landing a full-time position upon graduation. Students are doing internships as undergraduates, and it is now not unusual for recent grads to take an unpaid internship with hopes of turning it into a permanent position or at least making some contacts and building their résumé." Internships allow a student to explore and experiment while gaining professional experience and exposure. Additionally, interning helps participants develop essential skills and build the confidence to secure a first job

or graduate school opportunity.

Interning makes sense to high school students as well. Upon applying to colleges, students that intern are showing that they are able to bridge the gap between wanting to become a professional and taking steps to become a professional.

Actual Benefits
Besides getting a foot in the door with a potential employer and looking good on a résumé, internships have other advantages:

The opportunity to "test drive" a career(Would I be happier in marketing or advertising? Am I more comfortable working with patients or in a lab?
Chances to network
Establishing relationships with mentors
Possible college credit or certification
An introduction to the field's culture and etiquette(Are clients addressed by their first name? Are jeans appropriate for Casual Friday?)
Accumulating new skills
Gaining a "real world" perspective in an occupation(How much overtime do employees really work? How much time is spent behind a desk versus in the field?)

TIP OF THE WEEK – May 17, 2010

2010-05-18T15:10:00.006-04:00

Recommendation Letters

Recommendation letters are often used by students during college admissions and job applications. Some graduate schools may even require prospective students to have at least two letters of recommendation during admissions. Writing a recommendation letter for someone else is a huge responsibility and getting everything just right is important. If you are hoping to get a shining recommendation from a teacher, employer or mentor, here are some tips to guide you in this process.

1) Make sure you choose a person to provide your recommendation that knows your strengths.

2) Give information to the teacher, employer or mentor about who will receive the recommendation and why they are writing it. Few people write outstanding recommendations well, either because they don't know you well enough or because they don’t want to be bothered. If you help them by providing answers relating to it, they will feel more comfortable in the process.

3) Make sure you give the person who is writing the recommendation plenty of time.

4) Lastly, thank the person for the outstanding recommendation.

TIP OF THE WEEK – May 10, 2010

2010-05-11T12:14:00.003-04:00

How to Manage the Cost of Textbooks:

E-books, textbook rental services, and new laws could help students save money. Textbook prices, which have nearly tripled in the past 20 years, may finally start to decline thanks to some new laws, technology, and upstart companies. Undergraduates who take advantage of the new alternatives could easily slash their textbook costs in half this coming academic year. That means the typical student could save more than $300. There are new laws that are being put in place where congressional negotiators spent closed door sessions hammering out bipartisan agreement on a proposal designed to rein in skyrocketing book prices. The proposal requires publishers to provide more pricing information to professors who, in the past, often assigned books without knowing how much they would cost students. In addition, the new law would require publishers to "unbundle" the increasingly common and expensive packages of textbooks, CD-ROMs, workbooks, and Web tools so students could buy whatever part they need and not have to spring for the parts they don't need.

Using E-Books, students who don't mind studying a computer screen instead of a paper-and-ink book have several free or low-cost options. The growing number of free E-books archived on sites like Project Gutenberg (which has jumped to 28,000 from 5,000 free E-books since 2002) and four-year-old Google Books is especially helpful for students assigned older, out-of-copyright books such as literary classics.

In addition, many students are accessing free texts from E-book sharing sites such as scribd.com or bitme.org. But publishers charge that many of the sites are too much like the original Napster--allowing illegal sharing of copyrighted material. Such allegations led to the mid-July shutdown of textbooktorrents.com. Those who want legal access to up-to-date E-textbooks can check out coursesmart.com, the new E-book site created by a half dozen of the nation's biggest textbook publishers.

Typically for 30 to 50 percent less than the sticker price of the print version, a student can download an E-Book. A year's access to the online version of the single most popular introductory psychology textbook, David G. Myers's Psychology, sells for $55 on Coursesmart. It retails new on Amazon for $83. (Used print versions were available on Amazon for less than $60.) Coursesmart students can highlight and type notes on electronic copies of a book, copy small sections, and print out a few pages at a time, but they won't get access to CD-ROMs or other extras, and don't get to keep a book permanently because the files have digital expiration codes.

TIP OF THE WEEK- MAY 4, 2010

2010-05-03T11:18:00.004-04:00

Is it okay to double deposit at colleges?

Article by Valerie Strauss of The Washington Post

It’s April 1st, and many high school seniors across the country are learning today which colleges accepted them and which did not. Those students who applied to a range of colleges are likely to receive more than one acceptance, and for many, a difficult decision lies ahead. For some, "double depositing" becomes attractive. What's that?

I asked a college administrator and a college admissions counselor to explain it from their different perspectives--one representing a school and the other the student. Below is a post written by Bruce Vinik, president of Vinik Educational Placement Services, Inc., in Cabin John, Md.

“Double depositing: Two words that strike fear in the hearts of even the most seasoned college admissions officers.

Now that high school seniors have received the news they have been anxiously awaiting for the last few months, the time has arrived for them to make one final decision.

If they have been fortunate enough to gain admission to more than one college, they must decide where they intend to spend the next four (or more) years. And that decision must be made by May 1st, the national reply date for all admitted students.

For many students, this is an easy decision; they have a clear first choice and know exactly where they want to go to college. To guarantee themselves a space at their favorite school, all they need to do is send a non-refundable enrollment deposit check. At some colleges this may be as little as $100, while at others it can be as much as $500 or $1,000.

For some students, the final choice is not so easy. They have two or three colleges that they are considering and aren’t sure about what to do; they love all of their schools for different reasons. And though they re-visit their colleges and look to teachers and friends (and even parents) for guidance, they are racked by indecision. So what do they do? They postpone the inevitable by sending checks to two colleges – that is, they double deposit.

What many of these students and their parents don’t know is that double depositing is a violation of their responsibilities as established by the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC). The reason many of them don’t know they are in violation is that they have never heard about this or any other “responsibility” and have no idea who or what NACAC is. But students need to understand that double-depositing is wrong.

Colleges dislike double depositing because the practice creates an enormous amount of uncertainty about the size of their incoming freshman classes. They can’t be certain about the number of students who are going to show up for the fall because they can’t be certain that each student who has made a deposit will attend.

Since many colleges don’t require payment of the first semester’s tuition until shortly before the start of the academic year, schools can be left with beds to fill and budget shortfalls that they did not anticipate. Some colleges may find themselves over-enrolled and with a shortage of housing for students. Neither situation is a happy one. In order to prevent double depositing, some colleges actually check enrollment lists at other schools for offenders.

A college that discovers a double depositor is within its rights to withdraw that individual’s offer of admission.

Equally important, double depositing hurts other students because it wreaks havoc with waiting lists. Colleges cannot offer admission to students on their waiting lists if they are uncertain about the number of depositors who will actually matriculate. Since schools are hesitant to do anything that will lead to over-enrollment, some applicants who would normally be admitted from waiting lists are not. As a result, double depositing prevents deserving students from being admitted to their favorite colleges.

Although many students struggle to make that final college choice, the decision is not a life-or-death matter; most of them will be happy wherever they spend the next four years.

Double depositing may allow those with a tendency toward procrastination or indecisiveness to delay the inevitable, but eventually even they will have to make a decision. Students should do the right thing and make the choice by May 1st.”

TIP OF THE WEEK, APRIL 26, 2010

2010-04-27T12:15:00.002-04:00

Making Time

Does it seem like there's never enough time in the day to get everything done? Feel like you're always running late? Here are some tips for taking control of your time and organizing your life.

1. Make a "To Do" List Every Day.
Put things that are most important at the top and do them first. If it's easier, use a planner to track all of your tasks. And don't forget to reward yourself for your accomplishments.

2. Use Spare Minutes Wisely.
Get some reading done on the bus ride home from school, for example, and you'll kill two birds with one stone.

3. Its Okay to Say "No."
If your boss asks you to work on a Thursday night and you have a final exam the next morning, realize that it's okay to say no. Keep your short- and long-term priorities in mind.

4. Find the Right Time.
You'll work more efficiently if you figure out when you do your best work. For example, if your brain handles math better in the afternoon, don't wait to do it until late at night.

5. Review Your Notes Every Day.
You'll reinforce what you've learned, so you need less time to study. You'll also be ready if your teacher calls on you or gives a pop quiz.

6. Get a Good Night's Sleep.
Running on empty makes the day seem longer and your tasks seem more difficult.

7. Communicate Your Schedule to Others.
If phone calls are proving to be a distraction, tell your friends that you take social calls from 7-8 p.m. It may sound silly, but it helps.

8. Become a Taskmaster.
Figure out how much free time you have each week. Give yourself a time budget and plan your activities accordingly.

9. Don't Waste Time Agonizing.
Have you ever wasted an entire evening by worrying about something that you're supposed to be doing? Was it worth it? Instead of agonizing and procrastinating, just do it.

10. Keep Things in Perspective.
Setting goals that are unrealistic sets you up for failure. While it's good to set high goals for yourself, be sure not to overdo it. Set goals that are difficult yet reachable.

Consider these tips, but personalize your habits so that they suit you. If you set priorities that fit your lifestyle, you'll have a better chance of achieving your goals. Implementing these strategies will help you to be more successful in high school and in college and eventually in your career.

TIP OF THE WEEK – APRIL 19, 2010

2010-04-20T12:28:00.005-04:00

Be Open to Opportunity: Stay Curious

Over and over again, students say that college led them to career paths they never imagined for themselves, or weren't even aware of. Even if you know what courses you want to study, even if you already have a possible career in mind, stay open to new opportunities.

Students should not feel pressured to declare a major before starting college or even during the first and second year. There is no reason to have to know exactly what you want to do until you have taken a few courses to determine what you like and don’t like. Of course, high school is an excellent time to start the process of identifying courses and areas of study that you like, but many high schools do not have the curriculum to let students explore all their options, so that college becomes the place for you to travel down all those avenues and opportunities through required electives and various student organizations.

Of course, don’t ignore possible major and career choices early on, just make room in your schedule to try new things. You may be surprised to find you have an interest in a topic you’ve never experienced before!

TIP OF THE WEEK - April 12, 2010

2010-04-13T15:16:00.006-04:00

Student Credit Cards

Should your college freshman apply for a credit card? Maybe. If you look on the bright side, getting a credit card can help establish a credit history, assure some security in an emergency, and teach your kids lessons about responsibility and independence. The dark side? A credit card is a quick way to create long-lasting debt.

Once your high-schooler has been accepted to college, your mailbox is likely to bulge with credit applications. Credit card companies offer such irresistibly low rates that two-thirds of today's college students have at least one credit card. Make sure your kids are aware of the risks that come along with plastic. Fill them in on the following points:

• When you use a credit card, you're borrowing money from the credit card company to make a purchase. You'll then receive monthly statements that list the charges and request payment of this "loan."

• A credit card isn't free money.

• You should only charge what you can afford to pay back.

• Credit cards shouldn't be a money substitute for items you can't afford.

• Charges should be paid back on time, since when bills aren't paid in full, the outstanding balance collects interest charges.

• It's important to pay bills in full, but when that's not possible, an amount more than the minimum payment should be paid.

• If you pay just the minimum due you are not reducing the amount owed, since interest charges are accruing.

• Always notify card issuers when you move so that account statements can be delivered promptly, avoiding additional fees and interest payments.

Establishing Credit
•Help your kids understand that their credit record, just like their school transcript, can have a lasting impact on their lives. While the grades in a transcript reflect academic performance, the credit payments, debt, and income recorded in a credit history show the level of financial responsibility.

• As a financial resume, your children's credit history will be taken into consideration when they want to get a loan, buy a car, rent an apartment, get a job, or buy a house. A strong credit history is vital to a good financial future.

• With student loans and credit cards, college students can start a good credit history by establishing their ability to manage and repay debt. To help maintain a good credit history, remind them to:

◦ Live within a budget,

◦ Pay all bills on time.

◦ Keep accurate records of all finances.

◦ Carefully track how much is being charged to avoid overspending.

The Pros
A credit card can cover a few expenses while you wait for cash from your financial aid plan, part-time job or parents.

If your car breaks down while you're traveling to campus, a credit card can be a lifesaver. Booking travel arrangements, like airfare home for the holidays, also becomes easier with credit. Moreover, the credit card "loan" you get may be interest-free for nearly a month, since most banks allow cardholders a grace period to pay the balance.

A credit card also serves as a form of identification, even if you don't use it for charging things. And if you always pay the balance on time you establish a good credit record, which is critical for making future large purchases.

The Cons
A credit card can sometimes make shopping a little too easy. Large balances can build up quickly. You may suddenly find it takes all your extra cash just to make the minimum payments. Credit cards can be a very expensive means of borrowing. If you put $500 worth of books on a credit card charging 18 percent interest, made monthly payments of $20 and charged nothing else to that card, it would take two years and seven months to pay off that debt. In the end, $500 in books would cost you $619.50.

Tips for Good Credit
So as you sort through the applications that cram your college mailbox, here are a few tips:

• Carry only one card. This will keep you from "maxing out" several cards at high interest rates.

• Read the fine print. Look for cards with no annual fee. Some cards charge fees for services you don't need.

• Beware of cash advances. Virtually every credit card charges a cash advance transaction fee—usually $5 or two percent. Your repayments will probably be figured at a higher rate of interest as well.

• Check out annual percentage rates. They can vary from single digits to more than 20 percent (especially for cash advances). Some lenders charge a fixed rate; others follow the prime lending rate. Study the applications or run an online search to make sure you're getting the best deal.

• Look for a generous "grace period." That refers to the amount of time a lender allows before charging you interest on the balance due.

• Get a card with a low credit limit. A card with a limit of only $500 to $1,000 will help you control your spending.

TIP OF THE WEEK - April 5, 2010

2010-04-05T09:16:00.004-04:00

Your Extracurricular Activities Can Be Career Prep

The skills and experience you develop through student activities can be what puts you ahead of your competition in applying and interviewing for schools and for jobs. Extracurriculars build the qualities - teamwork, commitment, responsibility, and leadership that admissions reps as well as employers value. Whether your preferred activity is the college newspaper, student government, a theater production or athletic team, your involvement indicates that you possess the communication and teambuilding skills they value.

Develop Real-World Skills

Extracurricular activities can provide you with a higher level of responsibility and opportunities to supervise than those available at summer jobs. They can hone time management and organization abilities that will cross over into the professional world.

"Being involved in an organization where the students are setting goals and objectives and motivating other students is more beneficial... than spending a summer looking at a spreadsheet or crunching numbers, " says Dana Ellis, firm director of recruiting for a financial services firm. Admissions Reps and Job Recruiters look for students who have shown that they're effective communicators, can work as part of a team, and have good networking and relationship-building skills. Student activities are also great for helping you figure out possible paths. Most organizations offer a wide range of roles and
responsibilities that accommodate a variety of interests and talents. You can experiment with different roles that will help you identify your own strengths, weaknesses and preferences.

Enhance Your Resume

Use student activities to add to your portfolio. This is especially important for visual and liberal arts majors, but it can be useful for all students. Keep a souvenir or copies of materials from events and activities you helped organize. Press kits, theater production programs, even a budget spreadsheet you created can provide a better sense of your skills and accomplishments. Also, maintain a record of your tasks and projects within student organization.What was the purpose of your role? How did that contribute to the organization or project?

Don't Over-Commit

While being involved in a large number of activities might show good time management skills, most colleges and employers would rather see a person who has achieved senior or leadership positions in only a few organizations. Keep in mind that extracurriculars are still just one part of your resume. Remember that a good balance is also important.

TIP OF THE WEEK - March 29, 2010

2010-03-29T14:39:00.002-04:00

Scholarship Tips

Apply Only If You're Eligible: Read all of the scholarship requirements and directions carefully to make sure you're eligible before you send in your application. Your application can't win if you're not eligible for the scholarship.

Complete the Application in Full... and Follow Directions!: If a question doesn't apply, note that on the application. Don't just leave it blank. Provide everything that is required, but don't supply things that aren't requested - you could end up being disqualified.

Neatness counts... and Make Sure Your Essay Makes An Impression!: Make several photocopies of all the forms you receive. Use the copies as working drafts to develop your application packet. Always type your application or submit online. If you must print, make sure you do so neatly and legibly. The key to writing a strong essay is to be personal and specific. Include concrete details to make your experience come alive: who, what, where and when.

Watch out for deadlines... and make copies before sending!: To help keep yourself on track, impose a deadline on yourself that is at least two weeks before the stated deadline. Use this time to proofread your application before you send it off. Before sending your application, make a copy of the entire packet and keep it on file in case your application goes astray. Make sure your name (and social security number, if applicable) appears on each page of your application to ensure that nothing is lost.

TIP OF THE WEEK - March 22, 2010

2010-03-22T14:31:00.005-04:00

What are AP courses? Why are they so important?

Advanced Placement (AP) courses can save you time and money. They can also give you an edge in the applicant pools of highly selective colleges and universities. The national AP program is administered by The College Board. Participating high schools have been approved to teach AP courses based on the academic quality of their college-preparatory or, as it are commonly known today, honors curicula. Some high schools offer only a few APs; others can offer a dozen or more.

AP courses are college-level courses, taught with college textbooks and exams, that can give you college credit in the form of advanced standing when you enter your freshman year. There is an end-of-course AP final on which you have to score a 3,4, or 5 (depending on the college to which you are applying) in order to get college credit. Some colleges will recognize a grade of 3 as qualifying for credit. Most, though, require a 4 or 5.

AP college credit is a good buy. At this writing, an AP course can be taken for the price of registering for the final exam, which is less than $100. You'll find that price hard to beat when looking for a deal on college credit.

Another aspect provided by AP courses is a preview of college-level work. If you have any doubts about doing well in college, an AP course can confirm them or put your mind at ease. They're a lot of work and require much reading, writing, problem sets, and-for the science courses-lab time. They'll give you a rea feeling of accomlishment, though, when you're done.

If you are taking AP courses specifically to reduce the amount of credits you'll have to take once in college, or to have specific classes "waived" during your freshmen year, be aware that every college treats these classes differently. Taking AP English does not necessarily get you out of taking English 101 at a particular school. Not every college will promise an excact equivalency between the AP course you take and a specific class necessary to graduate-or even an elective, for that matter.

Two things to remember:

First, at most colleges the faculty (not the admissions office) decide how an AP course is treated in light of all credits needed to graduate. Ask the college department that seems the most likely to review the AP course (History, Math, etc.).

Second, most colleges now have a common first-year experience, many with a predetermined set of core courses all freshmen must take. English 101 may not even exist anymore! How will your AP credits be recognized within the common curriculum? Call and find out before you assume that your credits will transfer over "one-for-one."

A reasonable schedule might be to take one AP in sophomore year, two in the junior year, and two or three in the senior year. Most students aspiring to the very best colleges and universities graduate with five or more AP courses on their transcripts. Remember, to college admissions people, a B in an AP course is worth more than and A in a lesser course.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK - March 19

2010-03-22T11:51:00.005-04:00

College Planning Question of the Week
March 19, 2010

In an effort to help parents and students to accomplish their college planning and financing goals, we decided it might be helpful if we offer a "Question of the Week".

Answer to Question of the Week

How do my children's assets, such as 529 plans, custodial accounts, and savings bonds affect the amount of financial aid they can receive?

First of all, 529 Plans are the asset of the grantor, normally the parents, not the beneficiary of the plan. Other assets of the children such as UGMA or UTMA accounts, savings bonds, savings accounts, etc. are assessed at 20%. This means that if your child has $10,000 in assets, the federal financial aid formulas will reduce your financial need by $2,000 meaning you will have to pay $2,000 more out of your pocket. This number is recalculated every year.

On the other hand, parent assets are assessed at 5.6% after deduction of your protected assets which is a formula based on the oldest parent's age. Typically, it is about $50,000. So, if a parent has $60,000 in assets (incuding 529 plans), the federal financial aid formulas will reduce your financial need by $560 on the extra $10,000, not $2,000!

Note that all 529 plans are pulled into the parent's formula including other 529 plans for siblings who are benficiaries. Also, the federal formula is calculated from the FAFSA. Some private schools use the institutional formula which may or may not include these assets at different rates.

Conclusion: Try to title assets in your name, not your children's. However, if you already have UGMA or UTMA accounts for your child, you may cause a tax event if you liquidate. Contact a financial professional before restructuring your assets.

To continue the discussion, please enter your questions and comments by clicking on the "Comment" link below.

TIP OF THE WEEK - March 15

2010-03-20T13:32:00.003-04:00

Receiving Additional Financial Aid

If the student receives additional financial aid from an outside resource he/she should report it to the university they will attend. You must technically report the scholarship to the financial aid office if it is from a university or governmental sector. Unfortunately, the university will adjust your financial aid package to compensate. Nevertheless, the outside scholarship will still have some beneficial effects. At some universities, outside scholarships are used to reduce the self-help level (the amount of loans and/or work-study that was given to you in your award package). For example, at MIT, the outside scholarship is first applied to reducing the self-help level, and only when the scholarship exceeds self-help does it replace institutional grants.

And as with most financial aid packages, the student must reapply each year for the aid that they are receiving from the outside source. If your financial circumstances change, you may get more or less aid. Note that your eligibility for financial aid may change significantly, especially if you have a different number of family members in college. Therefore, it is imperative that all financial aid forms get filled out correctly and get sent to the respective colleges in a timely fashion to ensure the best funding package each and every year.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK - March 5

2010-03-20T12:00:00.000-04:00

College Planning Question of the Week

March 5, 2010 - Inaugural Issue

In an effort to help parents and students to accomplish their college planning and financing goals, we decided it might be helpful if we offer a "Question of the Week".

Here's how it will work.

We will submit one to three questions each week based on the feedback from your blog and e-mail comments. On Monday, we will explore the answers and discussion on this blog.

To celebrate the first of the "College Planning Question of the Week", we offer 5 questions for your consideration and our answers. We invite you to contibute your comments and questions at the end of this post.

Do the following activities raise or lower your Expected Family Contribution (EFC)?

1) We own rental properties in our own names.
Rental properties titled as a personal property, i.e. in your own names, will increase your EFC by the amount of equity in the property assets. For example, assume you own a home with a $100,000 market value which generates rental income. Let's assume that there are no mortgages on the home. Your EFC will be inflated by approximately $6,000 a year. Over 4 years, that equates to $24,000 in out of pocket costs!

2) We have doubled our 529 contributions in the last few years because of market losses.
529 plans are considered a parent asset and are included in the EFC formula. By doubling up on contributions when you are in your base year, you will increase your EFC and reduce your financial need!

3) Our savings are all in Bank CD's and short-term accounts.
All liquid assets, unless they are IRAs, are included in the EFC formula and decrease your financial need.

4) My brother-in-law suggested we take out a home equity loan and put the money in a Mutual Fund for college expenses.
By putting the proceeds into a mutual fund, which is a liquid asset, your EFC will increase.

5) Our neighbor said, "Let the kids borrow the money for college. I did. Let them do the same."
The cost of college today has more than doubled and in many cases tripled since you were in school. Your child is also limited on how much they can borrow in their own name. With this strategy, by the time your child finishes their college education and begins a career, the monthly payments on school loans can be staggering.

Please post your comments and questions below.

If you wish to recieve our "question of the week" by e-mail each Friday, please click on "Contact Us" at the top of the page.

TIP OF THE WEEK - March 8

2010-03-17T15:30:00.000-04:00

Clever Strategies on How Students Can Triumph over Deferrals, Wait Lists and even Rejections

Early applicants may be deferred to regular decision, and regular applicants may be wait-listed or… just waiting. Students may see this time as a purgatory, unsure whether to hope or grieve. Choose hope. By taking action, admissions deans say, you can increase your chances of getting in. The bottom line is: Don’t Give Up. Students should make sure that the schools have received their updated winter grades and should write a letter to the admissions dean, reaffirming their interest and updating their achievements. Most deans agree that additional materials (tapes, essays, recommendations) can help only if they offer something new.

The University of Chicago’s Ted O’Neill encourages applicants to schedule an interview if they haven’t had one. The college interview can be a turning point for the student, helping him/her to see the school in a different light, and to show the college that you are putting a priority on attending their school. Make sure you talk about what interests you and be prepared to discuss items on your application and resume. Be enthusiastic, but be yourself, sharing details about your passion in life can only help the admissions officer understand who you are.

Everyone agrees that at this time showing strong interest to a school is crucial, especially if you have decided this is the right one for you.

TIP OF THE WEEK - March 1

2010-03-01T09:34:00.001-05:00

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF VOLUNTEER / COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS

One way to “beef up” your resume and to gain insight into possible majors and careers is to work in a volunteer or community service capacity over the summer. Taking up a service project for a few hours, days or weeks will help you to get a feel for what a particular career involves and will also allow you to give back to your community.

There are two degrees of volunteering which include Active and Passive types.

Active volunteering is when a student creates and leads a project and carries it through to the end. For example, a student from Minnesota started a nonprofit organization that collected used computers and refurbished them. The computers were then donated with internet access to economically disadvantaged families in the community. This experience required hours of investment and energy.

A Passive volunteer experience is donating time to different experiences on a smaller level. An example of this type of volunteering is a walk-a-thon where only a few hours are served. Helping in a hospital or summer school program, although possibly a passive volunteer experience will help students to understand the positions offered at these institutions and may influence their decision to pursue these types of careers.

Also, in addition to building character, on-going community service and volunteerism shows a commitment that many colleges value. It could give your application the extra edge over competition that you may need to be admitted to the college of your choice. There are also many scholarships available based on community service.

Lastly, if you cannot find a way to volunteer in a setting of your choice, you should commit to spending a few hours chatting with someone in a position you are interested in.

TIP OF THE WEEK - February 22

2010-02-25T15:19:00.006-05:00

JOB TRENDS for 2010 and beyond

Based on macro trends seen today, the career categories listed below should be in relatively high demand throughout the next 10 years. Almost all jobs, no matter how secure, will experience ups and downs due to the economy and unexpected changes in technology. Thus there is no guarantee. The key to survival and winning in the career game is to be the best at what you do. Even in tough times, the people who have a reputation for being the best in their field will do better than most.
Career Categories with high demand according to careerplanner.com:

Business, such as; Marketing, Financial Services, Internet Specialists and Advertising Executives
Education, such as; Teachers and Aides
Entertainment, such as; Producers, Directors, Musicians, Writers, and News Anchor Persons
Health Care, such as; Surgeons, Chiropractors, Hygienists, Nurses, Therapists, Physicians, Radiology Technicians, and Medical Lab Technicians
Information Technology, such as; Computer System Analysts, Computer Engineers, WEB Specialists, JAVA Programmer, and IT Manager
Law/Law Enforcement, such as; Correction Officer, Law Officer, Anti-Terrorist Specialists, Security Guard, Tax Attorney
Services, such as; Social Workers, Veterinarian, Aircraft Mechanic, Guidance Counselor, Landscape Architect, and Caterer
Technology, such as; Electrical Engineers, Biological Scientists, CAD operator, and Product Marketing Engineer

TIP OF THE WEEK - February 15

2010-02-15T17:16:00.003-05:00

Cramming Techniques for Exams
Cramming for exams should be avoided at all costs. You should only cram for an exam as a last resort. It's hard to take in and retain a large amount of information in a short period of time. Some of the tips on studying and preparing for a test may overlap with the cramming techniques below.

1)Eat some food to give you energy to study but avoid consuming excess sugar which will make you hyper and will make it more difficult to study.

2)An apple does a better job at keeping you focused and awake than caffeine.

3)Find a well lit place with no distractions around to study but don't get too comfortable or you may fall

4)Keep a positive attitude, it is easier to study when you are relaxed than when you are stressed out.

5)Since your time is limited you have to choose what you study. Don't attempt to learn everything, focus on things that will get you the most points on the exam.

6)Focus on the main ideas and learn key formulas. Skip the details for now and only come back to them if you see that you have time after you have learned the key points.

7)Write down the key ideas/formulas on a sheet of paper and keep on studying from that sheet, repetition is important.

8)Highlight the important points in your notes, and text and focus on that.

9)Read the chapter summaries (they usually do a good job at summarizing the important points). If there're no chapter summaries then skim through the text and write down key ideas.

10)Study from past tests, review questions, homework & review sheets.

11)Take at least one five minute break an hour so that you can gather your thoughts and let your brain relax.

12)If time permits, try to get at least 3 hours of sleep (one sleep cycle) before the exam so that you don't fall asleep when taking your exam. Don't forget to set your alarm!

TIP OF THE WEEK - February 8

2010-02-15T17:11:00.001-05:00

Career Tips for Students

Figuring out what to do for work is a process that happens over time, rather than a single one-time decision. Career Planning is a developmental, thought-provoking process. You must examine yourself: your interests, your temperament, and your values. You then need to think about what you want in a job.

Establish Tentative Personal/Career Goals
Write them in terms of short range and long range objectives, with an emphasis on what you plan to do after high school. Remember, you must continue your education and training beyond high school in order to support the life style you want.

Discuss Your Career Goals With Counselors, Teachers, & Family
Ask their advice, and encourage their input so you can evaluate their suggestions and ideas along with your own.

Explore Occupations and Gather Career Information
Store your collection of materials, articles, and pamphlets in a loose leaf binder or scrapbook. Find out what education or additional training will be required to pursue the careers of your choice.

Conduct Informational Interviews
Talk with people who are working in occupations that interest you. Consider using a tape recorder to take notes. Ask your counselors or parents to assist you in arranging field trips to see various work environments.

Develop a Resume of Activities, Honors, and Achievements
This can be used later when you apply for part-time jobs and volunteer to work in community and civic activities.

Assemble a List of Admission Requirements and Qualifications
This list will assist you in determining how competitive you are. Two and four-year colleges, military organizations, and trade schools have entrance requirements. Collect college catalogs and other brochures. Ask about open house activities.

Visit Colleges or Other Education/Training Sites
Talk to professors and administrators, interview students, sit in on classes, tour facilities, read the bulletin boards and get copies of its newspapers. Develop a list of questions to be answered, and names, addresses and phone numbers of key contacts. Make sure that the institutions offer the type of education and/or training you will need to pursue your career choices. Inquire about the placement of their graduates.

TIP OF THE WEEK - February 1

2010-02-15T17:07:00.001-05:00

Four Ways to Graduate in Four Years

If you think four years of college is expensive, try five. You may hear jokes about fifth-year seniors, but the extra time and money you’ll spend on an additional year in college is serious. Not only will you pay another year’s worth of tuition, textbook costs, campus fees and other education expenses, but you won’t be earning money in your first job or getting started in graduate school.

Don’t count on graduating in four years without putting some effort into making it happen. Less than four in 10 students earn their bachelor’s degree in four years. Here are four things you can do to graduate on time.

1. Decide on your major early. The sooner you decide on a major, the sooner you can complete the requirements. Start thinking about your major the first day you arrive on campus or earlier. Don’t rush selecting a major; if you aren’t happy with your selection, changing majors later could set back your four-year plan. Declare your major as early as possible, but no later than the end of your sophomore year.

2. Figure out what classes you’ll take. Once you’ve decided on a major, get organized. Figure out what classes you’ll need to complete your major requirements in four years. Get your general core requirements out of the way first. Talk to your advisor to help form your four-year class plan. Once you’ve created a plan to graduate in four years, check in with your advisor at least once a semester to discuss your progress. Some classes are harder to get into than others, so sign up for them as early as possible to secure a spot. If you followed your graduation plan and run into trouble getting into a class that you need to graduate, you may be able to appeal to the department head.

3. Take at least 15 credits per semester. Take enough credits each semester so you can complete your graduation requirements in four years. This usually turns out to be around 15 credits per semester. Don’t drop classes. If you fall short, make up the credits right away — either over the summer or during a winter session. It’s not enough to sign up for courses worth 15 credits; you must do well enough in them to pass or you won’t earn the credit.

4. Look into four-year guarantee programs. Some schools have four-year graduation guarantee programs. These programs, like the one at , require students to pledge at the start of their freshman year that they are committed to graduating in four years. Students are often required to declare their majors during their first semester and agree not to change majors. The school agrees to make this happen by providing advising resources and facilitating registration. See if your school has a program like this during your first semester on campus.

With a little planning, you should have no problem earning your degree in four years.

TIP OF THE WEEK - January 25

2010-02-15T17:00:00.002-05:00

Netiquette...

E-guide on social interaction and communicating electronically.

Communicating clearly on the Internet without creating misunderstandings is a challenge. One problem is that you haven't any facial expressions, body language, or environment to help you express yourself; another, that there is little "give and take" for developing what you mean to say or are discussing.

These guidelines hopefully will help you:

Be clear - Make sure the subject line (e-mail) or title (web page) reflects your content.

Use appropriate language - If you have a question on whether or not you are too emotional, don't send the message, save it, and review it "later", remember: no one can guess your mood, see your facial expressions, etc. All they have are your words, and your words can express the opposite of what you feel. Don't use ALL CAPITAL LETTERS--it's equal to shouting or screaming.

Be brief - If your message is short, people will be more likely to read it.

Make a good impression - Your words and content represent you; review/edit your words and images before sending.

Be selective on what information you put in an e-mail or on a web site. Information on the Internet is very public, and can seen by anyone in the world including criminals, future employers, and governments.

Forward e-mail messages you receive only with permission of the sender.

Remember you are not anonymous - What you write in an e-mail and web site can be traced back to you.

Consider others - If you are upset by what you read or see on the Internet, forgive bad spelling or stupidity; If you think it violates the law, forward it to the FBI or your state's Attorney General.

Obey copyright laws - Don't use others' images, content, etc. without permission Don't forward e-mail, or use web site content without permission. Visit the Library of Congress' Guide on "Copyright Basics ".

Cite others' work you use - Refer to the Guide on “Citation”.

Use distribution lists appropriately and with permission.

Do not send SPAM - SPAM is posting or e-mailing unsolicited e-mail, often advertising messages, to a wide audience (another way of thinking of it is electronic junk mail).

Don't forward chain letters - If you receive one, notify your web master.

Don't respond to "flames" or personal attacks - Contact your web master for action and referral.

TIP OF THE WEEK - January 18

2010-01-29T14:54:00.007-05:00

The ACT and SAT Tests

Planning for college takes a lot of time and effort, but when done correctly,

can help save wasted time and money attending the wrong college.

ACT vs. SAT

There is a difference between the ACT and the SAT. Some students

choose to take one and some take both SAT and ACT tests. The differences

between the two are outlined below.

The ACT Test

• Tests more on curriculum-based skills

• Time: 2 Hours, 55 Minutes

• Verbal Skills Focus: Grammar, punctuation and syntax

• Includes: Science & trigonometry

• What some experts say: "...more knowledge-based and straightforward"

The SAT Test

• Tests on problem-solving and general reasoning skills

• Time: 3 Hours, 45 Minutes

• Verbal Skills Focus: Vocabulary

• Does NOT Include: Science & trigonometry

• What some experts say: "...more nuanced, puzzle-like, trickier"

• Colleges & universities claim they don't have a preference for one over the other.

Typically it is better to take both and see which one you perform better on. You may choose to send both ACT and SAT scores to each college you apply to, or you may choose to send one or the other.

ACT & SAT Practice Test Tips

1) In order to get the most out of your SAT and ACT practice tests, be sure to take the test in an environment with no distractions, similar to what you would experience Taking the real ACT or SAT.

2) Make sure to take the SAT subject tests after you have completed the course in that section. EX: take the Chemistry subject test after taking the AP Chemistry class at your high school.

3)Take the SAT or Act during the fall of your junior year as a benchmark. Many students take the tests again their senior year to see if they can get a better score.

TIP OF THE WEEK - January 11

2010-01-18T17:45:00.000-05:00

What Colleges To Apply To?

While evaluating your options, we recommend placing colleges into
three different categories:

Reach: Colleges that will be difficult to get into

Likely: Colleges you have a good chance of getting into

Safety: Colleges that will almost definitely admit you

A good rule of thumb is to apply to at least two to three colleges in
each of the groups mentioned above. It is important to remember that
you should be ready to attend any of the colleges in each category if
you are admitted. To determine whether or not a college is affordable
and within your reach, you should consider the following:

1) What percentages of applicants are offered admission each year?
2) What is the average SAT or ACT score for admitted students?
3) What is the average financial aid package, and does it include books
and travel to and from campus?
4) Will the college meet 100% of my demonstrated financial need?

When preparing to apply through regular admissions, you should visit the
colleges' websites to learn what materials you will need to submit by

each admissions office's deadline. We hope that you will take advantage

of the opportunity to apply to a range of colleges that offer an excellent
education and generous financial assistance.

TIP OF THE WEEK - January 4

2010-01-16T17:30:00.001-05:00

Create Competition between Schools

You should apply to between 6-8 schools; safety, target, and reach.

WHEN APPLYING TO MULTIPLE SCHOOLS: You should always apply
to at least 2 or 3 schools that are rated somewhat equally. This way, if
your child gets accepted to all of them, you may be able to play one
against the other when negotiating to get a better financial aid package.
Even if your son or daughter is set on one particular college, putting
at least 2 or 3 schools on the FAFSA form is always a good strategy.

Your child should apply to at least:

2 likely (schools they are aligned to get into according to scores and grades),
2 target (schools where grades and scores fit into the school’s averages for acceptance) and
2 reach schools (schools where scores and grades are a bit below what the school’s average accepted student has).

It is also important to check each school’s acceptance
rate, as if the school accepts less than 40% of their applicants it would
automatically be a reach since they turn away many more students than
they accept.

TIP OF THE WEEK - December 28

2009-12-30T13:41:00.000-05:00

Memorization Techniques

Memorization Techniques are helpful in many situations. For high school and college students, learning these techniques will help you to get ahead and stay ahead in your class work and studies.

Learning a new skill, language or even trying to remember a grocery list does not have to be difficult when you use these tips and techniques that are used to commit something to memory. Easily committing terms to memory can be achieved, if only you are using the proper techniques to learn terms and other aspects of lists and information.

Here are some of the most popular memorization techniques that can be used when trying to commit anything to memory.

Create an acronym for the list

Associating a list or a concept with a certain word that can be used as an acronym to remember the terms which must be recalled is an effective way to commit something to memory. Chances are that once you have associated a certain word with the list to be memorized; you will be able to recall this list for years to come.

Sing it

As silly as this may sound, signing something that you have to remember is an essential way to learn a set of words, phone numbers and even a grocery list. The song can be silly and funny – as the sillier and funnier the song, the more likely that you are going to remember it.

Practice, Practice and Practice some more

This is one of the oldest techniques of memorization which will include practice and repetition to remember the items which are on the list or the concepts which are an effective way to commit these terms to memory. If you are able to spend up to fifteen minutes practicing these items, saying them aloud and reading over the items it can be simple to remember the items in the case that they need to be recalled.

Remember by Using flash cards

Flash cards are an effective way to learn a large amount of information in a short period of time. Flash cards can be used to learn complex concepts by developing words which are associated with the concepts. Flash cards are also known to improve the memory and learn concepts as they can be used to learn terms which are associated with learning a new language, or learning something new in class. Flash cards are cheap and effective and can be used whenever you have five minutes to learn. Studies have shown that the majority of students use this method to learn information for classes.

Creating sentences with the terms

Create sentences with the terms that are required to commit to memory with new words, using the first letter of each word. This way, when you are trying to remember a list of terms, the sentence can be used to remember all of the terms and easily recall what can be remembered.

Chunking

Chunking is used most often to remember long term groups of numbers. This way, the memorizer can remember from five to eight numbers at one time, which can be completed in three to four sets of a longer number which must be recalled through the memory.

Use Patterns to remember sets of words or numbers

Are there any patterns within the words that are being memorized? Finding these patterns can help to remember more, as well as help to associated words with another. This way, rather than focusing on remembering one word – the person trying to remember can make use of remembering one word, rather than remember three to four words. The first word can jog the memory and remind the person trying to remember the other three terms which are associated with the first.

Using these tips, it can be simple to recall everything that you need to. Finding the right method for you can enable you to determine which methods work best for your learning style. Whether you are a visual learner and auditory learner or a tactile learner – there are memory techniques which have been developed for you. One of the best apart about these techniques is they can be adapted for each learning style, so it doesn’t matter which type of learner that you are.

Parents with Seniors - College and scholarship applications need
to be completed now. FAFSA for financial needshould be filed in
January and updated after you file your 2009 tax return.

Parents with Juniors - Your financial need base tax year will be 2010
for students beginning college in 2011. Now is the time to start planning.

TIP OF THE WEEK - December 14

2009-12-28T10:23:00.009-05:00

10 Financial Tips for College and “Soon-to-Be” College Students

1. Use Credit Cards Sparingly
Use credit cards wisely because this is a chance to establish a solid credit history. Watch the interest rates. Don't be suckered by low introductory rates. Expect the interest rate, or annual percentage rate (APR), to climb above 20% in three to six months. Don't use the card for routine living expenses or a night on the town.

2. Pay all Credit Card Balances in Full
Remember: Credit is a loan--and it doesn't come from The Bank of Dad. That means any balance on the credit card must be repaid. Get a card with a low limit. Shop around for the best deal and read the fine print before signing up. If you move, inform the bank of your new address. Guard your credit card number and close unused accounts.

3. Get the Best Deal on a Checking Account
Shop around before opening a checking account. Smaller banks may offer a better deal. Compare fees. Ask if there's a fee for dealing with a teller, including deposits or withdrawals. Ask if there's a fee to use a debit card. Ask about ATM fees. Ask if overdraft protection is part of the student package. If not, ask about linking such coverage to a bank-issued credit card.

4. Keep Track of your Spending
Use cash whenever possible because counting out the bills underscores the connection between the purchased item and money leaving your wallet. Use a debit card before a credit card for the same reason. Keep track of spending because a budget means nothing without accurate accounting

5. Set a Limit on Entertaining
Mad money should be sane and sober. Set a limit for walking-around money and stick to it. Hitting up the ATM for another fistful of crisp twenties is easy--and guaranteed to deplete your bank account.

6. Keep an Eye out for Free Money
Apply for scholarships. This requires digging and persistence. See what's available. Don't be bashful. If you have a shot, apply. If it's a long shot, how can you go wrong for the price of a stamp?

7. Get a Part-Time Job
Check out college work-study programs. A few jobs may be related to your studies. Otherwise, look for a job with tips such as waiting tables, parking cars or delivering pizza. If you hustle, tips will exceed the hourly wage. Summer work is a necessity for many students, but don't overlook internships--they're a good way to get a taste of what you may make a career and establish contacts in the field.

8. Avoid taxes on Stupidity
Avoid unnecessary expenses at all costs. Parking fines are a tax on stupidity or laziness. Read the signs and follow the rules. This goes for little things like returning library books or videos. Pay your bills on time or you'll get stuck with a late fee.

9. Don’t Eat Out All the Time
Pack a lunch. This will save you big bucks. Don't eat regularly at fast-food restaurants because it will reduce your bank account while bloating your belly. At the supermarket, buy the house brand and increase your savings. Never shop on an empty stomach.

10. Look for Student Discounts
Clip coupons. Many businesses give students discounts in an effort to establish a relationship that will continue when they enter the real world and start earning a paycheck. Take advantage of the perks. Be on the lookout for deals on plane tickets, pizza, books, clothes--everything. The student newspaper is a good place to start. The Internet can be a gold mine of discounts.

Parents with Seniors - College and scholarship applications need to be
completed now. FAFSA for financial needshould be filed in January and
updated after you file your 2009 tax return.

Parents with Juniors - Your financial need base tax year will be 2010
for students beginning college in 2011. Now is the time to start planning.

TIP OF THE WEEK - December 7

2009-12-12T08:50:00.009-05:00

QUESTION - Are my parents responsible for my educational loans?

Parents are NOT responsible for any FEDERAL Student Loans (Stafford and/or Perkins). However, they are responsible for the Federal PLUS loans and any other alternative loans that require a co-signer. In general, the student is solely responsible for repaying their FEDERAL educational loans. You do not need to get your parents to cosign your federal student loans, even if you are under age 18, as the 'defense of infancy' does not apply to FEDERAL student loans. (The defense of infancy presumes that a minor is not able to enter into contracts, and considers any such contract to be void. There is an explicit exemption to this principle in the Higher Education Act with regard to federal student loans.)

However, lenders normally will require a cosigner on any type of private student loan. If your parents (or grandparents) want to help pay off your FEDERAL loan(s), you can have your billing statements sent to their address. Likewise, if your lender or loan servicer provides an electronic payment service, where the monthly payments are automatically deducted from a bank account, your parents can agree to have the payments deducted from their account. But your parents are under no obligation to repay your loans. If they forget to pay the bill on time or decide to cancel the electronic payment agreement, you will be held responsible for the payments, not them.

Parents with Seniors - College and scholarship applications need to be
completed now. FAFSA for financial needshould be filed in January and
updated after you file your 2009 tax return.

Parents with Juniors - Your financial need base tax year will be 2010
for students beginning college in 2011. Now is the time to start planning.

TIP OF THE WEEK - November 30

2009-12-01T08:50:00.012-05:00

College Scholarships

Scholarships For College

College gets more expensive every year. Scholarships are a great way to help reduce the costs of attending a college or university. College scholarships are typically awarded based on some type of achievement or success and may contain clauses that require the student to maintain a specific grade point average.

College Scholarship Tips

Your best scholarship research sources include: The internet (try a free scholarship search engine such as: www.fastweb.com), your local community (contact your local chamber of commerce), and your high school guidance counselor and/or college financial aid officer.

It is also important to reach out to everyone you know to ask if they know of any organizations or companies that give out college scholarships. Once you have your list make sure to keep note of all of the deadlines and requirements to be eligible. This will help you stay focused and make sure you get all your scholarship applications in on time.

You can start applying for scholarships as early as your freshman year in high school. If you win a scholarship before you know which college you’ll attend, the scholarship organization usually will either write you a check, or simply give you the money when you decide where to attend college.

Create a successful scholarship application by setting yourself apart from the other applicants. Try to think what you would be looking for if you were reviewing scholarship applications. Always be honest and never bend the truth, make sure you can back up everything you say in your college scholarship application or essay.

After you are awarded your college scholarship, write a thank you note! Someone spent a lot of time reading all the college scholarship applications, and they selected you. Write a sincere thank you note to the person who saved you money on your college tuition. This will also help your chances of winning the scholarship again the following year if you are still eligible.

Types of college scholarships

Institutional - Awarded by the college or university to a current or future
student
Merit - Usually the largest scholarships. Given for a student's academic,
artistic, or athletic abilities
Need - Given to distinguished students who are in need of help financially
Sociology - Only given to students that meet a certain criteria for religion,
race, or national origin
General - Any other type such as scholarships given to students based on
their parents affiliation with organizations or corporations (parent's employer may offer scholarships)

Parents with Seniors - College and scholarship applications need to be
completed now. FAFSA for financial needshould be filed in January and
updated after you file your 2009 tax return.

Parents with Juniors - Your financial need base tax year will be 2010
for students beginning college in 2011. Now is the time to start planning.

TIP OF THE WEEK - November 23

2009-11-24T07:12:00.013-05:00

Can You Get a Student Loan Bailout?

This article was reported by Amanda Becker for "The Big Money".

A new program links payments on federal student loans to income
and forgives balances after 25 years. Those working in public service
could have their debts erased after 10 years.

If you've got a diploma hanging on your wall, chances are it didn't
come cheap. About two-thirds of the 3 million or so college seniors
who donned a cap and gown this year took on an average debt of
$22,500 for the privilege of earning that diploma. The debt graduate
and professional students incur is often tens of thousands more.

As graduates struggle to find jobs during the worst economic crisis
of their lifetime, an adviser to the secretary of education expects a rise
in the default rate on student loans, which cannot be easily renegotiated
or discharged in bankruptcy. But a provision of the College Cost Reduction
and Access Act of 2007 that reduces monthly payments for hundreds
of thousands of borrowers who qualify for the new Income-Based
Repayment plan took effect July 1.

Borrowers who work in certain public service jobs could also have the
balance of their loan erased after making qualifying payments for 10
years. (Supposedly, this costs the government nothing, since it will now
change the way it subsidizes student-loan lenders.)

So, will your student loan be bailed out? In a word: maybe. At the very
least, the IBR program will lower the monthly payments of people who
accumulated significant federal student loan debt but don't have the
income to make the payments on the standard 10-year repayment plan.
This relief may reach as many as 1 million people, according to the
Project on Student Debt. And despite lower payments, the former students
won't be paying off their loans indefinitely -- any remaining balance
will be forgiven after payments, are made for 25 years.

Basing loan payments on income isn't a new concept. For years, graduates
with federal student loans had options to reduce or eliminate their
payments, depending on how much money they made. But IBR is intended
to be more generous.

IBR caps monthly payments at 15% of earnings above 150% of the
poverty line, or $10,830 for a single-person household. Online calculators
at the free public service site FinAid.org can help you compare what your
income-based payments, income-contingent payments and income-
sensitive payments would be.

There are situations in which an IBR payment would be zero. If your
payment is so low it doesn't cover the interest accruing on your loan, the
government will pay the interest for three years on subsidized Stafford
loans, which are government- backed loans given to financially needy
students that do not accrue interest while the borrower is in school.

After that period, and for all of the other kinds of unsubsidized federal
loans, unpaid interest will accrue but will not compound. In other words,
you won't be charged interest on top of interest. Borrowers who think they
could benefit from IBR should contact their lender and ask for an
application that will authorize the release of their adjusted gross income
from the Internal Revenue Service each year.

Student loans can have a big influence on career decisions. Even former
students with good jobs say their monthly loan payments make it hard to
buy a home, start a family or save for a rainy day. The news is even more
promising for people working in public service jobs: government
employees, teachers in public schools and universities, workers at public
hospitals and anyone working for a 501(c)(3) nonprofit would qualify.
Anyone working in a qualifying job who borrowed from the Direct Loan
Program is eligible for loan forgiveness after 10 years, down from 25.

To qualify for forgiveness, borrowers who work in a public-interest
position must either have an existing Direct Loan or consolidate a federal
loan with a private lender into the Direct Loan Program and make 120
payments after Oct. 1, 2007. The payments do not have to be consecutive,
can be made while at different eligible positions and must be made on the
income-based or standard repayment plans.

At this point, the burden is on borrowers to document where they were
working during their repayment period. The Department of Education is
planning to develop a more definitive system to confirm eligibility, but
right now borrowers should keep pay stubs and tax documents that verify
their work history.

IBR and public-loan forgiveness won't be the best options for every
borrower. Some borrowers -- those able to make higher monthly payments
-- would be better served by sticking with a traditional payment plan to
avoid accruing years of additional interest. Graduates who financed their
education with private loans are ineligible entirely. But for an MBA grad
who borrowed $150,000 planning to be an investment banker but ended
up in government service, IBR will result in payments that are affordable
on a civil servant salary.

TIP OF THE WEEK - November 16

2009-11-16T18:30:00.005-05:00

Managing Stress

1) Recognize Stress:

Stress symptoms include mental, social, and physical manifestations.
These include exhaustion, loss of/increased appetite, headaches,
crying, sleeplessness, and oversleeping. Escape through alcohol,
drugs, or other compulsive behavior are often indications. Feelings
of alarm, frustration, or apathy may accompany stress.

If you feel that stress is affecting your studies, a first option is to seek
help through your educational counseling center.

Stress Management is the ability to maintain control when situations,
people, and events make excessive demands. What can you do to
manage your stress? What are some strategies?

2) Look Around

See if there really is something you can change or control in the situation.

3) Set Realistic Goals for Yourself

Reduce the number of events going on in your life and you may reduce
the circuit overload.

4) Remove Yourself From the Stressful Situation

Give yourself a break if only for a few moments daily.

5) Don't Overwhelm Yourself

Don’t worry about your entire workload. Handle each task as it comes,
or selectively deal with matters in some priority.

6) Don't Sweat the Small Stuff

Try to prioritize a few truly important things and let the rest slide.

7) Learn How to Best Relax Yourself

Meditation and breathing exercises have been proven to be very
effective in controlling stress. Practice clearing your mind of disturbing
thoughts.

8) Selectively Change the Way You React

But not too much at one time. Focus on one troublesome thing and
manage your reactions to it/him/her.

9) Change the Way You See Your Situation; Seek Alternative Viewpoints

Stress is a reaction to events and problems, and you can lock yourself
in to one way of viewing your situation. Seek an outside perspective of
the situation, compare it with yours, and perhaps lessen your reaction to
these conditions.

10) Avoid Extreme Reactions

Why hate when a little dislike will do? Why generate anxiety when you
can be nervous? Why rage when anger will do the job? Why be depressed
when you can just be sad?

11) Do Something for Others

This helps get your mind off your self.

12) Get Enough Sleep

Lack of rest just aggravates stress.

13) Work Off Stress

Get active physically; whether it's jogging, tennis, gardening, etc.

14) Try to "Use" Stress

If you can't remedy, nor escape from, what is bothering you, flow with it
and try to use it in a productive way.

15) Try to Be Positive

Give yourself messages as to how well you can cope rather than how horrible
everything is going to be.

*** Most importantly, if stress is putting you in an unmanageable
state or interfering with your schoolwork, social and/or work life,
seek professional help at your school counseling center.