2 0 1 2 GUIDE TO
COLLEGE ADMISSIONS W W W. T E E N L I F E . C O M
Handy Pull-Out College Planning Calendar Tips for a Successful College Essay Transitioning to Campus Life A T E E N L I F E M E D I A P U B L I C AT I O N
Presenting TeenLife’s 2012 Guide to College Admissions The only free comprehensive resource of its kind. College — It’s not a big word, but it’s definitely a big step. Preparing for tests. Selecting schools. Filling out applications. And setting foot on campus. It can be very overwhelming. In fact, I too just went through the entire process. Both of my own boys, Eric and Ben, just recently headed off to college. TeenLife’s Guide to College Admissions would have been the perfect resource for me when they were in high school!
Association (IECA), that run throughout the pages of this book. Independent advisors are experts in educational decision-making. Their tips are tremendously valuable. We also feature a detailed, “Countdown-toCollege” Planning Calendar for juniors and seniors presented by The Princeton Review. It’s right smack in the center of our guide (page 19) to pull out and post on your wall. Check off the boxes as you complete each step of your journey! The admissions process is filled with deadlines and details, so let TeenLife steer the way!
This is the second year publishing our guide — and we have added some exciting new sections. Be sure to look out for the advice and recommendations by members from our partner, the Independent Educational Consultants
Marie Schwartz, President & Founder, TeenLife Media, LLC mschwartz@teenlife.com
WHERE A GOOD START BEGINS. A successful education starts with ambition, the desire and hope of a bright future. A future where anything is possible. We’re for fueling that ambition and helping students achieve their goals. Citizens Bank supports students throughout their college experience with: • TRUFIT STUDENT LOAN® • TRUFIT GOOD CITIZEN SCHOLARSHIP TM • STUDENT BANKING For more information visit citizensbank.com/student-services or call our education specialists at 1-800-708-6684.
Member FDIC. Citizens Bank is a brand name of RBS Citizens, N.A. and Citizens Bank of Pennsylvania.
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2012 Guide to College Admissions Marie Schwartz, President & Founder MARKETING Cara Ferragamo Murray, Vice President of Marketing & Communications Camille Heidebrecht, Director of Marketing & Managing Editor Kimberly Spector Wolf, Manager, Marketing & Communications Mary Hawkins, Manager of Search Engine Marketing SALES Dina Creiger, Director of Sales, dina@teenlife.com Lori Barthlow, Account Executive, lori@teenlife.com Jacklyn Morris, Account Executive, jackie@teenlife.com Jeanne Kelley, Account Executive, jeanne@teenlife.com Cindy Tessman, Account Executive, cindy@teenlife.com OPERATIONS Ellie Boynton, Vice President of Operations Maria Kieslich, Director of Operations Alice Vaught, Database Editor Anh-Thu Huynh, Manager of Operations & Customer Service Jesse Burns, Customer Service & Research Representative EDITORIAL James Paterson, Contributing Writer ART & PRODUCTION Kathryn Tilton, Designer
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Bachelor of Fine Arts Dual Degree All-Studio Diploma Master of Fine Arts Master of Arts in Teaching Art Education 7VZ[ )HJJHSH\YLH[L *LY[PÄJH[L
Admissions 230 The Fenway, Boston, MA 02115 admissions@smfa.edu 617-369-3626 www.smfa.edu
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Table of Contents 4
A QUICK, COMPLETE GUIDE TO THE ENTIRE ADMISSIONS PROCESS By Jim Paterson
29
ABOUT TEENLIFE
31
COLLEGE RESOURCES
Find out more about what we offer and how to register on our site.
4 Welcome 6 Choosing the Right School 9 Now Let’s Get into the Application Process 16 Paying the Bill
19
31 College Advisors 33 College Funding
23 What Is It Like at College?
33 College Tours
28 A Parent's Role
33 Colleges 36 Private Schools
COUNTDOWN-TO-COLLEGE PLANNING CALENDAR
36 Publishing 36 Summer Programs
Pull-out timeline of the admissions process for juniors and seniors.
36 Tutoring & Test Prep
39
SITES WE LOVE
40
INDEX
Useful websites for students and parents.
40 Featured Listings 40 Advertisers
Photography on Cover and pages 23 and 27: Taken by Joe Angeles, Director of Photographic Services at Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL)
JOIN WWW.TEENLIFE.COM NOW!
TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS 2012 | 3
A Quick, Complete Guide to the Entire College Admissions Process brought to you by
TeenLife and the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA)
1
WELCOME
Our handy guide will take you step-by-step through the college admissions process. If you ask adults about their college experience, they’ll often say it was the best time of their life — exciting, challenging, interesting, and fun. But we also know you may be feeling quite overwhelmed even thinking about the whole process. Looking for the right college, applying to a handful of schools, and making the transition to college life can be extremely stressful and confusing. But it shouldn’t be. There are ways to make getting into college a lot easier.
This useful guide has been developed by TeenLife in partnership with members of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) — experts on guiding students just like you through this process to make it both efficient and successful. In this guide, we’ve presented the latest and most crucial information — the facts that are really useful to you and your parents as you move into this next big stage of your life. And we’ve tried to make it easy to read and easy to use. We will help you answer the nagging questions: Where do you think you want to go to school? What do you want to study? Going to college is important. It expands the type of work you can do, offers more opportunities, and increases your earning potential down the line. By some estimates, attending four years of school will increase your income by 50% the first year after you graduate. Just remember, education makes you a more captivating person. You meet new people. You learn a tremendous amount of new information. And you acquire innovative ways of thinking. All of these aspects make you a more satisfied, happier, more knowledgeable adult. Having said that, there is something else we want you to know: don’t sweat it too much.
4 | 2012 TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS 6 | 2011 TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
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There is room for exploration and change in direction. Many of you will make adjustments along the way and even while in college — changing majors, taking a gap year, or transferring to another school. Complete career shifts are not unusual.
QUICK TIP Your high school counselor or college/ career counselor should offer you a good amount of guidance. You should talk to them early and often throughout the process. But if you decide you need help beyond your school, organizations such as the Independent Educational Consultants Association (www.iecaonline.com) can help you find a personal consultant in your area.
“The average student today changes majors slightly more than three times during their undergraduate career,” says Mark Sklarow, executive director of the IECA. “Few complete their degree in the major that they brought with them to freshman orientation.” As you approach college, we want you to think carefully about this exciting new stage, get started on the right foot, and move forward with confidence.
SENIOR MOMENT If you are a high school senior and you haven't done much work on the process thus far, here are a list of priorities to get you back on track:
• Don’t panic. You can catch up and complete the process, but you have to get organized and get started.
• Look for immediate deadlines, especially for the SATs and ACTs, which offer fall test dates.
• Use a timeline like the one presented by The Princeton Review on page 19 to keep yourself on track.
• Ask teachers, counselors, employers, and personal friends to write recommendation letters for you one month before their due date.
• Find a good college guidebook (like The Fiske Guide) or a helpful website and begin to focus on at least six colleges that you might like to attend.
• Visit schools as early in the year as possible to help you figure out what qualities you’re looking for in a college. • Consider colleges with rolling admissions. Also consider other options: gap year programs have become very popular in recent years and community colleges are a good place to start accumulating credit. You can always transfer credits later.
TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS 2012 | 5
COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
2
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SCHOOL
There are many factors to consider when selecting your first-choice college. Start researching colleges at any time, as early as you want. Listen to what students say about the schools they attend, as well as to the opinions of your college counselor and parents. Check out schools online. There are also a variety of college search websites with a college matching tool, and even virtual college fairs (see sidebar about what to look for on a college site on page 8). You can also find reviews by students currently attending a particular school. Look at virtual tours and admissions videos and blogs. Talk to anyone willing to discuss his or her experiences. You can also participate in online chats with current students and read a college’s Facebook page. 6 | 2012 TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
Don’t pick a school because an uncle or a friend went there or because it made the NCAA Final Four, but because it is the one that is right for you. Keep an open mind. There are 4,000 colleges and universities and every one is different. “Don’t fall in love with a single college right at the outset,” advises IECA Member Lucia Tyler from Ithaca, NY. "Just because you haven’t heard of a school before doesn’t mean it’s not a great match." Bari Norman, an educational consultant from New York and a member of IECA, put it this way: “Test your assumptions by looking at schools with which you aren’t familiar. You’ll be surprised how much there is to learn, and how many truly great schools there are.”
CREATE A COLLEGE AND CAREER DATABASE which you can continually update. Francine Schwartz, an associate IECA member from East Lyme, CT, suggests getting organized during the summer prior to your junior year “before the hectic pace of school and activities kicks in.�
• How many students commute or live very close? A "commuter campus" is typically quiet on weekends and holidays. • What is your gut feeling? How does the place – and the people there – make you feel overall?
Organize your database into three parts:
There are definitely an extensive number of questions to ask, but this is your future.
1) Use the Pull-Out Countdown-to-College Planning Calendar we’ve provided on page 19 and refer to it often. Be sure to mark all key dates on a monthly calendar too, that you can refer to frequently.
You will be surprised how quickly the characteristics of each school start to blend together. Your database can get very confusing. Again, file everything right away. And be methodical and orderly with your research.
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JUNIOR YEAR
Presented by
Thinking about college starts in your junior year.
FALL Take a challenging course load and all of the classes you need to graduate. Log on to PrincetonReview.com to register `V\Y HKTPZZPVUZ WYVÄSL PU VYKLY [V ÄUK `V\Y ILZ[ Ä[ ZJOVVS Register for the PSAT in October. Compete for the National Merit Scholarship (www.nationalmerit.org). Use PrincetonReview.com and The Princeton Review’s book, The Best 376 Colleges, to begin your initial college search. Talk to your counselor and consider an assessment test to explore potential careers you might like. Get involved in the community, school activities, and clubs. Track your volunteer hours and add these experiences to your applications. Work on improving your vocabulary — it will help you on the SAT!
WINTER
SPRING
Begin researching colleges. Look at websites, search sites, online campus tours, student reviews, and PrincetonReview.com.
Look into summer jobs, internships, summer camps, and other career-inspiring programs that will boost your resume.
Take a free practice test for the ACT and SAT to see which test you perform better on.
Attend college fairs in your area. It’s a great way to collect brochures and meet College Reps one-on-one.
Sign up for a prep class if you are taking the early spring exams. Go to PrincetonReview.com [V Ă„UK [OL WYLW VW[PVU for you.
Sign up for a prep course so that you are ready for the May/June exams.
Investigate scholarship and Ă„UHUJPHS HPK VW[PVUZ Make a list of colleges that you might like to visit and prepare questions for upcoming tours.
Register to take the SAT or ACT. Take the appropriate Subject Tests (if needed) and AP Tests. The Princeton Review offers courses for both. Visit the schools on your list. Explore the campus, its facilities, and what makes each particular college unique.
PULL OUT AND HANG ON YOUR WALL
SUMMER Request catalogs and admission information from your top-choice schools if you haven’t already. If you took the SAT/ACT for the ÄYZ[ [PTL PU 4H` 1\UL I\[ ULLK to improve your scores, then take a summer prep course with The Princeton Review. If practical, visit and tour the rest of the schools on your list. Brainstorm and outline a few essay ideas. Schedule an appointment with your counselor or independent consultant to discuss your college plans. Create a binder to keep all of your information and application forms organized and neat. Start your applications before the stresses of senior year kick into full gear.
TURN FOR MORE
2) Start a college file right now. Keep information and notes about colleges that you research and visit. What people say, what you think, and what you discover online. Document anything that may weigh in your decision. Helpful Hint: Keep track of the same qualities about each university that are important to you, such as: • What are its academic standards? Will it be challenging enough — or too challenging? • Does it meet any special needs you have? • What are its rankings in national surveys? • What are the academic majors and minors? Does it offer your major? If so, what are the facilities and instructors like? • How big are the classes? • How important are sports? How big are fraternities and sororities? Does it have activities and clubs that you like? • What's the food like? Are the dorms nice? How do you feel about the social life? • Does the campus seem like a good fit in terms of size, whether it is urban or rural?
3) Simultaneous to your college file, start a career file. This can be less systematic for now, but organized enough to be useful. Keep everything you learn about a particular career electronically or even in your top drawer. But don’t just think about a potential job or industry, also think about yourself. • Discover you: What are your strengths: reading, writing, small groups, presentations? What are your favorite subjects? What activities do you enjoy? What is most important to you in a field of study? Ask others what they think you might like or be good at. • Discover a career: What do different careers offer in terms of money, satisfaction, workload, or prestige? Is there a career that involves your curiosty? What are other benefits? What are the downsides? What types of people work in this field? Can you shadow someone in this job? • Take a test: There are a lot of interest assessment tests that may give you some ideas about careers to explore. Many IECA members use a test called "Do What You Are." Don't be pigeon-holed by what "you've always wanted to do" or what someone else thinks you should do.
QUICK TIP “Choosing a college is a lot like dating. Let yourself explore — you might think a college is ‘love at first sight’ but get to know different campuses from several angles. Things are not always as they appear on the surface,� remarks Sandra Clifton, an educational consultant from Brooklyn and an IECA member.
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COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
HIT THE ROAD You can visit schools informally; you don’t have to wait until the summer before your senior year. If you are visiting a college town, then take the opportunity to check out the school. Just walk around. Get a feel for the campus with the idea that you’ll come back later for a formal tour. Even a school you’re not currently considering may give you ideas about what you really want — and you might change your mind about the school later. And when you want a more formal visit, go to the school website and set one up. Ask for a personal tour of any part of the school that you want to see. And be prepared with plenty of questions. Remember, they will try to show you their very best side. So take your own tour as well. See if you think you’d fit in. Spend some time in the student center. Visit the gym. Check out the facilities and campus amenities. Casually
talk to some students about the school, even if it might seem awkward. Read the student newspaper and look at the bulletin boards. Take your time and just explore. Many IECA consultants actually recommend that you visit a few colleges that are not what you planned for. Thinking big? Visit a smaller school. Thinking public? Visit a private school, and so forth. The reality may be very different from your assumptions. From school brochures to notes you may have written on a napkin, remember to file everything you’ve gathered in your very important College and Career Database. “Students need to remember that choosing a college is not a trophy hunt,” says Dodge Johnson from Philadelphia, an IECA member. “It’s a chance for you to figure out exactly where you’d like to be over the next four years. Do not be mesmerized by prestige.”
SOME "SITE INSIGHT" PROVIDED BY THE IECA Information students should look for on college websites that others might miss. • Academic department pages. Click on “Academics” and go to the web pages of the departments representing your assumed field of study. You’ll find out about the faculty, requirements, courses, resources, and sometimes even information about placement of graduates. • Course catalog and course schedules. IECA Associate Member, Wendy Kahn, from Highland Park, IL, cautions that sometimes all eligible courses are not listed — including those not offered every semester, or even every year. To get a more accurate picture, check out the current course schedule. Sue Crump, an associate member of IECA from Glen Mills, PA, suggests that students create sample course schedules as a way to understand what their academic experience may be like. • Virtual tours, admission videos, blogs. Nothing beats a real campus visit, but if you can’t get there a virtual tour still helps give you a sense of campus. While these are put together by the college’s public relations department, they still provide an idea of what the college wants to be — or is — when it puts its best foot forward.
• The college library page. This gives you a sense of what databases are offered, special collections they possess, and background on research capabilities. • The Mission or Vision Statement. Discover whether a college’s philosophy matches your own. As IECA Member Erin Avery, an educational consultant from Fair Haven, NJ, points out, “colleges are looking for students that authentically demonstrate that you understand the culture and mission of that college.” • Athletics pages. They are a “must visit” for student athletes. Often you can get a sense of attendance for your sport, where current athletes came from (discerning your own ability to be recruited), background on the coaching staff, and much more. • Support services. Certainly for those with learning differences, you may want to explore: tutoring, writing centers, counseling services, plus special opportunities like study abroad and service learning options.
COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
3
NOW LET’S GET INTO THE APPLICATION PROCESS
The applications and admissions process is not as bad as people sometimes suggest. But it takes research, patience, and time. Colleges generally review six things when they consider your application: • Grades – your grade point average in high school • Standardized Test Scores – typically the ACT or SAT • Recommendations – from teachers and others who know you well • Personal Responses to Essay Questions – which gives you an opportunity to use your own voice • What you have accomplished and experienced outside of the classroom • An interview
Each school will weigh each of these differently, so check out their websites to see if they discuss admissions criteria. They’ll generally give you data about their typical freshman class, such as high school class rankings and standardized test results, for instance. And they often will tell you specifically what types of student they desire. Remember colleges want students who want them, says Kahn. “Make a campus visit, get on the mailing list, attend a local informational session, visit during a college fair, ‘friend’ a college on Facebook, join a blog, meet with an admissions rep who visits your high school, schedule an interview with an alum, and send follow up notes or emails.” Note: Representatives from the college are probably making notes every time you contact the school — so make a good impression. TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS 2012 | 9
COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
THE TESTS Most colleges require applicants to take one of two standardized tests: the SAT or the ACT. Some of the more competitive schools require two or three SAT Subject Tests. The SAT focuses on critical reading, mathematics, and writing. The ACT focuses on four skill areas: English, mathematics, reading, and science and offers an optional writing test. Some students do better on one test or the other. Your guidance counselor or independent college advisor can tell you the complete testing schedule (they are offered quite often). They will also have a table to compare the scores on both tests to help you decide which to submit to the colleges. You should not submit both the SAT and ACT scores, just the better results. You can find sample test questions for the SAT at www.collegeboard.org and for the ACT at www.act.org. It may be worth taking both tests to compare your scores. There are a variety of services to prep you for each — online, in books, and in classes.
Students whose first language is not English should also take the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language; information at www.ets.org/toefl). If tests are not your strength, you might want to consider applying to colleges that do not require standardized tests to apply. Check out www.fairtest.org for schools that are “test optional.” THE RECOMMENDATIONS Recommendations are another way for the colleges to learn more about you. Think about who will most definitely give them a good impression. A teacher, counselor, employer, or coach? You should choose someone who knows you well and knows your best attributes. Someone who will take time with your recommendation. A few colleges even accept recommendations from parents!
Achieve your academic potential. Our team of former admissions officers from Columbia, Dartmouth, Penn, Wharton, Oberlin, Case Western, and Brown can help you get into the best school for you. Call 617 395 4160 or visit www.veritutors.com/admissions for more details.
COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
Give this person a large manila envelope. Write the name of each school on the front of the envelope and the recommendation deadlines. Inside provide a stamped, addressed envelope for each school. Use your high school as the return address. Students with special talents as a top athlete or a visual artist may need to supply additional application materials to the college: a portfolio or video. Athletes should definitely consult with their coaches, who are often connected to universities. Some tips: • Ask for recommendations early, before the rush. It’s fine even if you are still in a teacher’s class. Summer is also a good time. • Ask the recommender if they need anything from you to help write the content, such as a copy of your resume. • You can gently suggest topics you might want them to cover. For instance: “I wanted you to do a recommendation because I felt I did my best work on that video project on the Civil War in your class.” • Write a thank you note to each person who writes you a recommendation. Also, keep in touch with them and let them know the results of your applications and what college you plan to attend. THE ESSAY The college essay provides an opportunity for you to share something about yourself that the admissions office does not already know from the hard data (i.e., your GPA and test scores). Usually you can choose from several essay topics. Pick the topic you feel most connected to; it might help you fill in any gaps about your personality. Make sure the essay gives the school some insight into you — as a person, student, and member of the community. Remember, colleges want to admit thoughtful, curious people, not just students with good grades or great test scores. Wendi Lubic, an independent educational consultant from Washington, DC and a member of IECA, notes: “It’s hard for some students (especially boys) to show emotions, but it really helps the reader to connect to the applicant. By the same token, don’t whine or be too negative or take a position that is controversial on a political, religious, or moral issue."
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The essay doesn’t have to be written about a major event. “Too many students approach the essay by focusing on the topic, instead of using the topic as a way to reveal something significant and unique about themselves,” says IECA Member Carolyn Cohen from Addison, NY. Some tips: • Make sure your essay answers the question asked and keeps within the word count with no typos, misspellings, or grammatical errors. • Be yourself. For example, don’t try to sound humorous if this approach is not natural for you. • Anecdotes that explain your topic are very helpful. • Allow time for a draft to sit. As IECA Member Dodge Johnson from Philadelphia says, “Deathless prose has a way of dying overnight. Don’t rush writing.” • Don’t get feedback from too many people; remember it’s called a “personal” essay for a reason. Too often the unique sparkle of a student becomes “whitewashed” by well-meaning third parties. • Never plagiarize. No matter how tempting it may be to cut and paste or even paraphrase another’s work, it’s not worth it. • Also avoid the thesaurus. Using words you would not ordinarily use often reads as clumsy.
QUICK TIP Contact each college to make sure that your application is completed correctly. If they haven’t processed your application yet, ask when you should check back. Over half of colleges say they consider a student’s “demonstrated interest” in admission decisions. Colleges want students who want them.
COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS Don’t be shy about bragging, but don’t embellish too much. Highlight qualities you may possess such as leadership, character, energy, resourcefulness, and endurance rather than just listing awards and a long list of memberships. Show them specifics about how those qualities were evident. For example, rather than stating “President of Students for a Better Environment,” instead say “I led 35 students in 15 various complex projects to improve the environment in our community, gaining enthusiastic support and wide praise.” This phrasing speaks volumes about you. “Too much information will dilute your message. Use this opportunity to reflect those things you excel at, are most passionate about, or plan to pursue in college.” says IECA member Gay Pepper. THE INTERVIEW Interviews are perfect ways for colleges to learn more about you, and you to learn more about the school. Admissions staff, faculty members, and sometimes former students conduct interviews. To what degree the interview is weighted in the actual admissions process varies from college to college, but it is certainly an opportunity to show your interest in a school. Think of memorable ways to introduce yourself, such as through anecdotes that describe who you are. And always ask well thought-out questions that aren’t easily answered by the school’s materials or website. You may want to practice, especially if one-on-one meetings are not your strength. Always be yourself, as interviewers will know if you are just reciting answers. Some tips: • Make an appointment well in advance and arrive on time. • Think about the impression you want to make. Dress for success and organize your notes. • Turn off your cell phone before the interview. • Make eye contact with the interviewer and give a firm handshake. If this greeting is not easy for you, practice with someone beforehand. • An interviewer will probably ask questions like: ““Why do you want to attend our college?” Be prepared.
• Take time to think about your answers. Interviewers are looking for introspective, not quick responses. • Don’t give one-word answers – but don’t ramble on. • Be honest. If there are weaknesses in your transcript or your test scores are low, explain why. Let the interviewer know how you have improved or plan to improve. Remember, you are looking for a match; honesty will help you find it. • Write a thank you note after each interview. This will show both your appreciation and interest. Mention some part of the interview that was most helpful.
TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS 2012 | 13
COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
APPLYING YOURSELF A few recommendations when filling out your applications. • Give great care to the activities grid or list of your accomplishments. Even if attaching a resume, the grid is the primary way admissions officers gather information on your outside commitments. • Give as much serious thought, time, and effort to the short answer questions as you do to the major essays. • Answer every question. “Rather than thinking of optional questions as being unnecessary, view them as additional opportunities to make your application stand out from the crowd,” says IECA member Mandee Adler from Hollywood, FL. • Do not insert the name of a college in an essay that might go out to multiple colleges. Save all answers in a separate word document — you might be able to use it again. • Stick to word count limits. Students run the risk of having their prose cut short. • Leave the standardized test reporting section blank. Since colleges will get scores via the testing agency, this protects students applying to test-optional colleges, says IECA member Kiersten Murphy. • Preview your application before submitting it. In fact, Kristina Dooley, an IECA member from Buenos Aires, suggests printing out the Common Application before beginning work so you will know what to expect and avoid mistakes. • Remember to read directions, pay attention to word counts, deadlines, and formatting criteria. Some supplements (like art or music) have different deadlines.
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Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees in Fine Arts
drawing painting printmaking sculpture Graphic Design Illustration Fashion Photography The College of Visual Arts is accredited by the National Assoication of Schools of Art and Design and the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
College of Visual Arts Admissions Office 344 Summit Avenue Saint Paul, Minnesota 55102 651.757.4040 admissions@cva.edu www.cva.edu
We’re small by design, which enables us to offer a richly integrated liberal arts and studio education in a vibrant urban setting.
C V A be visual
COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
4
PAYING THE BILL
Important steps to file for financial aid. College is expensive. The price tag varies widely depending on the school. State schools and community colleges tend to be less expensive, especially for students in that region. Most schools publish tuition and fees on their website. Here is a rough yearly average of tuition and fees: • Four-year public schools charge an average of $8,244 for in-state students. • Four-year public schools charge an average of $12,526 for out-of-state students.
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• Four-year private colleges charge an average of $28,500. • Two-year public colleges charge an average of $2,963. Books and room and board also add to the cost of college. Money, unfortunately, has to be a major consideration. But there is help. There are two main kinds of financial aid: • Merit-based aid – an award determined by the college based on your performance in high school, your test scores, or a particular talent.
COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
There is usually no formal application for this type of aid, although some schools may have specific merit-based programs that require an application. This is money that you do not need to pay back. Check with your individual college to see if merit-based aid is offered. • Need-based aid – money you receive based on your financial need, determined by specific government or college formulas. It is generally awarded in three ways: • Federal, state, or school grants – money you do not need to repay. • Federal loans – money that you must pay back, usually after you graduate or leave school. • Work study – money you earn by working part-time, usually at a job on campus. This money is paid directly to the student and can be used for books, supplies, entertainment, and other expenses. There are three forms that may be used to file for financial aid: • FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) - this form is required by all colleges to receive any federal money. It cannot be filed until after January 1st of the year the student plans to enter college. The form must be completed each year the student is in school. The FAFSA can be found at www.fafsa.ed.gov. • PROFILE – This form is required by many private colleges and some scholarship programs. It originates from the College Scholarship Service (CSS), the financial aid division of The College Board, and can be found at www.collegeboard. com. After completing an initial application, PROFILE requires a more extensive application based on the schools to which you are applying. It can be completed whenever you begin the college application process. There is an application fee plus an additional charge for each college or scholarship that requests this document. • Individual college forms – some schools require that you also complete a financial aid form unique to the college. TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS 2012 | 17
COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
Eligibility for financial aid is determined by need, which is essentially the cost of the school minus what you can afford to pay. The FAFSA and the PROFILE have slightly different formulas for determining your need. Once your need is determined, the college will present you with a financial aid package. It is rare that a school will meet your full need.
aid officer will consider any unusual circumstances for additional aid.
It is critical that you file any financial aid forms by February so that you are part of the initial distribution of funds. Once your aid is awarded — usually shortly after you receive your acceptance — you can speak with the financial aid office if you believe that your package is not sufficient. The financial
The best resource to locate scholarships is your college guidance office, but there is also a lot of information online. Check out various websites such as www.fastweb.com. Word of caution: Never pay money to receive scholarship money.
In addition many organizations, businesses, ethnic groups, or church affiliations offer scholarships to assist students with special interests or talents.
QUICK TIP Fill out the FAFSA, even if you think you may not be eligible. Even for those who don’t meet financial aid eligibility, some schools may offer additional scholarships or grants. And your family’s financial circumstances may change. File early and don’t pay to have someone do it for you. You must submit FAFSA each year of school.
18 | 2012 TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
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Work on improving your vocabulary — it will help you on the SAT!
Get involved in the community, school activities, and clubs. Track your volunteer hours and add these experiences to your applications.
Talk to your counselor and consider an assessment test to explore potential careers you might like.
Use PrincetonReview.com and The Princeton Review’s book, The Best 376 Colleges, to begin your initial college search.
Compete for the National Merit Scholarship (www.nationalmerit.org).
Register for the PSAT in October.
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Sign up for a prep course so that you are ready for the May/June exams.
Sign up for a prep class if you are taking the early spring exams. Go to PrincetonReview.com [V Ă„UK [OL WYLW VW[PVU for you.
Make a list of colleges that you might like to visit and prepare questions for upcoming tours.
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Visit the schools on your list. Explore the campus, its facilities, and what makes each particular college unique.
Take the appropriate Subject Tests (if needed) and AP Tests. The Princeton Review offers courses for both.
Register to take the SAT or ACT.
Look into summer jobs, internships, summer camps, and other career-inspiring programs that will boost your resume.
SPRING
Begin researching colleges. Look at websites, search sites, online campus tours, student reviews, and PrincetonReview.com.
WINTER
Thinking about college starts in your junior year.
Take a challenging course load and all of the classes you need to graduate.
FALL
JUNIOR YEAR
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Start your applications before the stresses of senior year kick into full gear.
Create a binder to keep all of your information and application forms organized and neat.
Schedule an appointment with your counselor or independent consultant to discuss your college plans.
Brainstorm and outline a few essay ideas.
If practical, visit and tour the rest of the schools on your list.
If you took the SAT/ACT for the Ă„YZ[ [PTL PU 4H` 1\UL I\[ ULLK to improve your scores, then take a summer prep course with The Princeton Review.
Request catalogs and admission information from your top-choice schools if you haven’t already.
SUMMER
COUNTDOWN-TO-COLLEGE
Plan your transition and exciting move to campus. Graduate high school!
Look for early decision acceptance letters from schools.
Complete any last minute paperwork required for your school.
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Double check on any deadlines and last-minute paperwork necessary to attend your college of choice.
Write and send thank-you notes to all involved in the college process including your counselor, teachers, and those who’ve written you personal recommendations. Let them know where you will be going to school!
Take any AP exams that you’ve registered for and make sure your scores are sent to your college.
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Obtain a copy of FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) for your parents or guardians.
Search for scholarship opportunities.
Check to see if your recommendation letters have been mailed.
Submit your completed college applications and essays.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER
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Fine-tune your college essays. Have them proofread for content and grammar.
Continue completing your applications. Submit early decisions.
Take the SAT/ACT.
OCTOBER
Ask teachers, counselors, or employers to write recommendation letters.
Participate in a Princeton Review Financial Aid Seminar.
Start the framework for your college essays.
Decide if you will apply for early decision to your top-choice schools.
Find out if your target colleges accept the Common Application or Universal College Application, which can be submitted online.
Work on completing your college applications.
Contact The Princeton Review to discuss the College Admissions Consulting program.
Decide which colleges to apply to. Include schools that you believe will accept you, as well as some “reach” schools.
APRIL
It’s your last year of school! Now’s the time to complete your college quest.
SEPTEMBER
SENIOR YEAR
Keep an eye out for admission decisions from colleges — and any additional information schools may request.
Continue searching for scholarships that will help reduce your tuition expenses.
If you are taking any Advanced Placement courses, ask your teacher or counselor how to prepare and when to take the AP exams.
MARCH
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If you have submitted a FAFSA and you have not received your Student Aid report (SAR) within a month, speak to your counselor or contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center directly.
If you haven’t done so already, submit your FAFSA. Deadline is February 15th.
FEBRUARY
NOW... OFF TO COLLEGE!
Check the policies on the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) tests at the schools you may attend. These tests can earn you college credits in certain subjects.
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Ask your counselor to send your mid-year grades to the colleges or universities that require them.
Make sure that the colleges you applied to in December have received your completed application.
File for the FAFSA as soon as you can after January 1.
JANUARY
TURN FOR MORE
October 6, 2012 November 3, 2012 December 1, 2012 January 26, 2013 March 9, 2013
September 7, 2012 October 5, 2012 November 2, 2012 December 28, 2012 February 8, 2013
Test Date June 9, 2012 September 8, 2012 October 27, 2012 December 8, 2012 February 9, 2013 April 13, 2013
Application Deadline May 4, 2012 August 17, 2012 September 21, 2012 November 2, 2012 January 11, 2013 March 8, 2013
ACT TEST DATES
*Actual test dates may change.
June 2, 2012
May 8, 2012
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May 5, 2012
April 6, 2012
Test Date*
Application Deadline
The Princeton Review:
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COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
5
WHAT IS IT LIKE AT COLLEGE?
You’ll enjoy both independence and self-reliance for the first time. Every college is different, but generally you will have more of two things: responsibility and freedom. The two often go hand-in-hand. You will have a great deal of flexibility with your schedule, social life, and adult responsibilities, but you will be accountable for handling everything at once. You must get to class, do your work, and completely live on your own. That’s big. ACADEMIC RESPONSIBILITY Often college professors don’t monitor a student’s work apart from giving them the final grade. You’ll have to study, stay organized, and manage your time well. Classes will meet at all different times and in
different buildings. You have to register for classes and can choose, somewhat, how your schedule fits together. In your freshman year, don't worry about choosing your major, dual major, or minor (a less demanding secondary course of study) right off the bat. What you want to study will be clearer later. Many universities actually encourage you to explore a variety of courses, so they may not require that you declare a major as a freshman anyway. SOCIAL FREEDOM You will also have freedom for more activities and social gatherings, which is pretty cool. Again, this comes with responsibility. You’ll be responsible for everything from your money and discretionary spending, to the choices you make about friends and what you do for fun.
TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS 2012 | 23
COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
FINALLY SOMEONE IS INFORMING PARENTS WHAT COLLEGES WON’T BE TELLING THEM! Most likely you will live in a dorm with other freshmen with some supervision from an adult or upper class student. Not only will you have access to regular meals and privileges for other food and entertainment, but you will also have access to the student center, gym, and other recreational facilities. The same things you have in high school, but bigger and better. Take advantage of all that campus life has to offer socially. Join activities. Meet tons of new people. And have fun.
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Although there are plenty of opportunities for socialization, down time is encouraged. Part of being a happy and healthy student is recognizing when you also need time to relax or exercise to take a breather from your studies and friends.
TRANSITIONING TO CAMPUS More things to think about as a freshman FINDING YOUR NICHE According to Karen Eckman-Baur, an independent educational consultant, this means getting involved in and committed to a few activities of interest. “This helps to develop a circle of friends with similar interests. Being happy in your new environment has been identified as the most important piece of successfully connecting to your college life. But also remember, you have four years… there’s no need to do everything as soon as you hit campus.”
ESTABLISHING A RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR ROOMMATE Having a roommate is a new experience for most. We suggest writing a contract or agreement with your roommate: quiet hours, visitors, borrowing, etc. How will you handle cleaning? What are the rules for neatness? How do you feel about having overnight guests? How will you handle food if you have a kitchen area? Establish responsibility for everyone in the room. Remember, most people won’t become best friends with their roommate, but you do need to learn to live together. Do things together to help develop the relationship. For example, if you have access to a kitchen, cook together. Join an intramural sports team. It is great to have activities that you share but make sure to do some activities independently.
Respect is huge in a successful living situation. Make sure to respect and understand your roommate’s sleep and work schedule. You may need to make changes to your routine in order to accommodate his/her schedule. Talk about problems. It is important to be vocal and let your roommate know when something is bothering you. If you do not say anything, the problem will most likely get worse. If you can’t resolve the issue together, use the resources available in your residence hall. RA’s are trained to help with roommate conflicts.
MAKING FRIENDS Early on, ask your counselor for names of students from your school who are attending your college. Have lunch before you leave to get some helpful suggestions about how to manage your first few days, plan your schedule, and meet other students. In addition to freshmen orientation, many colleges sponsor programs just before school begins to help you get to know other members of your class. These may be outdoor adventures, community service activities, or leadership training initiatives. Sometimes these programs cost additional money, but they are very helpful in connecting with the college and classmates early on. Once you arrive on campus, take advantage of the activities planned for freshmen even if they seem pointless. You will meet people, hear about upcoming social gatherings, and feel more connected to student life.
Continued on next page
TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS 2012 | 25
Talk to the people who sit next to you in class. Get to know them. These individuals may become friends or perhaps study partners. When in your room, leave your door open so people know you are amenable to visitors, and meeting new classmates. Be open to developing new friendships.
ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS Attend all of your classes and understand what is required of you. Take advantage of optional seminars and tutorials, which are complementary to class. Always complete assignments (including reading) and stay focused on your academics. For academic success, make your own schedule. Think about what time of day you work best. Schedule classes with this time in mind.
26 | 2012 TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
If you need help, sure, reach out to your professors. But also get to know them on a personal level, especially those in your major or in classes you particularly enjoy. You will be surprised how much they appreciate meeting you as their new student. Take advantage of all college resources. Find out about the centers that are available on campus. Look for advising programs, writing and tutoring locations, mental health support, and more. It is comforting to know that you can easily access the help you may need at any given time in your college career.
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Talking to Your Teen ge About Colle e Choosing th can right school for be stressful ens parents & te
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COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
QUICK TIP Think of it this way. The college admissions process is similar to the process you went through to teach your child to drive: it was scary yielding the driver’s seat to your child, but it was necessary to ensure they learned.
• Get to know the guidance counselor or independent educational consultant, but take a back seat: questions, work and deadlines flow between the counselor and the student. Remember, you are there as back up! IECA Member Robin Abedon adds that a critical but difficult challenge for many parents is “being realistic about their children’s abilities — a tall order for many parents.”
6
• Provide support but do not take over. Let your children discover their own way. As IECA Member Bari Norman says “Yes, the process is about finding the right match and getting in, but also about teaching a high schooler to transition to adulthood, since he/she will be away at college on his/her own.”
A PARENT'S ROLE
How involved parents should be in the admissions process. Having a son or daughter leave for college is both happy and sad. It is a major transition for everyone involved. But it is extremely important to have your child take the lead in each step of the journey. This search is about finding the appropriate match for your son or daughter. By taking a step back, you will be helping your child gain independence and self-advocacy. During the entire college application process, parents should: • Listen to your child. Work hard at not projecting your own aspirations; listen to what your son or daughter wants from their own college experience. IECA member Sandra Moore puts it this way: “By actively listening to your teens and showing genuine respect and acceptance of their opinions, you help them feel valued and understood. By championing them without dominating them — you are empowering them.” 28 | 2012 TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
• Have a sense of humor. There are many “firsts” in this process, so mistakes will be made. It is critical to remember that this is a two-year path and keeping things light (after a terrible campus interview or a poor first draft of an essay) can keep communication open and upbeat. • Maintain open communication. Teens may be wary of topics like: financial responsibility, leaving home, living with strangers, relationships, etc. Make it clear that any topic is fine to discuss. An open dialogue is important. • Make sure your child understands the family’s financial resources. Help your son or daughter establish a monthly or semester budget that will cover necessities and practical expenses. • Hang up the phone! Parents should not be calling the office of admissions to set up appointments, plan visits, or check on the status of the application. These are all the student’s responsibility. When mom or dad calls the admissions officer, the message received is that the student is not mature enough to handle his or her own affairs.
Jim Paterson has been a writer and editor for 25 years. He also is the head of the counseling department at Argyle Middle School in Silver Spring, Maryland.
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Talking to Your Teen About College Choosing the right school can be stressful for parents & teens
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Create YOUR FUTURE. While working in sales for the Miami Heat and then-Florida Marlins, Christina Martinez found herself alongside many alumni of BARRY UNIVERSITY. So when it came time for her to pursue her degree, deciding where to attend was simple. “I had no trouble understanding that BARRY would not only promise me a great future, but also provide a community made up of exceptional faculty, highly intelligent peers, and supportive friends.”
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College Resources Below you will find a variety of useful college resources that includes independent counselors, funding, and college leaders in tutoring and test prep.
College Advisors AMG EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANTS Counseling in college and independent school placement since 1988, Andrea Glovsky has successfully helped hundreds of students by matching their interests and abilities to the most appropriate school. Guidance is provided face-to-face or electronically by a combination of phone, email, and Skype. Local, regional, and international clients served. Location(s): Beverly and Manchester, MA Contact: Andrea Glovsky Phone: (978) 526-7809 Email: amglovsky@comcast.net Address: P.O. Box 44, Prides Crossing, MA 01965 Website: www.findingcolleges.com
BASS EDUCATIONAL SERVICES, LLC Comprehensive college and postsecondary planning services for students with learning differences, ADHD, Asperger’s Syndrome, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. They provide guidance in fostering independence and self-advocacy and assistance in obtaining college accommodations. Location(s): Maryland and Virginia Contact: Judy Bass Phone: (301) 774-5211 Email: info@basseducationalservices.com Address: 3403 Olandwood Court, Suite 101, Olney, MD 20832 Website: www.basseducationalservices.com
COLLEGEAPPLICATIONESSAYCOACH.COM Owner Mindy Pollack-Fusi works one-on-one with students to coach them on their college application essays in person and online. She helps students refine topics to best depict their unique strengths in their own passionate, polished voices. Location(s): Online; Bedford, MA Contact: Mindy Pollack-Fusi Phone: (781) 275-7301 Email: mindy@theplaceforwords.com Address: 200 Great Road, Suite 254A, Bedford, MA 01730 Website: www.collegeapplicationessaycoach.com
COLLEGE SEARCH EXPERT, LLC Dr. Rachelle Wolosoff, independent educational consultant and award-winning educator, assists U.S. and international students in grades 9 through 12 in the entire college admissions process. She assists with the college search, applications, essays, interviews, and advises on extracurricular activities, high school courses, tests to take, and much more. Location(s): Online; Rockville Centre, NY Contact: Rachelle Wolosoff Phone: (516) 208-7835 Email: rachelle@collegesearchexpert.com Address: 71 Greystone Road, Rockville Centre, NY 11570 Website: www.collegesearchexpert.com
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TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS 2012 | 31
COLLEGE RESOURCES
EMERSON EDUCATIONAL CONSULTING Emerson Educational Consulting provides the resources, knowledge, and guidance necessary to conduct an effective college search and to make important college-planning decisions. They are committed to helping students find schools where they will be academically and socially successful. Location(s): Online; New York City and Chappaqua, NY Contact: Marilyn G.S. Emerson, M.S.W., Certified Educational Planner Phone: (212) 671-1972 or (914) 747-1760 Email: mgse@emersonec.com Address: 84 Old Farm Road North, Chappaqua, NY 10514 Website: www.emersonec.com
JANET ROSIER’S EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES, INC. As an experienced independent educational consultant, Janet Rosier can help relieve stress and lower anxiety by directing students to appropriate college choices — schools that are an academic, as well as a social and emotional fit. Janet works with student athletes, artists, actors, and international students. Location(s): New Haven, CT Contact: Janet Rosier Phone: (203) 389-2218 Email: janet@janetrosier.com Address: 22 Overhill Road, Woodbridge, CT 06525 Website: www.janetrosier.com
32 | 2012 TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
JUDI ROBINOVITZ ASSOCIATES EDUCATIONAL CONSULTING Judi Robinovitz is a Certified Educational Planner with 30+ years of experience in college counseling. Judi guides her students to develop an edge in college admissions, and more than 95% of them have been accepted to their top-choice schools! Location(s): Seven Locations in Southern Florida (Palm Beach & Broward counties) Contact: Judi Robinovitz Phone: (561) 241-1610 Email: judi@scoreatthetop.com Address: 750 Park of Commerce Boulevard, Suite 120, Boca Raton, FL 33487 Website: www.scoreatthetop.com
KLAAR COLLEGE CONSULTING, LLC Charlotte Klaar works with parents and students from all backgrounds and income levels to guide them through the process of preparing, selecting, and applying for college. She focuses on matching students to the colleges that are the best fit. Location(s): Maryland, Massachusetts, and Virginia Contact: Charlotte Klaar Phone: (302) 834-6888 Email: charlotte@cklaar.com Address: 14 Fiona Way, Brunswick, MD 21758 Website: www.cklaar.com
MARCIA MOOR, M.ED. Marcia Moor’s unique practice specializes in independent school placement and college counseling. Marcia helps students and their families search for high schools and colleges that best fit their academic, cultural, and personal styles. Location(s): Wellesley, MA Contact: Marcia Moor Phone: (781) 235-1707 Email: marcia@mooreducation.com Address: 350 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA 02481 Website: www.mooreducation.com
COLLEGE RESOURCES
ONE-ON-ONE COLLEGE CONSULTING One-on-One College Consulting is a private, comprehensive educational consulting service that specializes in guiding high school students and their families in exploring options, and making informed decisions regarding the college admissions process. Location(s): Wakefield, MA Contact: Kim Penney Phone: (781) 246-4111 Email: kimpenney@oneononecollege consulting.com Address: 146 Lowell Street, Suite 300C-1, Wakefield, MA 01880 Website: www.oneononecollegeconsulting.com
College Tours BURTON COLLEGE TOURS Burton College Tours takes college counseling on the road and makes school visits accessible, meaningful, and affordable. Students visit a variety of schools to become educated about the elements of a good academic, social, and financial fit. Location(s): East Coast, West Coast, and Midwest. Contact: Tyler Burton Phone: (914) 610-6092 Email: tyler@burtoncollegetours.com Address: 81 Pondfield Road, Suite D150, Bronxville, NY 10708 Website: www.burtoncollegetours.com
College Funding CITIZENS BANK Going to college is one of the most important journeys students and their parents can undertake. At Citizens Bank, we believe education can make a real difference in people's lives and in the communities they live in. We're deeply committed to helping more Citizens go to college, enrich their minds, succeed in their studies and benefit from the college experience. Citizens Bank is committed to making education affordable by offering student banking and borrowing products that help college students finance their education. Our TruFit Student Loan® is available with a fixed or variable rate option, as well as repayment options to best fit a student's needs. In the spirit of community, we also offer our TruFit Good Citizen Scholarship™ which annually awards college scholarships in recognition of students' outstanding community service. In 2012, we are awarding a combined total of $50,000 to 40 winners. Contact: Education Finance Specialists Phone: (800) 708-6684 Email: educationfinance@citizensbank.com Address: 770 Legacy Place, MLP250, Dedham, MA 02026 Website: www.citizensbank.com/trufitstudentloan
Colleges BARRY UNIVERSITY Create your future at Barry University in Miami Shores, Florida. Choose from more than 100 Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral Programs in arts and sciences, business, education, health sciences, human performance and leisure sciences, law, podiatric medicine, public administration, and social work. Barry also offers a variety of adult education programs with convenient locations throughout Florida. Location(s): Miami Shores, FL (main campus) with 18 additional campus locations Contact: Admissions Office Phone: (800) 695-2279 Email: admissions@mail.barry.edu Address: 11300 NE Second Avenue, Miami Shores, FL 33161 Website: www.barry.edu
TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS 2012 | 33
COLLEGE RESOURCES
BERKLEE COLLEGE OF MUSIC
Raise grades, confidence and motivation
SuperCamp is a highly engaging summer enrichment program that inspires and empowers students to excel. The results are truly amazing. Students gain an academic and personal edge—an edge that propels them toward a brilliant future!
An international leader
For over 30 years, SuperCamp has been a leader in student success with over 64,000 graduates worldwide.
Berklee College of Music was founded on the revolutionary principle that the best way to prepare students for careers in music is through the study and practice of contemporary music. Location(s): Boston, MA Contact: Admissions Office Phone: (800) 237-5533 Email: admissions@berklee.edu Website: www.berklee.edu
THE COLLEGE OF VISUAL ARTS The College of Visual Arts is a private, accredited, four-year college of art and design offering a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in fashion, fine arts, graphic design, illustration, and photography. Location(s): Saint Paul, MN Contact: Admissions Office Phone: (800) 224-1536 Email: admissions@cva.edu Address: 344 Summit Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55102 Website: www.cva.edu
MIDDLESEX UNIVERSITY
gets amazing results!
Enroll today to receive a FREE Learning Support Package containing 7 books, 7 DVDs, 2 music CDs, and additional support products worth $250. Use promo code SUPPORTPACKAGE
www.supercamp.com 800-285-3276
Middlesex University is a global university delivering outstanding higher education. Students gain a truly global perspective and first-hand experience of the British educational system. Their programs combine rigorous academics with career-focused outcomes. Location(s): Campuses in London, Dubai, and Mauritius Contact: The Americas and Caribbean Regional Offices Phone: (480) 471-5966 Email: info@mdxna.com Address: 101 Federal Street, Suite 1900, Boston, MA 02111 Website: www.mdxna.com
COLLEGE RESOURCES
SCHOOL OF THE MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS, BOSTON (SMFA) One of only three art schools in the U.S. affiliated with a major museum (the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston), the SMFA’s mission is to provide an interdisciplinary fine arts education that values cultural, artistic, and intellectual diversity. Location(s): Boston, MA Contact: Admissions Office Phone: (800) 643-6078 or (617) 369-3626 Email: admissions@smfa.edu Address: 230 The Fenway, Boston, MA 02115 Website: www.smfa.edu
UNIVERSITY OF HARTFORD Students at Hartford enjoy both the benefits of a university with 84 programs of study and great facilities combined with the personal attention of a small college. Location(s): West Hartford, CT Contact: Richard Zeiser Phone: (800) 947-4303 Email: admission@hartford.edu Address: 200 Bloomfield Avenue, West Hartford, CT 06117 Website: www.hartford.edu
TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS 2012 | 35
COLLEGE RESOURCES
UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA, PENN ENGINEERING
Summer Programs
The School of Engineering at the University of Pennsylvania offers a unique opportunity for a select group of highly motivated and talented high school students to experience rigorous and challenging coursework for college credit. Location(s): Philadelphia, PA Contact: Paige Harker Phone: (215) 898-7507 Email: info@admissions.upenn.edu Address: 1 College Hall, Room 1, Philadelphia, PA 19104 Website: www.upenn.edu
LOYOLA UNIVERSITY PRE-COLLEGIATE SUMMER SCHOLARS
Private Schools WASATCH ACADEMY
Spend your summer in Chicago and start your college career while earning credit! Pre-Collegiate Summer Scholars are high school students who enroll in oneweek, three-week, and/or six-week courses in science, math, sustainability, liberal arts, and more. Location(s): Chicago and Woodstock, IL Contact: Karladora Chavez Phone: (312) 915-6565 Email: summerscholars@luc.edu Address: Loyola University Chicago, 820 North Michigan, 4th Floor, Chicago, IL 60611 Website: www.luc.edu/summerscholars
SUPERCAMP
Wasatch Academy is an independent, international, boarding school in Utah where students in grades 7 - 12 from across the U.S. and dozens of countries find their own unique ways of learning and living. Location(s): Mt. Pleasant, UT Contact: Lori Wait Phone: (435) 462-1460 Email: lori.wait@wasatchacademy.org Address: 120 South 100 West, Mt. Pleasant, UT 84647 Website: www.wasatchacademy.com
SuperCamp is a highly-engaging summer enrichment program that inspires and empowers students to excel. Students gain an academic and personal edge that propels them towards a brilliant future. Location(s): Nine prestigious universities nationwide Contact: SuperCamp Customer Service and Enrollments Phone: (800) 285-3276 Email: info@supercamp.com Address: 1938 Avenida del Oro, Oceanside, CA 92056 Website: www.supercamp.com
Publishing
Tutoring & Test Prep
DICMAR PUBLISHING
A TO Z TUTOR Alexandra Zabriskie started tutoring 12 years ago while in graduate school. Now a full-time practitioner based in her native New York, she tutors students on standardized tests and academic subjects — bringing out the best in each individual from A to Z. Location(s): Online; New York City Contact: Alexandra Zabriskie Phone: (917) 691-0823 Email: alexandra@atoztutor.com Address: 70A Greenwich Ave, Suite 128, New York, NY 10011 Website: www.atoztutor.com
In Sending Your Child to College: The Prepared Parent’s Operational Manual, Marie Carr has assembled an amazing amount of important information in an easy-to-use format. All parents of a college-bound student will want a copy of this handbook — both for the “getting ready” phase and as a quick reference later. Contact: Marie Carr Phone: (202) 491-7756 Email: marie@dicmar.com Address: 4057 Highwood Court Northwest, Washington, DC 20007 Website: www.preparedparent.com 36 | 2012 TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
COLLEGE RESOURCES
THE PRINCETON REVIEW No matter what your goals are, The Princeton Review has over 30 years of experience offering leading SAT, ACT, and PSAT prep courses and tutoring programs designed to provide a complete and personalized experience that fits your learning style, schedule, and budget. Location(s): Online; Newton, MA Phone: (800) 447-0254 Address: 1340 Centre Street, Suite 104, Newton, MA 02459 Website: www.princetonreview.com
SAT SUBJECT TESTS, COLLEGE BOARD SAT Subject Tests are one-hour tests that can help you stand out on your college applications. Students can select from 20 different tests in the subject areas of math, science, history, literature, and languages. Register and get free practice tests online. Test dates: May 5 and June 2, 2012. Location(s): Online Website: www.SATSubjectTests.org
VERITAS TUTORS Veritas specializes in subject tutoring, test preparation, and college admissions consultation. With personalized coaching from outstanding educators at Harvard and MIT, as well as a staff of former Ivy League Admissions Officers, Veritas will help you achieve your academic potential. Location(s): Online; Cambridge, MA Contact: Adrian Jones Phone: (617) 395-4160 Email: info@veritutors.com Address: 1132 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138 Website: www.veritutors.com
TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS 2012 | 37
New students with a strong classical foundation are immediately in demand from many performance groups on campus. More than 350 student ensembles meet weekly, so you’ll have almost limitless opportunities to build your repertoire by performing with orchestras; big bands; and bluegrass, hip-hop, rock, funk, r&b, and many other groups.
WHERE MUSIC TAKES YOU
Learn more and apply online at berklee.edu/firstchair
Sites We Love In addition to our handy guide, here are some useful websites to check out as you go through the college admissions process.
FAVORITE WEBSITES FOR STUDENTS collegeboard.org Resource to apply and prepare for college collegeconfidential.com SuperMatch helps refine the college search princetonreview.com Tutoring and test prep for standardized tests unigo.com Commonly asked questions answered by students, counselors, and IECA Members collegesolved.com Compare colleges, ask questions of students or IECA members wisechoice.com Matching student interests with college offerings going2college.org Plan, search, and pay for college mappingyourfuture.org College prep and career exploration zinch.com Scholarship and college search information cappex.com Student information provided to colleges collegedata.com Accurate, up-to-date information about every college collegeessayorganizer.com Essay requirements and assistance insidecollege.com Teen-centric information about colleges goseecampus.com Planning tools for campus visits youniversitytv.com Campus tour videos collegeprowler.com First-person reviews from students fairtest.org A listing of schools not requiring SAT or ACT exams www.securityoncampus.org Data on campus security
FAVORITE WEBSITES FOR PARENTS iecaonline.com Parent pages offering excellent admissions advice collegeboard.org Information about the application process fastweb.com Scholarships and financial aid information collegeconfidential.com Parent-to-parent Q & A collegeresults.org College graduation rates unigo.com Commonly asked questions answered by counselors and IECA members studentaid.ed.gov and fafsa.ed.gov Financing college finaid.org Scholarships and financial aid information academicearth.org Experience actual classes, virtually goseecampus.com Planning tools for campus visits nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator National Center for Education Statistics
TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS 2012 | 39
Index
We hope that the admissions advice, resources, and listings in our handy guide help you through the step-by-step process of heading off to college. It was made possible by the support of these advertisers.
ALL LISTINGS
ADVERTISERS
36 A to Z Tutor
30 Barry University
31 AMG Educational Consultants
12 Bass Educational Services
33 Barry University
38 Berklee College of Music
31 Bass Educational Services, LLC
1
34 Berklee College of Music
15 College of Visual Arts
33 Burton College Tours
C2 College Search Expert
33 Citizens Bank
24 Dicmar Publishing
31 CollegeApplicationEssayCoach.com
12 Emerson Educational Consulting
34 College of Visual Arts
BC IECA
31 College Search Expert, LLC
2
36 Dicmar Publishing
12 Middlesex University, in London
32 Emerson Educational Consulting
19-22 The Princeton Review
32 Janet Rosier’s Educational Resources, Inc.
C3 SAT Subject Tests, College Board
32 Judi Robinovitz Associates Educational Consulting
2
32 Klaar College Consulting
34 SuperCamp
36 Loyola University Pre-Collegiate Summer Scholars
10 Veritas Tutors
32 Marcia Moor, M.Ed.
2
34 Middlesex University 33 One-on-One College Consulting 37 The Princeton Review 37 SAT Subject Tests, College Board 35 School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston 36 SuperCamp 35 University of Hartford 36 University of Pennsylvania, Penn Engineering 37 Veritas Tutors 36 Wasatch Academy
40 | 2012 TEENLIFE GUIDE TO COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
Citizens Bank
Marcia Moor, M.Ed.
School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
Wasatch Academy
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Expert, Personal Advice All students are not the same. They have different learning styles, interests, and needs. An Independent Educational Consultant (IEC) takes the time to help you find a college that provides the best environment for your child’s educational, social, and personal success. From creating the college list, to campus tours, interviews, essays, and financial obligations, an IEC can help ease the anxiety and uncertainties that challenge families during the application process.
For information and to search our nationwide directory of hundreds of independent educational consultants, go to: www.IECAonline.com or call 703-591-4850 to find an IEC near you.