Greetings Students and Families!
For students in Florida, Texas and throughout the South, many of you are already into your new school year this week and students everywhere will be back in the classroom within the next few weeks! How was your first day of school? I know things look different as we head back into in-person learning after many months of online or hybrid learning. I encourage everyone to remember the educational goals and dreams you have every year at this time and be inspired to set the same bar of discovery and joy for yourself within all your classes -especially as you adjust. I look forward to hearing your initial impressions about the classes & teachers having inspired you so far. Students– please follow me on Facebook and what I’ve decided to share today. What’s your Insta post about today-maybe a great mathematics equation, maybe sports practice or an interesting lunch item! Social media and college admissions — ask me!
Each new academic year is an opportunity for transformative experiences both within and outside the classroom. Some of you will be motivated by the learning taking place in one or more of your classes. It is my hope that all of you find enriching and joyful extracurricular experiences both formal and informal to connect your strengths and passions. Students with a passion are more successful as undergraduates and during the college admissions process. Think about how you can further deepen your connections in existing clubs/interests and also become comfortable exploring new areas to push yourself beyond your comfort zone. We measure educational and admissions success by the your learning/motivation, character and the impactful connections you’ve made within your “communities”. For the next few months- social distancing will challenge you to be creative with how to engage and discovery. Need ideas – give me a shout out!
Your year should begin by adjusting your Strategic Educational and College Admissions Plan. Click to schedule with College Consultant Bonnie Rabin, PhD.
Especially for Juniors !
- This year we spend a great deal of time on college and major research.
- Test taking- have you confirmed your test preparation plans and test dates. You should expect that many of the TEST OPTIONAL universities our seniors ’22 have on their radars will return to pre-COVID policies – meaning – you need to anticipate testing ahead even as test optional policies continue- most colleges still prefer to see those scores
ACT/SAT and for those of you looking at competitive colleges: SATII Subject tests were discontinued but AP exams will take on some more importance. I will soon be updating my fall informational handout on all things to know about testing. Please click to join my mailing list and receive a detailed handout: Everything You Need To Know About Testing and College Admissions.
8th to 10th Grade Students
This year continue to focus on time management strategies that don’t leave you overwhelmed and help you develop confidence in your ability to tackle the most difficult courses. A goal for everyone – don’t blame poor teaching for a bad grade. You have to learn the material – so let’s figure out external and self-directed ways to do so. Parents and students should look for ways to shift responsibility towards a student-led process.
In my previous notes- I spent quite a bit of time encouraging everyone to embrace learning PODS or study groups to navigate the student year. A learning buddy can encourage you to realize new levels of achievement and reinforce what you are learning by committing to a peer.
Try to identify 1-2 new extracurricular opportunities either at school or in your community that introduce you to something new building upon your interests and strengths. Think outside the box and find your passion and joy. High school doesn’t have to be a march towards graduation- claim your path.
Especially for Seniors –
Secure commitments from teachers to write your recommendations (and the process to guarantee its completion).
Whether you’re done with your Common App 2023-24 Core Essay, adjusting your final list of colleges, beginning or continuing work on college supplemental essays or just need someone to hold your hand (metaphorically speaking) and review everything while you hit the submit button -appointments online and in-person are available to meet your busy schedule.
Warm regards,
Bonnie
Have a wonderful first quarter of a new academic year.
Bonnie
Bonnie R. Rabin, Ph.D.
Florida 561.509.0021
Colorado Boulder/Denver 720.737.9944
Nationwide 833.MY.ESSAY
College Advising & Educational Planning
Wherever You Are!
brabin@collegecareerconsulting.com
Professor Emeritus & Cornell University Alumni Representative- 30+ Years Experience
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College Consultant Bonnie Rabin with STEM student and College Admissions Acceptance Letters
