5 Common App College Essay Example Questions

The college application essay is a chance for students to stand out among other applicants. In fact, the essay is one part of the application that the student has complete control. Students have complete control over the essay because they can show the admissions readers what makes them unique.

Here are the 5 most common college application essay questions:

  • Write about a book you‘ve read
  • Who is someone you admire?
  • Why do you want to attend this college?
  • Tell about a meaningful activity for you.
  • What do you want to do 10 years from now?

Each question emphasizes “you.” Admissions readers want to hear from you, in your authentic voice. Writing in your voice is what makes the essay response unique and only a story that you can tell.

In writing the college application essay, you can be creative, use dialogue, or focus on a single moment. Keep in mind though that the college application essay is not an academic exercise. Your essay should come from the heart.

In blog postings over the next 5 weeks (on Monday), we will post tips for crafting a strong response for each of these different question types.

Why choose a women’s college – Leadership and diversity

Smith College

When it comes to choosing the best college, many factors come into play—location, programs, campus culture, and more. For female students, one option that often gets overlooked is the idea of attending a women’s college. Historically, women’s colleges have played a significant role in educating and empowering women, and they continue to offer unique advantages today. Let’s explore why the best women’s colleges still rank highly and what makes them an excellent choice for many young women.

The Unique Experience of Women’s Colleges

One of my high school friends attended Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts, and she often speaks about how transformative her college experience was. Over the years, as I visited Smith and other historically women’s colleges, I’ve realized just how special these institutions are. They offer a unique blend of academic rigor, leadership opportunities, and a supportive environment tailored specifically to the development of women.

When discussing the idea of attending a women’s college, the first reaction from many female students is often concern about the lack of male presence: “But I won’t see any guys!” This common misconception overlooks the fact that many women’s colleges, like Barnard College, are either part of or located near co-educational institutions, allowing for a diverse social environment while still offering the benefits of a women-centered education.

If you’re open to considering why the best women’s colleges are a great fit for many young women, take a moment to hear what Barnard’s President, Debra Spar, has to say:

What Women’s Colleges Offer: A Closer Look

Q: What does the Barnard experience offer for women? How does it compare to other American colleges?

A: The Barnard experience is both similar to and distinct from other colleges. On the surface, walking across Barnard’s campus feels like being at any top university, such as Harvard or Northwestern. It’s a vibrant, urban campus with a diverse student body that includes both men and women. However, when you dig deeper, you find that Barnard students enjoy the best of both worlds: they benefit from a co-ed environment but also thrive in a space where women take center stage.

At Barnard and other top-ranked women’s colleges, women are in the majority—not just in the classroom but also in leadership roles across campus. Whether it’s the student body president, club leaders, or other positions of influence, women occupy these roles. This dynamic fosters an environment where female students can develop intellectually and personally without the pressure of being “the woman in the room.” Instead of feeling the burden of representing a gendered perspective, they are free to express themselves as individuals, which can be incredibly empowering.

Q: Do women’s colleges have specific programs to encourage leadership?

A: Absolutely. Barnard, for instance, has the Athena Center for Leadership Studies, which is dedicated to helping young women realize their leadership potential. Unlike many programs that focus on inspirational aspects of leadership, Athena’s approach is hands-on. It teaches concrete skills that are essential for leadership in any field—whether it’s running a newspaper, a college, or a Fortune 500 company. The curriculum includes finance, negotiation, fundraising, and public speaking. While these aren’t “women’s skills,” they are essential leadership skills that women, statistically, may be less inclined to pursue. The Athena Center aims to bridge that gap, equipping women with the tools they need to succeed in any leadership role.

Why Consider Historically Women’s Colleges?

There are currently 60 women’s colleges across 24 states in the U.S., with Massachusetts alone home to eight of them. These institutions have a rich history of fostering female leadership, academic excellence, and social responsibility. They’ve produced generations of women who have gone on to become leaders in various fields, from business to politics to the arts.

Women’s colleges consistently rank highly for their strong academic programs, vibrant campus communities, and commitment to diversity and inclusion. Schools like Wellesley, Smith, Bryn Mawr, and Barnard are often mentioned among the best women’s colleges, offering a range of programs that rival those at co-educational institutions.

The Benefits of a Women’s College Education

1. Leadership Opportunities: At a women’s college, women lead—literally. From student government to clubs and organizations, female students are at the forefront, gaining valuable leadership experience that will serve them well in their careers and personal lives.

2. Tailored Academic Programs: Many historically women’s colleges offer specialized programs and centers that focus on women’s issues, leadership, and empowerment. These programs provide a unique lens through which students can explore their fields of interest.

3. Supportive Environment: The community at women’s colleges is often described as supportive and empowering. Students are encouraged to take risks, speak up, and take on challenges they might shy away from in a co-ed environment.

4. Diverse Social Environment: While women’s colleges are single-gender, many are located near co-ed institutions, offering students the chance to enjoy a diverse social life. Schools like Barnard and Wellesley have partnerships with nearby universities, allowing students to take classes and participate in activities across campuses.

5. Long-Term Benefits: Graduates of women’s colleges often report high levels of satisfaction with their education, citing the confidence, leadership skills, and lifelong friendships they developed during their college years.

There are 60 women’s colleges in 24 states in the US. (Massachusetts has 8 women’s colleges.) My hope is that more female college-bound students would be open to at least considering a campus visit at a women’s college. Here is a list of those colleges:

 ALABAMA
Judson College
 CALIFORNIA
Mills College
Mount St. Mary’s College
Scripps College
 COLORADO
Woman’s College of the University of Denver
 CONNECTICUT
Hartford College for Women
St. Joseph College
 DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA/ WASHINGTON, DC
Trinity University
 GEORGIA
Agnes Scott College
Brenau University   		Spelman College
Wesleyan College
 ILLINOIS
Lexington College
 INDIANA
St. Mary’s College
 St. Mary-of-the-Woods College
 KENTUCKY
Midway College
 MARYLAND
College of Notre Dame
 MASSACHUSETTS
Bay Path College
 Lesley University
 Mount Holyoke College
Pine Manor College		 Regis College
 Simmons College
 Smith College
Wellesley College
 MINNESOTA
College of St. Benedict
 College of St. Catherine
 MISSISSIPPI
Mississippi University for Women
 MISSOURI
Cottey College
 Stephens College
 NEBRASKA
College of St. Mary
 NEW JERSEY
College of St. Elizabeth
Douglas College of Rutgers University
Georgian Court College
 NEW YORK
Barnard College
 College of New Rochelle
 Russell Sage College
 Wells College
 NORTH CAROLINA
Bennett College
 Meredith College		 Peace College
Salem College
 OHIO
Ursuline College
 PENNSYLVANIA
Bryn Mawr College
Carlow College
 Cedar Crest College
 Chatham College		 Moore College of Art and Design
 Rosemont College
Wilson College
 SOUTH CAROLINA
Columbia College
 Converse College
 TEXAS
Texas Woman’s University
 VIRGINIA
Hollins University
 Mary Baldwin College
Sweet Briar College
 WISCONSIN
Alverno College
Mount Mary College

via Women’s Colleges in the United States.

Qualities of a Good Principal: Making a Difference

The recent headline about how effective principals make a difference in high poverty schools really resonated with me. My elementary school in Memphis, Tennessee would have been considered on of those high poverty schools, based on the high percentage of low-income families.

Joseph K. Carr, the principal at my elementary school, saved my life. He was known as a disciplinarian and no student wanted to get in trouble under Mr. Carr’s watch. We feared and respected him. His words of encouragement to all the students were “If not you, then who?” He challenged us all to reach our highest potential. Those words set me on my educational journey.

A new study on principal effectiveness focused on high poverty schools and found that:

. . . . high-quality principals—as determined by a value-added model that includes student achievement and school characteristics—had a large positive impact on their students’ achievement: “A principal in the top 16 percent of the quality distribution…will lead annually to student gains that are .05 standard deviations or more higher than average for all students in the school emphasis is the authors’.”

They also tended to be associated with teacher turnover in the lowest-performing grades in their schools—indicating, perhaps, that these principals are trying to replace low-performing teachers with more-effective ones.

via Study: Good Principals Make a Difference in High-Poverty Schools – Inside School Research – Education Week.

Based on my observations of schools over the past 15 years, I would argue that strong leadership makes a difference in any school, whether it is high poverty, low-poverty, independent, parochial, or other. The leadership sets the tone and culture of the school. A school is only as strong as its principal.

What difference has your principal made?

How Exercise and Academics Work Together

The connection between exercise and academics is a topic that has gained increasing attention over the years, especially as schools face mounting pressure to prioritize academic achievement. In the pursuit of higher test scores and better academic outcomes, many schools have made the difficult decision to cut back on physical education programs, extracurricular sports, and recess. However, emerging research strongly suggests that this might be a counterproductive approach. In fact, exercise and physical activity could be the key to enhancing academic performance, not detracting from it.

Exercise and Academics: A Symbiotic Relationship

One of the most important recommendations I give to my students on test day, whether they are taking the SAT, SSAT, ACT, or even a routine achievement test at school, is to engage in some form of physical activity before the exam. This advice stems from both personal experience and a growing body of research that supports the idea that exercise can significantly enhance cognitive function and, consequently, academic performance.

During the weeks when my kids would have achievement tests at school, we established a routine that included a nutritious breakfast—typically oatmeal, which provides sustained energy—and a walk to school. This combination of a balanced meal and light exercise helped them stay focused, energized, and ready to tackle the day’s challenges.

The Research Behind Exercise and Academic Performance

The idea that physical activity can boost academic performance is not just anecdotal; it is backed by a wealth of research. Earlier studies have found that exercising before an exam can enhance performance, likely due to the way physical activity stimulates brain function, improves mood, and reduces stress—factors that are critical on test day.

A recent study involving students aged 6 to 18 has further underscored the importance of physical activity during the school day. This study is particularly timely, as many schools have eliminated physical education classes or athletic programs to allocate more time for academic enrichment. However, the findings suggest that this trade-off may not be as beneficial as intended.

The researchers observed that children who participate in sports or regular physical activities tend to exhibit better behavior in the classroom and are more capable of focusing on academic tasks. The positive correlation between physical activity and academic performance was evident, although the degree of impact varied across different studies. These studies, which followed participants for periods ranging from eight weeks to over five years, consistently found that increased physical activity is associated with improved academic outcomes.

Why Does Exercise Improve Academic Performance?

The link between exercise and academics can be explained through several physiological and psychological mechanisms:

  1. Enhanced Cognitive Function: Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, which in turn improves brain function. This includes enhanced memory, attention, and processing speed—all of which are crucial for learning and performing well on exams.

  2. Stress Reduction: Exercise is a well-known stress reliever. By reducing levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) and releasing endorphins (the body’s natural mood lifters), physical activity can help students feel more relaxed and less anxious about their academic responsibilities.

  3. Improved Behavior and Focus: Regular physical activity helps regulate behavior, leading to fewer disruptions in the classroom and better attention to academic tasks. This is particularly important for younger students who may struggle with sitting still for long periods.

  4. Increased Energy and Stamina: Exercise boosts energy levels, which can help students stay alert and engaged throughout the school day. This is especially beneficial during long periods of study or when preparing for exams.

The Current State of Physical Education in Schools

Despite the clear benefits of physical activity, many schools have reduced or eliminated physical education programs to make room for more academic subjects. This shift is often driven by the belief that more classroom time will lead to better academic outcomes. However, the evidence suggests that cutting physical activity may have the opposite effect.

A meta-analysis of various studies indicates that physical activity remains a critical component of the school day, supporting not only physical health but also academic achievement. The review found a significant positive relationship between physical activity and academic performance, emphasizing the need for schools to reconsider the importance of physical education.

Rethinking School Policies: Integrating Exercise into Academics

Given the strong link between exercise and academics, it may be time to rethink how we structure the school day. Instead of cutting physical education to make room for more academic enrichment, schools could explore ways to integrate physical activity into the curriculum. Here are a few suggestions:

  1. Extended School Day: Consider extending the school day slightly to incorporate physical activities without compromising academic instruction. This could include longer recess periods, additional PE classes, or structured sports programs.

  2. Active Learning: Integrate movement into classroom activities. For example, teachers could incorporate short physical exercises or movement-based learning games that allow students to burn off energy while reinforcing academic concepts.

  3. Mindful Breaks: Encourage students to take short, mindful breaks during long study sessions. Activities like stretching, deep breathing, or a quick walk around the school can help reset focus and reduce stress.

  4. After-School Programs: Offer after-school sports or fitness programs that provide additional opportunities for physical activity. These programs can also foster social skills, teamwork, and a sense of community among students.

The Bigger Picture: A Holistic Approach to Education

It’s important to recognize that academic success is not solely determined by time spent in the classroom. A holistic approach to education—one that includes physical, emotional, and social well-being—can lead to better outcomes for students. Physical activity is a vital part of this equation, contributing not only to physical health but also to mental clarity, emotional stability, and social connectedness.

By acknowledging the role of exercise in academic performance, educators, parents, and policymakers can work together to create school environments that support the whole child. This means valuing physical education as much as math, science, or reading, and understanding that a balanced approach to education is key to helping students reach their full potential.

Conclusion: The Future of Exercise and Academics

As the conversation around education continues to evolve, it’s essential that we keep the relationship between exercise and academics at the forefront. The evidence is clear: physical activity plays a crucial role in supporting academic success. By prioritizing physical education and finding innovative ways to incorporate movement into the school day, we can help students achieve better academic outcomes while also promoting their overall health and well-being.

So, does your school still offer physical education? If so, what other programs have been adjusted to maintain academic quality while keeping physical activity in the schedule? It’s time to revisit these questions and ensure that our educational policies reflect the importance of exercise in nurturing well-rounded, successful students.

via Kids: Physical Activity and School Performance – The Doctor.

Merit Based Aid: What to Know When You Don’t Qualify for Need-Based Aid

For many families, the big question is, “How do I pay for college?” January 1 marks the release date for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), a crucial form for those seeking financial assistance. While the FAFSA is often associated with need-based aid, it’s important to know that many colleges also require the FAFSA for students to be considered for merit based aid.

What is Merit Based Aid?

Merit-based aid is financial assistance awarded to students based on their academic achievements, talents, or other criteria, rather than financial need. This can be a valuable resource for families who may not qualify for need-based aid but still want help covering the costs of higher education.

In addition to the FAFSA, some colleges require another form, the CSS Profile, which stands for College Scholarship Service. This form, administered by the College Board (the same organization behind the SAT), collects more detailed financial information and is used by colleges to determine eligibility for both merit aid and financial aid awards. It’s essential to check each college’s website to understand which forms are required for consideration.

Recently, Debbie Davis, an expert from Davis Education and Career Consultants, joined The Education Doctor Radio Show to discuss the ins and outs of merit aid and financial aid. With over 30 years of experience advising families on college and career decisions, Debbie has a deep understanding of how to navigate the complexities of merit-based aid. She emphasized the importance of completing the FAFSA and explained how to evaluate the value proposition when selecting a college.

For families who may not qualify for need-based aid, understanding and pursuing merit aid is crucial. By completing the necessary forms and thoroughly researching college options, students can uncover opportunities for financial assistance based on their achievements and potential. To learn more about Debbie’s insights and advice, listen to the full podcast episode.

Balanced Screen Time, Reading, and Online Behavior for Teens

In today’s digital age, parents face a myriad of challenges in raising well-rounded, academically successful, and socially responsible teens. From excessive screen time to a lack of interest in reading and navigating the complexities of online behavior, the struggles are real. This blog combines expert advice on how to encourage reading in reluctant teens, manage their texting habits, and promote appropriate online behavior.

How to Get a Child to Read When They Refuse

One of the most common concerns parents have is how to get a child to read when they refuse. Reading is a crucial skill that benefits teens academically and personally, but many teens lose interest in reading as they grow older.

Why Teens Stop Reading in Middle School

It’s not uncommon for teens to stop reading around the 6th grade. Several factors contribute to this decline in reading interest:

  • Increased Screen Time: With the rise of smartphones, social media, and video games, many teens find these activities more engaging than reading.
  • Peer Pressure: As teens become more socially aware, they may feel that reading isn’t “cool” among their friends.
  • Busy Schedules: Between homework, extracurricular activities, and socializing, finding time to read can be challenging.
  • Lack of Exposure to Engaging Books: Teens may not find books that interest them if they are not exposed to a wide range of genres and topics.

Strategies to Encourage Reading

If you’re wondering how to get a child to read when they refuse, here are some effective strategies:

  • Set a Daily Reading Routine: Encourage your teen to set aside a specific time each day for reading. This could be before bed, during a commute, or after dinner. Consistency is key to developing a habit.
  • Allow Them to Choose Their Books: Let your teen pick out books that interest them, whether it’s graphic novels, cookbooks, or even romance novels. The important thing is that they are reading.
  • Model Reading Behavior: Show your teen that reading is a valuable activity by reading yourself. When they see you enjoy reading, they are more likely to follow your example.
  • Read Aloud Together: Even though your child is older, reading aloud together can be a bonding experience and a way to introduce them to new genres or more challenging books.
  • Utilize the Library: Encourage your teen to sign up for a summer reading challenge at your local library. This not only provides motivation but also connects them with other teens who enjoy reading.

Teens and Texting: How to Manage Screen Time

Another challenge that many parents face is managing their teen’s texting and overall screen time. With the pervasive use of smartphones, it’s not uncommon for teens to spend hours on their devices, often at the expense of face-to-face communication and other important activities.

The Impact of Excessive Screen Time

Excessive screen time, including texting, can have several negative effects on teens:

  • Reduced Attention Span: Constant distractions from notifications can make it harder for teens to focus on tasks like studying or reading.
  • Impaired Social Skills: Relying on digital communication can lead to difficulties in face-to-face interactions.
  • Sleep Disruption: The blue light emitted from screens can interfere with sleep patterns, leading to sleep deprivation.
  • Increased Risk of Anxiety and Depression: Overuse of social media has been linked to higher levels of anxiety and depression in teens.

Establishing Screen Time Boundaries

To help manage your teen’s screen time, consider implementing these strategies:

  • Create a Family Screen Time Policy: Establish clear rules about when and where screens can be used. For example, no phones at the dinner table or during family time.
  • Set Limits on Screen Time: Use apps or built-in phone features to limit the amount of time your teen can spend on their phone each day.
  • Encourage Tech-Free Activities: Promote activities that don’t involve screens, such as sports, reading, or spending time outdoors.
  • Model Healthy Screen Habits: Just as with reading, your teen is likely to mimic your behavior. Make sure you are also following the screen time rules you set.

Encouraging Appropriate Online Behavior for Teens

In addition to managing screen time, it’s important to guide your teen in appropriate online behavior. With college admissions officers increasingly looking at applicants’ social media profiles, a single inappropriate post can have long-lasting consequences.

The Risks of Inappropriate Online Behavior

Teens may not fully grasp the potential risks of their online behavior. Here are some risks associated with inappropriate online actions:

  • Damage to Reputation: Inappropriate posts can harm a teen’s reputation, both socially and professionally.
  • College Admissions Impact: As noted, many college admissions officers review applicants’ social media. A negative online presence can affect a teen’s chances of getting into their preferred college.
  • Cyberbullying: Posting or sharing harmful content can contribute to cyberbullying, which can have serious consequences for both the victim and the perpetrator.
  • Legal Issues: Some online behavior, such as sharing explicit content, can lead to legal trouble.

Promoting Positive Online Behavior

To help your teen navigate the online world safely and responsibly, follow these guidelines:

  • Talk About Online Risks: Have an open conversation with your teen about the risks of inappropriate online behavior. Make sure they understand that what they post online can have real-world consequences.
  • Teach Digital Etiquette: Encourage your teen to be respectful and considerate in their online interactions. Remind them that their online behavior should reflect the values they hold in real life.
  • Monitor Their Online Activity: While it’s important to respect your teen’s privacy, it’s also wise to keep an eye on their online activity. This doesn’t mean reading every message, but being aware of the platforms they use and the content they post.
  • Encourage “Think Before You Post”: Teach your teen to pause and think before posting anything online. A good rule of thumb is to ask themselves if they would be comfortable with a college admissions officer or future employer seeing the post.

Conclusion

Balancing screen time, encouraging reading, and promoting appropriate online behavior are all crucial aspects of raising a well-rounded teen. By implementing these strategies, you can help your teen develop healthy habits that will serve them well throughout their life.

When considering how to get a child to read when they refuse, managing teens and texting, or encouraging appropriate online behavior for teens, remember that consistency and open communication are key. These practices not only help your teen succeed academically but also prepare them for the responsibilities of adulthood.

via Education Week: Bad Online Behavior Jeopardizes Students’ College Plans.

How Long Should College Essays Be? Tips to Meet the Word Count

How Long Should College Essays Be?

It’s much more difficult to write a short essay than a long essay. Each year, my students struggle with cutting their college application essays to meet the 100- or 500-word count prescribed by the colleges, particularly on the Common Application. In fairness to the admissions readers and the other applicants, students should make every effort to stay within those guidelines as a recent post from the NY Times suggests:

Unlike other parts of the application, which, in its online version, cuts students off midword if they exceed character limits, the personal statement will not be truncated, raising the question in school corridors: How long should college essays be? Does 500 really mean 500?In a word, no. In two words, kind of.

“If a student uploaded a 500,000-word essay, there’s nothing we could do,” said Rob Killion, executive director of Common Application, which is accepted by more than 400 colleges and universities. “However, we do ask that all students follow the same rules their peers are following.”Mr. Killion said the limit was reinstated after feedback that essays had grown too long. But colleges are not told if essays exceed the limit. Jon Reider, director of college counseling at San Francisco University High School, agreed that concise writing was laudable but said the implication of a strict limit was misleading. “I worry about that kid who’s written 530 and thinks he has to cut 30 words,” he said. “It just puts another stage of anxiety in front of these kids.” Jeffrey Brenzel, dean of undergraduate admissions at Yale, said he did not stop reading if an essay ran long, but “if they go over the limit, the stakes go up.”

via College Application Essay as Haiku? For Some, 500 Words Aren’t Enough – NYTimes.com.

If the word count is over the limit by about 10% in words, that’s not so bad. However, when students add an additional 50% or more, it shows a lack of judgment and an arrogant pen.

To determine the interest of your essay and where to delete:

  1. Read your essay aloud for any redundancies. Delete any and all redundancies, which includes information that is repeated from other parts of your application.
  2. Focus on showing, instead of telling. When you “show,” your essay is more engaging to read.
  3. Picture an admissions officer lying in the bed at 1 am, after reading 50 applications that night. Then ask yourself if your essay will be compelling enough to keep them awake or put them sleep.
  4. Read your essay aloud again. It may feel uncomfortable, but think about it this way. If your essay isn’t interesting enough for you to read aloud, how do you think it will “sound” to the admissions readers?

Please let me know what other tips/tricks have worked for you in streamlining your college application essay!

How to Ace the SAT: Last-Minute SAT Advice and Best Tips

When it comes to acing the SAT, a positive mindset can be just as important as your study routine. As the saying goes, “If you think you can, you can.” This principle is backed by research, especially when it comes to test-taking. If you’re feeling anxious and telling yourself, “I’m not going to do well,” that self-doubt can negatively impact your performance. To help you manage anxiety and boost your confidence, here are some of the best SAT tips to follow, especially as the test day approaches.

1. Visualize Success to Boost Confidence

One of the most powerful last-minute SAT advice tips is to mentally prepare yourself by envisioning success. According to Dr. Driscoll, teaching yourself to think positively about the test can make a significant difference. Imagine yourself in a challenging yet exhilarating situation—whether it’s scoring a goal in soccer or reaching the top of a mountain. Then, transfer that feeling of accomplishment and confidence to the SAT testing room. With practice, this mental exercise can help you feel more confident and focused when it’s time to take the test.

2. Familiarize Yourself with the Test Environment

Reducing stress on the day of the exam is crucial for avoiding last-minute jitters. Sian Beilock, a researcher on cognitive performance, suggests that unfamiliar settings can increase anxiety and hinder your performance. If possible, visit the test center beforehand to familiarize yourself with the environment. Knowing exactly where you’ll be taking the test can help you feel more at ease, allowing you to focus solely on the questions at hand.

3. Write Down Your Worries Before the Test

Another effective strategy for how to ace the SAT is to clear your mind of any anxieties right before the test begins. Dr. Beilock recommends setting aside 10 minutes to write down your worries before you start the exam. In a study with ninth-graders, students who engaged in this writing exercise performed just as well as their less anxious peers. On the other hand, anxious students who didn’t write down their thoughts performed worse. By expressing your concerns in writing, you can free up mental space, allowing you to concentrate fully on the SAT.

4. Prioritize a Full Night’s Rest

One of the best SAT tips that cannot be overstated is the importance of getting a full night’s sleep before the test. Many students, especially teens, are used to staying up late and may not realize how much this habit can affect their performance. A well-rested mind is more alert, focused, and capable of tackling challenging questions. Make sure to go to bed early the night before the SAT to give your brain the rest it needs to perform at its best.

5. Fuel Your Brain with the Right Breakfast

What you eat on the morning of the SAT can also influence your performance. A nutrient-rich breakfast, particularly one that includes oatmeal, can give you the sustained energy needed for the test. Oatmeal is known to provide a slow release of energy, helping to keep you focused and alert throughout the exam. This breakfast tip is one I’ve followed for years, even making oatmeal for my children during their elementary school testing periods, and the benefits have been consistently proven.

Salisbury, Indian Mountain, and Hotchkiss integrate world-class athletics and academic rigor

In Day 2 of my western Connecticut prep school campus visits, I’m admittedly overwhelmed by the diversity of program offerings in this region. Connecticut is not a big state but is dense with prep schools. Today I visited Salisbury School, Indian Mountain School, and The Hotchkiss School.

SALISBURY SCHOOL

Salisbury serves 300 male students from around the world. The science center included a wonderful library, a physics lab, a chemistry lab, and a separate biology lab. My tour guide expressed that he wasn’t too keen on attending an all-boys school but realized that girls would be a distraction. Besides that, the school hosts dance each week so he’s still able to intermingle with girls socially.

The first stop on my tour was the boathouse, which is a sight to behold. It’s big, clean, and houses all the boats rowed by their world-class rowing program. An administrator proudly stated that “We grow rowers!” highlighting that many young men join the team with little to no experience. However, many advances to D1 level crew teams. The other athletic facilities were just as impressive . . . squash courts, hockey rink, lacrosse fields. Not to mention that their football team is strong in its division.

Salisbury understands boys, how to teach, how to engage, and how to nurture them both academically and socially.

INDIAN MOUNTAIN SCHOOL

There are 85 guitarists among the 180 students in the upper school. 140 musicians overall!There are 85 guitarists among the 180 students in the upper school. 140 musicians overall!
There are 85 guitarists among the 180 students in the upper school. 140 musicians overall!

Indian Mountain School is a junior boarding school that I was excited to visit in person. In my prior conversations with administrators, I sensed that it was a special place for students to develop into their own. The lower school has students in grades PK-4, while the upper school ushers students in grades 5-9 through early adolescence. Students will typically board in grades 7th, 8th, and 9th. For the teachers, administrators, and other staff, this really is a life commitment/decision. The responsibility is even greater in supporting these youth.

The team of adults who work there, live on campus, coach, and organize activities provide all the support services imaginable. The support services are balanced with student leadership opportunities. Students are given just as many opportunities to take risks. Each class experiences an outdoor adventure that bonds them in unforgettable ways. The overall thrust of the community was character development.

An administrator shared a quote in his office, which speaks to the character and quality of Indian Mountain School: “In all things, a lesson.”

THE HOTCHKISS SCHOOL

The flags adorning the Hotchkiss dining hall showcase the 69 countries represented on campus.
The flags adorning the Hotchkiss dining hall showcase the 69 countries represented on campus.

Hotchkiss is a school that you have to see to believe. Admittedly, I was overwhelmed by its campus size, facilities, and student involvement. A surprise day-off was announced prior to my arrival, so, as you can imagine, the students were happy and taking advantage of the many opportunities to order food, leave campus, or play games on the field.

The students I met were involved in so many activities – athletics, theatre, community service, as well as AP coursework. There are about 500+ students at Hotchkiss but its size rivaled most small colleges I’ve visited. An administrator described it as a “small school within a large school.”

From the science center to the fine arts offerings to the radio station to the Olympic-sized swimming pools to the school-owned farm, students have unlimited opportunities to explore and discover their interests. The academic rigor at Hotchkiss is well-known so students must learn fairly quickly how to balance their coursework with all these other enticing offerings.

What is a Merit Scholarship?

What is a merit scholarship? How do students qualify for a merit scholarship? Compass Compass Advisory

As students are finalizing their list of colleges, I encourage their parents to avoid focusing too much on the tuition. A best-matched college is based on an academic, social, and financial fit. On the financial side, the fit isn’t really determined until the spring when the admission letters arrive. Think of the tuition costs as a sticker price. Similar to purchasing a car . . . many families do not pay the sticker price at colleges.

The other thing to note in terms of funding your college education is that the majority of scholarships come directly from the colleges via merit scholarships. Corporate scholarships, i.e. those external funds that are portable to any college or university represent a fraction of all the monies available for college.

How Students Qualify for Merit Scholarships

Here is some insight from the University of Rochester’s approach to how it awards merit scholarships:

While all schools will have their own criteria, this list will give you some sense of what matters beyond the obvious. Here’s how Rochester’s merit awards played out during the past admissions cycle:

• $3,000: The school typically rewarded candidates who reached out to it with an extra $3,000. These

were teenagers who had serious conversations with the admissions and financial aid office. Schools like to feel wanted, and reaching out to them with meaningful conversations can help.

• $2,000: That’s what teens who weren’t New Yorkers received. Sixty two percent of the freshmen class hails from somewhere else. While Burdick didn’t check, he suspects that students who lived farther away received an even fatter amount of money.Why would students benefit from being from distant states? Because college crave geographic diversity. They want to be able to brag that they have students from all 50 states or close to it. [Get tips on paying for college.]

• $62: Each “A” on a teen’s transcript generated $62 worth of merit aid.

• $400: Teenagers received roughly $400 for each tough course that they took. Courses that would qualify included Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and honors.

• $1,800: A student got this much more if the school considered his or her recommendations excellent.

• $115: Each 10-point improvement in the SAT above the average for Rochester freshmen garnered an extra $115. The average SAT score was 2040.[Explore the U.S. News college test prep guide.]

• $400: Observing deadlines matter. Students got an extra $400 for completing the application on time, as well as making sure mid-year grades were sent.

• $1.89: You got this much less every time a student was admitted with the same major. This clearly favored students with less popular majors such as philosophy and hurt students interested in such big majors as psychology, political science, and economics.

• $1,700: That’s how much the typical freshmen received in merit money if his or her parents completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid FAFSA. The school imposes a progressive tax on its merit awards. On average, $4 less in income boosts the merit award by one cent.

via How Colleges Determine Merit Scholarships – The College Solution usnews.com.

Therefore, instead of focusing solely on tuition in selecting a college, families should also look at the number of merit awards distributed annually.