College Counseling
While school may be out, it's important for families -- especially those of rising seniors and juniors -- to carve out some time for college planning. Below are some suggestions to consider and important dates to remember as we prepare for the 2010-2011 academic year.
Upcoming Dates
June 24 Scores from the June 5 test available online
July 15 Anticipated release date for AP scores
Aug. 1 Common Application goes live online
Aug. 6 Deadline to register for September 11 ACT
Sept. 10 Deadline to register for the October SAT I/II
Sept. 11 ACT (not administered at Cushing)
Oct 9 SAT I/II (not administered at Cushing)
College News
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How do savings affect financial aid? Click here to read more.
Rising Seniors
Summer Plans
Please encourage your student to have a productive summer: this might include getting a job, exploring a career path, reading, volunteer work, or standardized test prep. But part of your junior’s summer must include college research. Visiting is always best, and we urge students to make plans for the summer, fall free weekend, and Thanksgiving break which include visiting colleges.
If students cannot visit schools, the internet is a wonderful way to learn more about many aspects of college life – courses offered, requirements, dormitories, diversity, athletics, application processes, and much more. Many websites offer virtual tours, video, student blogs – there is a wealth of information! Be sure your student signs up for the college’s mailing list.
Rising Juniors and Sophomores
Summer Plans
Students should try to read as much as possible this summer. Learn more about favorite subjects or people; indulge in historical fiction, science fantasy, or poetry, scientific and professional journals. Studies show that reading is the best way to build one’s vocabulary.
A tough job market is predicted for the summer. If students need to earn money or would like work experience, babysitting and yard work are often reliable options; even though it may not be the most glamorous work, grocery stores and fast food restaurants are usually looking for help. Many organizations tend to be welcoming of volunteers: consider a local charity that is meaningful, political campaign, or animal shelter, for example. To explore a career or field of interest, a student may be able to shadow a professional for a week in their work as an engineer, environmental scientist, business owner, town official, or camp director. Encourage students to do something to do that they will enjoy and find enriching.
Juniors are also urged to complete the common application over the summer. This form can be found at www.commonapp.org. The updated online version will be available on August 1. Students must establish an account, and retain their login and password, but should not submit applications until meeting with their college counselors in the fall.
Students should return to school rested and ready to do their best work!
International Students
All non-native speakers of English are strongly encouraged to take the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), which most colleges require of non-native speakers. Taking the test twice is a good idea, once during senior year, and once before that time if possible. Students can register at www.ets.org/toefl.
*Remember to use the name on your passport.
Parents
If you have not yet completed the Junior Parent Questionnaire, please do so. Your input is invaluable to the College Counseling Office as we work with your students. The survey is available here.
Thank you to all the families who visited with us over Spring Family Weekend. Please remember that you are always welcome to contact us with any questions.
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