The ACT will be changing the Writing portion of the test, starting in September 2015. The following outlines the changes: Extended Writing Time: Students will have 40 minutes to craft an essay response, rather than the previous 30 minutes. Changed Prompt Style: Test takers will be presented a contemporary issue and three perspectives regarding the…
Tag: High school freshmen
Where is the “Middle” in Middle Class?
Middle class families can sometimes feel like this: Cartoon credit: Americans for Limited Government, 2015 Especially when considering the annually increasing tuition, and other costs for a college education:
Arts and Science Are Not Mutually Exclusive
All too often, science is considered the polar opposite of arts. Dr. Mae Jemison speaks to the intersection of arts and science, given her own experience, as a dancer, doctor, chemical engineer and first African American female astronaut. “Many people,” she wrote, “do not see a connection between science and dance, but I consider them…
The Modern “Starving” Student
College alumni often joke about days as a “deprived” undergrad, only eating instant noodles—fast, filling meals on a limited budget—like a badge of honor. Growing numbers of today’s college students, however, embody the literal meaning of “starving” college student. According to the Wall Street Journal: In 2010, the UC [University of California] system added a food-security…
Welcome to the New Adulthood
For most of us, moving out of the parental units’ house is the ultimate signifier of adulthood. So, what’s the threshold defining adulthood for the growing numbers of 25 year olds, who live with their parents (even after moving away for college)? Since 2002, parental co-residence rates have only risen: And, in 2012:
What a 99 Year Old Wall Street Trader Knows
Although Irene Bergman intended her advice for Wall Street finance types, her wisdom can apply to anyone in any situation. Bloomberg News recently highlighted Ms. Bergman for her longevity in a notoriously competitive business, stock trading. We can all learn a lesson, if for no other reason, than Ms. Bergman has the weight of a century…
Homework Blues
Presented for parents who contend daily, sometimes through a full 12 rounds, with their teenagers about their homework assignments: Published May 13, 2015
#CommunityServiceMatters
Yes. The reasons for completing community service matters… Cartoon credit: The New Yorker Magazine
On Being Sick
As we enter the winter season, this year’s class of bacteria and viruses will be waiting to greet students with open arms. While no one intends to be sick, sickness is an inevitable part of life. Yet, once sick, students resist taking time to rest, so as to “not fall behind.” Sickness is disruptive, forcing…
On Writing
The writing process is not simple nor are perfect college essays developed in one draft. The following is an excerpt from a recent New York Times Magazine article, “Old Masters“: Lewis Latham on writing: When I was 6, I delighted in the act of writing, at 12, in the expecting that by the time I…
Guest Post: Is My Nest Going to be Empty?
About the Author: Both of Louise’s daughters worked with Creative Marbles Consultancy to navigate the college admissions process. Emily is a third year student at Cornell University and Kate is a second year student at University of California, Berkeley. Louise graciously shares her experiences about the transitions as both daughters moved away for college. Before…
Simple Tips For Learning
If you’re the new kid in school, smile often. If you’re not the new kid in school, invite the new kid to sit with you at lunch. Park in the furthest parking spot away from campus. A little sunshine can be just what’s needed to rejuvenate the grey matter. Say “hello” to your teachers daily. Don’t be…
A College Education May Include More Than You Think
“A college education” can simultaneously help teenagers transition to adulthood, prepare for a career, as well as gain academic knowledge. When researching colleges, finding information related to all three aspects of a college education can help families choose the most fitting college in the end. A campus academic environment can be compared with the culture…
To Learn Is..
To know yourself, in order to not be overly edited by others. Photo credit: unknown