Category: Schoolwork & Studying

How to Write a Five-Paragraph Essay

Posted by: admin on December 11th, 2019

The Five-Paragraph Essay is the essay structure you will use for almost every piece of writing in high school, from term papers to standardized tests. The structure is simple: there’s an introductory paragraph in which you present your argument, three body paragraphs in which you build support for that argument, and a conclusion in which […]

Why Do I Have to Outline? (And Other Tips for Starting Your Essay)

Posted by: admin on September 19th, 2019

Have you ever gotten halfway through a writing assignment, only to realize you have no idea what you’re saying or if you’re even addressing the topic? Yeah, us too. That’s why one of the first assignments you’re likely to get this year is the dreaded paper outline. Outlines might seem like busy work engineered by […]

How to Form Good Habits

Posted by: admin on September 12th, 2019

Welcome to junior year, the most important year of the high school transcript. This will be the most recent full-year of grades submitted with your application. This is the year that highlights your mastery and expertise. The juggling act has begun with AP classes, extracurriculars, sports, all while keeping in mind the end goal—college. Two […]

The Value of Your Vocabulary

Posted by: admin on August 19th, 2019

Congratulations! You’ve made it past middle school. For some of you, that means those pesky secondary school admissions tests are long behind you. You may also have even heard your older siblings or friends talk about the fact that there are no vocabulary questions on the SAT or ACT. Excellent! This certainly means you can […]

“I Don’t Get It”: 5 Things to Say When You Don’t Get Something in Class

Posted by: admin on August 12th, 2019

You’re in class, following along, taking notes, and then the teacher says something you don’t understand. All around you, your classmates are nodding their heads confidently. They all seem to be comprehending just fine.  What should you do? First, know that if you’re confused, then there are at least 4 or 5 other kids who […]

Grades, Scores, and the Winning Team: March Madness and Other College Admissions Factors

Posted by: admin on May 16th, 2019

It’s been a wild ride in the world of colleges this past year. Rich and powerful players have been laid low. Celebrated institutions have been in the spotlight. Those denied the chance they sought to move to the next level have wondered whether the entire system is rigged. We are talking, of course, about the […]

So, Can I Drop French?

Posted by: admin on March 31st, 2019

It’s course registration season, one of the most empowering moments during the early years of high school. Especially as you near the halfway mark, the end of your sophomore year, it is important to think strategically and reflectively as you make your choices. Often, the junior year course selection offers you more choices than in […]

Midterms: A Blessing in Disguise

Posted by: admin on March 19th, 2019

Are you one of the many students whose school no longer gives midterm exams? Or are you one of the lucky ones? You might think I’m kidding, but actually, I’m not. Many local public school districts and independent schools have abandoned the midterm exam in an attempt to lower the stress on their students. That’s […]

Your Winning Team

Posted by: admin on March 19th, 2019

Freshman year is full of new opportunities! High school courses, clubs, homework, sports, and your calendar are all central to your day. You are busy running from place to place and activity to activity. But wait! Stop! People?! Hmmm… classes suggest teachers, clubs mean friends, and sports usually involve teammates and coaches. So, your school […]

Brain Feeling Sluggish? Play in the Dirt.

Posted by: admin on March 19th, 2019

Yay, spring! Hey, juniors! How are you doing? I understand that this question from a college counselor can immediately prompt feelings of stress, strife, and perhaps a strong desire to run, scream, or just take a nap. You could go all consumer on us and order the t-shirt popular on Amazon, “Don’t Ask Me About […]