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4 Free Resources to Prep Students for the New Digital SAT Debuting March 9

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On Saturday, March 9, 2024, the SAT is going digital for American test-takers the first time in almost 100 years! Two million students take the SAT every year, and the transition from a paper-based to digital format marks a huge change to the college entrance exam. 

The new 2024 Digital SAT will be unlike any previous paper-based SAT exam. Here are a few of the key differences: 

(1) Digital Platform 

The Digital SAT will be administered on the College Board’s Bluebook app. This is a testing platform that will allow students to take the Digital SAT online. However, students will not take the SAT at home. Instead, parents still need to sign up their child for a test date to take the Digital SAT at an approved testing center just as they did for the old, paper-based SAT. Students will have the option to take the Digital SAT on their own laptop or use a device from the testing center. 

(2) Adaptive Testing 

The Digital SAT is adaptive. However, the Digital SAT is not like many adaptive standardized tests such as the GMAT or the GRE that get harder or easier based on your answer to the previous question. Instead, the Digital SAT adapts module by module, not question by question. This means the second module’s difficulty level is based on your performance in the first module. If you perform well in the first module (on either SAT Reading and Writing or SAT Math), the second module related to that subject will present more difficult questions. This will give you the opportunity to attain a higher score overall. Conversely, if you perform poorly in the first module (on either SAT Reading and Writing or SAT Math), the second module related to that subject will present less difficult questions. This will limit your opportunity to achieve a higher score overall. 

(3) New Question Types 

There are many new question types on the Digital SAT that were not on the previous paper-based SAT exam. These include the following: 

  • The SAT Writing section now includes “Rhetorical Synthesis” questions that measure a student’s ability to selectively extract information from bullet point notes to achieve a writing goal. 
  • The SAT Reading section now includes “Command of Evidence” questions that measure a student’s ability to use both written and numerical data to draw conclusions.
  • The SAT Math section now includes “Probability and conditional probability” questions that had previously been removed on the paper-based SAT. 

Shaan Patel is the Founder and CEO of Prep Expert.

To get ready for the Digital SAT, here are 4 free resources you can use to prepare: 

(1) College Board Bluebook App 

Download the College Board’s testing app at https://bluebook.collegeboard.org. This application contains multiple full-length College Board practice SAT exams that contain official test questions. 

(2) Khan Academy’s Website 

Visit the Khan Academy’s official website at https://khanacademy.org. Navigate to the section of the website that is dedicated to “Digital SAT.” Here you will find College Board SAT questions that you potentially have not seen before. 

(3) College Board’s Website 

Visit the College Board’s official website: https://www.collegeboard.org/. Navigate to the section of the website that is dedicated to “Digital SAT Practice and Preparation.” Here you will find College Board SAT questions that you potentially have not seen before. 

(4) Prep Expert’s Digital SAT Book Launch Event 

Attend my Digital SAT Book Launch online webinar at https://prepexpert.com/booklaunch. I am hosting an online book launch event on Sunday, March 3 to release my new book Prep Expert Digital SAT Playbook. The webinar is free to attend and I will share test prep tips for parents and students on how to ace the new Digital SAT! At this online book launch webinar event, you will learn the most powerful tools to maximize scores on the new Digital SAT. In addition, attendees will also receive free bonus chapters, masterclasses, cheat sheets, practice tests, and more. If you are a high school student or the parent of a high school student, you won’t want to miss this online Digital SAT book launch event! Register free here. 

Good luck on the new Digital SAT!

Boston University offers 3 summer journalism programs to high school students

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High school students interested in pursuing a career in journalism, writing, communications, or photography, may want to research and apply to the Boston University Summer Journalism Academy, hosted by Boston University College of Communication.

According to Ermolande Jean-Simon, Student Programs Manager Boston University Summer Journalism Academy, for fourteen years, BU’s summer program has educated high school students about critical skills in news reporting, interviewing, and writing through courses taught by award-winning working journalists, including Pulitzer Prize winners Lara Salahi and Rochelle Sharpe. Students interested in visual storytelling also have the opportunity to learn from veteran photojournalist Stephen Haines of The Boston Globe.

Regardless of which program students choose, BU’s summer program challenges high school students to step outside their comfort zone and experience life as a working journalist through one of three course pathways:

  1. an on-campus residential program from June 24 to July 12, 2024 (for students with some journalism experience);
  2. an on-campus photojournalism program from June 24 to July 12, 2024 (for students interested in visual storytelling); or
  3. a two-week learn-from-home program for high school students at all experience levels, starting June 17, July 1, and July 15.

Applications for the on-campus session are due on April 19. Applications for learn-at-home sessions starting June 17, July 1, and July 15 are due on May 10. Students who apply, are accepted, and fully registered by March 8 can save $400 off the full fee for the on-campus academy or $200 off the full fee of the learn-from-home academy.

There are limited need-based scholarships and financial aid available to students; students should email BU for more information. For more information about the Summer Journalism Academy, visit www.summerjournalism.org.

ACT Mastery Begins with a Schedule: The Importance of Structured Studying

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Having served on the admissions committee at Columbia University, I’ve had the honor of witnessing students begin their journeys into higher education. One essential aspect of college admissions is the role of standardized tests like the ACT. These tests serve as important benchmarks for evaluating a student’s academic potential.

I can’t stress enough the role that a well-structured study schedule plays in achieving mastery over the ACT, which is a test that can greatly impact your future, including your dream college acceptance.

Understanding the ACT

Before we delve into the details of creating your study schedule, let’s grasp the basics of the ACT. This test consists of different sections, each assessing various aspects of your knowledge and skills.

On the ACT, you’ll encounter four main sections: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science, along with an optional Writing section. In terms of scoring, it’s rated on a scale from 1 to 36, with your composite score being the average of your section scores.

The Benefits of a Structured Study Schedule

Why is a structured study schedule crucial for ACT preparation? Well, let’s consider the analogy of building a house. Just as a house requires a solid foundation to stand tall, your ACT preparation needs a structured schedule to lay the groundwork for success.

  • Effective Time Management: A structured schedule allows you to allocate your study time efficiently. It ensures that you dedicate sufficient time to each section of the ACT, addressing your strengths and weaknesses comprehensively.
  • Consistent Study Habits: Consistency is key to mastering any skill, and ACT preparation is no exception. A well-structured schedule instills discipline and fosters regular study habits, preventing last-minute cramming.
  • Reduced Stress and Increased Motivation: Knowing what to study and when to study reduces anxiety and boosts motivation. When you have a plan in place, you are more likely to stay focused and motivated throughout your ACT preparation journey.

Assessing Your Starting Point

Before crafting your personalized study plan, it’s essential to assess your starting point. Take a practice ACT test under timed conditions to determine your initial scores. This assessment serves as a crucial benchmark and helps you set realistic improvement goals.

Crafting Your Personalized ACT Study Plan

  • Time Allocation: To create an effective study plan, allocate your time wisely among the various ACT sections. For instance, if you struggle with mathematics but excel in English, allocate more time to math practice. Tailor your schedule to address your unique needs.
  • Incorporating Review and Practice Tests: Regular review sessions and full-length practice tests are essential components of your study plan. Reviewing previously learned material and taking practice tests simulate real testing conditions, allowing you to gauge your progress accurately.
  • Balancing ACT Prep with Other Responsibilities: Many students juggle ACT preparation with schoolwork and extracurricular activities. It’s essential to strike a balance. Consider creating a weekly calendar that accounts for your commitments, ensuring that ACT preparation integrates seamlessly into your routine.
  • Adjusting Your Study Plan: Flexibility is key in ACT preparation. As you progress, periodically assess your study plan’s effectiveness. If certain strategies prove less fruitful, don’t hesitate to adapt and refine your plan to optimize your results continually.

Essential Study Techniques and Resources

In addition to a well-structured schedule, effective study techniques and resources play a vital role in ACT mastery. Consider utilizing online courses and study guides or even seeking tutoring if necessary. Variety in study materials caters to different learning styles, ensuring a holistic and personalized approach to your preparation.

Conclusion

In summary, ACT mastery begins with a structured study schedule. By adhering to a well-crafted plan, you can efficiently manage your time, develop consistent study habits, and reduce stress. Remember that success in ACT preparation is not solely about the number of hours you invest but how effectively you utilize that time.

As you embark on your journey toward ACT excellence, take a proactive and planned approach. Your structured study schedule will serve as the roadmap to your success, paving the way for admission to the college or university of your dreams. So, embrace the challenge, stay dedicated, and know that you’ve got this!

High School Students Interested in Entrepreneurship Should Consider Babson Summer Study

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Babson College, which is located just thirty minutes from downtown Boston, Massachusetts, is an increasingly popular choice for high school students seeking to study entrepreneurship during their undergraduate careers. And what better way to get a taste of what a Babson undergraduate experience could be like than by taking part in a Babson summer pre-college program exclusively for high school students?

High-achieving high school students interested in engaging in an immersive multi-week experiential online summer program during which they are able to discover what it means to be an entrepreneur should certainly consider Online Babson Summer Study, which takes place from July 8 through July 29, 2024. The program helps high school students cultivate core career skills and a sharp entrepreneurial mindset for overcoming challenges in any setting and in any role while earning four college credits from Babson, which is often ranked as offering one of America’s best undergraduate programs for entrepreneurship.

According to Beth Goldstein, the Senior Director of Babson’s Youth Impact Lab, Babson Summer Study is specifically designed for rising high school juniors and seniors (current tenth and eleventh grade students) who want to participate in interactive online sessions with Babson faculty, world renown entrepreneurship experts, and Babson students while designing a social impact solution with peers from around the world. They will also learn how to apply Babson’s Entrepreneurial Thought & Action® framework for solving problems, and develop the leadership competencies needed to address real-world problems.

Additionally, through Summer Study, rising high school juniors and seniors learn how to assess their abilities and passions to determine which ones they want to strengthen, learn about the U.N. Global Goals and how they connect to challenges in their own communities, and develop prototypes, deliver a Rocket Pitch, and evaluate the feasibility of their team’s social impact solution.

Goldstein encourages prospective students and their families to participate in one of three virtual information sessions taking place over the coming weeks:

  • Wednesday, January 17, 2024, 7:00 PM Eastern Time
  • Tuesday, January 23, 2024, 9:00 AM Eastern Time
  • Monday, February 5, 2024, 8:00 AM Eastern Time

To learn more about the Online Babson Summer Study experience and to register for an information session, visit babson.edu/high-school-programs. The early bird application deadline is February 15, 2024 and the standard application deadline is March 15, 2024.

Elon’s On-Campus Summer Pre-College Journalism Program is Completely Free

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Not all summer pre-college programs for high school students cost a pretty penny. In fact, one such program for aspiring journalists is completely free and takes place on one of America’s most beautiful college campuses!

While year three of the virtual component of the Emerging Journalists Program at Elon University starts tonight – January 16 – in the dead of winter, there is still time for current high school juniors (11th graders) to apply for Elon’s free, fun, and immersive summer journalism experience, which takes place on Elon’s campus from June 17 through 28, 2024.

According to Colin Donohue, Elon’s Emerging Journalists Program (EJP) Director, the on-campus and immersive summer residential learning workshop component of the EJP is open to rising seniors from diverse socio-economic, racial, and ethnic backgrounds and is completely free thanks to a generous grant from the Scripps Howard Fund.

Elon University is a private university in Elon, North Carolina, which is a half an hour from Greensboro and an hour from North Carolina’s capital, Raleigh. Last year’s summer EJP cohort produced a newspaper, a forty-minute newscast, and a website. Here’s a video snapshot of what last year’s participants did while on Elon’s campus. Students who complete the summer immersion program are also assigned two mentors — an Elon communications student and a professional journalist — to help identify, report, and produce multimedia stories during their senior years of high school.

If you think the Emerging Journalists Program would be an exciting opportunity for you or your student, learn more and apply at www.elon.edu/ejp. Application review will begin soon and priority will be given to applications submitted before March 1.

55,000 applied to Purdue Early Action; 97% of those admitted submitted test scores

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Cary Quadrangle at Purdue University with an animated Boilermaker on the roof.

Purdue University will release its Early Action (EA) decisions to first-year applicants through each EA applicant’s Purdue Application Portal starting at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Friday, January 12. This includes decisions for its long-standing campus in West Lafayette, Indiana and its new campus in Indianapolis, Indiana’s state capital.

After several years of record-breaking enrollment, Purdue saw another uptick in applications received by November 1, 2023. Purdue received more than 55,000 applications by its November 1 Early Action deadline, which represents an increase of 3,000 applicants from the 2022-2023 admissions cycle.

With Purdue’s “test expected” approach to first-year admission, 44,000 Early Action applicants applied with a test score, and 97.2% of the students offered admission through Early Action submitted test scores.

The middle 50% SAT scores for accepted students for Fall 2023 who submitted SAT scores was 1210 – 1450 while the middle 50% of ACT scores for accepted students for Fall 2023 who submitted test scores was 27 – 34, though there was great variation between schools and majors. For instance, Purdue’s competitive Computer Science major had an acceptance rate of just 29.5% for Fall 2023 and the middle 50% of test scores of accepted Computer Science students was 1490 – 1560 on the SAT and 33 – 35 on the ACT. Yet, Purdue’s College of Education had a 74.5% acceptance rate and the middle 50% of test scores of accepted College of Education students was 1070 – 1260 on the SAT and 23.5 – 29 on the ACT. More Class of 2027 admissions data can be found on Purdue’s website.

Students who have not yet applied to Purdue but who want a chance to become part of Purdue’s Class of 2028 have until Purdue’s Regular Decision deadline of January 15 to apply.

As part of Purdue’s effort to avoid over-enrolling students, Purdue is also relying more heavily on deferred decisions for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle; therefore, EA applicants should not be surprised to get a deferral on January 12. Defer is not a deny decision but a method of allowing Purdue to assess space and availability before making a final decision through its Regular Decision review process. Deferred applicants are encouraged to complete a Letter of Continued Interest form in their Purdue Application Portal.

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If you – or someone you know – has been deferred from Purdue, in the video below I share expert tips on how to craft the most compelling Letter of Continued Interest possible to increase your chances of getting in Regular Decision. Good luck!

Colorado College’s unique pre-college program for high school students now accepting applications

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Will you be a rising eleventh or twelfth grade student in Summer 2024 and are you interested in the Block Plan at Colorado College? If so, then through a unique pre-college program, this upcoming summer is the ideal time for you to try Colorado College’s distinctive Block Plan, which is the hallmark of its undergraduate experience.

What is the Block Plan? In short, the Block Plan at Colorado College, which is in Colorado Springs, Colorado, allows students to study what they want, how they want, in ways that they simply cannot at any other undergraduate institution. Each course a student takes at Colorado College lasts three and a half weeks and during those three and a half weeks the student is taking that course and no others. One block is equivalent to one class on a semester plan. A class typically meets from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with additional class sessions for studio, labs, discussions, field trips in the afternoons. Professors have the flexibility to schedule classes in format and timing for optimal learning. Undergraduates typically take four blocks per semester and eight blocks per academic year, plus optional Half Block in the winter and Summer Session during the summer.

Why should all this matter to current high school students? Colorado College’s Pre-College Block (July 8 through 24, 2024) includes an array of academic courses, all taught by Colorado College professors and for college credit, which allows high school students entering grades 11 and 12 in Fall 2024 to get a sense of whether or not Colorado College and its Block Plan would be attractive to them for their full undergraduate experiences. Summer courses are available in areas as diverse as Introduction to Human Anatomy, Entrepreneurship & Business Management, and Introductory Astronomy: Your Place in the Universe.

Colorado College’s summer 2024 Pre-College application is open now, and need-based scholarships are available until March 1, 2024.

More Applying, Fewer Getting Accepted to Tulane Early Decision

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Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana will release its Early Decision I (EDI) decisions tomorrow, December 5, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time.

Those about to receive decisions – and those who follow this type of thing – should know that Tulane experienced a 20 percent increase in Early Decision applicants this admissions cycle while reducing the number of Early Decision I acceptances for the second year in a row in order to provide more opportunities for students unable or unwilling to make a binding commitment to Tulane, “particularly those from first generation or low/middle income backgrounds,” according to Tulane’s admissions office.

The vast majority of EDI applicants will receive one of three decisions: an acceptance, a denial, or a nonbinding offer to join Tulane’s cohort of Spring Scholars. Spring Scholars do not have to tell Tulane of their decision until May 1, 2024.

Meanwhile, Tulane also received 30 percent more Early Action applications this year than it did last year. Early Action applicants will get their admissions decisions by January 10, 2024 at the latest.

UMass Amherst receives record 30,000+ Early Action applications

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University of Massachusetts Amherst is gearing up to release all of its Early Action (EA) admission decisions on the evening of Wednesday, January 24 during an admissions cycle in which the public university had over 30,000 students apply through Early Action, a new record. Just last year, UMass received 28,461 EA applications, while as recently as the 2018-2019 admissions cycle UMass Amherst only received a relatively paltry 20,440 EA applications.

In the past, UMass Amherst has released EA decisions in waves. This year, all EA applicants will receive their decisions on the same date (January 24). EA applicants will receive an email letting them know when an admissions decision has been posted. At that point, applicants will be instructed to log into their UMass Amherst admissions portal to check their posted admission decision on the “Student Status” page.

EA applicants will receive one of three decisions: Admit, Waitlist, or Deny; UMass Amherst does not defer any EA applicants to its Regular Decision pool.

According to UMass Amherst admissions, and based on EA application volume, it’s likely that majors within the Manning College of Information & Computer Sciences, the Isenberg School of Management, and the Marieb College of Nursing will be the most competitive for admission this year.

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Did you do all you could have done in order to give yourself the best shot of getting into UMass Amherst? Watch my previous video, “How to get into UMass Amherst,” below.

6 Lesser-Known Healthcare Careers to Consider

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The healthcare field is a vast and ever-evolving landscape, offering a multitude of career paths to suit diverse interests and skill sets. Many favor prominent nursing, medicine, and pharmacy roles, but numerous lesser-known healthcare careers promise unique rewards and growth. These hidden paths offer fulfilling alternatives and hold substantial personal and professional development potential.

These underexplored paths offer significant opportunities, showcasing diverse skills and interests for meaningful impact on communities. They uncover a wide spectrum of talents that can truly make a difference in the lives of patients and families.

Here, we will discuss six lesser-known healthcare careers that deserve your consideration.

Medical Illustrator

These professionals are the visual communicators of the medical field. They transform complex medical concepts into clear and understandable illustrations. With a fusion of artistry and scientific understanding, they craft precise visuals vital for education, research, and enhancing patient care.

Medical illustrators collaborate closely with medical professionals, scientists, and educators to create illustrations that meet specific needs. Medical illustrators use traditional and digital media to create intricate anatomical drawings, surgical diagrams, and patient education materials with precision.

Medical illustrators play a crucial role in creating detailed visuals in textbooks and 3D animations to disseminate complex medical knowledge effectively.

Medical illustration offers a diverse and rewarding career path. Earnings in medical illustration vary based on experience, education, and location, with median salaries reaching $83,500 and potential highs of $170,000 in the U.S. According to the Association of Medical Illustrators, individual factors and the nature of the work significantly influence compensation.

The versatile range reflects the value placed on the skills and expertise of these professionals in the medical field.

Speech and Language Pathologist

These professionals are pivotal in assisting individuals facing challenges in verbal communication, voice, fluency, and language development. These professionals work with diverse populations, ranging from children with developmental disorders to adults recovering from strokes.

Through targeted interventions, therapists help clients enhance their communication skills, fostering improved social interaction and overall quality of life.

Ithaca College notes that Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) are licensed to treat clients of all ages, addressing communication and swallowing challenges. In adults, issues may result from injury, illness, or conditions originating in childhood, like cerebral palsy. SLPs work across diverse settings, from the NICU to high school, addressing developmental and acquired speech-language problems.

In recent years, speech pathology has witnessed a notable shift towards online education. Aspiring speech and language therapists can now pursue accredited online degrees in speech pathology, providing flexibility for individuals with various commitments. Programs incorporate theory, hands-on experience, and clinical placements, providing students with essential skills and flexibility for their schedules.

Online degrees in speech pathology have become a valuable avenue for those seeking a career in this rewarding field. It breaks down geographical barriers, making education more accessible to a broader audience.

Genetic Counselor

Genetic counselors are essential guides in genetics, offering personalized support and guidance to individuals and families. Serving as empathetic educators and compassionate counselors, they interpret genetic information expertly. It empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and family planning in the face of inherited disorders.

These professionals delve into the intricacies of family medical histories, meticulously analyzing patterns of inherited traits and potential genetic risks. Genetic counselors use medical genetics expertise to assess the risk of specific disorders like cystic fibrosis, Huntington’s disease, or certain cancers.

Genetic counselors extend beyond medical information, offering emotional support for coping with the psycho-social impact of genetic details. They create a safe space for expressing fears and uncertainties, guiding ethical dilemmas. In the face of genetic challenges, genetic counselors foster resilience.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a 16% increase in genetic counselor employment from 2022 to 2032, indicating rising demand. This growth is attributed to advances in genetic testing, increasing awareness of genetic disorders, and the growing demand for genetic counseling services.

Genetic Counselors’ growing role mirrors a shift to personalized medicine, emphasizing understanding genetic makeup for tailored interventions and optimized patient care.

Music Therapist

According to Everyday Health, numerous studies affirm music’s effectiveness in pain reduction. This decreased sensitivity, or hypoalgesia, occurs when pain stimuli and conscious recognition are disrupted.

The observed effects typically range from a 10 to 20% reduction, similar to anti-inflammatory drugs, albeit through a different mechanism. While the working mechanism varies, the impact of music on pain appears comparable in magnitude.

Music, a universal language that transcends boundaries and speaks to the soul, holds immense therapeutic power. Music therapists, the embodiment of this healing power, wield music to promote physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being. Through carefully crafted musical interventions, they help individuals of all ages and backgrounds address various challenges.

Music therapists exhibit versatility in various healthcare domains. They contribute to physical rehabilitation by enhancing motor skills and coordination. In mental health, music therapy proves effective for conditions like anxiety and depression, serving as an expressive outlet.

Also, they play a role in addressing cognitive impairments, speech disorders, and pain management, showcasing the broad applications of music in the field.

Health Informatics Specialist

In today’s data-driven environment, health informatics specialists are crucial in bridging the gap between technology and patient care. They are architects of healthcare information systems, guaranteeing accurate data collection and analysis. They enhance patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency.

Health informatics specialists possess a unique blend of technical expertise and clinical understanding. They are well-versed in various information systems, including electronic health records (EHRs), clinical decision support systems (CDSS), and telemedicine platforms.

They leverage medical knowledge to translate complex clinical data, informing treatment decisions and enhancing patient safety. Their expertise optimizes resource allocation in related systems.

Art Therapist

Art therapy is a unique healing approach, harnessing art’s expressive power for physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being. Art therapists compassionately guide individuals in using art for self-discovery and emotional regulation. This transformative process fosters personal growth across diverse ages and backgrounds.

Art therapists emphasize art’s inherent healing potential, bridging verbal barriers and fostering deep emotional connections. Therapists use diverse art forms to create a safe space for individuals to explore their inner world, express emotions, and gain self-understanding. The therapeutic process unfolds through painting, drawing, sculpting, music, and dance.

Art therapy has proven effective in addressing a diverse range of challenges. It is an evolving field in the healthcare sector. According to Zippia, more than 4,273 art therapists are currently actively employed across the United States. Data indicates potential career growth in art therapy as awareness of its benefits increases, making it a suitable field to explore.

Embracing Diversity in Healthcare Careers: A Tapestry of Opportunities

Exploring healthcare careers reveals six impactful, lesser-known professions integral to a holistic and evolving medical system’s foundation. These diverse careers contribute to individual well-being and reflect healthcare’s dynamic nature, adapting to technological advancements and societal needs. The field continuously evolves with an expanding understanding of wellness.

Embrace lesser-known careers with exploration, curiosity, and recognition that the future lies in those venturing into uncharted territories. Forge paths for a healthier and more inclusive tomorrow.