"Utilizing Winter Break for Optimal College Admissions Results"
"Utilizing Winter Break for Optimal College Admissions Results"
As we near the end of the second week of December 2023, many universities are announcing the early admissions results for the 2023-2024 academic year. Early results from top-tier or highly competitive universities are mostly disclosed in mid-December of the following week.
Some universities, however, are increasingly releasing early action or early decision results in mid-January or early February. In such cases, it becomes crucial to focus on preparing for regular decision.
Typically, based on the results announced in mid-December for early action or early decision, preparations for regular decision at top-tier universities are made in early January. However, if the early admissions results for your desired university are announced after early January, it is important to prioritize giving your best effort in preparing for regular decision rather than waiting for the early decision results.
Crafting Exceptional Regular Decision Applications for 12th Grade Students
In the event that a 12th-grade student does not achieve the desired results in early application processes such as EA/ED, or if they've been admitted to an EA college but aspire to apply to a more favorable institution through Regular Decision, it is essential for students to meticulously analyze their EA/ED outcomes and address any shortcomings.
Particularly, while many students recognize the significance of the Common App Essay, they often struggle to identify what makes an essay truly outstanding. Numerous students tend to write essays on common topics such as:
- Leadership experiences in sports, guiding teammates to victory.
- Overcoming challenges in music competitions or concerts through dedicated practice.
- Assisting less fortunate individuals during mission trips.
- Describing family bonds through a recipe, like a grandmother's kimchi recipe.
- Expressing a desire to break free from the sheltered life of affluent families to experience the genuine aspects of the world in college.
These essay topics are commonly used, failing to convey a student's unique characteristics and risking a disadvantage in the admissions process due to their ubiquity.
A strong essay reflects the student's individuality. To create an impactful essay, students should steer clear of clichéd topics and instead delve into subjects that authentically showcase their personal traits, such as adaptability, determination, and humility. Therefore, if a student's early application results are not favorable, revisiting and refining the essay is a valuable approach.
Navigating the Post-2021 Landscape of SAT/ACT Exams
Since 2021, SAT/ACT exams have largely returned to normalcy. Universities are aware that these exams are being conducted smoothly, and it is anticipated that students who submit SAT/ACT scores may have an advantage over those who do not in college admissions.
However, the upcoming ACT exam is scheduled for mid-February, following the one held last Saturday, while the next SAT exam, conducted digitally, is set for mid-March after the one on December 2. The extended gap between the December exam and the next one raises concerns about potential score declines for 11th-grade students who miss this testing opportunity.
Focused Preparation for SAT/ACT Success
Typically, students achieve their best test scores after intensive preparation. For instance, many students at Jay’s EDU consistently record their highest scores in the September ACT/SAT exams after an intensive 8-week summer camp.
Some students, having attained their peak scores, decide to self-study and discontinue formal courses. In such cases, students often struggle to allocate sufficient time for SAT/ACT preparation due to the demands of schoolwork during the fall semester and busy extracurricular schedules. Consequently, students may experience a decline of approximately 2-3 points in the December ACT or a drop of 100-200 points in the SAT.
Score decline occurs because SAT/ACT exams not only assess a student's knowledge but also their ability to manage time, interpret test questions, and apply technical skills. Therefore, maintaining a strategic approach to exam preparation remains crucial for sustained success.
Effectively Navigating Solo ACT/SAT Prep During Winter Break
When undertaking ACT/SAT preparation independently over the winter break, consistent daily study is paramount. If a student neglects test preparation for even a week, their ability to manage test time and comprehend questions may significantly diminish. Therefore, students gearing up for the February or March SAT/ACT exams should commit to daily, steady exam preparation.
Moreover, it's crucial not to focus solely on solving a large quantity of SAT/ACT problems. Instead, dedicate time to understanding why certain questions were answered incorrectly and actively study the types of mistakes made. Rigorous review and thorough revision of question types that were initially answered incorrectly are essential to avoid repeating the same mistakes and enhance overall performance.
Maximizing Winter Break Opportunities
Preparing for End-of-Term Exams Post-Winter Break: In some Chicago suburban school districts, students will face end-of-term exams after the winter break. It is crucial for students in these districts to consistently prepare for these exams throughout the winter break.
Engaging in Extracurricular Activities: Instead of halting studies when the semester ends, students should recognize the post-semester period as an optimal time to get ahead. Exploring online courses and learning opportunities tailored for high school students is essential. Many institutions offer a variety of activities, so students should select courses aligned with their interests, desired college major, and academic goals. Numerous universities provide online courses accessible to the general public, offering subjects like computer coding, graphic design, literature, arts, and history. Completing these courses not only enhances knowledge but also grants certificates of completion.
Individual Projects: Despite the brief duration of a two-week winter break, students can use this time to initiate personal projects conceived during the semester. For instance, creating a website to sell items or launching an online store for artwork, sculptures, or hobby-related goods is feasible. Various web hosting platforms provide templates for easy website creation, allowing students to start a business with minimal experience and capital.
Moreover, students with research topics or ideas can embark on individual projects during the break. Some universities offer opportunities for students to collaborate with professors on research, providing a valuable chance to explore and expand on personal interests.
If students have business ideas or specific research topics in mind, exploring online opportunities is crucial. Jay’s EDU's Info page provides guidance on numerous activities for current students.
Contact Information:
Jay’s EDU
Northbrook & eLearning
Website: www.jaysedu.com
Phone: 224.213.7620
