College Applications -- Beyond Grades and SAT Prep

Parents spend a lot of money -- and their kids a lot of time peparing for college applications.   From  SAT Test Prep to tutoring in math, reading, writing as well as special subjects -- history, chemistry, physics etc, it's a marathon that doesn't end until the official letters come back from the colleges.

Often overlooked are non-academic areas on which a student's candidacy is judged.  Sure --  sports, music, theater any many other extra-curricular activities look good on college applications.  Beyond that however, are things, such as community service, that can really shine on a light on an applicant's character. 

Many high schools have implemented community service programs as part of their curriculum.  Kids can and should do more than what is required by the schools. And they should start early, by finding something meaningful that can commit to --  from the heart. Demonstrating a long-term commitment makes that accomplishment on the college application genuine, and could be a real differentiator.

Parents should encourage their kids to get involved -  early and often.  A well rounded college application is one that shows shows good grades, high SAT and ACT scores, extra-curricular activities and a true committment to community service.

There is no shortage of volunteer opporunties.  As part of our High School and SAT Tutoring programs, we work with organizations in NJ to identify opportunties for students to get involved.  To find out more, call us at 973-593-0050.