New Identification Procedures for the SAT and ACT
May 1, 2012
We’re sure that most of you have heard about the big SAT cheating scandal on Long Island, where students paid someone to take their SAT tests for them. In some cases, the student sitting for the test was male, but the person he was taking the test for was female! Needless to say, when this was discovered, both the SAT and ACT had to take a long, hard look at their policies for admission to testing sites. This post outlines what you now need to bring with you when you sit for either the SAT or ACT. (For more information about the cheating scandal, click here.)
Be on the look-out, however, as new procedures are slated to be enacted in the fall. These new procedures are expected to require that a photograph be sent in when you register for the test, which image must match your identification produced at the testing site. (Click here for more info.)
SAT
For those taking the SAT, you must bring your Admission Ticket, at least two number 2 pencils and a soft eraser, an approved calculator and approved photo identification. In addition, you may also want to bring a watch (without audible alarm), back-up batteries, a backpack and drinks or snacks (for the breaks). On the other hand, do not bring scratch paper, books, study guides, your cell phone or MP3 player (or other electronic devices), highlighters, alarms, compass/ruler, etc. or a digital camera or other recording device.
With respect to the new Identification Policy, you must bring a photo ID that is issued either by a governmental organization or your current school, be original, valid and current. The ID must have your full name exactly as it appears on your admission ticket, your photo and be in good condition. For example, you may bring your Driver’s License or non-driver ID card, your school student ID card or your passport. Forms of ID that are NOT acceptable are photocopies, expired, non-photo, credit card, birth certificate or social security card. For more information, click here.)
ACT
For the ACT, the Identification procedures require that you bring a current/valid official photo id, or letter of identification issued by your school, a high school transcript with photo issued by your school or a notarized statement with your photo. You cannot use your ACT admission ticket, birth certificate, credit/debit cards, employee ID card, social security card or web page with a photo, among other things. For much a more detailed list of what forms of identification are acceptable for the ACT, click here.)
New Year’s Resolutions for High School Juniors
January 10, 2012
It’s 2012 – have you made your New Year’s Resolutions yet? In this series of posts, we’re offering some resolutions for students in each year of high school. Feel free to adopt one or two!
Junior year in high school is when college applications start to creep into your life. Well-organized students will take advantage of this year to get the college entrance exams out of the way and work on applications. Here are some New Year’s Resolutions for high school Juniors to consider:
- Take the SAT and/or ACT. We recommend that Juniors take each of the SAT and ACT once, and then re-take the one exam in which they scored higher. For example, you can take the SAT in March, ACT in April, and then retake whichever one you prefer again in either May or June. Don’t waste time or money, though. Make sure you register by the regular registration deadline, thereby avoiding late fees. And, prepare for each exam either with private tutoring, online, in-school or simply buy a study guide. There’s no reason for you to waste a morning taking an exam “blind” – be prepared and be successful!
- Create your college list and visit the campuses. Now is the time for you to refine your college list. Using your grades and GPA, plus an estimate of your SAT or ACT scores, start narrowing down the 4000+ institutions into a more manageable list. If possible, set up appointments for you to visit the campuses during your spring break. Keep notes for every campus so that you don’t get confused (it happens!). Check out this podcast for additional pointers for creating a college list. And if you feel you need more help than your guidance counselor is able to offer, don’t be afraid to reach out to independent college counselors.
- Get to know your guidance counselor and teachers with an eye toward recommendations. Your guidance counselor will be writing one of your letters of recommendation for your college applications, so if you don’t know him or her yet, now is the time to do so. Also, your other letters of recommendation will come from your teachers, so start thinking about whom you would like to ask. Work on your Academic Resume so that when the time comes at the beginning of the next school year, you’ll be able to hand them some information about yourself. For information about this type of resume, listen to our podcast.
- Work on your college applications over the summer. Once the summer starts, you should take advantage of the time without papers and tests to get your college applications in order. You’ll need to refine your college list to the 8-12 schools to which you’ll apply, and see if they participate in the Common Application. Work on your personal statement, or college application essay, early. The Common App has a 500 word maximum, and believe it or not, it takes quite a long time to write an effective essay under such restrictions! The Common App goes online in the beginning of August, but they post a preview of the application before the end of the school year, so check it out. Your goal should be to have all of your college applications DONE, with the exception of your recommendations and information needed from your guidance counselor, by the beginning of your Senior year.
To read our New Year’s Resolutions for high school freshmen, click here. For Resolutions for high school sophomores, click here. All you High School juniors, what are your resolutions? How are you doing with them? We’d love to hear from you! Stay tuned for more suggested New Year’s Resolutions for high school seniors!
New Year’s Resolutions for High School Sophomores
January 9, 2012
It’s 2012 – have you made your New Year’s Resolutions yet? In this series of posts, we’re offering some resolutions for students in each year of high school. Feel free to adopt one or two!
Sophomore year in high school is a great time! You don’t have to worry about taking college entrance exams just yet, or any of the other “college-type stuff,” so you can enjoy the year! Here are some New Year’s Resolutions for high school Sophomores to consider:
- Keep up your grades, and take SAT 2s. Grades and class ranks are important to college admissions officers, so make sure to keep studying and doing well in your classes. Also, keep an eye out for any SAT 2s that you might want to take (for more info about the SAT 2s, listen to this podcast).
- Get to know your guidance counselor. Your guidance counselor will be writing one of your letters of recommendation for your college applications, so now is the time to get to know him or her. Ask about summer internships that may be available from your high school. And make sure to attend any college application seminars that may be offered.
- Study for the PSAT over the summer. More than likely, you have already taken the PSAT a couple of months ago. You will be taking it again next October, when your scores will count toward the National Merit Scholarship. So, take advantage of the summer before your Junior year to start studying – either on your own with a PSAT study guide or with a tutor. And this prep time can be applied to the SAT test which you will be taking next year, so it’s time well spent!
- Start thinking about colleges that interest you, and visit them over the summer. Even though you haven’t taken your SAT or ACT yet, you can start researching colleges that have the major you are interested in. Start by compiling a list of school that pique your fancy, and then take some time over the summer to go visit the campuses. You’ll have a leg up on the junior year spring break college visiting frenzy!
To read our New Year’s Resolutions for high school freshmen, click here. High school sophomores, what are your resolutions? How are you doing with them? We’d love to hear from you! Stay tuned for more suggested New Year’s Resolutions for high school upperclassmen!
5 Tips to Get High School Juniors Ready For College
November 30, 2011
Even though you are not yet through the first half of your junior year in high school, college will be here before you know it! Ask your Senior friends who already have, or are finishing, applying to schools at this very moment. Bet they can’t believe they only have a few months left in high school!
NOW is the time to take stock and start preparing for college. As a Junior, here are 5 tips to help pave the way for your college application process:
(1) Take your SAT, SAT 2’s and/or ACT tests. Plan to have all of these tests completed by the end of this year. Start your prep course (online, in-person, or simply by yourself) this month, or no later than January. This way, you will have ample time to take your first SAT or ACT in the spring, and retake your better test (i.e., the one you scored higher on) in May or June. Your goal is not to have to spend any time in your Senior year taking these tests, as waiting for your results will only slow you down. For more information about the difference between the ACT and SAT, check out our podcast; for even more info about all of the tests, listen to this podcast; and for help comparing your SAT and ACT scores, read this post.
(2) Start working on your college list. In order to develop a college list, you will need to know your GPA, class rank, SAT/ACT scores, your academic interests, the geographic location you want, and so much more. Even if you don’t have all this information at your fingertips right now, you can create a list of colleges that offer majors you are interested in, in locations of interest. Take the time now to start exploring college websites. Write down the colleges that interest you, and make arrangements to visit the campuses (if possible). Many families will high school Juniors will set aside Spring Break to tour the various schools of interest. In this competitive environment, it is more important than ever to take the time to visit campuses, so start planning now. For great info about how to create a college list, listen to our podcast.
(3) Keep your grades up. With college on your mind, now is the time to shine academically in high school. If your grades haven’t been stellar to date, apply yourself now and then write your personal statement about how you realized school is important and you rededicated yourself to your studies! Your goal is to put your best foot forward and show college admissions officers that you have what it takes to do well at their school. Also, all college applications require letters of recommendation, and doing well in a class is a sure way to be noticed by your teachers – who will remember you when they write your stellar recommendation letter!
(4) Make sure you are involved. One thing that college admissions officers love to see are extracurricular activities. Not a lot of them, just a few to which you are deeply committed. They don’t have to be offered by your high school either, as volunteer work or activities outside your school also are viewed very favorably. What isn’t smiled upon as much? Activities that all of a start in your senior year, as they obviously are being joined for application purposes! So, participate now and reap the benefits! For more tips about activities to join, listen to our podcast.
(5) Create an academic resume. In addition to your application, personal statement and other documents required for college admissions, we strongly urge our college counseling students to prepare an academic resume. This is like an employment resume, but lists your achievements in high school (or even prior). Time to toot your own horn! This document also will be handy to provide to your guidance counselor and teachers who will be providing you with letters of recommendation. To learn more about creating an academic resume, listen to our podcast.
What do you think about these tips? Have any others you’d like to share? We’d love to hear from you!
What the Pre-Halloween Blizzard Taught Us
November 8, 2011
Here in West Orange, New Jersey, we are shocked to see a snowflake fall before Thanksgiving. Any accumulating snow before Christmas is considered highly implausible. After all, this is New Jersey – home of the Jersey Shore – and not Maine or Colorado!
Too bad no one told Mother Nature. On October 29, 2011, the Saturday before Halloween, we were clobbered with at least 8 inches of heavy, wet snow. Mind you, the week before, it was nearly 70 degrees outside, and the trees were just starting to turn. This
Photo courtesy of Robert Allen
“perfect storm” set the stage for an unprecedented Nor’easter in our “neck of the woods” (as Al Roker likes to say).
In West Orange and surrounding communities, thousands were without power for days. Trees and tree limbs lined all of the streets, and even went through some roofs and cars. Schools were closed through Wednesday. Even Trick-or-Treat night was rescheduled!
Thankfully, while people were displaced, discomforted and/or delayed, no one was hurt here (that I’m aware of). Residents relocated to area hotels with generators to keep warm, moved food from their refrigerators to neighbors’ with power, and relied on area Wi-Fi hotspots to connect to the internet.
Now that we are getting back to normal finally, what did we learn about this highly unanticipated and unwelcome snowfall in October? Mind you, this all occurred right before the Early Action/Early Decision deadlines for most colleges! Here is some of what we learned:
- Give yourself some time with the deadlines. Try to be finished at least 1 week ahead – after all, you never know when a freak snowstorm will hit!
- Be organized. In case you need to leave your home in a hurry, or just need to pack up to go to the library, it’s always easier to have all of your materials in one designated place. If you’re preparing for the SAT or ACT, keep your registration ticket, pencils, calculator and study guides in one pile. Creating your college list? Another pile!
- Have back-ups! Your personal essay should be on at least two different computers, or the cloud. If something should happen to your laptop, like your little sister spilling water on it, you don’t want to lose all of your hard work.
- Be flexible. If a natural disaster happens, realize that it’s most important to make sure your family is safe. As soon as you are able, contact the “powers that be” to see if anything can be rescheduled. For example, last spring when New Jersey was suffering with flooding, the ACT was postponed for a couple of weeks. Remember, if Mother Nature has impacted your ability to travel, many others are probably in the same boat and accommodations may be made.
What other tricks have you used to handle bad weather? We’d love to hear from you!
SAT and ACT Scores – Comparing Apples to Apples
October 10, 2011
At Top-Tier Tutoring, we always tell our new standardized test prep clients that they should take both the SAT and ACT once, and then retake the one on which they scored better. They study primarily for the SAT, take it, study for the ACT and then take that exam. Then they get their scores for both and ask us to interpret them – how to tell which one they did better on other than their gut feelings about which test they preferred.
At first glance, this seems to be a tricky proposition. The SAT is based on a 2400 point scale, with 800 being the perfect score in each of the 3 sections (math, critical reading, writing). The ACT, on the other hand, gives a composite score based on a 36 point scale, with 36 being the perfect score in each of the 5 sections (English, math, reading, science, writing). So, unless you receive a 2400 or a 36, how do you translate the scores?
The answer is simple: a Concordance Table. OK, “concordance” is an SAT word, meaning “similarity or agreement between two or more things” (thank you, Encarta Dictionary). If you google “concordance table” you will see numerous results. The ACT has a handy one here.
So, for example, assume that Jane (not her real name) took both the SAT and ACT and scored 2080 and 28, respectively. According to the Concordance Table, her ACT composite score is the equivalent of 1860-1910 on the SAT. Therefore, she performed better on the SAT and, if she wants, will retake only that exam.
As another example, Jack (not his real name) also took both the SAT and ACT, scoring 1520 and 24, respectively. The Concordance Table shows that his ACT composite score is equal to approximately 1620-1670 on the SAT. He, clearly, scored higher on the ACT and will retake only that test.
We hope this post helps you to compare “apples to apples” between your SAT and ACT scores (and taught you a new vocab word in the process)!
Private School College Education at Public School Rates
October 5, 2011
Three distinct phases exist in the world of college applications. First, taking the SAT or ACT. Second, filling out college applications. Third, submitting the FAFSA for financial aid. Then comes the hoping, dreaming, anxiety, stress while awaiting the colleges’ decisions. Denials, while bitterly disappointing, are swift. Acceptances, on the other hand, come in two-steps: the actual college acceptance and then the financial aid package. Many decisions about where to enroll hang in the balance of the latter.
In one brilliant move, Seton Hall University has removed a majority of the financial burden aspect of college acceptances for highly qualified applicants. In an unprecedented decision, Seton Hall is offering nearly a two-third discount off its tuition to members of the Class of 2012. The over $21,000 discount makes this private school education comparable in price to the public Rutgers University for New Jersey residents, and much cheaper than Rutgers for non-New Jersey residents.
Recognizing the current tough economic times, Seton Hall’s President, Dr. Gabriel Esteban, states: “This initiative reflects Seton Hall’s commitment to serving our community and putting a high quality, personalized education within reach of more students and their families. In this way we make a first-class, private Catholic college experience as affordable and accessible to students as a public university, with the added benefits of smaller classes, close mentoring faculty relationships and a 14:1 student-to-teacher ratio.”
The fine print? The discounted tuition will be available to applicants who either have a minimum of a 27 ACT composite score or a combined 1200 on the SAT (Critical Reading + Math), with not less than 550 on either SAT section. In addition, the applicant must be in the top 10% of his/her high school class. Applications must be received by Seton Hall by its December 15, 2011 Early Action deadline; however, no special application need be filed – if you meet the qualifications, you’re automatically eligible for the discounted tuition! In addition, still file your FAFSA, as you could qualify for financial aid. This tuition rate will apply for all four years of schooling.
Seton Hall also has some other terms and conditions that must be met in order to qualify for the discounted tuition. For much more information, click here to go to the website.
If you’re looking for help with the college application process, Top-Tier can help you! Just send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
SAT and ACT – What do the 2011 Results Mean?
October 3, 2011
In recent blog posts, we gave information about the scores earned on both the SAT® and ACT® by the Graduating Class of 2011, nationwide and in New Jersey. In this post, we are attempting to assimilate this data and offer instructive advice for students (and parents) who will be taking these tests in the future. To read our post about the SAT scores, click here; for our post about the ACT results, click here.
From the recent results released by both the College Board (who administers the SAT) and the ACT, it is clear that nearly equal number of students are now sitting for both tests: 1.65 million students took the SAT, while 1.62 million took the ACT. No data was reported as to how many students took both tests, which is commonly done. In point of fact, at Top-Tier Tutoring, we recommend that a student take both tests and then retake the test on which s/he performed better.
What it comes down to is how well an individual student scores on the test as s/he wants to put the best foot forward to colleges. Conversion tables easily can be found on Google in order to compare apples to apples. It has been our experience that approximately 75% of our students score higher on the ACT when the conversion table is applied. For example, Student A took the SAT receiving a total 1390 points, and that same Student A took the ACT, and received a composite score of 22 points. According to the Conversion Table, Student A’s ACT score of is equivalent to 1530 points on the SAT. Therefore, when Student A applies to colleges, only the ACT score will be submitted.
Clearly, New Jersey students are not availing themselves of the ACT. According to the ACT report, only 19% of the Class of 2011 took the ACT here, versus 49% nationally. Moreover, New Jersey’s rate of increase in test-takers was only 1.8% from 2010, versus 86.8% nationally. Yet, New Jersey ranked #6 in the nation for its average composite score. Why is the ACT lagging here in New Jersey? Primarily it is because the parents of the students are unaware of the ACT, or believe it is not accepted or weighed equally with the ACT at all colleges. This simply is untrue, and it is this thought process that actually is hindering NJ high schoolers today! As stated above, the SAT and ACT scores are weighed equally by colleges, so it is very important for the student to be exposed to both and then take the one that better suits his or her test-taking abilities. There simply is no room for bias against the ACT in the competitive college application world.
As we have said before, the SAT and ACT are standardized college admissions exams, utilized by colleges as one way to determine whether to accept an applicant. However, the methodology and philosophy behind each exam is markedly different. As a brief overview, the SAT is based upon an IQ Test, and is designed to challenge a student’s thought process. The ACT is an achievement test, and seeks to identify what the student has learned. Traditionally, the SAT was widely recognized on the East and West Coasts, while the ACT was taken by more Midwest students. Nowadays, however, both tests are accepted equally at all colleges and universities. For more information about the differences between the two tests, listen to our podcast.
ACT Results for 2011 Grads
September 27, 2011
In this 2nd part of our series about the results of the ACT® and SAT®, we’re focusing on the ACT results for the Graduating Class of 2011. If you are looking for information about the SAT, click here for our previous post.
Nationally, 1.62 million students – 49% of graduates – took the ACT in 2011, which is an increase from the nearly 1.6 million students who sat for the ACT in 2010 (47% of graduates). The national average composite score for the ACT in 2011 was 21.1 (out of a perfect 36). The ACT has four main sections: English, Math, Reading and Science. The breakdown for each of these sections was 20.6, 21.1, 21.3 and 20.9, respectively, for 2011. These scores represent and overall increase in the ACT scores over the 2010 results, for which the national average was 21; the section averages were English 20.5, Math 21, Reading 21.3 and Science 20.9.
How do New Jersey students compare? Well, only 19% of graduates took the test in 2011 (up from 17% in 2010). But, the results are impressive: the NJ average composite score was 23.2, over 2 points above the national average! NJ students scored better than the national average in every section too: English – 23.1, Math 23.7, Reading 23.3 and Science 22.4. New Jersey ranked #6 in the nation for average composite score, trailing only Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire, New York, Maine (in that order). These results are that same as the New Jersey 2010 ranking and scores, with the only changes being a 0.1 point increase in each of the Math and Reading section in 2011. Of note, from 2007–2011, the number of ACT test-taking graduates has increased by 86.8% nationally, while the number of graduates taking the ACT in New Jersey has increased by 1.8% only.
The ACT was the first to introduce a “benchmark score” in 2006 (adopted by the SAT this year). According to the ACT, the “benchmark score” is the minimum score needed on an ACT subject-area test to indicate a 50% chance of obtaining a B or higher or about a 75% chance of obtaining a C or higher in the corresponding credit-bearing college courses, which include the four subjects tested on the ACT: English Composition, Algebra, Social Science and Biology. The ACT states that “[t]he scores were empirically derived based on the actual performance of students in college.” The benchmark scores are 18 for English, 22 for Math, 21 for Reading and 24 for Science. 25% of test-takers nationally meet all 4 subjects benchmark scores; on average, 37% of New Jersey students met the composite benchmark and exceeded the subject benchmark scores for all but Science.
Click here for much more information about the ACT.
SAT Results for 2011 Grads
September 21, 2011
Both the College Board, which sponsors the SAT®, and the ACT® recently released data about the scores for the high school graduating class from 2011. In this 2-part blog series, we will go inside these reports for national results, as well as those for the State of New Jersey.
The first part of this series will focus on the SAT entrance exam. Nationally, nearly 1.65 million students in the high school graduating class of 2011 took the SAT, up from 1.6 million for the class of 2010. The 2011 national average score for the SAT was 497 in Critical Reading, 514 in Math and 489 in Writing, for a total of 1500 points (each section has a maximum score of 800). The national scores dipped six points overall, as the 2010 average scores were 500, 515 and 491, respectively.
Here in New Jersey, the average student scored an aggregate of 1508, eight points higher than the national average. The New Jersey graduating class of 2011 earned an average score of 495 in Critical Reading (the same as last year), 516 in Math (an increase of two points) and 497 in Writing (the same as last year). For 2011 graduates, 78% of New Jersey students (86,515) sat for the SAT, which represents an increase of 800 students over 2010.
This year, the College Board introduced the “SAT College and Career Readiness Benchmark.” The College Board indicates that if a student earned a combined score of 1550, s/he has a 65 percent probability of achieving a B- grade point average or better in the freshman year of college. 43% of test-takers meet this new SAT Benchmark, which was developed in order to help schools, districts, and states evaluate whether more students are graduating from their high schools college-ready from one year to the next. Unfortunately, the average New Jersey high school senior scored 42 points below this SAT Benchmark.
Click here for more information about the New Jersey SAT results. Our next blog post will go over these results for the ACT.
Alphabet Soup: SAT, ACT, SAT 2, AP Exams
February 10, 2011
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
In this podcast, Mike Rivera, co-founder, tutor and college counselor with Top-Tier Tutoring, explains the differences among the “alphabet soup” of common college admissions and college placement tests: the SAT, ACT, SAT 2’s and AP exams.
During the podcast, Mike gives information about each type of standardized test, and their various purposes. For example, the SAT got its abbreviation from its original name, the Scholastic Aptitude Test. This college admissions exam tests three subject areas, is offered seven times per year, and the highest score is 2400. By contrast, the ACT, also a general college admissions exam, tests five subject areas and its highest score is 36. SAT 2’s generally are admissions exams as well but may offer college placement. They are one-hour in length and only test one subject matter. Advanced Placement tests, or AP exams, are used by colleges to determine whether college credit will be given for courses taken while in high school.
Listen as Mike goes into detail about each of these exams, and offers information that will help you to decide which test(s) you should take and why you are taking them. The alphabet soup of exams can be overwhelming at first, but with careful organization and preparation, you will be prepared to enter college with your best foot forward.
As always, we welcome your feedback and ideas. Please submit a comment below, send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
Standardized Test Guarantees
August 11, 2010
Recently, the Princeton Review backed away from its claim that by taking its “Ultimate Classroom” course, students can boost their SAT scores by 255 points. This change came as a result of a challenge brought to the guarantee by Kaplan Inc.
While this seems to be more of a political or business decision, the issue of a guarantee of increase in scores is very touchy. According to the National Association for College Admission Counseling, on average, SAT test courses improve about 30 points after taking a test preparation course. While this increase may seem low, a 30-point improvement can make a significant difference if your scores are just on the “cusp.” Or, that increase could mean that you now qualify for a scholarship.
At Top-Tier Tutoring, our students receive one-on-one instruction with the same tutor for the entire tutoring package. Our tutors tailor their instruction to your specific needs. As a result, your individualized attention results in much more accountability for your doing your homework and understanding the material. (For more information about the benefits of one-on-one tutoring, check out our podcast on this topic.)
We have had students who have studied with us improve their SAT scores 50 points, 70 points, and much, much higher. Our students’ scores improve because they are comfortable with the tests, understand the scoring system and have a solid knowledge base.
However, we have never guaranteed a specific point increase. When prospective clients call and ask that question, we answer that their improvement depends upon their dedication to working with the tutor and putting in the hard effort required. We guarantee that for students who take a package of 10 hours or more, if the student attends every session, completes all assignments, and takes all practice exams without improving, we will offer 8 additional hours of tutoring at no extra cost. We believe this guarantee is appropriate and not misleading – and provides peace of mind that your investment of time and money is well-worth the results.
We welcome your feedback and ideas. Please submit a comment below, send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
2010-2011 SAT and ACT test dates and deadlines
July 29, 2010
The
new school year is almost here, believe it or not! And with the new school calendar comes the new schedule for the SATs and ACTs.
Check out our updated page for all of the important dates for these standardized tests: when the test dates are, regular registration deadlines and late registration deadlines. Make sure to secure your seat for your preferred date and time by signing up early! Plus, why pay late fees? Click here for our page of the 2010-2011 SAT and ACT test dates and deadlines. Then, contact us to help you prepare!
Remember to become a fan on facebook or to follow us on twitter to see our reminder tweets about all of the deadlines!
The Benefits of Private Tutoring
June 16, 2010
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
In this podcast, Mike Rivera, co-founder, tutor and college counselor with Top-Tier Tutoring, discusses the benefits that can be achieved in one-on-one tutoring.
During the podcast, Mike gives a historical overview of private tutoring as mainly for the affluent members of society. In today’s world, many students are taking advantage of private tutoring as a way to either help understand topics taught in class, or to stimulate academic challenges, or to help achieving students score even higher on standardized tests ranging from the SAT to the ACT to AP exams. Having a tutor is seen as a cool, status symbol.
Listen as Mike offers insightful questions that you should ask any prospective tutor before making a hiring decision. One of the most important questions to ask is the teaching methodology of the tutor, or the tutoring center, you are considering. Specifically, you will want to know if the private tutoring is curriculum-based or is constructed around your child’s exact needs. Simply because tutoring is going to be one-on-one does not necessarily mean that the sessions will be tailored to the student’s needs.
Mike provides you with great information when you are starting to search for a tutor. The benefits of private, non-curriculum based tutoring, such as offered at Top-Tier Tutoring, are well documented and, in many cases, dramatic. Of course, the tutor cannot do the student’s homework, but working together as a team, superior results can be achieved.
As always, we welcome your feedback and ideas. Please submit a comment below, send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
Guidance Counselor Realities
February 24, 2010
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Is 38 Minutes Enough?
In this podcast, Mike Rivera poses the question: “Is 38 minutes enough?” This question derives from a study by Dr. Patricia McDonough that found that an average student will spend only 38 minutes per year with his or her high school guidance counselor discussing college counseling and/or career counseling.
Now, this fact is through no fault of the high school guidance counselors themselves. It is based upon the realities of numbers. While the American School Counselor Association recommends 1 guidance counselor per 100 students, the national average is 1:315 (or much more) in public high schools and 1:241 in private schools.
During the podcast, Mike offers questions for parents to ask the high school office regarding this issue. He also recommends seeking external college counseling to best position the high school student for success in college and beyond.
Source: Sanders, B. (2008, January 18). Parents – Guidance at School May Not be Enough. Retrieved January 18, 2010, from http://ezinearticles.com/?Parents---Guidance-at-School-May-Not-be-Enough&id=935539
As always, we welcome your feedback and ideas. Please submit a comment below, send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
Feb. 6 ACT – SNOW!!
February 8, 2010
Many students across the nation were scheduled to take the ACT on Saturday, February 6th. Unfortunately, Mother Nature had other plans! A major snowstorm, some dubbed it the “Snowpocalypse, ” hit the midsection of the US – cancelling the ACT. Or rather, merely postponing the ACT!
Click on this link to go the ACT official site and find out when your rescheduled test date will be. You may have to check back often, as the ACT organization is working hard to get new dates.
Here’s the link: http://bit.ly/a8rvAn
Guest Blogger – Allison from Verona
January 7, 2010
In this post, we’ve asked Allison, a client here at Top-Tier Tutoring, to answer a few questions that many people ask us. A big thank you goes out to Allison for agreeing to be our “guest blogger.” We hope you find this information helpful!
How did Top-Tier Tutoring help you to prepare for the SAT and ACT? ALLISON: Top-Tier provided great practice to get me used to, and ready for, the SAT and ACT. I received practice specific to my needs to strengthen my test-taking abilities.
What surprised you the most about the tutoring you received at Top-Tier Tutoring? ALLISON: It was a relaxed atmosphere where I wasn’t pressured, and wasn’t afraid to make mistakes. I felt comfortable, so I was more receptive to new techniques.
What advice would you give to students getting ready to take the SAT and/or ACT? ALLISON: RELAX! It’s only one test, and it’s not the end of the world! It can be mastered, and is nothing to be afraid of.
Allison’s SAT math score improved 50 points with the help of Top-Tier Tutoring. She has been accepted into the University of Pittsburgh and Rutgers University, and is awaiting further acceptances before making her decision as to which college she will attend.
Year in Review: 2009
December 30, 2009
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In this podcast, Mike and Rhonda Rivera discuss the successes and challenges they faced at Top-Tier Tutoring over the past year, its first in operation. From starting a business from scratch, getting known in the community, to wonderful success stories, the co-founders of Top-Tier Tutoring share their ups and downs with their listeners. Listen to the podcast to see how far the company has come in one year, and what the new year has in store!
As always, we welcome your feedback and ideas. Send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
Guest Blogger Erica from West Orange
October 25, 2009
In this post, we’ve asked a client of Top-Tier Tutoring, Erica, to answer a few questions that many people ask us. A big thank you goes out to Erica for agreeing to be our “guest blogger.” We hope you find this information helpful!
T3: How would you describe the differences between the SAT and ACT?
ERICA: I felt the ACT test was a more straight-forward test, even though there are more questions and less time given for the actual test versus the SAT. The ACT test is based on what you have learned in the past 3 yrs. etc. of high school and the SAT is a more complex type of test which I felt very intimidated when taking the SAT.
T3: How did Top-Tier Tutoring help you to prepare for these standardized tests?
ERICA: Top-Tier Tutoring (Mike) helped me gain much more confidence and improve my skills for test taking. Also a lot of direction and practice was given to me in each area math, English etc., with concentration on each area separately. Mike tackled each area one at-a-time with me. Along with the review sessions all which helped me improve my scores.
T3: What recommendations would you give students who are going to take the SAT or ACT?
ERICA: I recommend that you keep reviewing and take the practice section tests along with timing yourself so it’s not a real surprise when you actually take the real test.
Erica’s ACT scores improved 4 points with the assistance of Top-Tier Tutoring. She currently is applying to colleges and looking forward to the next phase of her education.
ACT versus SAT – What’s Best For You?
August 23, 2009
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In this podcast, Mike Rivera takes you on a tour of the two major standardized tests looked at by college admissions officers: the ACT and the SAT. He traces the origins of both exams, and the varying skills they are meant to test.
The SAT is designed to test a student’s test taking skills and innate ability, as it was designed based upon the IQ test. It runs three hours and forty-five minutes, has 140 questions and tests critical readying, writing and math. The perfect score is 2400; 1/4 point is deducted for each incorrect answer.
On the other hand, the ACT tests scholastic achievement, and it was designed based upon the Iowa Test of Basic Skills. The ACT is three hours and twenty-five minutes long, has 215 questions and tests math, English, reading, science and writing. The perfect score is a 36. No points are deducted for a wrong answer.
Both the SAT and the ACT are accepted at virtually every college. Starting with the class of 2010, the SAT joins the ACT in allowing you to select which scores (entire test) to send to the colleges. The bottom line: take practice exams for both exams to determine with which test you’re most comfortable. Then, study for that one, and get the best score possible!
We welcome your feedback. Send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
Meet Math & Science Tutor Jeff Wojcik
June 2, 2009
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In the second podcast for Top-Tier Tutoring, Mike Rivera introduces our listeners to Jeff Wojcik. Jeff is a math and science tutor with Top-Tier Tutoring, who makes these sometimes intimidating subjects understandable, approachable and dare we say it – enjoyable!
Jeff holds a B.S. in Mathematics and Secondary Education from the University of Scranton. While there, he also was enrolled in
pre-med courses. At the present time, he is going for two masters degrees – one in Mathematics from Montclair State University and another in Administration and Curriculum from the University of Scranton. Jeff is a math teacher at Passaic Valley High School in Little Falls, NJ. Ironically, Jeff says that it was tutoring that got him into teaching!
During the podcast, Jeff explains his philosophy about tutoring, and how he makes students feel “safe” with the subject matter, which leads to their success. We were skeptical at first of how such a math whiz could really connect with students (or anyone for that matter!), but once you listen to this podcast, we’re confident that you will agree that our skepticism was unfounded.
We welcome your feedback. Send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212
Top Tier Tutoring Podcast Show #1
May 21, 2009
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In the debut of its podcast, Mike and Rhonda Rivera, co-founders of Top-Tier Tutoring, a tutoring and college counseling center located in West Orange, New Jersey, introduce you to themselves and their school’s philosophy and offerings. Mike and Rhonda discuss their approach to tutoring and college counseling as focusing on the individual student. Top-Tier Tutoring only offers one-on-one tutoring, and assigns 1 tutor to be with the student for their entire package. Diagnostic tests, in addition to old exams, are administered to each student that inform the tutor/counselor about how the student best receives and processes information so that the tutor can adjust his or her style accordingly. Top-Tier Tutoring truly is a boutique tutoring and college counseling center.
During July and August, Mike discusses how Top-Tier Tutoring is challenging all students to Seize the Summer by enrolling in its College Prep Boot Camp. This series of 8, 1-hour workshops will address a variety of topics related to college planning, such as selecting the right schools, creating your academic resume and writing your essays and short answers. One lucky listener to the Top-Tier Tutoring Podcast will be selected at random to win free admission into the College Prep Boot Camp (a $300 value). To enter this contest, please send an email to info@top-tiertutoring.com with “Free Boot Camp” in the subject line.
Mike has been a tutor and college counselor for over 3 ½ years as well as in the financial industry for over 16 ½ years. Mike holds a BA from Seton Hall University, an MA from Kean University and a JD from Fordham University School of Law. He applies humor and a dose of reality into his tutoring sessions, to help his students see the big picture. Rhonda, who does sales and marketing for Top-Tier Tutoring, earned her BA from Bucknell University and a JD from New York Law School. Both have seen the value of education as providing a firm foundation in today’s changing world.
