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!
Ear on Careers – Dr. Christopher Duddy, Dentist
July 7, 2010
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In this episode of “Ear on Careers,” we are pleased to welcome Dr. Christopher Duddy, a dentist with his own private practice in his hometown of Towaco, New Jersey. Working in a town with so many familiar faces, Dr. Duddy often finds himself donating his services to local people who are in need. In 2010, he was distinguished with the Award for Top Dentist in America by the Consumers’ Research Council of America.
Dr. Christopher Duddy, Dentist
Ironically, Dr. Duddy was scared of the dentist as a child. Perhaps as a way to overcome that fear, he decided while in high school that he wanted to become a dentist. Dr. Duddy graduated from Farleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey with a degree in biology and a minor in chemistry. He went on to graduate from the prestigious dental program at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Dr. Duddy takes great pride in his ability to make people smile better, and without pain.
Listen as Dr. Duddy describes a “typical day” for him practicing general dentistry, meaning that every day brings the unexpected. He shares a Valentine’s Day war story that involves a friend, wisdom teeth, his wife and a Broadway show! In addition, Dr. Duddy offers tips for those listeners who want to go into the field of dentistry. We hope this podcast gives you information that you can sink your teeth into about becoming a dentist!
Top-Tier Tutoring is very excited to bring you the web’s premiere “career day” podcast series – what we call “Ear on Careers.” This series of podcasts is designed to introduce our listeners to successful leaders in a variety of different fields, including business, industry, medicine, the arts, and so much more.
We welcome your feedback and ideas. Please submit a comment below, send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
Common Application Goes Online August 1, 2010
July 1, 2010
The Common Application (commonly called the “Common App”) is going to be available to students applying to colleges starting on August 1, 2010. This is one full month later than usual so that secondary schools that close in June can use the Online School Forms System to submit their Final Reports through mid-July, according to the Common App’s website.
We highly recommend that students go to the Common App website and use the “preview” tool to review all that the Common App entails. Starting this year, the Common App has (1) a combined Activities and Work section, (2) a new Academics section with revised self-reporting testing instructions, and (3) online submission of NACAC fee waiver for students with limited financial resources and who also meet the National Association for College Admissions Counseling’s requirements for application waivers.
The Common Application membership association provides common, standardized first-year and transfer application forms for use at any member institution. Today, nearly 400 institutions are members in the association, which represents the full range of higher education institutions in the United States, including public and private institutions of every size and selectivity. With the press of a single button, you can submit your application to many colleges and universities. To see a list of all the member institutions, click here.
Many of our clients use a combination of the Common App and individual schools’ applications when applying to college. In addition, specific schools may have their own supplements that are required to be submitted in order for your application to be complete. You must pay special attention to all of the application requirements for each of your schools.
We welcome your feedback and ideas. Please submit a comment below, send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
Ear on Careers – Mary Dann-McNamee, Wedding Planner
June 23, 2010
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In this episode of “Ear on Careers,” we are pleased to welcome Mary Dann-McNamee, founder of Mary Dann Wedding & Party Coordinators located in Manhattan Beach, California. Mary is one of the most sought-after event coordinators in Southern California, as well as on-air talent for the Style Network’s “Whose Wedding Is It Anyway?” and “Married Away,” and the WE Network’s “Platinum Weddings.” She also is a published author and contributor to many prestigious wedding magazines.
Mary Dann, Wedding Planner
Mary graduated from Fullerton College in California, a two year junior college, with an Associate in Arts degree in Visual Merchandising. She went on to study at California State University, Chico (commonly called Chico State), and majored in business administration. Mary worked as a waitress in order to put herself through both Fullerton College and Chico State. After working in the hospitality industry and starting her wedding planning business, Mary went to graduate school at Antioch University in Marina del Rey, CA, where she earned a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology.
In the podcast, Mary explains her path to becoming a wedding planner, which began at the tender age of 5 when she wanted to make something special for her guests! Mary’s first stop after college was at the Ritz Carlton, where she made wonderful contacts and learned about the wedding business from the perspective of the venue. She started Mary Dann Wedding & Party Coordinators in 1991, with weddings being her specialty. In order to be able to give the tools for emotional support to her brides, Mary became a licensed marriage therapist. She feels that college prepared her well for being an entrepreneur, as she learned skills in multitasking and finance, as well as gained her independence.
Listen as Mary describes a “typical day” for her, balancing her family and work lives. She shares a war story from her early days as a wedding planner, and another one captured on the television show “Whose Wedding Is It Anyway?” In addition, Mary expresses her surprises in the field and offers tips for budding wedding planners. We hope this very informative podcast gives you insight into the exciting and fun – but also challenging and stressful – career as a wedding planner.
Mary’s book, “Wedding Wisdom” is available at www.amazon.com. If you prefer to receive your hardcover book autographed by Mary, go to www.marydann.com/book.
Top-Tier Tutoring is very excited to bring you the web’s premiere “career day” podcast series – what we call “Ear on Careers.” This series of podcasts is designed to introduce our listeners to successful leaders in a variety of different fields, including business, industry, medicine, the arts, and so much more.
We welcome your feedback and ideas. Please submit a comment below, send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
The Benefits of Private Tutoring
June 16, 2010
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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.
Ear on Careers – Marketing and PR Professional, Abe Kasbo
June 9, 2010
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Abe Kasbo, Marketing & PR Professional
In this episode of “Ear on Careers,” we are pleased to welcome Abe Kasbo, founder and CEO of the integrated marketing and public relations firm Verasoni Worldwide located in Fairfield, New Jersey. Verasoni delivers meaningful strategies and campaigns across traditional and new media for its clients located in the United States, Canada and the Middle East.
Abe was born in Syria and emigrated to the United States at the age of 10. He holds both a B.A. in Political Science with a minor in English, as well as a Masters in Public Administration (health care track), from Seton Hall University in New Jersey. Abe decided upon his undergraduate major because he was always interested in political discourse to understand why things work as they do in a society. An undergraduate professor guided him to his post-graduate area of study. Notably, Abe worked full-time on Wall Street while attending graduate school full-time.
In the podcast, Abe explains his circuitous path to the founding of Verasoni, which included stops at Wall Street, teaching, a technology firm and the marketing departments at a couple of hospitals. Essentially self-taught in marketing and PR, he approaches each project both as a professional and a student in order to become the best client advocate. His experience has given him a perspective on how a business ought to communicate with its customers, and Abe builds campaigns based on business objectives.
Listen as Abe describes a “typical day” for him as a marketing and PR professional. He shares a hair-raising war story about how he turned “get the Hell out!” into a positive experience. In addition, Abe expresses his surprises in the field and offers tips for those contemplating following in his footsteps, including how his formal education has been brought to bear on his current vocation. We hope this very informative podcast gives you insight into the dynamic field of marketing and public relations, and perhaps sets you upon a new course for your career.
Top-Tier Tutoring is very excited to bring you the web’s premiere “career day” podcast series – what we call “Ear on Careers.” This series of podcasts is designed to introduce our listeners to successful leaders in a variety of different fields, including business, industry, medicine, the arts, and so much more.
We welcome your feedback and ideas. Please submit a comment below, send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
What Is College Counseling?
June 2, 2010
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In this podcast, Mike Rivera, co-founder, college counselor and tutor with Top-Tier Tutoring, discusses what is, exactly, college counseling – and what it is not.
Mike Rivera, college counselor, with student
You probably have heard the term “college counseling” bandied about in several different contexts. During this podcast, Mike discusses what is encompassed by this term – guiding high school students through the college application process, understanding the student’s interests, goals and ambitions, recommending classes, extracurricular activities and volunteer work, crafting a college list, counseling about the required essays, obtaining recommendations, coordinating college visits, preparing for the college interview – the list goes on and on! College counseling also includes managing expectations and setting reasonable goals, both for the student and the parents. The best part of college counseling, Mike admits, is celebrating acceptances.
During the podcast, Mike does offer a word of caution. No college counselor can offer a guarantee of admission to a particular college or university. Please keep this fact in mind when looking for a qualified college counselor!
Ear on Careers – Wendy Hamlin, Health Insurance Broker
May 27, 2010
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In this episode of “Ear on Careers,” we are pleased to welcome Wendy K. Hamlin, a health insurance broker at Essential Benefit Solutions based in Lincoln Park, New Jersey, 973-872-1008.
Wendy is a graduate of Bowling Green State University in her home state of Ohio. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in interpersonal public communications, with a minor in marketing. Wendy credits college with bringing her out of her shell and teaching her discipline, as she went full-time while working two jobs.
In the podcast, Wendy explains how she became interested in being a health insurance broker, which entails servicing her clients through education, administration of their plans, claims assistance and renewals as well as being a small business owner and growing her business. Listen as Wendy discusses her biggest surprises in the field as being the strategy and creativity needed to help her clients navigate the health insurance maze. She also shares an astounding “war story” and offers tips for people considering a career as a health insurance broker.
In addition, Wendy offers her insights into the changes in the health care system under the recently enacted law. She notes immediate and welcome changes such as dependents up to 26 years old being covered under their parent’s plan, small employers receiving tax credits and no pre-existing condition limitations. The changes coming in 2014 are still being hammered out, even though she believes there will be a role for brokers.
We hope this podcast gives you insight into becoming a health insurance broker, an interesting career path especially in today’s changing times.
Top-Tier Tutoring is very excited to bring you the web’s premiere “career day” podcast series – what we call “Ear on Careers.” This series of podcasts is designed to introduce our listeners to successful leaders in a variety of different fields, including business, industry, medicine, the arts, and so much more.
We welcome your feedback and ideas. Please submit a comment below, send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
New Service: College Counseling Over The Internet
May 13, 2010
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In this
podcast, Mike Rivera, co-founder, college counselor and tutor with Top-Tier Tutoring, introduces our listeners to a new service being offered: College Counseling over the internet! Now, students who are not geographically located near our center in West Orange, NJ, will have access to the same outstanding college counseling as those living nearby!
Listen as Mike explains the logistics of how the service will work. Using Skype, the popular web-telecommunication free software made popular by Oprah Winfrey, Top-Tier Tutoring’s college counselors will be able to work directly with your son or daughter. Students will receive the same guidance, only instead of being across the table, your child will be looking at his or her counselor live via webcam. Of course, you can feel free to sit in on the session as well!
Ear on Careers – Joseph Mitzenmacher, Law Librarian
May 6, 2010
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Joseph Mitzenmacher, Law Librarian
In this episode of “Ear on Careers,” we are pleased to welcome Joseph Mitzenmacher, a Reference and Electronic Services Librarian at Loyola University Chicago School of Law in Chicago, Illinois, http://www.luc.edu/law_library/.
Joe holds both a B.A. in Economics and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Upon graduating from law school, he practiced law for a few years but did not find it to be as satisfying as he had hoped. After doing some research, he found the related field of law librarian and obtained his Master’s Degree in Library Science from Dominican University.
In the podcast, Joe explains that a law librarian assumes an educational role by answering reference questions and teaching legal research classes. He also acts as a liason with the faculty as well as with electronic service vendors. Listen as Joe discusses a typical day for him in the library, shares his surprises in the field and offers a “war story” about hunting down a source for a King Henry VIII statute about coining money. In addition, Joe provides excellent tips and recommendations for those listeners considering a very rewarding career as a law librarian.
We hope this podcast gives you insight into becoming a law librarian, a challenging field that combines a law degree with teaching and research in an academic field.
Top-Tier Tutoring is very excited to bring you the web’s first “career day” podcast series – what we call “Ear on Careers.” This series of podcasts is designed to introduce our listeners to successful leaders in a variety of different fields, including business, industry, medicine, the arts, and so much more.
We welcome your feedback and ideas. Please submit a comment below, send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
Where Do I Go From Here?
April 21, 2010
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In this podcast, the very enormous task of creating a college list is tackled by Mike Rivera, co-founder, college counselor and tutor at Top-Tier Tutoring.
When faced 
with answering the question about where they are going to apply to college, many high school sophomores and juniors feel at a loss. The process of creating a comprehensive and appropriate list can be daunting. Crafting a list based upon name recognition or where friends are attending will not yield the best results for the individual student. The podcast takes aim at this topic and offers concrete guidelines to help you on your quest.
Mike first asks you to look inward. What are your general areas of interest? Do you want to be close to home? Are you interested in a city or a rural setting? How important are job placement and internships to you? Mike identifies many more factors in the podcast. Mike’s advice: take a self-assessment before jumping into books, the web and college fairs!
Once you have a master list, so to speak, now it’s time to refine it. In order to narrow your list down to the 8 to 12 colleges to which you will actually apply, you should look for reach, match and safety schools, with the highest number being in the “match” category. Then, time and budget permitting, try to visit each of these campuses and take great notes – you may need them to help you decide among your acceptances!
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.
Free Seminar Gives You The Complete College Planning Edge!
April 18, 2010
On May 4, 2010, Mike and Rhonda Rivera of Top-Tier Tutoring and A1 College Funding will present a free seminar, “Get the Complete College Planning Edge” at West Orange High School.
Parents and students in high school are welcome to come and learn insider tips and strategies to being accepted into the college of their dreams - and how to pay for it!
The workshop will take place at West Orange High School, 51 Conforti Avenue in West Orange, NJ, starting at 7 pm. While the workshop is free, registration is a must – call 973.243.1212 to reserve your seat today!
Ear on Careers – Amy Gideon, Internet Professional
April 14, 2010
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In this episode of “Ear on Careers, we are pleased to welcome Amy Gideon, co-owner of Tag Online, Inc., based in Clifton, New Jersey.
Amy Gideon, Internet Professional.
Amy discusses how she didn’t really apply herself in high school and, as a result, attended Hofstra University for one year before transferring to the University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School of Business. Knowing that she wanted to transfer, she worked diligently at Hofstra, achieving a 4.0 GPA. At the University of Pennsylvania, Amy double majored in Decision Science (now called Information Science) and Finance. It was at the University of Pennsylvania that she met her future husband and business partner at Tag Online, Andrew. Both she and Andrew earned their Masters Degrees in Computer Science from New York University.
In the podcast, Amy discusses how she was involved with the internet well before it was available for mass consumption. She also outlines her progression from programmer to sales and marketing at TAG Online. In her current role, she also manages client and staff. Listen as Amy shares her surprises in her industry as well as some potentially horrifying war stories. Amy offers advice for those thinking about a career as an internet professional: do what you love and learn it inside and out.
We hope this podcast provides you with food for thought if you are interested in a career as an internet professional – a truly dynamic and evolving field!
Top-Tier Tutoring is very excited to bring you the web’s premiere career day podcast series – what we call “Ear on Careers.” This series of podcasts is designed to introduce our listeners to successful leaders in a variety of different fields, including business, industry, medicine, the arts, and so much more.
We welcome your feedback and ideas. Please submit a comment below, send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
A Reply To Recent Article About College Prep Advisors
April 7, 2010
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Mike Rivera recording this podcast
In this podcast, Mike Rivera – co-founder, tutor and college counselor with Top-Tier Tutoring – responds to a recent article published on SmartMoney.com, which has been picked up and disseminated on the web in various forms. The article, entitled “10 Things College-Prep Advisors Won’t Tell You” identifies ten allegedly deceptive practices of the college counseling industry. To read the full article, click here.
In his rebuttal, Mike debunks each of the ten topics brought up in the article. For example, in responding to the “your high school guidance counselor can do this for free” argument, he references the study by Dr. Patricia McDonough that determined a high school student will spend approximately 38 minutes per year with his or her guidance counselor for college advising. Click here to read Dr. McDonough’s comprehensive study. He also points to the recent Public Agenda report, “Can I Get A Little Advice Here?” This report finds that six in ten young adults who had gone on to further education gave their high school counseling poor grades for college advice. To go to the Public Agenda report, click here. Clearly, you get what you pay for.
This podcast is not a rant, but rather a thoughtful reply to a superficial article. Mike points out when the article is correct, but wants our listeners to understand the limitations of the guidance department – and those of independent counselors as well.
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.
Ear on Careers – Corinna Sager, Film Director/Producer
March 31, 2010
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In this episode of “Ear on Careers, we are pleased to welcome Corrina Sager, founder and president of, as well as film director and producer with, Lifestyle 
International Production Service, Inc. (“Lifestyle”), based in Montclair, New Jersey, www.lifestyleintl.com. Lifestyle assists corporations, governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, TV/film productions and marketing agencies with their communication projects to and from the United States.
Corinna was born in Hamburg, Germany, and studied at the Villa Pierrefeu near Montreux, Switzerland and at the Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico City. She earned a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts (“BFA”) in Theater and Communications from the University of Miami. She feels that her BFA prepared her well for the corporate world because it gave her a broad education in areas of study like communications, English literature, etc. She also received a great introduction to the theater by building sets and creating costumes; she learned how to make it “magic.”
In the podcast, Corinna explains the different roles that a producer and a director perform for a project. Listen as Corinna discusses her surprises in the field, including how new technology impacts production and the importance of continuing to learn. Being from Europe, Corinna is multilingual, and she stresses the importance of being able to communicate with people around the world, and to have an insight into their culture. Nominated for an Academy Award® for her role as a producer of the documentary “Ferry Tales,” Corinna shares her exciting Oscar-night stories with our listeners. Finally, Corinna offers tips to aspiring directors and producers: the business is very difficult to break in to, so volunteer and learn by doing, in addition to getting a broad education at a college that expands your horizons.
Corinna has won Film Festival Awards in both the United States and internationally for her PR video “Container Shipping – A Revolution for World Trade” and her documentary “Women – Our Century” which toured the United States with Billy Jean King and Star Jones. In addition to the Academy Award® nominated “Ferry Tales,” she served as Executive Producer for “Vertical Traveler,” seen on PBS and the Franco/German TV channel, Arte. Corinna also is President of the Media-Communication Association-International, and is listed in the Who’s Who of Executives and Professionals.
We hope this podcast gives you insight into becoming a film director and/or producer, and offers alternative routes than simply television or movies for you to consider.
Top-Tier Tutoring is very excited to bring you the web’s premiere career day podcast series – what we call “Ear on Careers.” This series of podcasts is designed to introduce our listeners to successful leaders in a variety of different fields, including business, industry, medicine, the arts, and so much more.
We welcome your feedback and ideas. Please submit a comment below, send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
Extracurricular Activities Admissions Officers Love
March 24, 2010
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In this podcast, Mike Rivera offers some insights into what admissions officers look for in the college applicant’s extracurricular activities column. In short, quality triumphs over quantity every time.
Mike discusses that an admissions officer seeks to round out the college class with students who will make a meaningful contribution. Consequently, high school students who exhibit leadership and dedication – and therefore good time management skills – are looked upon favorably. In addition, meaningful participation in activities outside of school such as community, church or travel, are similarly viewed with favor. Read more
Ear on Careers – Dr. Marco Ferrucci, Chiropractor
March 17, 2010
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Dr. Marco Ferrucci, Chiropractor
In this episode of “Ear on Careers,” we are pleased to welcome Dr. Marco Ferrucci, the founding chiropractor at The Chiropractic Source in Caldwell, New Jersey, www.thechiropracticsource.com.
Dr. Ferrucci attended William Paterson University, and graduated with a degree in exercise physiology. During undergrad, he was able to obtain a chiropractic internship, which cemented his desire to practice this healing art. He then went to Life University in Georgia to obtain his chiropractic degree, which was a 3 ½ year course of study.
In the podcast, Dr. Ferrucci explains why a chiropractor looks at your spinal alignment, and how this practice is proactive rather than reactive. Listen as he discusses his biggest surprise in working as a chiropractor as it relates to health care coverage. Listen as Dr. Ferrucci offers advice to students considering embarking upon the field of chiropractic medicine. Dr. Ferrucci also shares his most transformative patient, who literally walked into his office using a cane and left it on her own power!
We hope this podcast gives you insight into becoming a chiropractor, a relatively new field of medicine that teaches how to live a healthier, more vibrant lifestyle through natural, preventative health care.
Top-Tier Tutoring is very excited to bring you the web’s first “career day” podcast series – what we call “Ear on Careers.” This series of podcasts is designed to introduce our listeners to successful leaders in a variety of different fields, including business, industry, medicine, the arts, and so much more.
We welcome your feedback and ideas. Please submit a comment below, send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
About Rolling Admissions
March 10, 2010
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In this podcast, Mike Rivera discusses the topic of “Rolling Admissions.” This term means that the college imposes no strict deadline for application submission; applicants will be accepted so long as space is available within the freshman class. While a minority of colleges follow Rolling Admissions, colleges that do offer Rolling Admissions generally will make a decision regarding a candidate within a couple of weeks after receiving the application.
Mike’s advice for students contemplating applying to a Rolling Admissions college? Don’t wait! Given these economic times and the fact that more people than ever are applying to colleges, all universities are more selective than ever. The earlier you apply, the better your chances will be for being accepted. In addition, scholarship opportunities, financial aid offers and housing are more readily available the earlier you apply and are accepted. Read more
College Prep Boot Camp – May 16, 2010
March 9, 2010
On Sunday, May 16, 2010, Top-Tier Tutoring is offering a one-day intensive, interactive workshop series that will give your high school junior a jump start on the college planning and application process, at College Prep Boot Camp. For much more information about the weekend that will change your child’s future, click here!
Ear on Careers – Jerry Frungillo, Caterer
March 3, 2010
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Jerry Frungillo, Caterer
In this episode of “Ear on Careers,” we are pleased to welcome Jerry Frungillo, co-owner of Frungillo Caterers, www.frungillo.com.
Frungillo Caterers is a family-owned business, started by Jerry’s parents in 1973. Knowing that he was going to go into the family business, Jerry opted for a business major as his undergraduate degree from William Paterson University. He feels that is formal education provided a solid background into running a business, which complemented his previous life experiences, and offered much insight as he grew the business. Under Jerry’s stewardship with his brother Robert, Frungillo Caterers has grown from a single catering location to four banquet halls plus off-premise catering capabilities.
Guidance Counselor Realities
February 24, 2010
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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.
Ear on Careers – Kevin Slavin, Hospital President
February 17, 2010
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Kevin Slavin, Hospital President
In this episode of “Ear on Careers,” we are pleased to welcome Kevin Slavin, the President and Chief Executive Officer of East Orange General Hospital, www.evh.org.
Like so many people we’ve interviewed for this Ear on Careers series, Kevin does not work in the field of his undergraduate major: engineering from Rutgers University. In the podcast, Kevin explains how he first became interested in healthcare administration during his initial job search. This interest led him to the University of Colorado, where he did his graduate studies. Kevin first worked as an orderly/nurses aid and saw the hospital organization from the ground up.
Ear on Careers – Ryan Dorchak, Restaurateur
February 12, 2010
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In this episode of “Ear on Careers,” we are pleased to welcome Ryan Dorchak, third generation restaurateur at the Cloverleaf Tavern in Caldwell, New Jersey, www.cloverleaftavern.com.
Ryan Dorchak, Restaurateur
Ryan grew up at the Cloverleaf Tavern, originally founded as a “man’s bar” by his grandfather in 1933. Knowing that he would enter the family business, Ryan graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, New Jersey, with a degree in marketing and a minor in finance. Both his major and minor contribute to the continuing success of the Cloverleaf Tavern, as Ryan employs “4-walls marketing” and keeps an eye on the finances to increase the restaurant’s profits even in these uncertain times.
Listen as Ryan explains the delicate balancing act he oversees as a restaurateur. Believe it or not, restaurants have the number 1 failure rate in the United States. While the restaurant opens for lunch at 11 am, Ryan’s day begins at 7 am attending to staff operations, finances and marketing, allowing him to be on the floor during the lunch and dinner rush. Read more
March 30 – Free Workshop Offers the Complete College Planning Edge!
January 30, 2010
On March 30, 2010, Mike and Rhonda Rivera of Top-Tier Tutoring and A1 College Funding will present a free workshop, “Get the Complete College Planning Edge” at Verona High School.
Parents and students in high school are welcome to come and learn insider tips and strategies to being accepted into the college of their dreams - and how to pay for it!
The workshop will take place at Verona High School, 151 Fairview Avenue in Verona, NJ, starting at 7 pm. While the workshop is free, registration is a must – call 973.243.1212 to reserve your seat today!
Free Workshop Gives You the Complete College Edge!
January 30, 2010
On February 23, 2010, Mike and Rhonda Rivera of Top-Tier Tutoring are teaming up with A1 College Funding to give students and parents the Complete College Planning Edge!
This educational two-hour workshop will offer insights and insider tips on how to get into the college of your child’s dreams – AND how to pay for it. The workshop is free, but the information is invaluable! Registration required – call 973.243.1212 today to reserve your seat!
Is the PSAT really the best indicator of SAT scores?
January 30, 2010
The Preliminary SAT (“PSAT”), was created to serve as a practice test for the SAT Reasoning Test. Many argue that performance on the PSAT is, generally, a good indicator of how students will achieve on the SAT. As indicators go, it is certainly satisfactory. However, in our experience, college applicants, and their parents, are looking for something more than merely “satisfactory.” They seek a solid indication of what the student is likely to achieve on the actual SAT exam. Be forewarned: adding a “0” to the PSAT scores and assuming that your SAT scores automatically will be at those levels, without study or preparation, is a dangerous assumption.
Ear on Careers – T. Jens Feeley, Ph.D., NASA
January 11, 2010
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In this episode of “Ear on Careers”, we are pleased to welcome T. Jens Feeley, Ph.D., who works at the National Aeronautics & Space Administration (NASA). Dr. Feeley is a Senior Policy Analyst in NASA’s Science Mission Directorate (SMD), http://nasascience.nasa.gov/, where he is responsible for SMD’s advisory committees and history activities. In addition, he is the SMD Lead Policy Analyst for Planetary Science.
T. Jens Feeley, Ph.D., NASA
At the tender age of 6, Jens witnessed Neil Armstrong’s landing on the moon, and his fate was sealed. Politics were always hotly debated in the Feeley household growing up. So, space exploration, politics and political science are truly in Jens’s blood.
Jens earned his B.A. in Political Science from Rutgers University in New Jersey, followed by an M.A. in Government and International Studies from the University of Notre Dame. Jens was awarded his Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Washington. His publications span a broad range of topics, including space policy, earthquake policy, the history of science policy, and science communications. He is also the author of a congressional study on Foreign-Trade Zones. His dissertation research explored partisan politics in the modern Congress, and documented the limitations on partisan ambition that result from the governing responsibilities of the majority. In addition, Jens worked as an intern in the Pentagon’s Office of International Security Affairs and was selected as a Presidential Management Fellow (Class of 1987). He has received numerous merit awards, including the NASA Exceptional Performance Award.
Jens has spent 16 of the past 23 years of his life working at NASA. In his current position as a Senior Policy Analyst, Jens prepares senior managers and scientists at NASA on how to best handle issues, testimony and presentations. Jens truly enjoys blending his writing skills with science, making even the most complex scientific hypotheses and discoveries accessible to everyone.
What has surprised Jens the most about working at NASA? His ability to interact with literally the smartest people in the world, who can break down extremely intricate concepts so that he is able to communicate them effectively to Congress and other interested parties. He enjoys learning about science and technology, two things that change on practically a daily basis at NASA. In addition, Jens derives satisfaction from the culture of interaction between people and ideas at NASA.
If you are considering a career at NASA, Jens recommends “preparing to be the best.” Such preparation should include internships that are available at such websites as http://university.gsfc.nasa.gov/programs/ (for NASA internships (paid & unpaid)) and http://www.studentjobs.gov/ (for summer jobs/student jobs – Government wide).
We hope that Jens’s story will inspire you to consider a career at NASA, even if you do not want to be a rocket scientist!
Top-Tier Tutoring is very excited to bring you the web’s first “career day” podcast series – what we call “Ear on Careers.” This series of podcasts is designed to introduce our listeners to successful leaders in a variety of different fields, including business, industry, medicine, the arts, and so much more.
We welcome your feedback. Send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
Ear on Careers – Steven Janett, Real Estate Broker
December 21, 2009
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Steven Janett, Real Estate Broker
In this episode of “Ear on Careers,” we are pleased to welcome Steven Janett, a real estate broker. Steve currently is the Senior Vice President and Regional Manager of Prudential New Jersey Properties, www.prudentialnewjersey.com. Steve has won many awards, including “REALTOR of the Year” from both the New Jersey Association of Realtors and the West Essex Board of Realtors.
Steve graduated from Stockton State College, with a major in business and minors in finance and real estate. His late father had started a real estate office in 1954 and, after graduating, Steve soon joined the family business. He really enjoys the fact that real estate is not a 9 to 5 business, but rather is very flexible according to the client’s needs. Steve started as a sales representative in his father’s office, became a broker within two years and sales manager three years later. Today, in his role as Senior Vice President and Regional Manager, Steve oversees many offices in the Prudential New Jersey real estate corporate structure. He supports managers and sales people in their efforts to provide the best real estate experience for their clients.
When asked about the biggest surprises in real estate, Steve noted the legal complexities involved with riders and inspections. His advice to aspiring real estate specialists is to get a solid educational background, join a good broker that has a training program and to remember that real estate is all about relationship building. Steve notes the impact that technology is having on real estate agents and how real estate is marketed and sold. Even in this economy, the second half of 2009 has been a great time in real estate for Steve!
We hope that Steve’s story will inspire you to consider a career in real estate, a challenging field that combines relationship building, legal knowledge and technology with the possibility of great rewards.
Top-Tier Tutoring is very excited to bring you the web’s first “career day” podcast series – what we call “Ear on Careers.” This series of podcasts is designed to introduce our listeners to successful leaders in a variety of different fields, including business, industry, medicine, the arts, and so much more.
We welcome your feedback. Send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
Ear on Careers – James Nachbaur, Federal Agent
November 24, 2009
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In this episode of “Ear on Careers”, we are pleased to welcome James Nachbaur, a federal agent with the Department of Homeland Security, www.dhs.gov. Due to the nature of James’s position, this podcast focuses more on federal law enforcement in general, rather than James’s specific job duties.
James Nachbaur, Federal Agent
James was born in Paterson, New Jersey, and graduated from Passaic County Community College (“PCCC”) and William Paterson University. After graduating with a degree in Communications in 1995, James entered the financial industry, where he worked until after the attacks of September 11th. He, like many, decided that he wanted to make a difference in the world and – after a brief time as the owner of an Applegate Farms franchise – was accepted into the Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) in 2006. James was drawn to the DHS because of its opportunities to transfer within the department and thereby gain experience with a variety of different agencies.
James notes that PCCC was a great experience because the value was extremely high, he had great professors, and it allowed him to gain the maturity needed to continue for a four-year degree. At PCCC he majored in Criminal Justice but does not recommend that major for anyone considering a career in law enforcement because the Academy will teach you everything you need to know.
Ear on Careers – Cindy Salvo, Attorney
October 30, 2009
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Cindy Salvo, Attorney
In this episode of “Ear on Careers”, we are pleased to welcome Cindy Salvo, a civil litigation attorney and founder of The Salvo Law Firm in Fairfield, New Jersey, www.salvolawfirm.com.
Cindy’s path to becoming an attorney was anything but straight. After several detours, she obtained both an undergraduate and graduate degree in psychology, and founded the Miss American Petite Pageant. While running the Pageant, she had a lawyer on retainer to assist her with various legal issues. Seeing the value of the attorney’s skill, Cindy went to law school in order to better run her Pageant business. However, after spending her summer between her second and third years at law school with a large New York City law firm, she decided that the legal profession was right for her, and closed down the Pageant shortly thereafter.
Cindy does not regret her previous educational and life experiences, as they have shaped the type of lawyer that she is. Her psychology degree taught her compassion, while her experience as a businesswoman brought her understanding for clients. Her advice to aspiring lawyers is to study really hard and make sure your first year law school grades are very good. She finds being an attorney to be very rewarding and she very much enjoys the field, especially when she obtains a good result for her clients.
We hope that Cindy’s story will inspire you to consider a career in the law. If you like to write, argue and think on your feet, the law may be a perfect fit for you!
Top-Tier Tutoring is very excited to bring you the web’s first “career day” podcast series – what we call “Ear on Careers.” This series of podcasts is designed to introduce our listeners to successful leaders in a variety of different fields, including business, industry, medicine, the arts, and so much more.
We welcome your feedback. Send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
Your ACADEMIC Resume
October 27, 2009
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In this podcast, Mike Rivera discusses a unique way students can stand out in the college admissions process: providing an academic resume. Make sure to listen to the podcast for a special offer just for our listeners!
In this twist on the traditional job resume, your academic resume markets you to colleges. It focuses on your strengths and shows how you will make the most out of what the university has to offer. Your academic resume lists your interests and identifies what you intend to do after college.
Also, do not shy away from your weaknesses; your academic resume is your opportunity to show how you are working to rectify a possible perceived flaw. For example, if you have a low GPA or SAT/ACT scores, indicate that you are taking summer courses or tutoring to improve your results. Have historically few volunteer experiences? Create a solution by listing a new volunteer position you have just begun.
We welcome your feedback. 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.
Tips on Writing an Effective College Application Essay
October 7, 2009
So, you’re sitting down before a blank computer screen, trying to figure out what to write for your college application essay. You’ve already written what seems to be hundreds of essays for your high school teachers, but this one is different. You’re not summarizing a book, or commenting on a news event – you’re trying to write the most persuasive essay about yourself possible; one that will make you stand out, get noticed and hopefully accepted by the college of your choice!
In an effort to try to help you write an effective college application essay, we’ve compiled the following tips: Read more
The Ins and Outs of Early Decision versus Early Action
September 26, 2009
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In this podcast, Mike Rivera discusses the somewhat complicated early college application processes. Mike first discusses who should consider applying to colleges early – mainly, those students who are confident that they know where they want to spend the next four years gaining higher education. He then outlines the benefits, such as 25%-50% of acceptances come from this pool, as well as the early November deadlines imposed. He cautions from the outset that each school maintains their own peculiar process and requirements, so be sure to check the college’s application for college-specific details. Read more
Ear on Careers – Marlene Waldock, Communications Specialist
September 11, 2009
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Marlene Waldock, Communications Specialist
In this episode of “Ear on Careers”, we are pleased to welcome Marlene Waldock, a communications specialist based out of Verona, New Jersey, www.becausewearewomen.com. Among other things, Marlene is the founder of 1st Impression Communications and of Because We Are Women, a teen counselor at the Rothman Institute and the immediate past president of the North Essex Chamber of Commerce.
Marlene received her undergraduate degree from the University of Pittsburgh in Adolescent Psychology, with the goal of helping teens transition to young adults. However, early in her working life, she went into sales and eventually became a Regional Training Consultant. In the mid-1990’s, Marlene turned to communications and public speaking Throughout her career, Marlene has constantly doing public speaking in front of groups, either while training or as a television host on NJ Channel 12. In-between, she obtained a management degree from Georgia State.
Ear on Careers – Bernard O’Rourke, College Professor
August 26, 2009
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Bernard O'Rourke, College Professor
In this episode of “Ear on Careers”, we are pleased to welcome Bernard O’Rourke, an associate College Professor in International Business at Caldwell College in Caldwell, New Jersey. Caldwell College can be found on the web at www.caldwell.edu.
Bernie hails from Ireland, where he earned his undergraduate and law degrees. After college, Bernie was sent by the Irish Government Development Office to the United States to promote inward investment to Ireland. While here, he met his wife, got his M.B.A. at Fordham University and held positions within various corporations.
In this podcast, Bernie discusses the different types of professorships. He shares his love of college campus life with our listeners, finding his role as Professor never tedious. Bernie genuinely enjoys teaching (and learning from) his students, and is extremely fulfilled in his chosen occupation.
His tip for aspiring college professors? Secure the best credentials by way of degrees. Experience counts, but credentials are key. We hope that Bernie’s story will inspire you to consider a career in academia!
We are very excited to bring to you another episode in the series we call “Ear on Careers.” This series of podcasts is designed to introduce our listeners to successful leaders in a variety of different fields, including business, industry, medicine, the arts, and so much more. Consider this your podcast “career day”!
We welcome your feedback. Send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
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.
Ear on Careers – J.P. Hamel, Publisher
July 29, 2009
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J.P. Hamel
In this episode of “Ear on Careers”, we are pleased to welcome J.P. Hamel, the publisher of The Essex Fells Magazine. J.P. grew up in Rahway, New Jersey, and attended Albright College in Pennsylvania. In college, J.P. majored in biology and math, intending to enter the biotech/research field. However, his first job took him into the marketing and recruiting field and in January 2009 – the same time that Top-Tier Tutoring was launched! – J.P. started his franchise business with N2 Publishing, www.n2pub.com.
Publishing, according to J.P., requires him to coordinate material for the monthly publication. He is always seeking relevant and creative content of interest to the readership. In addition, a publisher functions in a business development capacity, as advertising provides necessary funding. Accordingly, J.P. has to both find advertisers and maintain good relationships with them.
J.P. says that no one type of major is required to enter the publishing field. His degree in math and biology provided him with a solid foundation, as the scientific/analytic approach he learned in college enables him offer his publication to advertisers as a logical business decision. J.P. notes that his career in sales also has benefitted him tremendously in his role as publisher, especially when dealing with business development. We hope that J.P.’s story will inspire you to consider a career in the publishing industry, an exciting field that brings much needed information to the people!
We are very excited to bring to you another episode in the series we call “Ear on Careers.” This series of podcasts is designed to introduce our listeners to successful leaders in a variety of different fields, including business, industry, medicine, the arts, and so much more. Consider this your podcast “career day”!
We welcome your feedback. Send us an email or give us a call at 973-243-1212.
Common Application Goes Online July 1st
June 26, 2009
The window for the Common Application (the “Common App”) will be opening on July 1st. What is the Common App, you ask? It is an undergraduate college admission application that students utilize to apply to any of the member institutions located within the United States. It serves to promote college admissions through the use of both subjective criteria (e.g., essays and recommendations) and objective criteria ( e.g., GPA and standardized exam scores). Simply put, the Common App streamlines the college application process for students choosing to apply to its member colleges.
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
College Applicants on Social Networking Sites Beware, They “Know What You Did Last Summer.”
May 21, 2009
Students should proceed with caution on social networking sites.
High-school students have enough on their minds with regard to course selection, GPA and exam scores, to name a few. Now another concern adds a challenging dimension to the college application process. Facebook, MySpace and other social networking sites can potentially derail a student’s aspirations about getting into the college of their choice.
A recent survey found that approximately 10% of admissions officers routinely review the social-networking pages of their student applicants. More than a third of those that used the online information indicated that what they saw “negatively affected” their views of the applicant – a significantly higher percentage than those that indicated their views were improved, according to the survey by education company Kaplan, a unit of Washington Post Co. With the explosion of social networking sites, it is reasonable to assume that more and more admissions officers will add their review to the entrance checklist. Read more
