Sunday, December 12, 2010
To MCAS? Or Not to MCAS?
In 1999 the National Academy of Sciences stated that "no single test score can be considered a definitive measure of a student's knowledge." (www.scam-mcas.org) The Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) is a test given to students in the fourth, eighth, and tenth grades. Starting with the class of 2003, students are required to pass the MCAS test in order to graduate. The Massachusetts Education Reform Act of 1993 called for multiple forms of assessment to determine the quality of a student's education. (www.scam-mcas.org) The Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) violates the Massachusetts Education Reform act of 1993 by failing to thoroughly assess... click here to read the rest of this article
Friday, December 3, 2010
Tweaking the American School Year
Written by Stacy Padula
When questioned as to why American students rank low in comparison to other countries, it is often believed that a lack of education is at fault. The countries whose students rank above America's spend more time on education with longer school days or years. The American school year should be longer, with shorter days, and more vacations, because students could then acquire the sufficient amount of rest necessary for success.
Currently the average American school year is composed of one hundred eighty, six and a half-hour days. Thus, it adds up to approximately one thousand one hundred seventy hours of American education per year. It's a battling race to arrive at school each morning by seven thirty. Waking up at dawn is the fiercest battle of all. Perhaps the school day should begin each morning at nine-thirty. That would result in two hours more sleep for both the students and teachers. Since the human brain is sharpest when rested, the scholastic information introduced daily might then sink in more easily.
After waking up at the crack of dawn, few appreciate the six and a half-hour school day ahead. Perhaps if the school day was five and a half-hours long (9:30a to 3:00p), students could set aside more time for personal relaxation. If the average school day were five and a half hours long it would take nearly two hundred and thirteen days to complete the current one-thousand-one-hundred-seventy hours of education. However, that allows forty-eight vacation days in addition to the weekends. With forty-eight days to spare, there could be a one-week vacation every other month, and a month long summer's break. A longer school year, complete with frequent but short breaks, provides the students and teachers with more rest.
In the modern American system, students have vacation once every three months, and then a two-month long summer. Unfortunately the two summer months work like mind erasers. Also the long summer vacations can get lengthy and boring after a while. If vacations were spread out more evenly, students would have something to look forward to. A few weeks of work and a few weeks of rest, provides for a healthier and happier student. Following the traditional long summer break, it takes a complete term to rewind the students' minds to the education mode. "With year-round schools, you have more continuous learning and less learning loss during the summer months." So, if summer vacation were to last only half the time, the students' erasing minds could be refreshed without so much review.
Studies have shown that students' time spent with teachers is beneficial and crucial to the education process. If the school year were to lengthen, students would have more time to be taught by the teachers. Also, if breaks were shortened and spread out more evenly, less review time would be required. The time saved from less reviewing could be used to further studies, and better educate the students of America. With an extra six weeks of learning (instead of review), standardized test scores could increase by one third.
With an extra two hours of sleep per night, and six vacations over the course of the school year, American students would be adequately rested to conquer their daily-faced-challenges. And with less time to forget prior learnings, along with excess time to deepen studies, improvement would shine from all directions. Reaching new heights from day to day, a healthier, less stressed, and increasingly intelligent America would dominate.
When questioned as to why American students rank low in comparison to other countries, it is often believed that a lack of education is at fault. The countries whose students rank above America's spend more time on education with longer school days or years. The American school year should be longer, with shorter days, and more vacations, because students could then acquire the sufficient amount of rest necessary for success.
Currently the average American school year is composed of one hundred eighty, six and a half-hour days. Thus, it adds up to approximately one thousand one hundred seventy hours of American education per year. It's a battling race to arrive at school each morning by seven thirty. Waking up at dawn is the fiercest battle of all. Perhaps the school day should begin each morning at nine-thirty. That would result in two hours more sleep for both the students and teachers. Since the human brain is sharpest when rested, the scholastic information introduced daily might then sink in more easily.
After waking up at the crack of dawn, few appreciate the six and a half-hour school day ahead. Perhaps if the school day was five and a half-hours long (9:30a to 3:00p), students could set aside more time for personal relaxation. If the average school day were five and a half hours long it would take nearly two hundred and thirteen days to complete the current one-thousand-one-hundred-seventy hours of education. However, that allows forty-eight vacation days in addition to the weekends. With forty-eight days to spare, there could be a one-week vacation every other month, and a month long summer's break. A longer school year, complete with frequent but short breaks, provides the students and teachers with more rest.
In the modern American system, students have vacation once every three months, and then a two-month long summer. Unfortunately the two summer months work like mind erasers. Also the long summer vacations can get lengthy and boring after a while. If vacations were spread out more evenly, students would have something to look forward to. A few weeks of work and a few weeks of rest, provides for a healthier and happier student. Following the traditional long summer break, it takes a complete term to rewind the students' minds to the education mode. "With year-round schools, you have more continuous learning and less learning loss during the summer months." So, if summer vacation were to last only half the time, the students' erasing minds could be refreshed without so much review.
Studies have shown that students' time spent with teachers is beneficial and crucial to the education process. If the school year were to lengthen, students would have more time to be taught by the teachers. Also, if breaks were shortened and spread out more evenly, less review time would be required. The time saved from less reviewing could be used to further studies, and better educate the students of America. With an extra six weeks of learning (instead of review), standardized test scores could increase by one third.
With an extra two hours of sleep per night, and six vacations over the course of the school year, American students would be adequately rested to conquer their daily-faced-challenges. And with less time to forget prior learnings, along with excess time to deepen studies, improvement would shine from all directions. Reaching new heights from day to day, a healthier, less stressed, and increasingly intelligent America would dominate.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
The Benefits of Doing an Internship
By Kara Scozzari
The challenging job market has made it virtually impossible to find a full-time job after graduation without any experience. Internships are the perfect way to gain real-world exposure and build a network of contacts before graduation. Having relevant work experience on your resume can give you an edge and set you apart from the competition.
An internship is a temporary position that is usually done by college students seeking to gain experience in their field. Internships may be paid, unpaid, or done for school credit. Unpaid internships have been on the rise in the past few years, as this provides employers with cheap means of labor. Most unpaid interns are compensated with class credit instead of monetary reimbursements. This can be beneficial for students who are behind in their courses and can complete internships over the summer in order to catch up. Also, many seniors who have already completed their major courses will do internships in their last semester so they can be a full-time student and also gain experience at the same time.
There are many benefits of doing an internship including the opportunity for the intern to determine if they have an interest in that particular field. Doing an internship with a company can give a network of contacts and they may offer the intern a full-time job. Employers generally see interns as prospective employees and may offer their interns a full-time job after the internship is completed. If the intern is a sophomore or junior in college, it is not uncommon for the company to keep the intern on every year or every summer until they graduate. It makes more sense for a company to hire interns than to interview new applicants, as they already know that their interns are capable and knowledgeable about the company. If they are not currently hiring, the employers may also help interns find a job with other connections they have outside of their company. Another way that internships can greatly benefit students is by giving them the extra confidence they need. The more schoolwork a student has completed, the more knowledge they have to use in their future careers. The same goes for an internship. The more work experience a student has had, the more confident they will feel in their field and will be able to continue meeting future challenges in their career.
Doing an internship is a great way to figure out what kind of career you may want. You may realize after doing an internship that you don’t want a particular kind of job, or perhaps that it’s perfect for you. It’s a great way to test out a career without a full-time commitment.
The challenging job market has made it virtually impossible to find a full-time job after graduation without any experience. Internships are the perfect way to gain real-world exposure and build a network of contacts before graduation. Having relevant work experience on your resume can give you an edge and set you apart from the competition.
An internship is a temporary position that is usually done by college students seeking to gain experience in their field. Internships may be paid, unpaid, or done for school credit. Unpaid internships have been on the rise in the past few years, as this provides employers with cheap means of labor. Most unpaid interns are compensated with class credit instead of monetary reimbursements. This can be beneficial for students who are behind in their courses and can complete internships over the summer in order to catch up. Also, many seniors who have already completed their major courses will do internships in their last semester so they can be a full-time student and also gain experience at the same time.
There are many benefits of doing an internship including the opportunity for the intern to determine if they have an interest in that particular field. Doing an internship with a company can give a network of contacts and they may offer the intern a full-time job. Employers generally see interns as prospective employees and may offer their interns a full-time job after the internship is completed. If the intern is a sophomore or junior in college, it is not uncommon for the company to keep the intern on every year or every summer until they graduate. It makes more sense for a company to hire interns than to interview new applicants, as they already know that their interns are capable and knowledgeable about the company. If they are not currently hiring, the employers may also help interns find a job with other connections they have outside of their company. Another way that internships can greatly benefit students is by giving them the extra confidence they need. The more schoolwork a student has completed, the more knowledge they have to use in their future careers. The same goes for an internship. The more work experience a student has had, the more confident they will feel in their field and will be able to continue meeting future challenges in their career.
Doing an internship is a great way to figure out what kind of career you may want. You may realize after doing an internship that you don’t want a particular kind of job, or perhaps that it’s perfect for you. It’s a great way to test out a career without a full-time commitment.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Information about Studying Abroad
By Kara Scozzari
One of the most unique opportunities attending a university can provide, is the option to study in a foreign country. For many students the process of deciding where to study, filling out applications, and the overwhelming thought of packing up and leaving the US can be stressful. Here is a quick guide to the basics of studying abroad, including the types of programs that are offered, how to begin the process, how to afford it, and some reasons why you should go for it!
Colleges offer many different types of study abroad programs. Managed programs are exactly as they sound; the home institute manages them. They have originated, or are currently administered, by the university’s faculty or staff. This could mean the home university owns overseas facilities, or it may send faculty abroad with the students. Approved programs are those that have no direct ties to the home university, but have been approved for students to study there. Exchange programs are those in which a US student switches places with a student at another school. In many cases, the students will pay their same college tuition during the exchange.
Students can choose to study abroad for a semester, a summer session, a winter session, or a full year. The best way to begin getting organized is to make a checklist and follow it, for example:
• Attend a general information session or visit the study abroad office on your campus
• Make a list of the criteria you are looking for in your abroad university
• Research programs in the country of your choice that meet your criteria
• Apply!
Many students and their families question if they will have enough money to afford this type of program. There are options on how to handle this problem, including scholarships, loans, or simply saving very early on. There is also the option of choosing a program where you continue to pay your home institute’s tuition, while receiving your normal scholarships and/or financial aid.
There are many amazing reasons why studying abroad can benefit a student. Here are our top 7:
1. Internship or volunteer opportunities available
2. Personal growth
3. Learn a new language
4. A new outlook on world affairs
5. Looks great on a resume!
6. Make new friendships
7. Have new cross-cultural experiences
One of the most unique opportunities attending a university can provide, is the option to study in a foreign country. For many students the process of deciding where to study, filling out applications, and the overwhelming thought of packing up and leaving the US can be stressful. Here is a quick guide to the basics of studying abroad, including the types of programs that are offered, how to begin the process, how to afford it, and some reasons why you should go for it!
Colleges offer many different types of study abroad programs. Managed programs are exactly as they sound; the home institute manages them. They have originated, or are currently administered, by the university’s faculty or staff. This could mean the home university owns overseas facilities, or it may send faculty abroad with the students. Approved programs are those that have no direct ties to the home university, but have been approved for students to study there. Exchange programs are those in which a US student switches places with a student at another school. In many cases, the students will pay their same college tuition during the exchange.
Students can choose to study abroad for a semester, a summer session, a winter session, or a full year. The best way to begin getting organized is to make a checklist and follow it, for example:
• Attend a general information session or visit the study abroad office on your campus
• Make a list of the criteria you are looking for in your abroad university
• Research programs in the country of your choice that meet your criteria
• Apply!
Many students and their families question if they will have enough money to afford this type of program. There are options on how to handle this problem, including scholarships, loans, or simply saving very early on. There is also the option of choosing a program where you continue to pay your home institute’s tuition, while receiving your normal scholarships and/or financial aid.
There are many amazing reasons why studying abroad can benefit a student. Here are our top 7:
1. Internship or volunteer opportunities available
2. Personal growth
3. Learn a new language
4. A new outlook on world affairs
5. Looks great on a resume!
6. Make new friendships
7. Have new cross-cultural experiences
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Massachusetts Election 2010: The Candidates & Education
By Faith Birnbaum
The political environment in Massachusetts is tense, with the top two candidates for governor, Charlie Baker, Republican, and Democratic incumbent, Deval Patrick, vying for the slim majority of votes. Independent Tim Cahill and Julie Stein are distant third and second, with a combined popularity of less than 9%1. The race on Nov. 2 is really between Baker and Patrick, and we want to know their positions on education!
Gov. Deval Patrick
Over the last term, Governor Deval Patrick has had some big accomplishments for education. The most recent was securing 250 million dollars in federal aid through Obama's program, Race to the Top2. That money will be going directly to school districts. Patrick has also advocated and secured other various funds for education: he allocated $204 million from the federal Education Jobs Fun to school districts, ensuring that all districts will receive at least $25 per student more than last year3. A large source of federal funding has come from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), which has provided over 350 million for higher education and 2 billion for K-12 due to Patrick's advocacy4. Under Patrick, the combination of state and federal aid has totaled $4.07 billion, which is the highest in history5. Considering this against the backdrop of the economic recession, Patrick has made it clear that educational aid is not an open to cuts.
Patrick has also attempted to close the educational gap between underfunded, under performing schools and the rest of the state. Patrick allocated $27 million to 12 under performing schools to improve student achievement6.
A big issue for Patrick is the establishment of more charter schools. Charter schools are publicly funded but privately run. They can tailor their educational programs to fit the needs of the communities they serve, and provide educational choices and innovations for parents. Patrick has raised the cap on charter schools, from 9% to 18%, in under performing school districts in order to increase their numbers. Currently, there are 42 applications for new charter schools waiting to be reviewed7. Additionally, Patrick wants to change how charter schools are funded: as of now, the money comes from the school district budget. At times, charter schools have a surplus of money, part of which is returned to the district. He would like to create a separate category for charter schools in state budget, so that the school districts know exactly how much money they are receiving and that charter school funding does not directly take money away from public schools8.
The largest teachers' union in Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Teachers Association, (MTA), has given Patrick their endorsement for this upcoming election9. Although the MTA and Patrick have had disagreements, they are impressed with his securement of funds for education and his determination to avoid cutting educational aid. In the past, the MTA has disagreed with Patrick over creating more charter schools, which usually do not hire from the teachers' union, and giving the superintendent more power to re-evaluate teachers.
Patrick has plans for education next term: in addition to securing more funding, opening more charter schools and avoiding cutting educational spending, he would like to adopt educational standards in addition to the MCAS. The MCAS, (Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System) a test which high-schoolers must pass in order to graduate, is considered more rigorous than the national standards for educational achievement. Patrick would like to keep MCAS, but also develop other tools to monitor students' progress10. He feels that MCAS, although valuable, does not sufficiently measure a student's education on it's own. Next term, he would push to develop other educational diagnostic tools. Patrick would also like to implement a merit-based pay system for schools. This would be on a team by team or school by school system to foster collaboration. He has also mentioned expanding early education by creating a free full-day kindergarten program available for all 5 year olds11.
Charlie Baker has criticized Patrick's education record, stating that because he failed to go after certain saving and reforms, there has been a loss of 3,200 teachers and 140 million in higher education fuding, which could have been avoided12.
Charlie Baker
Charlie Baker has also spoken about education. He wants to keep MCAS, and only MCAS, as a graduation requirement13. Massachusetts has already invested time and money into developing MCAS, so he does not see the value of spending more money to adopt and implement additional standards. Baker has spoken against cutting local aid, and he proposes to downsize the state bureaucracy in order balance the budget14. He would like to tie teacher evaluations to student performance, give the superintendents greater authority over the hiring and firing of teachers, and give states more resources to change under performing schools15. He is also in favor of charter schools.
Patrick has critiqued Charlie Baker's proposals, claiming that his tax cuts would result in a $2.5 billion cut to the budget16. Baker has not said how he would fund local aid and have tax cuts simultaneously.
Patrick has also attacked Baker's record: Charlie Baker was on the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, where he missed 1/3 of the meetings and voted to cut education funding17. Charlie Baker has repeatedly reaffirmed his commitment to local aid and promises that he will not cut it18.
Works Cited
1http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/elections/election_2010/election_2010_governor_elections/massachusetts/election_2010_massachusetts_governor
2http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=100921_stoughton_school_visit&csid=Agov3
3Ibid.
4http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=edupressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoedu&b=pressrelease&f=20100825_highest_edu_funding&csid=Eoedu
5Ibid.
6http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=edupressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoedu&b=pressrelease&f=20100812_1st_school_turnaround_grant&csid=Eoedu
7http://www.doe.mass.edu/charter/news/2010/0816pr.html
8http://www.ontheissues.org/governor/Deval_Patrick_Education.htm'
9http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2010/07/13/teachers_union_seeks_patricks_reelection/
10http://devalpatrick.com/entries/republican_charles_bakers_education_charade_continues#nav:top-of-page
11http://www.ontheissues.org/governor/Deval_Patrick_Education.htm'
12http://www.boston.com/news/local/breaking_news/2010/10/baker_patrick_c.html
13http://www.charliebaker2010.com/issuesEducation.php
14http://www.enterprisenews.com/news/state_news/x682903220/Governor-hopeful-Charlie-Baker-talks-education-at-Brockton-press-conference
15http://www.charliebaker2010.com/integratedblogsite/c=pressreleases/?p=1057/
16http://www.bostonherald.com/news/politics/view/20101019charlie_baker_hits_gov_deval_patrick_on_local_aid_cuts/
17http://devalpatrick.com/entries/baker_flunks_the_honesty_test#nav:top-of-page
18http://www.enterprisenews.com/news/state_news/x682903220/Governor-hopeful-Charlie-Baker-talks-education-at-Brockton-press-conference
The political environment in Massachusetts is tense, with the top two candidates for governor, Charlie Baker, Republican, and Democratic incumbent, Deval Patrick, vying for the slim majority of votes. Independent Tim Cahill and Julie Stein are distant third and second, with a combined popularity of less than 9%1. The race on Nov. 2 is really between Baker and Patrick, and we want to know their positions on education!
Gov. Deval Patrick
Over the last term, Governor Deval Patrick has had some big accomplishments for education. The most recent was securing 250 million dollars in federal aid through Obama's program, Race to the Top2. That money will be going directly to school districts. Patrick has also advocated and secured other various funds for education: he allocated $204 million from the federal Education Jobs Fun to school districts, ensuring that all districts will receive at least $25 per student more than last year3. A large source of federal funding has come from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), which has provided over 350 million for higher education and 2 billion for K-12 due to Patrick's advocacy4. Under Patrick, the combination of state and federal aid has totaled $4.07 billion, which is the highest in history5. Considering this against the backdrop of the economic recession, Patrick has made it clear that educational aid is not an open to cuts.
Patrick has also attempted to close the educational gap between underfunded, under performing schools and the rest of the state. Patrick allocated $27 million to 12 under performing schools to improve student achievement6.
A big issue for Patrick is the establishment of more charter schools. Charter schools are publicly funded but privately run. They can tailor their educational programs to fit the needs of the communities they serve, and provide educational choices and innovations for parents. Patrick has raised the cap on charter schools, from 9% to 18%, in under performing school districts in order to increase their numbers. Currently, there are 42 applications for new charter schools waiting to be reviewed7. Additionally, Patrick wants to change how charter schools are funded: as of now, the money comes from the school district budget. At times, charter schools have a surplus of money, part of which is returned to the district. He would like to create a separate category for charter schools in state budget, so that the school districts know exactly how much money they are receiving and that charter school funding does not directly take money away from public schools8.
The largest teachers' union in Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Teachers Association, (MTA), has given Patrick their endorsement for this upcoming election9. Although the MTA and Patrick have had disagreements, they are impressed with his securement of funds for education and his determination to avoid cutting educational aid. In the past, the MTA has disagreed with Patrick over creating more charter schools, which usually do not hire from the teachers' union, and giving the superintendent more power to re-evaluate teachers.
Patrick has plans for education next term: in addition to securing more funding, opening more charter schools and avoiding cutting educational spending, he would like to adopt educational standards in addition to the MCAS. The MCAS, (Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System) a test which high-schoolers must pass in order to graduate, is considered more rigorous than the national standards for educational achievement. Patrick would like to keep MCAS, but also develop other tools to monitor students' progress10. He feels that MCAS, although valuable, does not sufficiently measure a student's education on it's own. Next term, he would push to develop other educational diagnostic tools. Patrick would also like to implement a merit-based pay system for schools. This would be on a team by team or school by school system to foster collaboration. He has also mentioned expanding early education by creating a free full-day kindergarten program available for all 5 year olds11.
Charlie Baker has criticized Patrick's education record, stating that because he failed to go after certain saving and reforms, there has been a loss of 3,200 teachers and 140 million in higher education fuding, which could have been avoided12.
Charlie Baker
Charlie Baker has also spoken about education. He wants to keep MCAS, and only MCAS, as a graduation requirement13. Massachusetts has already invested time and money into developing MCAS, so he does not see the value of spending more money to adopt and implement additional standards. Baker has spoken against cutting local aid, and he proposes to downsize the state bureaucracy in order balance the budget14. He would like to tie teacher evaluations to student performance, give the superintendents greater authority over the hiring and firing of teachers, and give states more resources to change under performing schools15. He is also in favor of charter schools.
Patrick has critiqued Charlie Baker's proposals, claiming that his tax cuts would result in a $2.5 billion cut to the budget16. Baker has not said how he would fund local aid and have tax cuts simultaneously.
Patrick has also attacked Baker's record: Charlie Baker was on the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, where he missed 1/3 of the meetings and voted to cut education funding17. Charlie Baker has repeatedly reaffirmed his commitment to local aid and promises that he will not cut it18.
Works Cited
1http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/elections/election_2010/election_2010_governor_elections/massachusetts/election_2010_massachusetts_governor
2http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=gov3pressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Agov3&b=pressrelease&f=100921_stoughton_school_visit&csid=Agov3
3Ibid.
4http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=edupressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoedu&b=pressrelease&f=20100825_highest_edu_funding&csid=Eoedu
5Ibid.
6http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=edupressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Eoedu&b=pressrelease&f=20100812_1st_school_turnaround_grant&csid=Eoedu
7http://www.doe.mass.edu/charter/news/2010/0816pr.html
8http://www.ontheissues.org/governor/Deval_Patrick_Education.htm'
9http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2010/07/13/teachers_union_seeks_patricks_reelection/
10http://devalpatrick.com/entries/republican_charles_bakers_education_charade_continues#nav:top-of-page
11http://www.ontheissues.org/governor/Deval_Patrick_Education.htm'
12http://www.boston.com/news/local/breaking_news/2010/10/baker_patrick_c.html
13http://www.charliebaker2010.com/issuesEducation.php
14http://www.enterprisenews.com/news/state_news/x682903220/Governor-hopeful-Charlie-Baker-talks-education-at-Brockton-press-conference
15http://www.charliebaker2010.com/integratedblogsite/c=pressreleases/?p=1057/
16http://www.bostonherald.com/news/politics/view/20101019charlie_baker_hits_gov_deval_patrick_on_local_aid_cuts/
17http://devalpatrick.com/entries/baker_flunks_the_honesty_test#nav:top-of-page
18http://www.enterprisenews.com/news/state_news/x682903220/Governor-hopeful-Charlie-Baker-talks-education-at-Brockton-press-conference
Thursday, October 21, 2010
An Inside Scoop on Brown University
Written by Faith Birnbaum, Brown Alumni '10
This is a short, unofficial guide to Brown University, for those of you who have the opportunity to choose this institution. I graduated from Brown in May 2010, and I hope that sharing my experiences will help you to make a more informed decision. I doubt that you will be able to find the same information in an info session or campus tour--only the graduates, who are not recruiting you, know what the school is really like.
Curriculum
The most important aspect to consider is the open curriculum. In my experience, this has distinguished Brown from any other college in a multitude of ways. An open curriculum means that Brown does not require any core classes--that’s right, you could graduate without taking a single math class (like me). There are definitely advantages and disadvantages to this system. A huge advantage is that the endless opportunities force you to take ownership of your education. Nobody is telling you what is important, so you must be the one to figure it out. It allows you to explore different fields; for example, my freshman year, I took a class on Human Sacrifice—just because it seemed interesting.
Brown’s selection of classes is vast and unbelievably interesting; subjects that you would normally overlook are expanded and turned into a full credit semester-long class. Freshmen are bombarded with choices like “Political Theatre of the Americas,” “Theory of Probability,” and “Biology of Communication,” along with the more standard History, Science, English and Math fields. To see the full spectrum of classes, go to Mocha, a website frequently used by students to create course schedules: http://brown.mochacourses.com/mocha/main.jsp If you don’t see a class that appeals to you, you are even allowed to create one yourself; under the supervision of a professor, you can form an independent study. The freedom that an open curriculum provides results in a very diverse education, and one that the student should take seriously.
This leads me to the disadvantage of an open curriculum. It is your responsibility to expose yourself to different things. If you are not a self-driven, motivated student, you will probably still do well at Brown, but you probably won’t get the most out of what it has to offer. There are many concentrations (Brown doesn’t use the word ‘major’), and for the student without ambition and drive, it can seem too daunting. You don’t want to end up at the end of your sophomore year--when you must declare a concentration--not knowing what to declare.
Advising is not the best at Brown; the administration has taken steps to improve it, but it still falls short of where it should be. There are older students paired with younger students to talk about classes, and professors that are supposed to meet frequently with freshmen. There is also a Career Development Center, which can advise what classes to take if you are interested in a particular career. However, because there are so many choices, advising can only help so much, and it is ultimately the responsibility of the student to analyze and think through their class choices.
Campus Life
Brown is a small campus with approximately 6,000 students, and believe me, by the end of senior year, it feels a lot smaller! If you see an unfamiliar face senior year, chances are high that you know a few people in common. Students at Brown are very, very interesting, and for the most part, I loved the people I met. There are many different groups and niches, so it is hard to classify what the Brown community is like; the only way to classify it is to say it is diverse. There are students who love to go out drinking, those that prefer to stay and discuss philosophy, music aficionados, types that are introverted, extroverted, family oriented, lost, driven, basically everything. The diversity of the community is a huge plus; if you meet enough people, you are guaranteed to find good friends.
The social life of the school is diverse as well. There are a few frats that throw parties once or twice a weekend. These parties are usually a big attraction for freshmen and sophomores, and they are a great way to meet new people. There are two sororities on campus as well (one of which I was a member, Alpha Chi Omega), and they have smaller social events as well. Greek life is very small, only 1% of the campus joins, and therefore the frats and sororities are very welcoming and friendly; definitely not the stereotypical ones of the south.
If you prefer to avoid the frat parties, there are many people who are up for just hanging out in the dorm. Keene, a freshmen dorm of 1,000 students, is huge and full of activity on the weekends. Many people leave their doors open and it’s not unusual during the first week for you to wander into a neighbor’s room and introduce yourself. Thayer Street, the most popular spot for Brown students on weekends, is full of bars and late-night restaurants.
There is also an emphasis on culture at Brown, more so than I would expect from other schools. Clubs that celebrate heritage and culture are popular, and they frequently put on shows and events. I didn’t get involved in those, but if I could re-do my Brown experience, I would probably join one.
Overall, I would highly recommend Brown University, and I would expect your experience to be very different from mine. Brown is very eclectic, and it fosters personal growth, development, and analytical thinking. In the end, that is really what you want to get out of a good college education. If Brown is on your option list, the best way to figure it out is to contact the admissions department and set up an overnight stay. They’ll pair you up with a freshman, so you can spend a night on campus to get a feel for what it’s really like. Good luck in your search.
This is a short, unofficial guide to Brown University, for those of you who have the opportunity to choose this institution. I graduated from Brown in May 2010, and I hope that sharing my experiences will help you to make a more informed decision. I doubt that you will be able to find the same information in an info session or campus tour--only the graduates, who are not recruiting you, know what the school is really like.
Curriculum
The most important aspect to consider is the open curriculum. In my experience, this has distinguished Brown from any other college in a multitude of ways. An open curriculum means that Brown does not require any core classes--that’s right, you could graduate without taking a single math class (like me). There are definitely advantages and disadvantages to this system. A huge advantage is that the endless opportunities force you to take ownership of your education. Nobody is telling you what is important, so you must be the one to figure it out. It allows you to explore different fields; for example, my freshman year, I took a class on Human Sacrifice—just because it seemed interesting.
Brown’s selection of classes is vast and unbelievably interesting; subjects that you would normally overlook are expanded and turned into a full credit semester-long class. Freshmen are bombarded with choices like “Political Theatre of the Americas,” “Theory of Probability,” and “Biology of Communication,” along with the more standard History, Science, English and Math fields. To see the full spectrum of classes, go to Mocha, a website frequently used by students to create course schedules: http://brown.mochacourses.com/mocha/main.jsp If you don’t see a class that appeals to you, you are even allowed to create one yourself; under the supervision of a professor, you can form an independent study. The freedom that an open curriculum provides results in a very diverse education, and one that the student should take seriously.
This leads me to the disadvantage of an open curriculum. It is your responsibility to expose yourself to different things. If you are not a self-driven, motivated student, you will probably still do well at Brown, but you probably won’t get the most out of what it has to offer. There are many concentrations (Brown doesn’t use the word ‘major’), and for the student without ambition and drive, it can seem too daunting. You don’t want to end up at the end of your sophomore year--when you must declare a concentration--not knowing what to declare.
Advising is not the best at Brown; the administration has taken steps to improve it, but it still falls short of where it should be. There are older students paired with younger students to talk about classes, and professors that are supposed to meet frequently with freshmen. There is also a Career Development Center, which can advise what classes to take if you are interested in a particular career. However, because there are so many choices, advising can only help so much, and it is ultimately the responsibility of the student to analyze and think through their class choices.
Campus Life
Brown is a small campus with approximately 6,000 students, and believe me, by the end of senior year, it feels a lot smaller! If you see an unfamiliar face senior year, chances are high that you know a few people in common. Students at Brown are very, very interesting, and for the most part, I loved the people I met. There are many different groups and niches, so it is hard to classify what the Brown community is like; the only way to classify it is to say it is diverse. There are students who love to go out drinking, those that prefer to stay and discuss philosophy, music aficionados, types that are introverted, extroverted, family oriented, lost, driven, basically everything. The diversity of the community is a huge plus; if you meet enough people, you are guaranteed to find good friends.
The social life of the school is diverse as well. There are a few frats that throw parties once or twice a weekend. These parties are usually a big attraction for freshmen and sophomores, and they are a great way to meet new people. There are two sororities on campus as well (one of which I was a member, Alpha Chi Omega), and they have smaller social events as well. Greek life is very small, only 1% of the campus joins, and therefore the frats and sororities are very welcoming and friendly; definitely not the stereotypical ones of the south.
If you prefer to avoid the frat parties, there are many people who are up for just hanging out in the dorm. Keene, a freshmen dorm of 1,000 students, is huge and full of activity on the weekends. Many people leave their doors open and it’s not unusual during the first week for you to wander into a neighbor’s room and introduce yourself. Thayer Street, the most popular spot for Brown students on weekends, is full of bars and late-night restaurants.
There is also an emphasis on culture at Brown, more so than I would expect from other schools. Clubs that celebrate heritage and culture are popular, and they frequently put on shows and events. I didn’t get involved in those, but if I could re-do my Brown experience, I would probably join one.
Overall, I would highly recommend Brown University, and I would expect your experience to be very different from mine. Brown is very eclectic, and it fosters personal growth, development, and analytical thinking. In the end, that is really what you want to get out of a good college education. If Brown is on your option list, the best way to figure it out is to contact the admissions department and set up an overnight stay. They’ll pair you up with a freshman, so you can spend a night on campus to get a feel for what it’s really like. Good luck in your search.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Private V.S. Public High Schools
Parents commonly face the dilemma of choosing a public or a private school for their children. You may ask, how do they compare? There are many differences between the two, including facilities, class sizes, the teaching staff, budget, and prestige.
When it comes to facilities, public schools often range based on the town they are located in. If you live in an area where the public school is in good shape, then it may not be too different from a private school. However, for those who live in an area where the local public schools are mediocre, it may be better to attend a private school, just for the advanced facilities.
Private schools often have alumni who donate money that adds to the budget and further enhances the attributes of the school. Sometimes, thanks to endowments, private schools look more like a state-of-the-art university than a high school. This can be a huge edge when comparing a private school to a low budget public school with less than acceptable amenities.
When it comes to class size, public schools enroll every student that lives in the area. This can lead to large class sizes and overcrowding, depending on the area. Private schools, on the other hand, usually have a competitive admission process and therefore accept fewer students and have smaller classes. This can provide more individualized attention for the students, and can create stronger relationships between the students and faculty.
Many have the notion that teachers at private schools have better credentials than public school teachers. That is not necessarily the case, as every school varies. It is best to look at the teaching staff at both the public school and the private school you are considering to determine which environment is the better match. Most teachers in Massachusetts that teach in the public schools are REQUIRED to pass licensing exams (MTEL), and have (or are working towards) a masters’ degree. As private schools are not required to conform to state standards, teachers in this setting often have a range of degrees and experiences.
Local property taxes support the bulk of public education. Private schools rely on tuition to support their budget, which can always be raised. Private schools usually have much higher budgets thanks to generous alumni donations and high tuitions. A higher budget translates to more money towards sports teams, science programs, field trips, and music instruments. The budget really can affect a student’s education, mainly if the school’s budget is low, certain programs or benefits are cut all together.
It is really a personal choice as to what type of high school you want your child to attend. If you live in a great area with respected public schools, we don’t believe it will hinder the education of your child.
When it comes to facilities, public schools often range based on the town they are located in. If you live in an area where the public school is in good shape, then it may not be too different from a private school. However, for those who live in an area where the local public schools are mediocre, it may be better to attend a private school, just for the advanced facilities.
Private schools often have alumni who donate money that adds to the budget and further enhances the attributes of the school. Sometimes, thanks to endowments, private schools look more like a state-of-the-art university than a high school. This can be a huge edge when comparing a private school to a low budget public school with less than acceptable amenities.
When it comes to class size, public schools enroll every student that lives in the area. This can lead to large class sizes and overcrowding, depending on the area. Private schools, on the other hand, usually have a competitive admission process and therefore accept fewer students and have smaller classes. This can provide more individualized attention for the students, and can create stronger relationships between the students and faculty.
Many have the notion that teachers at private schools have better credentials than public school teachers. That is not necessarily the case, as every school varies. It is best to look at the teaching staff at both the public school and the private school you are considering to determine which environment is the better match. Most teachers in Massachusetts that teach in the public schools are REQUIRED to pass licensing exams (MTEL), and have (or are working towards) a masters’ degree. As private schools are not required to conform to state standards, teachers in this setting often have a range of degrees and experiences.
Local property taxes support the bulk of public education. Private schools rely on tuition to support their budget, which can always be raised. Private schools usually have much higher budgets thanks to generous alumni donations and high tuitions. A higher budget translates to more money towards sports teams, science programs, field trips, and music instruments. The budget really can affect a student’s education, mainly if the school’s budget is low, certain programs or benefits are cut all together.
It is really a personal choice as to what type of high school you want your child to attend. If you live in a great area with respected public schools, we don’t believe it will hinder the education of your child.
Friday, October 8, 2010
College of the Month: Boston College
Located in Chestnut Hill, Boston College is a private college with a Roman Catholic affiliation. Undergrads love the location, as they are in the midst of suburbia but it’s just a quick train ride into the heart of Boston. There they can find museums, concerts, shopping, and restaurants. They are also in the middle of a huge college area- with Northeastern University, Boston University, Harvard, Emerson, and others located nearby.
BC is described as one of the top universities in the northeast and those who attend are proud of where they hail from. Football and hockey games draw large attendance, including many alumni. Many students plan road trips to other colleges for BC football games, specifically the huge game at Notre Dame in Indiana.
With less than 10,000 students enrolled, BC is a competitive school that can be tough to get into. Students are usually at the tops of their classes in high school and are well-rounded individuals who are athletic and smart. BC has many students whose parents were also graduates.
Most students are white, although diversity is something that is growing with increasing numbers of international, Asian, and Hispanic students. Despite the numbers of non conformers, students still describe the school as having mostly preppy girls wearing UGGS, North Face and Abercrombie & Fitch, and collared shirt wearing guys. There is no Greek life on this campus; however, there are lots of student organizations to choose from and intramural teams to play for.
Students are huge on studying abroad at BC, many even turning their semesters overseas into a volunteer trip. BC offers programs at international partner institutions where students can continue to pay their BC tuition and receive financial aid. There are also approved programs, which aren’t affiliated with BC, but fortunately classes can still be transferred. Students are huge on volunteering and the Appalachia Volunteer Group gives students the ability to participate in local service opportunities throughout the year and then travel to a struggling region of the United States during spring break to lend a hand. Keep in mind that housing is NOT guaranteed junior year on campus, thus this is the time most students study abroad.
If you’re looking for a smaller college with competitive students who have lots of school pride, this is the place for you.
BC is described as one of the top universities in the northeast and those who attend are proud of where they hail from. Football and hockey games draw large attendance, including many alumni. Many students plan road trips to other colleges for BC football games, specifically the huge game at Notre Dame in Indiana.
With less than 10,000 students enrolled, BC is a competitive school that can be tough to get into. Students are usually at the tops of their classes in high school and are well-rounded individuals who are athletic and smart. BC has many students whose parents were also graduates.
Most students are white, although diversity is something that is growing with increasing numbers of international, Asian, and Hispanic students. Despite the numbers of non conformers, students still describe the school as having mostly preppy girls wearing UGGS, North Face and Abercrombie & Fitch, and collared shirt wearing guys. There is no Greek life on this campus; however, there are lots of student organizations to choose from and intramural teams to play for.
Students are huge on studying abroad at BC, many even turning their semesters overseas into a volunteer trip. BC offers programs at international partner institutions where students can continue to pay their BC tuition and receive financial aid. There are also approved programs, which aren’t affiliated with BC, but fortunately classes can still be transferred. Students are huge on volunteering and the Appalachia Volunteer Group gives students the ability to participate in local service opportunities throughout the year and then travel to a struggling region of the United States during spring break to lend a hand. Keep in mind that housing is NOT guaranteed junior year on campus, thus this is the time most students study abroad.
If you’re looking for a smaller college with competitive students who have lots of school pride, this is the place for you.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
College of the Week: URI
Overview
The University of Rhode Island, located in the rural town of South Kingston, is the ideal school for anyone looking for a great education and a quick walk to the beach. For the most part, students who attend URI are from the Northeast, New York (particularly Long Island), and New Jersey, but every now and then someone from the West Coast will walk across campus. The CELS (College of Environmental Life Sciences), College of Pharmacy, and College of Business Administration are the three strongest programs offered at URI. URI has gone through serious changes in the past several years. Renovated academic buildings, highlighted by a brand new Center for Biotechnology and Life Sciences, along with new and renovated dormitories display the consistent growth that URI is experiencing. At the top of campus, just north of the quadrangle, one will find The Emporium, which is home to several bookstores, shops, and eateries. It is almost impossible to overlook International Pocket’s, one of the most popular restaurants on campus that boasts, “The Sexiest, Healthiest Food on Campus.”
Social Scene
Dorm life is fantastic at URI; it offers the opportunity for students to find people with similar interests and allows students to become self-sufficient. A strong Division I sports program unites students and the surrounding community, as thousands pile into the Ryan Center for basketball games. “Rhody, Rhody, Rhody… Rams, Rams Rams!!” Freshmen find themselves drawn to Greek life, as it dominates the social scene on campus. One of URI’s flagship events is something called Oozeball. Every spring, hundreds of students gather around gigantic mud pits and play competitive games of volleyball. Disclaimer: You will get dirty!
Location
After freshman year, the majority of students pair up with friends and decide to move off campus, or “down the line.” There are hundreds of houses rented out by students each year at a reduced rate from summer rentals. The town of Narragansett is home to some popular spots for students to live: Bonnet Shores, Eastward Look, and Point Judith. Living off campus has its perks. Narragansett and Scarborough beach are very close by and frequented by students in the early and late school months. On any given day, many URI students will break out their wetsuits and go surfing. Other points of interest include, Newport, Ocean Drive, the Blackpoint Cliffs, Point Judith, and the Old Mountain Lanes. For those in need of a few extra bucks, there are hundreds of places to work “down the line,” as it is a huge commercial district.
“While attending URI I was able to find friends who I will be close to for the rest of my life. In addition, URI provided me a superior education that will support me any where I go.” -Tyler Zbinden – URI Class of 2007
The University of Rhode Island, located in the rural town of South Kingston, is the ideal school for anyone looking for a great education and a quick walk to the beach. For the most part, students who attend URI are from the Northeast, New York (particularly Long Island), and New Jersey, but every now and then someone from the West Coast will walk across campus. The CELS (College of Environmental Life Sciences), College of Pharmacy, and College of Business Administration are the three strongest programs offered at URI. URI has gone through serious changes in the past several years. Renovated academic buildings, highlighted by a brand new Center for Biotechnology and Life Sciences, along with new and renovated dormitories display the consistent growth that URI is experiencing. At the top of campus, just north of the quadrangle, one will find The Emporium, which is home to several bookstores, shops, and eateries. It is almost impossible to overlook International Pocket’s, one of the most popular restaurants on campus that boasts, “The Sexiest, Healthiest Food on Campus.”
Social Scene
Dorm life is fantastic at URI; it offers the opportunity for students to find people with similar interests and allows students to become self-sufficient. A strong Division I sports program unites students and the surrounding community, as thousands pile into the Ryan Center for basketball games. “Rhody, Rhody, Rhody… Rams, Rams Rams!!” Freshmen find themselves drawn to Greek life, as it dominates the social scene on campus. One of URI’s flagship events is something called Oozeball. Every spring, hundreds of students gather around gigantic mud pits and play competitive games of volleyball. Disclaimer: You will get dirty!
Location
After freshman year, the majority of students pair up with friends and decide to move off campus, or “down the line.” There are hundreds of houses rented out by students each year at a reduced rate from summer rentals. The town of Narragansett is home to some popular spots for students to live: Bonnet Shores, Eastward Look, and Point Judith. Living off campus has its perks. Narragansett and Scarborough beach are very close by and frequented by students in the early and late school months. On any given day, many URI students will break out their wetsuits and go surfing. Other points of interest include, Newport, Ocean Drive, the Blackpoint Cliffs, Point Judith, and the Old Mountain Lanes. For those in need of a few extra bucks, there are hundreds of places to work “down the line,” as it is a huge commercial district.
“While attending URI I was able to find friends who I will be close to for the rest of my life. In addition, URI provided me a superior education that will support me any where I go.” -Tyler Zbinden – URI Class of 2007
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Private vs. Public Colleges
Students and their families struggle every year with the rising cost of college education. Many people ask themselves if it’s worth paying the high cost of private college tuition or if they should attend a public university instead. When looking for answers, you should compare the private and public schools that you are thinking of attending. Some questions to think about: Will I get a better education at the private school? Will the professors in my major of study be more distinguished? Will it be worth going into such great debt to earn this degree? Finding the answers to these questions will help you decide what is right for you.
While many schools (private and public) help students with financial aid, it is no secret that attending a public university in your state will give you many benefits including a break on tuition cost. It’s also a general belief that in-state students are more easily admitted to their state college, than out of state students.
Private colleges rely on tuition, endowment, and donations. They are usually more expensive than public colleges; however, they tend to offer better financial aid packages than public colleges offer.
During the college search, it may be best to focus on general things such as location, size, and extracurricular activities. Engage in the public vs. private debate only after you have narrowed down your choices. Although cost is an important factor in the college decision process, it may be best to look closely at what each college has to offer before making a decision based on the price tag. After investigation, you may find that the perfect university for you is worth the steep price.
While many schools (private and public) help students with financial aid, it is no secret that attending a public university in your state will give you many benefits including a break on tuition cost. It’s also a general belief that in-state students are more easily admitted to their state college, than out of state students.
Private colleges rely on tuition, endowment, and donations. They are usually more expensive than public colleges; however, they tend to offer better financial aid packages than public colleges offer.
During the college search, it may be best to focus on general things such as location, size, and extracurricular activities. Engage in the public vs. private debate only after you have narrowed down your choices. Although cost is an important factor in the college decision process, it may be best to look closely at what each college has to offer before making a decision based on the price tag. After investigation, you may find that the perfect university for you is worth the steep price.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
College of the Week: Stonehill College
Stonehill College is a private, Roman Catholic school located in the suburban town of Easton, Massachusetts. With approximately 2,470 students, Stonehill is closer to the size of a high school than the size of a university. However, many students have found that the small size gives the college a more welcoming and friendly atmosphere. When walking around campus, the majority of students say hi as they walk by one another.
Stonehill is not very diverse; the typical student is white, “preppy”, and comes from a middle class family in New England. Students generally wear Polo, Lacoste, Abercrombie and Fitch, and carry Vera Bradley bags. If you are looking for a “typical college campus” atmosphere, then Stonehill is for you. The small-town life makes students feel immediately at home. For students who have a car on campus, the possibilities are endless. Easton has plenty of restaurants and shops, and is surrounded by other towns that have the same amenities.
During the week most students spend their time studying, since this college is very challenging academically. However, on weekends students know how to let loose. Students mostly party in dorms, since upperclassmen are permitted to live in “wet” dorms that allow students over twenty-one to drink. There are the occasional off campus parties; however, most students live on campus because real estate is expensive in Easton. Students with cars sometimes travel to local bars and pubs, or make a weekend trip into Boston. Students also attend various mixers (dances) throughout the year that the college hosts in the gymnasium. Students complain that the alcohol policy at Stonehill is too strict, though it is possible to learn ways around it.
The dorm rooms are exceptionally large when compared to other school’s dorm rooms. A points system is used to determine housing placement. Students receive points for being active—participating in sports, clubs, attending lectures, etc. The more involved a student is, the better housing they will get. Beware! You can also lose points for misbehavior!
There is no Greek life at Stonehill, but students are united by their passion for school athletics. Football and hockey games draw decent crowds (although students need a car to attend home hockey games). Intramural sports are also popular at Stonehill.
In a nutshell, Stonehill College is a small school that offers personal attention from professors, a challenging course load, and a friendly student body.
Stonehill is not very diverse; the typical student is white, “preppy”, and comes from a middle class family in New England. Students generally wear Polo, Lacoste, Abercrombie and Fitch, and carry Vera Bradley bags. If you are looking for a “typical college campus” atmosphere, then Stonehill is for you. The small-town life makes students feel immediately at home. For students who have a car on campus, the possibilities are endless. Easton has plenty of restaurants and shops, and is surrounded by other towns that have the same amenities.
During the week most students spend their time studying, since this college is very challenging academically. However, on weekends students know how to let loose. Students mostly party in dorms, since upperclassmen are permitted to live in “wet” dorms that allow students over twenty-one to drink. There are the occasional off campus parties; however, most students live on campus because real estate is expensive in Easton. Students with cars sometimes travel to local bars and pubs, or make a weekend trip into Boston. Students also attend various mixers (dances) throughout the year that the college hosts in the gymnasium. Students complain that the alcohol policy at Stonehill is too strict, though it is possible to learn ways around it.
The dorm rooms are exceptionally large when compared to other school’s dorm rooms. A points system is used to determine housing placement. Students receive points for being active—participating in sports, clubs, attending lectures, etc. The more involved a student is, the better housing they will get. Beware! You can also lose points for misbehavior!
There is no Greek life at Stonehill, but students are united by their passion for school athletics. Football and hockey games draw decent crowds (although students need a car to attend home hockey games). Intramural sports are also popular at Stonehill.
In a nutshell, Stonehill College is a small school that offers personal attention from professors, a challenging course load, and a friendly student body.
ADHD
One of the most widespread medical issues, that affects over two million children nationwide, is popularly known as ADHD. Until recently, there was a discrepancy between ADD and ADHD, but it is now politically correct to say ADHD. Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder can be broken down into three sub-categories: predominantly hyperactive-impulse, predominantly inattentive, and combined hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive. Hyperactive-impulsive is loosely defined as an inability to stand still, compared to a predominantly inattentive child who will day dream for long periods of time. The third category, hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive, is for a child who embodies both of these symptoms.
Although ADHD is not classified as a learning disability, the disorder can have severe effects on a child’s performance in the classroom. Common symptoms of Attention Deficit (Hyperactive) Disorder are a lack of focus, impulsive behavior, and being hyperactive. When these three symptoms are displayed in the classroom, it is the recipe for bad behavior and inattention, consequently resulting in poor performance. These disorders can also have a negative impact on a child's in-home behavior and his/her social relationships, both in and out of school. When finding treatment for ADHD, one must consider medicinal treatment along with behavioral therapy. Common medicines such as Ritalin and Adderall have proven to be very successful with very little side effects.
These medicines are stimulants that react with chemicals in a person’s brain, allowing the person to focus his/her energy on specific tasks (opposed to being “scatter brained” and focusing on everything). Along with medication, pairing your child with the appropriate therapist can have a huge impact on your child. It is very important for your child to understand the obstacles that he/she will face as he/she grows older, and how to combat these obstacles. If the proper steps are taken, ADHD can be controlled, and your child can prosper through their academics.
Screening is available though JBG Educational Group by Dr. Jamie Rodriguez. All results are kept confidential.
Although ADHD is not classified as a learning disability, the disorder can have severe effects on a child’s performance in the classroom. Common symptoms of Attention Deficit (Hyperactive) Disorder are a lack of focus, impulsive behavior, and being hyperactive. When these three symptoms are displayed in the classroom, it is the recipe for bad behavior and inattention, consequently resulting in poor performance. These disorders can also have a negative impact on a child's in-home behavior and his/her social relationships, both in and out of school. When finding treatment for ADHD, one must consider medicinal treatment along with behavioral therapy. Common medicines such as Ritalin and Adderall have proven to be very successful with very little side effects.
These medicines are stimulants that react with chemicals in a person’s brain, allowing the person to focus his/her energy on specific tasks (opposed to being “scatter brained” and focusing on everything). Along with medication, pairing your child with the appropriate therapist can have a huge impact on your child. It is very important for your child to understand the obstacles that he/she will face as he/she grows older, and how to combat these obstacles. If the proper steps are taken, ADHD can be controlled, and your child can prosper through their academics.
Screening is available though JBG Educational Group by Dr. Jamie Rodriguez. All results are kept confidential.
Greek Life on College Campuses
Greek organizations have been around since the 1770s. They are usually single-sex groups of which members are active during their undergraduate years and continue to be members throughout their lives. There are also organizations that are historically black, Latino, Asian, and multicultural—some of which may include both sexes. Certain Greek organizations are established for specific religious or ethnic groups such as Alpha Chi Rho (founded as a Christian group) and Zeta Beta Tau (a historically Jewish fraternity).
The recruitment process varies from university to university. Organizations governed by the National Panhellenic Conference or the North-American Interfraternity Conference begin the process with “rush week”. Rush consists of events and meetings where students can visit the chapter house and meet the members. At rush, new members are asked if they are a legacy. A "Legacy" is somebody whose family member (mother, father, brother, sister) was a member of the organization. Some chapters automatically accept legacies, but not everyone still honors the legacy system. At the end of rush week, new recruits are given “bids,” which are invitations to join a chapter. Students choose one bid to accept and that choice marks the beginning of the pledging process. Pledging does vary, but most Greek organizations are trying to get rid of the negative connotation people have about the process. Hazing is taken much more seriously than it has been in the past, and students face harsh punishments for breaking hazing policies.
A Greek organization that is located on one campus is considered “local”, while an organization that is “national” has many chapters all across the nation. The central offices of the organizations are called “Nationals” and can standardize rules and regulations for their chapters. Generally, they delegate the rules to the executive officers of each chapter house. The executive officers include a President, Vice President, Treasurer, etc.; students that were elected by their peers within the organization hold these offices.
On many college campuses, Greek organizations live together in a chapter house. Organizations with national presence will have rules set in place that are generally enforced by a “house mom or house dad” which the national offices hire and pay. Such rules could include the prohibition of alcohol and visitor restrictions. These chapter houses are basically dorms for the members of the organizations. They can sometimes include dining facilities for the members.
Most Fraternities and Sororities maintain traditions that began when they were founded: ceremonies, initiations, songs, handshakes, mottos, and passwords. Most groups swear all members to secrecy during initiation, and these rituals are kept undisclosed. Fraternities and Sororities also have distinct motifs to represent themselves such as colors, flags, flowers, pins, crests, seals, and even mascots.
Philanthropy is a huge part of Greek life. Each organization supports a cause, and many have long-term relationships with large national charities. For example, Chi Omega supports the Make-A-Wish foundation, while Delta Delta Delta is partnered with St. Jude Children's Hospital.
There are common controversies about Greek life, including the issues of hazing, alcohol abuse, and exclusion. While the National Panhellenic Conference, the North-American Interfraternity Conference, and various universities have strict, no-hazing policies, most incidents go unreported because Greek life organizations are secretive in nature. There are many benefits to going Greek; joining an organization can provide networking and social connections for members throughout their entire lives. Many members remain involved in Greek life years after they have completed college; some even take positions with the national offices of their chapter.
Some interesting facts about frats and sororities:
-25 US Presidents have belonged to Greek organizations
-85% of the Fortune 500 executives are members of Greek organizations
The recruitment process varies from university to university. Organizations governed by the National Panhellenic Conference or the North-American Interfraternity Conference begin the process with “rush week”. Rush consists of events and meetings where students can visit the chapter house and meet the members. At rush, new members are asked if they are a legacy. A "Legacy" is somebody whose family member (mother, father, brother, sister) was a member of the organization. Some chapters automatically accept legacies, but not everyone still honors the legacy system. At the end of rush week, new recruits are given “bids,” which are invitations to join a chapter. Students choose one bid to accept and that choice marks the beginning of the pledging process. Pledging does vary, but most Greek organizations are trying to get rid of the negative connotation people have about the process. Hazing is taken much more seriously than it has been in the past, and students face harsh punishments for breaking hazing policies.
A Greek organization that is located on one campus is considered “local”, while an organization that is “national” has many chapters all across the nation. The central offices of the organizations are called “Nationals” and can standardize rules and regulations for their chapters. Generally, they delegate the rules to the executive officers of each chapter house. The executive officers include a President, Vice President, Treasurer, etc.; students that were elected by their peers within the organization hold these offices.
On many college campuses, Greek organizations live together in a chapter house. Organizations with national presence will have rules set in place that are generally enforced by a “house mom or house dad” which the national offices hire and pay. Such rules could include the prohibition of alcohol and visitor restrictions. These chapter houses are basically dorms for the members of the organizations. They can sometimes include dining facilities for the members.
Most Fraternities and Sororities maintain traditions that began when they were founded: ceremonies, initiations, songs, handshakes, mottos, and passwords. Most groups swear all members to secrecy during initiation, and these rituals are kept undisclosed. Fraternities and Sororities also have distinct motifs to represent themselves such as colors, flags, flowers, pins, crests, seals, and even mascots.
Philanthropy is a huge part of Greek life. Each organization supports a cause, and many have long-term relationships with large national charities. For example, Chi Omega supports the Make-A-Wish foundation, while Delta Delta Delta is partnered with St. Jude Children's Hospital.
There are common controversies about Greek life, including the issues of hazing, alcohol abuse, and exclusion. While the National Panhellenic Conference, the North-American Interfraternity Conference, and various universities have strict, no-hazing policies, most incidents go unreported because Greek life organizations are secretive in nature. There are many benefits to going Greek; joining an organization can provide networking and social connections for members throughout their entire lives. Many members remain involved in Greek life years after they have completed college; some even take positions with the national offices of their chapter.
Some interesting facts about frats and sororities:
-25 US Presidents have belonged to Greek organizations
-85% of the Fortune 500 executives are members of Greek organizations
College of the Week: UMASS Amherst
Nestled in the foothills of the Pioneer Valley, The University of Massachusetts is one of the fastest growing public schools in the Northeast. The 1,450-acre campus can be daunting at times, but with just a few steps off campus, one is surrounded with the small town of Amherst, Massachusetts. Right around the corner, students will find Main Street, which is filled with independently owned restaurants, shops, and hang out spots. There is always something to do, whether on campus, or in downtown Amherst. With 27,000 undergraduate and graduate students who attend the University of Massachusetts, it is easy to feel like a number, lost in an abyss of people. But at UMass, upperclassmen and faculty do a great job of helping you gain an identity. There are many options for students who want to branch out and find their niche. UMass has a competitive, division I athletic program that provides its athletes with state of the art facilities. If you are not ready to compete at the Division I level, there are plenty of intramural, club, and recreational sports to participate in. A common scene on a Friday evening is six on six games of volleyball right in the middle of campus. There are also over 200-registered student organizations (RSOs), not including Greek Life, that are available to whoever shows up with an idea and a smile.
From the Stockbridge School of Agriculture to the Isenberg School of Management, the University of Massachusetts offers limitless opportunities for its students. Like any college or university, a student gets back what they put in. For those students looking to be challenged a bit more, the Commonwealth Honors College provides students with an outstanding academic experience. Likewise, if you want a change of scenery, UMass allows you to take any class at any school in the Five College Interchange program. Students can expand their horizons and become a part of the Smith College, Amherst College, Mount Holyoke, or Hampshire College community. Needless to say, the University provides its students with every advantage available as they pursue one of UMass’s 88 bachelor’s degrees.
Masked by the reputation of being exclusively a party school, UMass has been working hard to improve its public image. Although it is true that some students spend most weekends partying around Amherst, the choice to party is left up to the individual. On the contrary, the University's Engineering and Public Health colleges, to name a couple, are world-renowned. There are also endless possibilities for weekend fun outside of the party scene. Located a few miles down the road, the charming town of Northampton is a great place to escape the daily rigors that come with being a college student. With hundreds of restaurants, concert halls, bars, and shops around Northampton, home to Smith College, it is a little slice of heaven for those who want a nice dose of culture. Amherst and its surrounding towns are great for biking, hiking, camping, and many other outdoor activities. For the beginner or expert golfer, Cherry Hill golf course is a pleasant, affordable way to spend an afternoon. Right down the road you can find the world famous Eric Carl Museum, Amherst College’s Museum of Natural History, and Smith College's Museum of Art.
The University of Massachusetts is an eclectic experience. Students live and study in what feels like an academic city, but are nurtured within their programs to explore personal niches. The surrounding small-town communities offer something for everyone: music lovers, foodies, shoppers, and outdoor enthusiasts. UMass is a place worth visiting, and certainly a great place to explore yourself.
From the Stockbridge School of Agriculture to the Isenberg School of Management, the University of Massachusetts offers limitless opportunities for its students. Like any college or university, a student gets back what they put in. For those students looking to be challenged a bit more, the Commonwealth Honors College provides students with an outstanding academic experience. Likewise, if you want a change of scenery, UMass allows you to take any class at any school in the Five College Interchange program. Students can expand their horizons and become a part of the Smith College, Amherst College, Mount Holyoke, or Hampshire College community. Needless to say, the University provides its students with every advantage available as they pursue one of UMass’s 88 bachelor’s degrees.
Masked by the reputation of being exclusively a party school, UMass has been working hard to improve its public image. Although it is true that some students spend most weekends partying around Amherst, the choice to party is left up to the individual. On the contrary, the University's Engineering and Public Health colleges, to name a couple, are world-renowned. There are also endless possibilities for weekend fun outside of the party scene. Located a few miles down the road, the charming town of Northampton is a great place to escape the daily rigors that come with being a college student. With hundreds of restaurants, concert halls, bars, and shops around Northampton, home to Smith College, it is a little slice of heaven for those who want a nice dose of culture. Amherst and its surrounding towns are great for biking, hiking, camping, and many other outdoor activities. For the beginner or expert golfer, Cherry Hill golf course is a pleasant, affordable way to spend an afternoon. Right down the road you can find the world famous Eric Carl Museum, Amherst College’s Museum of Natural History, and Smith College's Museum of Art.
The University of Massachusetts is an eclectic experience. Students live and study in what feels like an academic city, but are nurtured within their programs to explore personal niches. The surrounding small-town communities offer something for everyone: music lovers, foodies, shoppers, and outdoor enthusiasts. UMass is a place worth visiting, and certainly a great place to explore yourself.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Executive Functioning Disorders
Did you know that as many as 1 out of every 5 people in the U.S. has a learning disability? 1
Did you know that almost 3 million children (ages 6 through 21) have some form of a learning disability and receive special education in school? 1
Did you know that 30 – 50% of the population has undiagnosed learning disabilities? 2
With an increasing number of children being diagnosed with learning disabilities (LDs) each year, it has become imperative for parents to stay educated and informed. ADHD, Dyslexia, and different Auditory and Visual processing disorders have been researched and treated for years. Recently, there is evidence that allows doctors to classify some of these LDs differently. One of these classifications is called ‘Executive Functioning Disorder’ (EFD). One of the most common responses that JBG Ed Group hears from parents in response to their child being diagnosed with EFD is, “What is that?” Executive functioning is a significant part of one’s day-to-day life. Doctors describe EF as a collection of brain processes that are responsible for the following:
Inhibition - The ability to stop one's own behavior at the appropriate time, including stopping actions and thoughts. The flip side of inhibition is impulsivity; if you have weak ability to stop yourself from acting on your impulses, then you are "impulsive." 3
Shift - The ability to move freely from one situation to another and to think flexibly in order to respond appropriately to the situation. 3
Emotional Control - The ability to modulate emotional responses by bringing rational thought to bear on feelings. 3
Initiation - The ability to begin a task or activity and to independently generate ideas, responses, or problem-solving strategies. 3
Working memory - The capacity to hold information in mind for the purpose of completing a task. 3
Planning/Organization - The ability to manage current and future- oriented task demands. 3
Organization of Materials - The ability to impose order on work, play, and storage spaces. 3
Self-Monitoring - The ability to monitor one's own performance and to measure it against some standard of what is needed or expected. 3
Most children struggle to complete homework occasionally due to lack of motivation or the tendency to be distracted. However, if your child shows an extraordinary inability to complete every day tasks such as completing homework in a timely fashion, finishing his or her chores in an efficient, effective way, or has trouble making the right decisions, there is a possibility that he/she may be suffering from an Executive Functioning Disorder. These disorders can affect a child’s performance in school, behavior in and out of the home, and over all functionality in social situations.
Confidential testing is available though JBG Educational Group by Dr. Jamie Rodriguez.
1 National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities
2 National Institute for Literacy
3 http://www.ldonline.org/article/What_Is_Executive_Functioning%3F
Did you know that almost 3 million children (ages 6 through 21) have some form of a learning disability and receive special education in school? 1
Did you know that 30 – 50% of the population has undiagnosed learning disabilities? 2
With an increasing number of children being diagnosed with learning disabilities (LDs) each year, it has become imperative for parents to stay educated and informed. ADHD, Dyslexia, and different Auditory and Visual processing disorders have been researched and treated for years. Recently, there is evidence that allows doctors to classify some of these LDs differently. One of these classifications is called ‘Executive Functioning Disorder’ (EFD). One of the most common responses that JBG Ed Group hears from parents in response to their child being diagnosed with EFD is, “What is that?” Executive functioning is a significant part of one’s day-to-day life. Doctors describe EF as a collection of brain processes that are responsible for the following:
Inhibition - The ability to stop one's own behavior at the appropriate time, including stopping actions and thoughts. The flip side of inhibition is impulsivity; if you have weak ability to stop yourself from acting on your impulses, then you are "impulsive." 3
Shift - The ability to move freely from one situation to another and to think flexibly in order to respond appropriately to the situation. 3
Emotional Control - The ability to modulate emotional responses by bringing rational thought to bear on feelings. 3
Initiation - The ability to begin a task or activity and to independently generate ideas, responses, or problem-solving strategies. 3
Working memory - The capacity to hold information in mind for the purpose of completing a task. 3
Planning/Organization - The ability to manage current and future- oriented task demands. 3
Organization of Materials - The ability to impose order on work, play, and storage spaces. 3
Self-Monitoring - The ability to monitor one's own performance and to measure it against some standard of what is needed or expected. 3
Most children struggle to complete homework occasionally due to lack of motivation or the tendency to be distracted. However, if your child shows an extraordinary inability to complete every day tasks such as completing homework in a timely fashion, finishing his or her chores in an efficient, effective way, or has trouble making the right decisions, there is a possibility that he/she may be suffering from an Executive Functioning Disorder. These disorders can affect a child’s performance in school, behavior in and out of the home, and over all functionality in social situations.
Confidential testing is available though JBG Educational Group by Dr. Jamie Rodriguez.
1 National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities
2 National Institute for Literacy
3 http://www.ldonline.org/article/What_Is_Executive_Functioning%3F
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Tips For Writing A Great College Essay
With the school year quickly approaching, upcoming seniors (and their parents) are beginning to feel the pressure brought on by the college application process. As competition for acceptance into America’s prestigious colleges increases, many of you are probably wondering how to make your achievements stand apart from the rest.
One of the most important facets of your college applications is the essay. A well-crafted, thoughtful essay allows you to showcase everything that makes you unique. College admissions counselors want to see the person behind the resume and grades, and understand your passions outside of academia. Your essay also gives admissions counselors a brief insight into your writing and critical thinking skills, so be sure to give your essay the time it deserves.
A great college essay can make all the difference and result in a letter of acceptance! Here are some tips for writing an excellent college essay.
1) The JBG Educational Group rule of thumb is that a great college essay will allow your reader to learn twenty new things about you.
2) Keep the focus of your essay about you and only you! Choose an activity that you participate in or an aspect of your life that can be described in great detail. You are not trying to write a description of all of your activities, as you have already provided this in your application.
3) Once you have chosen a topic, make sure you develop the theme with specific examples. Be clear and specific when you are developing an idea through organization and details.
4) Avoid being vague and predictable. Instead of saying that you want to save the world, give an example of something you have done that has had a lasting impact.
5) Less is more. Don’t try to over emphasis a point by writing intense, complex sentences. Clear, concise sentences are much more effective.
6) Have fun with your essay! This is your chance to show the college that you are more than just a piece of paper. Don’t waste it!
One of the most important facets of your college applications is the essay. A well-crafted, thoughtful essay allows you to showcase everything that makes you unique. College admissions counselors want to see the person behind the resume and grades, and understand your passions outside of academia. Your essay also gives admissions counselors a brief insight into your writing and critical thinking skills, so be sure to give your essay the time it deserves.
A great college essay can make all the difference and result in a letter of acceptance! Here are some tips for writing an excellent college essay.
1) The JBG Educational Group rule of thumb is that a great college essay will allow your reader to learn twenty new things about you.
2) Keep the focus of your essay about you and only you! Choose an activity that you participate in or an aspect of your life that can be described in great detail. You are not trying to write a description of all of your activities, as you have already provided this in your application.
3) Once you have chosen a topic, make sure you develop the theme with specific examples. Be clear and specific when you are developing an idea through organization and details.
4) Avoid being vague and predictable. Instead of saying that you want to save the world, give an example of something you have done that has had a lasting impact.
5) Less is more. Don’t try to over emphasis a point by writing intense, complex sentences. Clear, concise sentences are much more effective.
6) Have fun with your essay! This is your chance to show the college that you are more than just a piece of paper. Don’t waste it!
Featured College: The University of New Hampshire
Written by current student Kara Scozzari
As I enter my senior year at the University of New Hampshire, I feel as though I know all of the ins and outs of the Durham, New Hampshire campus. When I arrived at my dorm on move-in day, freshman year, I was terrified and felt lost on what seemed to be a never-ending campus. I quickly regained my balance thanks to living in a great dorm and being surrounded by great people. I lived in Christensen Hall, which is located next to Williamson Hall, another freshman dorm. Everyone who lived in these dorms was very friendly, and many would leave their doors open in an effort to be social and make new friends. Christensen and Williamson Hall are conveniently located next to one of three dining halls on campus, Philbrook Dining Hall. I’d see lots of students from my classes at the dining hall on a daily basis. When the weather was nice, students would take a break from studying to lie in the sun or toss frisbees on the quad. It was amazingly easy to make friends in an environment that promoted unity among students.
As I enter my senior year at the University of New Hampshire, I feel as though I know all of the ins and outs of the Durham, New Hampshire campus. When I arrived at my dorm on move-in day, freshman year, I was terrified and felt lost on what seemed to be a never-ending campus. I quickly regained my balance thanks to living in a great dorm and being surrounded by great people. I lived in Christensen Hall, which is located next to Williamson Hall, another freshman dorm. Everyone who lived in these dorms was very friendly, and many would leave their doors open in an effort to be social and make new friends. Christensen and Williamson Hall are conveniently located next to one of three dining halls on campus, Philbrook Dining Hall. I’d see lots of students from my classes at the dining hall on a daily basis. When the weather was nice, students would take a break from studying to lie in the sun or toss frisbees on the quad. It was amazingly easy to make friends in an environment that promoted unity among students.
It was as easy to get involved on campus as it was to make new friends. During the first few weeks of school, UNH holds its annual “University Day” during which the dining halls are shut down and there is a massive cookout on Main St. Every student at the school is invited, as well as professors and their families! After students grab a burger and a soda, they can walk around and check out the different clubs and organizations that UNH offers. It’s like a giant fair of activities! Since UNH is such a big school, there are lots of different types of activities to investigate. One can become involved in anything from Greek life to sporting teams to volunteer groups.
The setup of UNH is exactly what one might imagine when asked to picture a “typical” college campus. The town of Durham is small so the school makes up the majority of it. The downtown area is filled with restaurants, bars, and a few shops. There is also the infamous “DUMP” which stands for Durham Marketplace. The “DUMP” is within walking distance from campus and is a market that sells local goods and is surrounded by other eateries and a pharmacy. My favorite place at the “DUMP” is Kaleida-Scoop; an ice cream shop that has an incredible black raspberry chocolate chip flavor.
When it comes to classes, UNH makes course selection very simple freshman year. During orientation, the students meet with the dean and advisors of the school they are in. I entered into the Whittemore School of Business and Economics and I was guided in choosing the classes I needed to take towards my business degree. Selecting classes for the first time can be very daunting, but my advisors made the process very painless, and I enjoyed all of my classes! My classes were relatively small except for the occasional large lecture. The largest class I had was a math class that was made up of more than two hundred students. Although I had the large lecture three days a week, I also attended a smaller math class taught by the teaching assistant. Professors at UNH always have office hours during which students can visit them to ask questions or just to talk. It’s a great way to get to know the professor and make sure they know you, when you are in a large class.
The gymnasium at UNH has an indoor track, rock climbing wall, aerobics rooms for classes, and racquetball courts. Unfortunately, the gym is too small for such a large school. The athletes have their own special gym, but the rest of us are stuck waiting in lines to use an elliptical. The one good thing about the gym is the track. Students can always run without having to wait. I’ve taken plenty of exercise classes as well; everything from spinning to zumba. There is also a sauna inside the locker rooms.
I couldn’t be happier with my choice to go to UNH. Looking back at my senior year of high school, it was kind of a blur when deciding where to apply. I ended up choosing UNH, and although I’m not sure of my exact reason why, I’m so thankful that I did. UNH allowed me to find an amazing group of friends, take wonderful classes, and feel like part of a community on the Durham campus. I’m sad to say this will be my last year at “the U”.
Monday, July 12, 2010
First Post!
Hello! This is JBG's first official blog post! Stay tuned for more....
In the meantime, please visit our website.... http://jbgtutors.com/tutors.php
Tweet us.... https://twitter.com/JBGeducational
Or become a fan of us on Facebook.... http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/JBG-Educational-Group-formerly-JBG-Tutors/137449386267211?ref=ts
-JBG Educational Group-
-We leave our mark on the mind!-
In the meantime, please visit our website.... http://jbgtutors.com/tutors.php
Tweet us.... https://twitter.com/JBGeducational
Or become a fan of us on Facebook.... http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/JBG-Educational-Group-formerly-JBG-Tutors/137449386267211?ref=ts
-JBG Educational Group-
-We leave our mark on the mind!-
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)