Finding and Applying for Scholarships: A Tutorial

This post is a simple tutorial on how to find scholarships.  I'm just going to outline some simple steps that would help anyone get started with finding scholarships.  You can use any of these steps alone or any combination of these steps.  The only thing I would recommend as an absolute is keeping a list of scholarships you will apply to on an XCel Spreadsheet.  That way you don't just find scholarships--you find them and apply to them!  (Read the post about How to Organize Scholarship Applications)

• College Websites
• If you are thinking about a specific college--check out their scholarships as early as possible.  They might use the "Index" for Academic Scholarships, and it can help to have a specific goal for GPA & ACT if you know there is $$$$$ waiting at the end
• Colleges not only have academic scholarships--but also leadership, financial need, ambassador programs, and department scholarships.  
• Scholarships given by a university must be used AT that university, but if a university or college is on your possible go-to list, then you should apply for every possible scholarship they disburse!  
• Use Pinterest to find all sorts of scholarships, as well as tips on how to effectively complete the scholarship applications
• Type in simple search terms "college"  or "scholarships".  Start there, and as you find things you like, add them to a folder for future reference
• Pinterest is linked with one blogger that posts scholarships for each month.  I type in "January scholarships" or "February scholarships", and a list specific to each month comes up!  
• This is as simple as it gets!  Use this to find scholarships for the coming month, apply, then repeat each month!  
• Use the websites, blogs, and resources you have found!  Read them, follow the directions, and 
• Have the XCel Spreadsheet up at the same time and flip between the two screens to get all the information from Pinterest on to your own Personal Scholarship XCel Spreadsheet
• Use Google.  
• Use different search terms to yield different results.  Type in "scholarships for high school students" or "scholarships without GPA requirement"
• Again--have the XCel Spreadsheet up at the same time and flip between the two screens--adding information about scholarships onto the XCel Spreadsheet
• Use Scholarship Engines
• Read about 20 of the best scholarship search engines here.  Don't be afraid to use a few different ones, because they all have different strengths.  
• Don't mistake a "scholarship search engine" for "completing a scholarship application".  You still have to actually fill out the application yourself!
• Use the "The Ultimate Scholarship Book 2017" by Tanabe.  They come out with one every year--and every year it's a great resource to look for scholarships based on areas of study and interest.
• We have copies of this book in the library--use them!  Of course you can buy your own, but if you don't know if you'll use it, start with the library copy.  Spend a few hours and become familiar with it, and then you can decide if you'd like your own copy of the biggest Scholarship Book available.

So...that's how you FIND scholarships.  But as I said before, if you don't actually apply, you're at the same spot as before.  Sure, you're more informed, but your bank account is still holding the same amount of dough.  So, how to actually apply for scholarships?  Read on.

• Do you have your XCel Spreadsheet of scholarships?  If not, just email Mrs. Krim at krim.scholarship@gmail.com to request it.  It's a basic template to fill in with your own scholarships.  
• Fill in the XCel Spreadsheet with scholarships--don't be afraid to put down a scholarship for a later year!  In fact, that is EXACTLY what you should do!  Include all scholarships that you'd like to aim for--even if they are 1, 2 or even 4 or more years out.  
• I would suggest making one tab for High School Scholarships, and one tab for College Scholarships.  But besides that, don't be overly concerned whether it is for any specific grade in high school at this point.  You'll organize them later.  This step is just about finding scholarships.  
• Once you've filled in the XCel Organizing Scholarships Spreadsheet with a minimum of 10 scholarships, organize them according to grade and date.  
• Start on the scholarship that is open now!  Don't wait for the due date!  
• One way that helps students complete the scholarship application is if they have an actual checkoff list.  You can use the checkoff list on the XCel sheet, or write an actual checklist for each scholarship (sometimes a paper checklist posted where you work on it daily is most helpful)
• Don't skip the "final review".  This is where you double check that you have ALL the material, documents, essays, and information for the application. 
• If you are missing one thing, they will automatically eliminate your application.  It doesn't matter how great your essay is--if you forgot the transcript--you're out of the running.  Be sure to go through this "final review" at least 2 weeks before the due date to allow yourself time if you forgot something.
• Once everything is completed, submit your application.  Most scholarship applications are now online--so be sure that it's 100% before you hit "submit".  
• If you are completing an application that is still paper-and-pen and mailed in, be sure to read the fine print:  some applications must be RECEIVED by the due date, others simply have to be postmarked.  Make sure you know which one to do--and do it!

College Spotlight: Utah State University AND USU-Eastern

Utah State holds an impressive place within the consortium of Utah Colleges:  it is the only Land-Grant University in the state, as well as a research institution.  As a land-grant university, they have a mandate to educate the population of the state of Utah, and as a research institution, they must maintain high levels of professional opportunities and ongoing research run by their faculty.  In addition, Utah State University (USU), isn't just one campus located in Logan, Utah--it also incorporates a specific 2-year campus, (USU-Eastern in Price) and technical campus (USU-Blanding).  

• USU now incorporates the Logan main campus, as well as USU-Eastern (Price), and USU-Eastern in Blanding.  It is the same application and deadline for all of them (January 10), as well as the same deadline for all programs and scholarships
• Students can begin at USU-Eastern at a reduced price ($3,500 / year for tuition and fees compared to $7,000 / year for tuition and fees at USU-Logan).  
• If you go to USU-Eastern, you are still part of the "USU System", and can go to USU after USU-Eastern without having to apply again (as long as your GPA is above a 2.5 GPA)
• You simply fill out a form to continue with your Bachelor's Degree, and that's it!  
• USU-Eastern is OPEN - ENROLLMENT
• Anyone who has completed high school can get in--it's a great option for students who might not have earned good grades in high school, but still want to excel in college.  
• Cost is affordable:  tuition & fees are $3,600 for the YEAR!  
• A good option to start at Price--earn Associate's Degree--then move to Logan, Utah
• Remember...your first two years are mostly made up of earning your "general" credits, which are the same no matter where you go.  
• If you are at USU, USU-Eastern, Weber, or the U--you'll still have to take English 1010, Math 1010, as well as other "general" credits.  Look at which colleges will help you succeed in this goal, and help you move on to earning your Bachelor's Degree
• Utah State (Logan):  does have admissions standards
• 2.5 GPA, 17 ACT, and a 90 Index Score
• Encouragement for Students:  Apply Early!  
• Deadline for ALL Scholarships on ALL Campuses:  January 10th!
• This deadline applies to everything:  Honors College, Academic Scholarships, Aggie Involvement, 
• Last year, the Admissions Department received 700 phone calls after the deadline--there is absolutely nothing they can do!  The deadline is hard and firm!
• They also have more money in their need-based scholarship section.
• Be sure to apply for FAFSA, then complete the financial application, and get everything submitted on time.  
• Utah State hosts 9 Open Houses around the state
• This is a great all-stop-shop.  Students apply before, then receive a scholarship award at the Open House
• If you go to Utah State, call ahead and schedule a tour, a classroom visit, as well as attend a game  (They have tickets for students to attend a football or basketball game)

Here is some advice that not only applies to Utah State, but to ALL colleges!  

• With the application:  the field that asks for the "Driver's License #" is what determines where the student's residency is
• If a Utah Driver's License--they are flagged as a Utah Resident
• If a student doesn't have a Driver's License, they are "flagged" as a non-resident, and will have to pay out-of-state taxes.  You can prove that you are, in fact, a Utah resident, but it takes a lot of work.
• Lesson:  Get your Driver's License!  Or at minimum, a State ID Card
• Utah Colleges really are affordable!
• Before being determined to go out-of-state, check out the price comparison between State Colleges IN Utah and those out-of-state
• Don't sell Utah colleges short!
• They have amazing programs, faculty, and facilities.  Just because it's "here", doesn't mean that you're getting shortchanged with your college experience. 
• In-state / Out-of-state
• If out-of-state is still your #1 goal, then be sure to check out the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) to lower the pricetag.  
• It doesn't matter what the deadline is--80% of students will be applying the night before
• The system can be overwhelmed and crash
• If your application doesn't get turned in--that's final.  They can't open up the application again.
• Every year, USU receives about 700 calls from students that experience this sort of situation.  Every year, they are told, "Nothing we can do."  Don't be that person!  Apply early!
• This is true for all colleges and universities--too many apps on the last night can crash the system!  Plan early, apply early!  
• General Advice worth following:  be comfortable on the college website.
• Be familiar with how it's organized, the terms, and the programs available.  
• It will help when you are filling out the college application, and need to navigate the website quickly.  

Whew!  That's a lot of information!  I'd suggest going back and rereading it as many times as needed, and making sure you use the suggestions specific to Utah State, as well as the advice that can be applied to any college!  Good Luck!  

College Spotlight: Utah Valley University

Utah Valley University (UVU) has exploded in the past 20 years, becoming the largest university in the state in terms of student population.  Usually, people think that the U of U is the largest, but the U was eclipsed a few years back by UVU.  And it isn't just numbers--the UVU's diversity of programs and student services rival any other college in the state.

Here's a few things you should know about UVU, their application, and deadlines, in no specific order.  Be sure to read the entire list!  

• The ONLY way that UVU gives an application waiver is for students who attend an Open House--and the last Open House is on December 1st, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.  The fee is $35, and you get a chance to see a little more about UVU to decide if it is a good fit for you.  
• By the way, I think that every student should tour the colleges they are thinking about attending.  There is no substitute for being on campus and making sure it's a good fit for the individual that will be attending.

• February 1st is a huge deadline!
• FAFSA deadline for UVU
• Scholarship Deadline
• Including:  Academic Meric Awards, general scholarships, and need based 

• Scholarship Application Tip:  be sure to fill out the extra section for "general scholarships" AND "need based".  
• You will automatically be looked at for academic scholarships--but you need to fill out the other application COMPLETELY to be considered for the others

• Be sure when you complete the application, that you check the "Undergraduate Student" Box.  You are not a Graduate Student.  :-)

• Be sure that you complete your online application AND submit the supplementary materials (transcripts) within a few days.  Long delays between the two create problems.
• By the way, they are okay with ACT scores on the high school transcript

• Common mistake:  residency.  Many students put an incomplete response.  
• If nothing is listed here:  listed as nonresident.  
• Half answer:  "Utah" (also not enough information to qualify you as a "resident" to gain "in-state tuition"
• Correct response:  Put down start and end dates, that you've been here for more than 3 years.  
• Be sure to take time with this--it's a cumbersome process to change from non-resident to resident. 
• A note:  It makes it a lot easier if a student has a Utah Driver's License or a State ID Card.  Get one!  This will help establish residency.  

• Once a student is accepted, they are required to have orientation before they can register.  
• Students watch an orientation video online, then attend orientation on campus (2 parts required--but this is a good thing! It helps you be prepared to succeed!)
• THEN...a student can register for classes

• UVU is great at serving 1^st generation and underrepresented populations. You won't be alone in navigating the system!

• Big Service-Learning Initiative
• Students can receive distinction that they have participated in service-learning.
• This can be a great thing for students planning on Graduate School 
• Also--students involved with service-learning can receive extra scholarships

• UVU—teaching is the primary focus of faculty.  Even though they do a lot of research—focus is on teaching.  Class:  average is 23 (there are larger classes, but this is an average)

Work Ethic

Taking a little break from the College Spotlights to highlight an important aspect that comes through on college and scholarship applications:  work ethic.

I've had conversations with senior students in the past few months that show a wide range of work ethic and work experience.  Some students have been working odd jobs since their early teen years, and holding down a consistent part-time job since they were 16.  I thoroughly enjoy talking to these students:  they understand the value of work, the value of a dollar, and are reasonable when they talk about their college choices.  This is because when you work 15 hours a week, you have a good understanding of just how much "work" it takes to earn $100.  Also, these students shine on the part of college and scholarship applications that ask for work experience.  It's especially fun to see a senior that has held down a part-time job, maintained excellent grades, and been involved in student government.  She's had to balance her time, but she speaks through the application to admissions officers in ways that peers who haven't worked just can't.  Let me introduce you to that student.

That student spoke to me earlier this year.  He had okay grades, but he didn't have any service, didn't have a job, and made this statement, "I don't have a job because bagging groceries is simply beneath me."

Hmmm.... all I could think was, Breathe in, breathe out.

This happened months ago, and I still have to take a moment to gain my composure.  And here's why--my background taught me that NO job was beneath me.  I milked goats, cleaned out barns, and when my family was bankrupt, I helped by selling scones door-to-door.  I stuffed mailers by the hundreds, which paid one penny per envelope.  That was when I was 9 years old.  So when this student, a 17-year-old, said that bagging groceries was beneath him, I was floored.  I hope that if you're reading this, you're a little floored, too.

But why am I bringing this up?  What does this have to do with college applications?  Because as much as we talk about grades and tests and community service and student involvement--there is also this "work" section that usually gets overlooked.  And I'm inviting you to NOT overlook it.  You might not work during the school year, and that's a very understandable decision.  But working during the summer?  That's not just a good thing, that's a great thing.  In 3 months of working, you'd build up some depth in your work record, as well as navigate a workplace.  The skills you learn in a job are transferable to college, and that is why they are included on college and scholarship applications.  These skills include showing up on time, completing your work, working with peers, reporting to a boss, as well as others.  That's the work-ethic that is going to help not only on college and scholarship applications by showing a depth of maturity, but also will help you succeed once you get there!

One exception:  if a student is serving on a weekly basis, building up the same skills through their consistent service, then they can look at things a little differently.  But if a student isn't serving on a weekly basis (10 hours / week minimum), then they need to be putting that time to build up the same skills in a job.

And finally...the reason this "bagging groceries is simply beneath me" argument was so ridiculous is that EVERY student at our school can attend the ATC, FREE OF CHARGE, get a certificate in 3 weeks - 6 months for a "high paying job", ranging from being a CNA to a Pharmacy Tech, and including 20 other jobs.  So, no excuses!  Get out there and WORK!!!  (Or get yourself to the ATC, get a certificate, then get to work!)

Where To Go To College?

The decision of where to apply to college, and eventually where to attend college loom over senior year like a giant rain cloud, threatening many students to freeze with fear.  Many seniors feel that if they go to one certain college, their future is set for success.  Alternatively, if they don't get into that college, their life is set for failure.  Here's a novel thought:  your success is determined more by YOU than by any college you go to, or don't go to.

Need some convincing?  Here's some great advice Abraham Lincoln gave a young student (letter quoted in the book Lincoln Unbounded, by Rich Lowry):

"In 1855, Lincoln wrote back to Isham Reavis, who had inquired about studying law with him.  Lincoln told him he was away from the office too often to take him on as a student, but he offered this advice:  "If you are resolutely determined to make a lawyer of yourself, the thing is more than half done already.  It is but a small matter whether you read with any body or not.  I did not read with any one.  Get the books, and read and study them till you understand them in their principal features; and that is the main thing.  It is of no consequence to be in a large town while you are reading.  I read at New-Salem, which never had three hundred people living in it.  The books, and your capacity for understanding them, are just the same in all places."  Before signing off he urged:  "Always bear in mind that your resolution to succeed, is more important than any other one thing."  (Reavis went on to become a judge).    

Wow!  Powerful advice from Abraham Lincoln, and I completely agree!  Your success in college is based on your attendance, your interaction with professors and classmates, your involvement in academic pursuits, your reading the books to master the field you choose to study.  And these sorts of things can happen anywhere!  You can earn a degree at a small college or a large university--and when you've graduated and sitting in the interview--they'll want to know about YOUR expertise, YOUR knowledge, YOUR creativity, drive, and work ethic, much more than the name of the college you went to.  So, wherever you study, heed Lincoln's advice and remember the "main thing".

Also Read:   Book Reviews of "Where You Go Isn't Who You'll Be":  Book Post #1 and Book Post #2...yes, a book so good it deserved two posts.   

College Spotlight: University of Utah

Next in our lineup of college spotlights is the U.  Be aware:  the deadline for the Honors Program just around the corner...the earliest deadline of any program in the state.  I know that most of our students are somewhat familiar with the University, so this post just includes the information that is new or has changed.

• The Honors Program is a great way to have smaller classes (25-30 students, which is small at the U) while still enjoying the diversity and perks of being on an expansive University Campus.  Once accepted to the Honors Program, students can also apply for the esteemed Eccles Scholarship.  

• Deadlines:
• Honors Program, November 1st
• General Admission, December 1st
• Financial Aid (FAFSA & the Financial Need Application specific to the U), February 1st 

• The U has just completed the Lassonde Studios, which is already the center of innovation at the  U for undergrads.  Students can live at the Lassonde Studios (400 spaces), or simply engage in projects with other students.  Like the Honors Program, the Lassonde Studios helps to engage students from many different fields, and creates a small-college feel while simultaneously using the vast resources of the University.  It is a space for students to work collaboratively and work as entrepreneurs.    

• The U has repacked & renamed scholarships.  Be familiar with what YOU can apply for...because it is different than past years.  U of U Scholarship Page  Be sure to use the link for Freshman Scholarships as well as the link for Scholarship Database, which lists all scholarships on campus (department, major, special categories).  Be sure to have your XCel Spreadsheet ready to add in scholarships specific to you (see Blog Post: How to Organize Scholarship Applications )

• Admissions Officers advise all students to fully utilize the application!  Take advantage of short answers.  Fill in the awards section.  They really do review each application, and they want to know more information.
• If you had a bad semester explain it!
• If you don't have 2 years of a foreign language (which the U recommends), explain it!
• Take time to actually fill in the fields. 
• Be sure to read the question and answer it.  Too many students see part of the question and write an essay...be sure to take time and answer the question asked.  

• If a student is on free or reduced lunch, the U will offer an application fee waiver.  

College Spotlight: Salt Lake Community College

Next on our lineup of college spotlights is Salt Lake Community College, or "SLCC", usually pronounced "slick".  I feel like this option gets overlooked by our students, simply because it is a community college and doesn't have a big name.  Don't make the mistake of equating only a big name with success, because the goal is to go to college, and if you're holding out for a big name, but lack the grades and money, this is an option that can make your college goals a reality, while still giving you an amazing college experience!  Take some time and read on:

• SLCC is the only community college in the state of Utah, though it is rather a blend between a tech college, a junior college and a 4-year college.  Students will have a degree to move to a job, or continue at a 4-year college for a GREAT PRICE and a GREAT EXPERIENCE.  
• Tuition and fees for the YEAR = $3,688  (12 - 18 credits / semester)
• The Tech Program is now a part of SLCC.  Any tech programs are becoming competency based, so that when students show mastery of the technique, they can move forward and finish the program faster.  
• SLCC does a good job of mirroring what Salt Lake City is. There is no "typical class", because it takes in a HUGE spectrum of individual students.  The largest population does include students ages 18 - 22, but they also have a lot of non-traditional students.
• SLCC helps students transferring to a 4-year college.  50% of students transfer to U; the other 50% transfer to other 4-year colleges throughout Utah.  They have a transfer program to help students prepare for this, and regularly host Program Directors to make sure students are on track.
• There are 10 different campuses throughout the Salt Lake Valley.  Even though the main campus is at Redwood—there are opportunities at EVERY campus.  Each campus houses a different program.  
• Dozens of clubs and activities to be involved in, including service-learning.  If a student completes a certain number of service hours with their college work, they can graduate with a certificate of service-learning.  (This is a new push with all colleges & universities)
• Scholarship Deadline is February 1!  When students complete their application, it sets up a student profile, and matches them to every possible scholarship.  This application will be available by the end of November.  
• Financial Help!  Any student that is pell-eligible (full OR PARTIAL AMOUNT!), degree seeking, and taking 12 credits/semester can receive extra financial help.  SLCC will pay the gap between the amount given through financial aid the total amount owed for tuition and fees.  Their goal:  to help student's dreams become a reality.  This is HUGE!!!
• Some of their programs:  2 year nursing degree, dental hygiene, radiology tech, arts & media program (sound / video / animation / fashion institute / interior design).  Many, many more available.  Check out the dozens of programs and certificates SLCC offers.
• SLCC has a lot of adjunct faculty, which can really benefit students.  Most of the professors come directly from the industry:  they may not have their Ph.D., but they have the expertise in their industry and can help w/ internships & job placement.  There are some benefits to adjunct professors:  they are up-to-date with industry standards and best business practices.  
• Class size at SLCC is capped at 25.  At a big university, you need to be in an Honors College to have general education classes this small.  It's an ideal place for first-generation students, because the professors will know your name and reach out to help you.  
• Open Enrollment--any student can attend.

College Spotlight: Snow College

If I could go back to High School, I would take 5 minutes and check out Snow College.  Because if I were to give it just 5 minutes, I'd probably give the next 30 minutes, and then seriously considered attending.  It is the only junior college in the state of Utah, is residential--so you really get the "college experience", and it's a steal:  total cost of tuition, fees, board and room are approximately $5,600 - $7,500 (depending on your choice of dorm and eating plan).  But there's no need to pay more than $5,600--it's all-inclusive.  It is absolutely the best-kept secret in the state!  And not only is it affordable, it's a great experience!  Many students say it's like having all the benefits of studying at a small-liberal arts college, because you get so much attention from professors and great opportunities to study and be involved on campus. 

Still worried that it is out of your budget?  At Snow College, you can "stack scholarships", which means you can stack an academic scholarship on top of a leadership scholarship on top of a talent scholarship--you could get everything paid for and have them write YOU a check!  If you're eligible for a pell-grant, you could get that, too!  That's not just a good deal, it's the best deal in the state, definitely in the West.  That's such a good deal you should be checking out their website right now.

Okay, if you need some more convincing, here's a list of cool things (again, in no specific order)

• Open-Enrollment.  It's the mission of Snow College:  You Can Go to College!  
• Everyone there is between 18-22 years old, which is great because you can rise to leadership roles quickly, as everyone is either a freshman or sophomore.  
• It's NOT a commuter campus.  You don't need a car, because you'll eat, drink, and sleep @ Snow College.  As a residential junior college, you'll be able to totally immerse yourself in college without any distractions.  
• Most kids say "it feels like a small liberal arts experience"...minus the price tag
• There are two campuses:  Ephraim, Utah (which houses the traditional programs), and Richfield (which houses the applied technology programs).  If you want to go through the ATC, but want an experience away from home, check out the Richfield Campus.  
• As a junior college, it grants Associate's Degree, and helps students transfer to a 4-year college to complete a Bachelor's Degree. 
• This is a great fit for students that know they want a 4-year degree, but don't want to be swallowed up in general education classes that are taught by grad students, or number 50+ students.  Incidentally, the only class with 50 students is choir, and it stands alone:  most number 10-15 students; a class of 20 is a "big class"
•  They have adjunct professors--which can be a very good thing.  They are there to teach.  It's a teaching college--not a research university (they're both good--it just depends what YOU need and want)
• An Advising Staff will help students prepare to transfer to a University at the completion of their Associate Degree.
• The Bachelor Degree in Music with a Commercial Music Emphasis is the one exception.  Don't discount it:  the professors have links to professionals on East & West Coast, and help students with summer internships. 
• Good Diversity:  many first-generation students, multicultural students.  As a small college, they are ready to help students navigate the college system. 
• Opportunities are open for freshman and sophomore, and you don't have to "major" in something to be involved.  Studying pre-med, but want to be in the play?  Great!  That's absolutely okay and encouraged at Snow! 
• Application Deadline:  March 1, 2017

My advice to every student is to look at all sorts of college options, apply to several schools that could fit your goals (and finances and academic level), and see what happens with scholarships and pell-grants.  At this point in time, you don't have to decide where you are going to college:  you simply have to apply so that you have the option.  And Snow College is one great option to have on your list.

Shopping Around at a College Fair

This, my friends, is a college fair.  Tons of booths (close to 100!), with College Admission Reps from around the country.

And these are some of the awesome students that gave up an 6 hours on a Saturday to come to the RMACAC College Fair.  But really, when you think about it, you're going to spend 2-4 years at college.  It's smart to spend time finding a few places you would really be successful and happy.  

I felt SO proud of our students.  They attended the workshops, asked great questions, and visited the booths on their own.  I made the crazy goal to get through at least half of the booths--my awesome parent chaperone, Stacey Whitford--took the other half.  At every table, I would introduce myself as the College Prep Advisor for DaVinci Academy.  The response was always, "Oh, I've already met some of your students!"  I was so happy that our students not only took time out of their busy lives to go to a college trip, but once they were there, they used all the time they could to gather as much information about possible colleges they could attend.

These students saw what I hope all students see--that there are hundreds, literally thousands--of colleges throughout the country.  There are so many options that a student should never feel like they can't find a good fit.  In fact, after attending a college fair, a student usually is overcome with the sheer number of possibilities!  There are multiple "good fits" for each student--based on a number of factors, including academic preparedness, college programs, social and athletic involvement, surrounding area of the college,  financial cost, etc.  So yes, shop around.  Take time to attend college fairs, read brochures, scan through university websites, and figure out your own multiple "best fits"!  

Some cool things that happen at college fairs:

• You might discover a college you have never heard of--go to tables that may not be on your "list", and explore the possibilities
• A College Fair includes all types of colleges:  4-year universities, liberal-arts colleges, tech-schools, community colleges, junior colleges, Culinary Arts Institutes, Art Schools, and other options to check out  
• You grab information not only about the college as a whole, but about individual programs or about things that are unique to that college, that you wouldn't find out any other way
• They expect you to hit multiple colleges--so don't be nervous as you are talking to a representative from Utah State that you are holding a brochure from Dixie State.  They applaud a student that is shopping around, comparing all the aspects of the college to be sure that when they arrive at college--they are there for all 4 years.

Next time there is a college fair, jump on the bus and join us!  

Get on Board! Come to the College Fair on Oct. 1st!

"Go to college!"  This is an oft-repeated phrase, but the question is which college?  Which college is a good fit for you?  Instead of throwing around different college names without any knowledge of why that college might be a good fit, take the opportunity to learn more about college options in our state and around the country.  One of the easiest ways to do this is to head to a college fair, and meet loads of reps from all different colleges in one day.  That way, you'll be one step closer to finding the colleges that you'd be happy to attend, having found the right fit for you.  

Lucky you, there's a college fair coming up on Saturday, October 1st.  It's not just a college fair--it's THE biggest college fair of the year.  It's the RMACAC (Rocky Mountain Association for for College Admission Counseling) College Fair, and it's hosted at Juan Diego High School in Sandy, Utah.  Before you think that's too far--I couldn't possibly get there--read this:  

We have a bus to take any and all interested students to the college fair!  
       The college fair is free.
              The bus is free.

Want to know more?  You got it.

College Fair Information:

All students who will be attending the College Fair need to complete a parent-permission slip and turn in the permission slip by the upcoming Friday, September 23rd.  The permission slips are available in person at the Counseling Center, or you can email Mrs. Krim to receive one:  brooke.krim@davinciacademy.org OR krim.scholarship@gmail.com (both emails work)

The College Fair will have workshops for students to attend, addressing helpful topics such as:

• The Application Process
• Writing College Admissions Essays
• Specialty Applications (Engineering, Nursing, Arts)
• Value of Liberal Arts College (including U of Utah's Honors College)

The College Fair also hosts booths from many colleges around the country, as well as the Scholarship Program run by Daniel's Fund.  Check out the 70 colleges that will be attending:

American University

Arizona State University

Boise State University

Brandeis University

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

Colgate University

Colorado College

Colorado Mesa University

Colorado Mountain College

Colorado State University

Columbia College

Eastern Washington University

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

FIDM/Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising

Fort Lewis College

Georgetown University

Gonzaga University

Harvard College

Hollins University

Idaho State University

Kenyon College

Knox College

Les Roches & Glion

Lewis & Clark College

Montana State University

Montana Tech

New Mexico Military Institute

New Mexico Tech

Northern Arizona University

Oregon Coast Culinary Institution

Oregon Institute of Technology

Oregon State University

Pacific University Oregon

Pitzer College

Portland State University

Quest University Canada

Regis University

Rhodes College

Rocky Mountain College

Scripps College

Seattle University

Snow College

Southern Virginia University

St. John’s College

The College of Idaho

The University of Arizona

Trinity College

Trinity University

Tulane University

University of San Diego

University of British Columbia

University of California, Irvine

University of Colorado Boulder

University of Denver

University of Montana

University of Montana Western

University of Portland

University of San Francisco

University of Southern California

University of Utah

Utah State University

Vanderbilt University

Vassar College

Washington University in St. Louis

Weber State University

Western Washington University

Westminster College

Whitman College

Whitworth University

Willamette University

                                                                                                                                               

***Students planning on attending the fair need to pre-register at www.gotocollegefairs.com.   You will be able to then have your name linked with a barcode you will receive at the college fair.  This will allow you to check in with many colleges, helping you to meet the colleges reps rather than repeatedly writing your contact information!  If you're going--be sure to complete this step!

So, don't wait!  Get a persmission slip today, fill it out, turn it in ASAP, and mark your calendars for Saturday, October, 1, 2016!  See you then!  Any questions?  Email the College Prep Advisor @ brooke.krim@gmail.com OR krim.scholarship@gmail.com 

Do Something!

This will seem so simple, most people will wonder why I'm even going to post about it.  It's common sense really, they'll say.  But my question is:  if it's common sense, are you doing it?  Because if you're not doing it, then you need to start.  And by "it", I am talking about doing something...ANYTHING...that correlates to what you're interested in, especially an academic interest.

The reason I say this is that many students fail to translate an academic interest to something more.  They also think they have to wait until college to figure things out.  I'm not advocating that you have to decide on your career at age 16, but I do think it's wise to explore your academic interests more than the classes you take in high school, and definitely to do more than the bare minimum requirements.  Why?  Because you'll be sure if you've romanticized certain fields of study--or if it's the real deal for you.

I meet with a ton of students who tell me they are interested in Engineering, students who feel relatively at home in math and science classes, and have earned good grades (usually a B or higher).  Most of these students are going into their senior year in high school, and I expect that they've done something to explore this interest.  Science Fair?  Job Shadowing?  Science Club?  ATC Classes or certificate?  And 99% of the time, the answer is:  Nope.  Nada.  Nothing.  Apparently, their interest looks mostly like a nice thing they say, without any idea of what Engineers actually do.  

Here's my advice:  be the one that isn't just talk...do something!  Join the Robotics Club.  Figure out how to get a job shadow (talk to teachers, mentors, Mrs. Krim--we'll help you!).  Continue on with Science Fair during the years it REALLY counts:  grades 9-12.  And follow the positive trend to take some hands-on courses at the ATC and find out if you actually like the sort of work Engineers do.  (By the way--courses at the ATC don't just translate to a great pre-Engineering career--there are loads of classes and careers for every interest!  Check them out:   OWATC and DATC

Extending your interest might also entail other ways of building your expertise beyond the classroom.  For someone interested in English, don't just say, "I want to be a writer"...begin by doing some writing that isn't connected to your required classes.  Start a blog.  Write a story.  Enter a writing contest.  For art, enter an art competition in the community.  Go to the art walks.  Take a tour of the art college at Weber State.  Simple stuff.  Common sense stuff.  But sadly, it's the simple stuff that gets overlooked 9 times out of 10.  Be the 1 student that does it.

Now, that being said, I am NOT advocating joining 10 clubs in 1 year, and becoming so overbooked that you don't really show up to anything with an invested mind.  I am advocating finding a way (even one way at a time), where you do something outside of your school load to extend an academic interest.  There is no magic answer here--but there is one wrong answer:  do nothing.  The wrong answer is to sit and wait for the stars to point you in the right way on that first day after high school graduation.  You don't have to pick your career now, of course, but you can explore options which will not only help you be more prepared in the future.

Yes, I know that this sort of extra-work looks great on a scholarship application, and that these students actually have something to write about on the essays that ask, "Tell us what you've been involved in during high school".  In addition (as if you needed another reason), students do better in school when they're able to connect the classwork to something that isn't graded.  Ironic, isn't it?  But it's true--if you want to do better IN class, find a way to do something OUT of class--but still connected to your academic interests.  Suddenly that English assignment on strengthening your voice or that Physics lesson on velocity takes on meaning if you're connecting it to something besides the homework assignment.

Repeat after me:  if you're interested in something--do something!  Posting this today because Club Rush is tomorrow (Wednesday, August 31st) and we have GREAT clubs that are fun and academic--and you should check them out and join one!  If, after attending Club Rush and talking to the reps at a few of the tables, you still have no idea how to translate the interest into action, email me to make an appointment.  In fifteen minutes, we can figure out the first step together.

The Big 10: Fall Scholarships, Scholarship Listing #1

Every year, there's a host of scholarships that repeat themselves.  The requirements are roughly the same each year:  same deadlines, same requirements, same amount of money.  So, for seniors--this is the year you apply.  For all the other grades:  read up about the scholarships, and do what you can to prepare...and make sure to apply for the ones that are open to younger grades.

DEADLINE ALERT:  Most of the deadlines not only have a specific date, but also a time.  Most of the times are listed in EST (Eastern Standard Time).  My suggestion is to mark your OWN calendar with the deadline being 5 days (minimum) before the actual deadline, so you don't even come close.  That way you won't miss it by minutes, and end up crying all night...or all year (seriously, this has happened).

1.  Coca Cola Scholarship  Open to  H.S. Seniors.  Deadline:  October 31, 2016.  Amount:  $20,000 to 150 students.  Minimum GPA:  3.0 cum.  They are looking for students who excel academically, give service, and have overcome a trial.  Application currently OPEN.

2.   Voice of Democracy: Essay Scholarship  Open to 9-12 can enter by writing and recording a speech on a specific prompt.  Check it out--there are state winners and a national winner, ranging from $1,000 - $30,000.  Deadline:  November 1.
***Also--for students in grades 6-8, check out the Patriot's Pen program.  It has multiple awards between $500 - $5,000.

3.  Horatio Alger Scholarships  Open to H.S. Seniors.  Multiple Scholarships available--for those interested in a 4-year college OR a Tech College.  Money ranging from $1,000 - $25,000 (multiple awards given of each amount).  Click on all the different tabs--you can apply for MULTIPLE awards from the Foundation.  Earliest Deadline:  September 25, 2016.  Application currently OPEN.

4.  Daniel's Fund    Open to H.S. Seniors.     Deadline Window:  September 30 - November 30.  Requirements:  ACT score of 17 or higher, U.S. citizen, demonstrate financial need, high school senior.  Amount:  Remaining amount of money needed to pay for college (whatever college the student is accepted to).

5.  Doodle 4 Google  Open to K-12.  Window:  OPENS September 14 (no deadline listed yet).  This is a fun scholarship!  Simply 'doodle' the 'google' logo, according to the year's prompt.  (Each year a different prompt / theme).  It's such a fun scholarship--AND it's open to all students K-12!  In fact, most years, younger students win, because I think they have fun with it and enter, while the older students overthink it and convince themselves they don't have a chance.  Don't make that mistake!  Pick up some drawing pencils, some brushes--whatever medium you want--and get to it!

6.  Elks Most Valuable Student  Open to H.S. Seniors.  Window:  OPENS September 1 - November 30.  Requirements: U.S. citizen, high school senior.  Judged on scholarship, leadership, financial need.  500 awards are given per year, ranging from $4,000 - $50,000.

7.  Quest Bridge  Open to H.S. Seniors.   Another BIG scholarship.  It matches students up with colleges, and grant full-tuition, room and board scholarships.  Basically--if you get this--college is paid for.  They are looking for students who have "achieved academic excellence in the face of economic challenges".  The application window is open NOW and closes September 27.

8.  Prudential Spirit of Community  Open to Grades 7-12.    Deadline:  November 8.  This is a Service Award.  They are looking for individuals who have made a difference in the community, and the application covers these areas.  Awards range up to a $5,000 award.

9.  Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship Program  Open to H.S. Seniors.  Application Window September - Mid-November (check the website once it opens).  This isn't just a scholarship--although it starts with that (giving up to $40,00 PER YEAR for 4 years)--it's also a mentoring program to help students succeed in college, helping them with internships, advising, and college success.  Minimum requirements:  3.5 cum GPA, 26 on the ACT, financial need (they define financial need as having a family gross income below $95,000...well above the standard for most scholarships).  Check out their other programs, including the young scholars program or how to receive a scholarship when you transfer from a community college to a 4-year college.  Jacke Kent Cooke ALL programs link

10.  Sterling Scholar  Open to H.S. Seniors.  This is a program that begins at the high school level, and ends at the Wasatch Front Region (for our school, at least).  It awards students who excel in one particular academic area, as well as involvement in leadership and service.  The deadline for DaVinci Academy Sterling Scholar Applications is October 7, 2016.  Applications will be available on September 22nd for the high school level.  Be sure to attend Advisory during College Prep Thursdays for more information.

New School Year: Make a Goal

At the beginning of school, the desire to make goals washes over everyone.  You can't help but write a beautiful page of goals for the year with grand statements written in calligraphy:  "Get a 4.0!"..."Get all As and Bs!"..."Make the High Honor Roll!"  And yes--these are great goals, but I've got to ask--are these goals great for everyone?  The reason I ask this is that not every student has the same baseline to begin with.  If a student has only earned Cs and Ds in the past year, a goal of "Get all As and Bs" is not just lofty, it's virtually out of reach not because the student doesn't want it, but because it's too far of a jump for anyone besides Superman to make.  

In the past two weeks, we've seen some great Superman moments from Rio 2016.  And although it's easy to focus on how many medals Michael Phelps has won in swimming, I'd like to point you to a different example of making and meeting goals from the U.S. Rowing Team.  Listen to the excerpt from an NPR Interview with Andrew Campbell, Jr.  (listen from about :55 - 2:22)

                                                          Rowing at the Rio Olympics

Did you catch that?  He placed 5^th at the Olympics.  He won’t stand on the Stadium.   He won’t be spotlighted on the Nightly ReCap of great moments.  He won’t be recognized on billboards or cereal boxes, and yet—did you notice how genuinely happy he was with his performance?  I love that as a team, they made a specific goal that would push them and be attainable…simultaneously.  And when they made the goal, he recognized it as a good thing.  The U.S. team had never even made it into the final round in this specific sport, so the goal was based upon past performance and future growth.  Again--reasonable and difficult at the same time.  

This probably can be applied to at least half our students.  Take stock of where you are NOW.  Make a goal for the term, the semester, even the year that will push you to do a little better…but also that is attainable with consistent work.  For example, if you are earning Cs and Ds in every class last year—making a goal of earning As in every class is not a good goal.  Why?  Because it doesn’t just push you to do a little better—it pushes you beyond your abilities, and by midterms, you'll feel like your Bs aren't good enough--and then give up, landing yourself right back with Cs and Ds.  Instead, make a goal that is a little bit of push, but not so much that it overwhelms you into doing nothing.  

An Example of a Reasonable Goal:

Last Year:  Cs and Ds

This Year:  All Cs (even a C- is fine!  Just get out of the D range)

Last Year:  Ds and Fs

This Year:  Ds

Also--instead of just focusing on "grade" goals, make some performance goals, and the grades will take care of themselves.  Make a goal to work on homework in class if there is extra time, and to turn in all homework on time.  Just doing this one thing is usually enough to bump a grade up one whole letter grade. 

So, as you look over the year—push yourself.  But also, be aware that if you make and actually MEET a small goal, it is better than if you had made a large goal and completely missed it.  Take a leaf out of the book from the U.S. Rowing Team:  make a goal specific to YOU, and then be happy when you've got it, even if that means that you aren't on the Wheaties Cereal Box (High Honor Roll list).  It's a step upwards, and for that, you should be proud.

Apricot Jam + Scholarships

Have you ever seen a picture like this?

Or maybe this?

Super cute, right?  The jam looks amazing--the jars look like they belong on a boutique shelf--and the whole image conjures up images of homemade bread slathered with apricot goodness.  Yum.

Well, until today, I have never, never made jam.  I have, frankly, been intimidated by the whole process.  Make jam?!  No, thank you, I'll buy the store stuff.  I have tasted homemade jam though, which is why when my mom loaded me up a few days ago with shoe boxes full of apricots from her tree, I started to scan the internet for a good jam recipe.  As time went on, I became more overwhelmed and confused by all the differing opinions of what made a 'good' jam.  But still, those apricots kept ripening.  Finally, I went to the grocery store and bought a crazy amount of sugar, and a couple boxes of "Sure Jell" which seemed the basic way to guarantee good jam, according to countless recipes and opinions of jam-making experts.

And so it began.  I pitted apricots and put them in my giant Ninja and pureed them.  Oops!  Only after I read the recipe again did I realize I should have chopped them.  Well, there you go.  I had about 5 cups of pureed apricots which all the articles said wouldn't make a good jam.  But I had enough Sure Jell and sugar to make multiple batches so I blazed on.  Honestly, I couldn't make sense of the directions, and felt confused throughout the process.  I made one batch of "pureed apricot jam", and one batch of "normal apricot jam", and it was so simple when I was making my second batch!  I couldn't believe that I had been confused by the instructions the first time around--this was simple!    Here's the result:

Yep--I put them in little tupperwares and old gelato containers.  And I agree, it's not the best presentation.  I'm proud of them because they are the first time I've ever made jam, but it wouldn't compare to the other jams in adorable little jars.  Obviously, I didn't spend much time thinking about the presentation of the jam--and though the jam inside is great, the presentation wouldn't necessarily "sell" my jam.  Does my jam taste good?  Yes-good enough that one jar may never make it to the freezer, I'm simply eating toast and jam by the hour.  But to any other person--it's the packaging that usually determines whether they'll buy or not.  To another person--the pureed jam doesn't really meet the expectation of what an apricot jam should be.

Now--why in the world am I posting this on my college blog?  Because most students have one common question about scholarships:  when should they apply for scholarships?  And my answer usually shocks them:  Now.  I don't care if you are in 8th grade--begin now.  If you are in 11th grade--begin now.  If you are in 12th grade--you should have started.

Why?  Because the more you apply for scholarships, the more you learn.  Your first scholarship application will be confusing and frustrating, and you'll probably do some of the things wrong.  You'll figure out things that will make the process easier, and you'll also figure out things that are weak in your experience--so you'll fix them before you apply for another one.  It's just like my apricot jam--the difference between making my first and second batch was night and day. I felt flustered for the first batch, and totally in control for the second batch.   I'm guessing that as I continue, it will just get better:  I might actually have a product worth gifting by the 10th batch.  You'll probably feel the same--flustered with the first scholarship, and more in control for the second and subsequent scholarship applications.  And there is absolutely no way to jump past this hoop--you just have to say, "It's my first time--I'll learn what I can, and I'm going to finish...and then I'm going to do it again."

You are not going to win every scholarship, but you should be applying for scholarships.  There are things that I can tell you and explain to you and help you try to understand about scholarships--but until you actually complete a scholarship application, it will all sound like "Blah, blah, blah..."  Once you've completed the application, it will be less of "Mrs. Krim says I have to do this..." to "I know that I want to focus on this for my application."  It's the switch from feeling that you have to do something to wanting to do something.  And that's why I suggest that students begin to apply as early as possible, and to keep on applying.  That's the only way the applications get better.

You'll learn how to package your application so that it looks appealing:  it will be the equivalent of those pictures of boutique-level apricot jams...NOT the recycled gelato containers (as clumsily cute as they are).  You'll figure out that there are certain patterns to most scholarship applications, and that certain essay questions repeat on multiple applications.  You'll get better and better at this, and your chances of winning will increase.  That's the point, right?  To win money!  So, if you actually want to win money, you've got to put in some practice on the real thing.

Be proud of yourself when you finish the first application--even if it's not perfect or you don't win.  Even if it's the equivalent of my pureed-jam in a gelato container.  You'll learn valuable lessons that you can put towards your next application, and the better your applications become, the higher chances you have of winning.

So, get out there and apply!  Be willing to take some feelings of frustration as part of the learning experience and road to winning.  Let me know by email which scholarships you're applying for and how I can help :  krim.scholarship@gmail.com

ACT Prep #2: Best Websites and Books

One of the big questions with ACT Prep is:  Which book?  Which method?  This questions comes because there are literally hundreds of books and hundreds of websites all promising to help you increase your score.  It's so overwhelming!  Where do you start?  When do you start?  Hopefully this post helps you make sense of the jungle of ACT Prep.

First Topic:  Books

If you are going to take the ACT, then you should practice with REAL ACT TESTS.  None of the big test prep companies you hear about (Princeton Review, Kaplan's, CliffNotes) are authorized to actually use or re-publish ACT Tests, which means that their questions and tests are close, but not really.  It gives a false sense of security to the student that uses them--and then on test day--Wham!  They suddenly score a 20 instead of the 25 they were planning on.  Instead of getting a test prep book with test questions that are kind of similar to the real thing, just get the real thing.  You need to buy the actual ACT Prep book, published by the ACT company.

This is the real deal:  The Official ACT Prep Guide.  Always note that it is the OFFICIAL book, because a lot of companies print "ACT" really big, so it tricks students and parents all the time.  And once a student invests $30.00 in a book, they're hard pressed to give it up...even if it's not going to improve their score much.  The Official ACT Prep Guide says "official"...and it's red.  It's been red for years--it's red again this year.  It's a simple way to tell it apart from the official SAT Prep Book, which is blue.  Red = ACT Book.  Blue = SAT Book.   (Future post about the differences between the ACT & SAT).

That is by and far the best overall book you can get.  There are specific sections that go through the Reading, English, Math, and Science Comprehension Topics.  And then there are usually 4 full-length practice tests included.  As I wrote in this earlier post about ACT Prep, there is no substitution for building up mental stamina by actually taking REAL TESTS.  If you sit down and practice taking several real tests (complete with timer, bubble sheet, isolated area from distraction), you'll have a good handle on what your actual performance will be.  This is why buying a book with real tests is so crucial.

The full-length tests should be taken at the beginning of your ACT Test Prep, at the middle, and again at the end.  This way you can make study plans based on which sections need the most help.  There are four sections:  Science Reasoning, English, Reading, and Math.  Each person has different strengths and weaknesses, and should spend varying amounts on the different sections according to their specific scores.  The new Official ACT Prep book actually organizes it in this way, which is very helpful to most students.  Sidenote:  If you are very organized and self-motivated to follow a similar plan without the book organizing it for you, you could buy the 2015 Real ACT Prep Book (Last year, they used the word "Real" instead of "Official), and save some money.

Make a schedule that helps you focus on ONE section of the test for at least 2 weeks (minimum of four 1-hour sessions/week).  This isn't just a suggestion--this is the minimum of what you should do.  That's 8 hours of studying one topic, spread over two weeks, and it is that sort of studying that allows you to understand and remember the rules, the wording of the problems, the types of questions that are asked, and how to actually respond to the questions.  This is deep studying rather than surface studying, and it makes all the difference in helping to raise your score.  Deep studying (focusing on one area long enough to go deep into the material) is very different than how most students naturally study.  Most students will skim through the book, spend 15 minutes reading about English, 5 minutes wondering how they can shorten the time needed to study, followed by 15 minutes scanning the Science Reasoning Section, and a final 5 minutes looking at the clock, with a promise to come back tomorrow and do better.  You're smiling because you've done this.

Instead of studying with this halfway effort, take time to make a plan.  Take a real practice test, then mark out a plan based on the order of sections you will cover.  Get out the calendar, schedule in study sessions, and stick to it.  Be prepared that everyday you sit down, you will actually go deep into the rules, the material, and even the way the questions are worded so that you are familiar with the structure.  If you are putting in consistent effort, you'll make progress.

I recommend supplementing the individual sections of the ACT book with reading about from the Prep Scholar Website.  They have a program that you pay for--but they also have loads of free posts about how questions are posed, rules that come up time and again, and similar helps for the test.  You don't have to pay a dime to read through their posts--you just have to be committed to actually reading and understanding the material.  Some posts are longer than others, but the point is to apply the principles they introduce, not race through the articles.  The students who have been committed to actually reading and applying these posts have seen huge increases in their scores.

I also recommend using the Prep Scholar Website because the book can be rather dry and is written like a textbook, which can add to the monotony of studying for a standardized test.  The Prep Scholar posts are written by individuals about isolated topics of test prep, and are easier to understand and digest.  If you notice that you're plowing through the ACT prep book and it feels like one math section of the book and losing interest fast--switch over to the Prep Schol

Here are the links that will help you find the greatest amount of helpful information on their website.

Prep Scholar: ACT Strategies

Prep Scholar: ACT English

Prep Scholar: ACT Reading

Prep Scholar: ACT Math

Prep Scholar: ACT Science

You can also sign up to receive email updates from this website, which I would recommend.

One note:  The Prep Scholar Blog is a part of the Prep Scholar company, which sells individual test prep as well.  I am not affiliated in any way with any company about ACT Prep, including Prep Scholar.  I'm pretty sure that Prep Scholar doesn't even know I exist.  I was not paid by anyone to write this post, or any other post on this blog. I just think that this is the best way to prepare students for the ACT without an exorbitant cost, as all the blog posts are free and full of valuable information you would get from an individual tutor.  Using both the ACT Prep book and the Prep Scholar Blog is a great combination of real practice questions with specific tips for studying, understanding formulas and rules, and discerning the pattern of the test.  So, buy the book, mark the calendar, click on the Prep Scholar links, and get started.  Good luck!

Choosing a College

One of the main headaches of this summer has been finding a violin teacher for my 6-year old daughter.  To be sure, there are plenty of violin teachers in our area; the problem has been finding the RIGHT FIT.  I shouldn't be surprised by this, because she started one year ago, and we had the same struggles then.  We finally found the right teacher, but sadly, she moved away last month.  I'm back at the beginning, relearning the same lessons about choosing a teacher.  And I'd like to point out that there are a lot of similarities between finding the right teacher to choosing a college that fits YOU!  

I should preface this comparison by pointing out something critical:  we are looking for a Suzuki-method teacher.  I like this method for the violin, and agree with the approach to early focus on form and tone, individual attention, and helping a student learn technique in the context of learning songs.  If you don't agree with the Suzuki method--that's fine.  In fact, it's critical to recognize that everyone will look for and value different things!  That's the point of this comparison (stick with me...)

We started our journey to find a teacher by two ways:  1)  looking on the Suzuki Web, and 2) asking around.  I got a few names from the Suzuki website, started to contact them, and began making appointments to observe a lesson and/or set up a trial lesson.  When I asked around, I heard various names with varying degrees of admiration for the said person and their teaching style.  I heard about one teacher in particular that seemed to glitter with accolades and praise.  People talked about what an amazing performer she was, the great path her own career was on, and how encouraging she was with teenage violinists.  When I called her and asked if she taught using the Suzuki method, she answered yes.  It seemed like a great fit, right?  

We began taking lessons from her...not individual lessons but group lessons, which was a switch from our previous experience.  Instead of the Suzuki method, she taught the traditional method, which stresses note-reading from Day One.  Even though my daughter has taken for a year, she was in a class with 4 other girls that had never played the violin before.  It wasn't actually the experience we had been looking for.  I was unhappy for a lot of reasons, but most importantly because it didn't fit our expectations that our daughter be taught in the Suzuki method, that she would have individual lessons, and that it would be reasonably affordable.

For another parent, perhaps group lessons are highly encouraging.  For another parent, perhaps the price wasn't too expensive.  For another parent, perhaps reading music early trumped the other skills of form and tone.  One isn't right and one isn't wrong:  they simply are different bests.  And this is where it is similar to choosing a college.  I would say that 99% of colleges and universities are bests in different ways.  It all depends on what you are looking for.    

I usually tell my students this:  There is a reason why you've loved being at DaVinci.  It's small.  The teachers want to help you.  They listen to you, help you, and work with you.  You are part of this cool family-type-school that actually looks at each student as an individual.  There are pros and cons of every environment:  a small school may not have all the big programs of a big school, but they focus on the individual.  You've probably stayed at DaVinci because you value that individual attention...and it trumps the funny quirks that you do have in a small charter school.  Try to find a college or university with a similar atmosphere and vibe of appreciating the educational growth of one person, not turning out the masses.  (For anyone reading this that attends a different school--you can ask the same questions.  What do I really need in a school to be successful?  What methods of teaching do I agree with / respond to?  What environments help me to thrive?  Do I enjoy a small environment--or do I feel stifled by it?  Am I overwhelmed by a big university--or do I rise to the challenge?)  Asking and answering honest questions about your own learning style and personality will help you to choose the right college for you.

A few more tips to choosing YOUR Best College:    

Lesson #1:  How Teachers Teach

Be specific about how a college approaches teaching.  Do they push the professors to research and publish--or do they encourage them to teach?  Some universities put so much emphasis on publishing, that the actual work of teaching goes mainly to Grad Students or Teacher's Assistants.  You are essentially paying for the "name" of the college and the professor, but you aren't actually getting to take a class from the famous professor that drew you to the college.  Be aware of who will teach you--because this is essentially the bread and butter of your college experience.  Some colleges value teaching; some do not.  Look for colleges and programs that value and support the actual art of teaching.

Lesson #2:  Outside the Class

Do professors actually have time to talk to you for...5 minutes?  Because when it comes down to it, THIS is what will help you in college.  Not their list of credentials.  Not the books they've published.  It is the fact that a professor will take time to look at your papers, give you feedback, help you find internships, figure out what you are actually interested in.  Also, it isn't just the professors that make or break a college experience.  Is there a network of other professionals to help you?  Will the lady in financial aid actually answer your question, or are you simply told "Go look at the website."  Is there a Counselor that helps with setting up Summer Internships, or are you encouraged to simply, "Be aggressive--you'll find something."  If professors and librarians and secretaries are willing to talk to you, pay attention.  You need multiple people to help you through college, and you should know what level of responsiveness you will get around campus.  

Lesson #3:  The REAL Campus
When this teacher said to me, "Yes, I teach suzuki", I took it for face value.  I've since learned that there is teaching using the Suzuki books--and teaching using the Suzuki method.  I should have said, "I'd like to come and have a trial lesson."  In like manner, there is nothing like actually going and SEEING it.  Go to a college.  Sit in a classroom.  Tour the actual department.  Talk to professors.  Make sure that all the nice and glittery stuff they say on their website actually happens in the Biology classroom or the Music Program.  Make sure it is a match for what you expect in a college education.  Sure, college tours do take time, but it's time well invested to make sure that you are in the right place for at least four years of your life (see my previous post on how to make the most of the college visit).

Lesson #4:  The Cost

Just because one university charges more--doesn't mean that the quality goes up.  The spectrum of college tuition ranges from $2,500 / year (community colleges), to $60,000 / year (private colleges and universities).  Be wary of being pulled into the belief that because something costs more--that it is worth more.  Sometimes a higher price translates to a better experience...sometimes it doesn't.  Be sure that you don't pay top-dollar for a sub-par experience.  You should ask  honest questions:  "Will my classes at this college by vastly different because I am paying more?"  Ask these to the professors, the students already on campus--and most important to yourself.

Lesson #5:  "The Best" vs. "Your Best"
There is no "best teacher" or "best method" or "best school".  Even though other parents told me that this specific violin teacher was "the best", and that I'd be crazy to have my daughter take violin lessons from anyone else, I disagree.  I want my daughter to learn with the Suzuki method, and this teacher that was supposedly "the best" simply doesn't teach with this method.  In a similar way, just because your best friend or cousin or older brother thinks that one college is "the best", every student should choose for themselves.  This takes a good dose of self-awareness, as well as the ability to say, "I recognize this decision may seem 'less than' the other option.  I think it is 'my best option' because of..."


I hope that anyone who reads this takes a little more time to choose a college--and to choose well.  My mistake only cost $80 and one month's time...and it was still a difficult pill to swallow difficult to feel like we had wasted time.  Prepare now so that you don't waste any money or time pursuing someone else's college dreams....even if it is highly recommended by your best friend, neighbor, or older brother.  Be willing to find your best.  

(If you want to read more about choosing a college, read Where You Go  and Where You Go, Part 2)