summary: The college visit process as it applies to most students The practicality of going on sample visits  Helpful criteria for limiting the scope of schools you're thinking of Researching schools & showing early interest Planning the logistics of your visit to make the most of your time & available options Considerations for choosing the calendar timing of your visit What to do, whom to speak with & how to assess your visit Steps you can take when you're unable to visit a campus

The key discussion points include:  Establishing priorities and timelines Brainstorming main essay topics  Working with the most promising essay ideas Having a third party/ies read your essays Focusing on your top choice schools Navigating supplemental essays Refining the application  Troubleshooting last minute requests for letters of recommendation

The key discussion points include:  Types of Financial Aid Scholarships  Grants  Loans & Interest Rate options  Federal Work-Study Program Qualifying for aid, determining eligibility & deadlines Guidance Counselor Support & local scholarships Financial Aid as a factor in admissions decisions

The key discussion points include: General overview of the tests Structure and scoring  When to take and prep for the tests Key differences between the tests Breakdown of sections on the tests Specific examples of: essay prompts, math, reading & verbal questions Test taking strategies

The key discussion points include: General overview of the tests Structure and scoring  When to take and prep for the tests Key differences between the tests Breakdown of sections on the tests Specific examples of: essay prompts, math, reading & verbal questions Test taking strategies

The key discussion points include: The most common essay topics admissions officers come across Adding a twist to create an element of the unexpected and to distinguish yourself Clichés and pitfalls to avoid and why Moving beyond the laundry list of accomplishments: what makes you unique from other applicants? Is this your best story? Actionable strategies for brainstorming original topics Finding your true authorial voice

The value of writing a full practice test What it means to mimic the conditions of the real test How to conduct a strategic review following the practice test The importance of using a detailed answer key The power of journaling about errors and planning for similar underlying content on the real test Understanding key principles underlying the questions rather than merely answers to specific questions How to control the controllable Taking care of your body and visualizing success

Here are some of the key areas covered in today's episode: How to make the best use of your time on math tests The importance of keeping your eye on the prize How to avoid answering the wrong part of the question Why you should limit operations at any given step in algebraic equations  How to approach translating word problems accurately The advantage of visual representations  How to avoid common pitfalls in unit problems

Should you prep for the PSAT? How does the PSAT differ from the SAT/ACT? Will SAT/ACT prep help you for the PSAT?   If you are homeschooled, can you still take the PSAT? How do National Merit Scholarships relate to the PSAT? Should you list your PSAT score on your college application? What other types of scholarships/recognitions can you receive for doing well on the PSAT? Do you recommend taking a practice PSAT? Can you use your PSAT score in lieu of your SAT/ACT score?

This week's podcast episode is all about understanding and selecting college majors.  Listen in as recent Harvard graduate and Zenith Tutor, Sara Allan, shares valuable insights and answers your most pressing questions on the topic.